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Lukow PB, Lowther M, Pike AC, Yamamori Y, Chavanne AV, Gormley S, Aylward J, McCloud T, Goble T, Rodriguez-Sanchez J, Tuominen EW, Buehler SK, Kirk P, Robinson OJ. Amygdala activity after subchronic escitalopram administration in healthy volunteers: A pharmaco-functional magnetic resonance imaging study. J Psychopharmacol 2024; 38:1071-1082. [PMID: 39364684 PMCID: PMC11531087 DOI: 10.1177/02698811241286773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used for the treatment of several conditions including anxiety disorders, but the basic neurobiology of serotonin function remains unclear. The amygdala and prefrontal cortex are strongly innervated by serotonergic projections and have been suggested to play an important role in anxiety expression. However, serotonergic function in behaviour and SSRI-mediated neurobiological changes remain incompletely understood. AIMS To investigate the neural correlates of subchronic antidepressant administration. METHODS We investigated whether the 2- to 3-week administration of a highly selective SSRI (escitalopram) would alter brain activation on a task robustly shown to recruit the bilateral amygdala and frontal cortices in a large healthy volunteer sample. Participants performed the task during a functional magnetic resonance imaging acquisition before (n = 96) and after subchronic escitalopram (n = 46, days of administration mean (SD) = 15.7 (2.70)) or placebo (n = 40 days of administration mean (SD) = 16.2 (2.90)) self-administration. RESULTS Compared to placebo, we found an elevation in right amygdala activation to the task after escitalopram administration without significant changes in mood. This effect was not seen in the left amygdala, the dorsomedial region of interest, the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex or the right fusiform area. There were no significant changes in connectivity between the dorsomedial cortex and amygdala or the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex after escitalopram administration. CONCLUSIONS To date, this most highly powered study of subchronic SSRI administration indicates that, contrary to effects often seen in patients with anxiety disorders, subchronic SSRI treatment may increase amygdala activation in healthy controls. This finding highlights important gaps in our understanding of the functional role of serotonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina B Lukow
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Millie Lowther
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandra C Pike
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychology & York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, UK
| | - Yumeya Yamamori
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alice V Chavanne
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
- Université Paris-Saclay, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM U1299 “Trajectoires Développementales Psychiatrie,” Ecole Normale Supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 9010, Centre Borelli, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
- Department of Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Siobhan Gormley
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jessica Aylward
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tayla McCloud
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, London, UK
| | - Talya Goble
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Julia Rodriguez-Sanchez
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ella W Tuominen
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah K Buehler
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Kirk
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
- Emotion and Development Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Oliver J Robinson
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
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2
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Opitz A, Zimmermann J, Cole DM, Coray RC, Zachäi A, Baumgartner MR, Steuer AE, Pilhatsch M, Quednow BB, Beste C, Stock AK. Conflict monitoring and emotional processing in 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and methamphetamine users - A comparative neurophysiological study. Neuroimage Clin 2024; 41:103579. [PMID: 38447413 PMCID: PMC10924209 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2024.103579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
In stimulant use and addiction, conflict control processes are crucial for regulating substance use and sustaining abstinence, which can be particularly challenging in social-affective situations. Users of methamphetamine (METH, "Ice") and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "Ecstasy") both experience impulse control deficits, but display different social-affective and addictive profiles. We thus aimed to compare the effects of chronic use of the substituted amphetamines METH and MDMA on conflict control processes in different social-affective contexts (i.e., anger and happiness) and investigate their underlying neurophysiological mechanisms. For this purpose, chronic but recently abstinent users of METH (n = 38) and MDMA (n = 42), as well as amphetamine-naïve healthy controls (n = 83) performed an emotional face-word Stroop paradigm, while event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded. Instead of substance-specific differences, both MDMA and METH users showed smaller behavioral effects of cognitive-emotional conflict processing (independently of emotional valence) and selective deficits in emotional processing of anger content. Both effects were underpinned by stronger P3 ERP modulations suggesting that users of substituted amphetamines employ altered stimulus-response mapping and decision-making. Given that these processes are modulated by noradrenaline and that both MDMA and METH use may be associated with noradrenergic dysfunctions, the noradrenaline system may underlie the observed substance-related similarities. Better understanding the functional relevance of this currently still under-researched neurotransmitter and its functional changes in chronic users of substituted amphetamines is thus an important avenue for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antje Opitz
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Josua Zimmermann
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David M Cole
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Translational Psychiatry Lab, University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca C Coray
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anna Zachäi
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus R Baumgartner
- Center for Forensic Hair Analytics, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea E Steuer
- Department of Forensic Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maximilian Pilhatsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Elblandklinikum, Radebeul, Germany
| | - Boris B Quednow
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Ann-Kathrin Stock
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany; Biopsychology, Department of Psychology, School of Science, TU Dresden, Germany.
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3
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Boucherie DE, Reneman L, Booij J, Martins D, Dipasquale O, Schrantee A. Modulation of functional networks related to the serotonin neurotransmitter system by citalopram: Evidence from a multimodal neuroimaging study. J Psychopharmacol 2023; 37:1209-1217. [PMID: 37947344 PMCID: PMC10714691 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231211154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) potentiate serotonergic neurotransmission by blocking the serotonin transporter (5-HTT), but the functional brain response to SSRIs involves neural circuits beyond regions with high 5-HTT expression. Currently, it is unclear whether and how changes in 5-HTT availability after SSRI administration modulate brain function of key serotoninergic circuits, including those characterized by high availability of the serotonin 1A receptor (5-HT1AR). AIM We investigated the association between 5-HTT availability and 5-HTT- and 5-HT1AR-enriched functional connectivity (FC) after an acute citalopram challenge. METHODS We analyzed multimodal data from a dose-response, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, in which 45 healthy women were randomized into three groups receiving placebo, a low (4 mg), or high (16 mg) oral dose of citalopram. Receptor-Enhanced Analysis of functional Connectivity by Targets was used to estimate 5-HTT- and 5-HT1AR-enriched FC from resting-state and task-based fMRI. 5-HTT availability was determined using [123I]FP-CIT single-photon emission computerized tomography. RESULTS 5-HTT availability was negatively correlated with resting-state 5-HTT-enriched FC, and with task-dependent 5-HT1AR-enriched FC. Our exploratory analyses revealed lower 5-HT1AR-enriched FC in the low-dose group compared to the high-dose group at rest and the placebo group during the emotional face-matching task. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our findings provide evidence for differential links between 5-HTT availability and brain function within 5-HTT and 5-HT1AR pathways and in context- and dose-dependent manner. As such, they support a potential pivotal role of the 5-HT1AR in the effects of citalopram on the brain and add to its potential as a therapeutic avenue for mood and anxiety disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne E Boucherie
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, location Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Reneman
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, location Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Booij
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, location Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Martins
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Division of Adult Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ottavia Dipasquale
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Anouk Schrantee
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, location Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Paulson OB, Schousboe A, Hultborn H. The history of Danish neuroscience. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 58:2893-2960. [PMID: 37477973 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16062] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The history of Danish neuroscience starts with an account of impressive contributions made at the 17th century. Thomas Bartholin was the first Danish neuroscientist, and his disciple Nicolaus Steno became internationally one of the most prominent neuroscientists in this period. From the start, Danish neuroscience was linked to clinical disciplines. This continued in the 19th and first half of the 20th centuries with new initiatives linking basic neuroscience to clinical neurology and psychiatry in the same scientific environment. Subsequently, from the middle of the 20th century, basic neuroscience was developing rapidly within the preclinical university sector. Clinical neuroscience continued and was even reinforced during this period with important translational research and a close co-operation between basic and clinical neuroscience. To distinguish 'history' from 'present time' is not easy, as many historical events continue in present time. Therefore, we decided to consider 'History' as new major scientific developments in Denmark, which were launched before the end of the 20th century. With this aim, scientists mentioned will have been born, with a few exceptions, no later than the early 1960s. However, we often refer to more recent publications in documenting the developments of initiatives launched before the end of the last century. In addition, several scientists have moved to Denmark after the beginning of the present century, and they certainly are contributing to the present status of Danish neuroscience-but, again, this is not the History of Danish neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf B Paulson
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, 9 Blegdamsvej, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arne Schousboe
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hans Hultborn
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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Capitão LP, Chapman R, Filippini N, Wright L, Murphy SE, James A, Cowen PJ, Harmer CJ. Acute neural effects of fluoxetine on emotional regulation in depressed adolescents. Psychol Med 2023; 53:4799-4810. [PMID: 35903009 PMCID: PMC10388313 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722001805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with disrupted processing of emotional stimuli and difficulties in cognitive reappraisal. Little is known however about how current pharmacotherapies act to modulate the neural mechanisms underlying these key processes. The current study therefore investigated the neural effects of fluoxetine on emotional reactivity and cognitive reappraisal in adolescent depression. METHODS Thirty-one adolescents with MDD were randomised to acute fluoxetine (10 mg) or placebo. Seventeen healthy adolescents were also recruited but did not receive any treatment for ethical reasons. During functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), participants viewed aversive images and were asked to either experience naturally the emotional state elicited ('Maintain') or to reinterpret the content of the pictures to reduce negative affect ('Reappraise'). Significant activations were identified using whole-brain analysis. RESULTS No significant group differences were seen when comparing Reappraise and Maintain conditions. However, when compared to healthy controls, depressed adolescents on placebo showed reduced visual activation to aversive pictures irrespective of the condition. The depressed adolescent group on fluoxetine showed the opposite pattern, i.e. increased visuo-cerebellar activity in response to aversive pictures, when compared to depressed adolescents on placebo. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that depression in adolescence may be associated with reduced visual processing of aversive imagery and that fluoxetine may act to reduce avoidance of such cues. This could reflect a key mechanism whereby depressed adolescents engage with negative cues previously avoided. Future research combining fMRI with eye-tracking is nonetheless needed to further clarify these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana P. Capitão
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert Chapman
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Lucy Wright
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Susannah E. Murphy
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Anthony James
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Philip J. Cowen
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Catherine J. Harmer
- Oxford University Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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6
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Janet R, Costes N, Mérida I, Derrington E, Dreher JC. Relationships between serotonin availability and frontolimbic response to fearful and threatening faces. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1558. [PMID: 36707612 PMCID: PMC9883493 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28667-0] [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: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Serotonin is a critical neurotransmitter in the regulation of emotional behavior. Although emotion processing is known to engage a corticolimbic circuit, including the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, exactly how this brain system is modulated by serotonin remains unclear. Here, we hypothesized that serotonin modulates variability in excitability and functional connectivity within this circuit. We tested whether this modulation contributes to inter-individual differences in emotion processing. Using a multimodal neuroimaging approach with a simultaneous PET-3T fMRI scanner, we simultaneously acquired BOLD signal while participants viewed emotional faces depicting fear and anger, while also measuring serotonin transporter (SERT) levels, regulating serotonin functions. Individuals with higher activity of the medial amygdala BOLD in response to fearful or angry facial expressions, who were temperamentally more anxious, also exhibited lower SERT availability in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). Moreover, higher connectivity of the medial amygdala with the left dorsolateral prefrontal and the anterior cingulate cortex was associated with lower levels of SERT availability in the DRN. These results demonstrate the association between the serotonin transporter level and emotion processing through changes in functional interactions between the amygdala and the prefrontal areas in healthy humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Janet
- CNRS-Institut de Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, UMR5229, Neuroeconomics, Reward, and Decision Making Laboratory, Lyon, France
| | - N Costes
- CERMEP-Imagerie du vivant, Lyon, France
| | - I Mérida
- CERMEP-Imagerie du vivant, Lyon, France
| | - E Derrington
- CNRS-Institut de Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, UMR5229, Neuroeconomics, Reward, and Decision Making Laboratory, Lyon, France
| | - J C Dreher
- CNRS-Institut de Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, UMR5229, Neuroeconomics, Reward, and Decision Making Laboratory, Lyon, France.
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7
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Fisher PM, Ozenne B, Ganz M, Frokjaer VG, Dam VN, Penninx BW, Sankar A, Miskowiak K, Jensen PS, Knudsen GM, Jorgensen MB. Emotional faces processing in major depressive disorder and prediction of antidepressant treatment response: A NeuroPharm study. J Psychopharmacol 2022; 36:626-636. [PMID: 35549538 DOI: 10.1177/02698811221089035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent neuropsychiatric illness for which it is important to resolve underlying brain mechanisms. Current treatments are often unsuccessful, precipitating a need to identify predictive markers. AIM We evaluated (1) alterations in brain responses to an emotional faces functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) paradigm in individuals with MDD, compared to controls, (2) whether pretreatment brain responses predicted antidepressant treatment response, and (3) pre-post change in brain responses following treatment. METHODS Eighty-nine medication-free, depressed individuals and 115 healthy controls completed the fMRI paradigm. Depressed individuals completed a nonrandomized, open-label, 8-week treatment with escitalopram, including the option to switch to duloxetine after 4 weeks. We examined patient-control group differences in regional fMRI responses at baseline, whether baseline fMRI responses predicted treatment response at 8 weeks, including early life stress moderating effects, and change in fMRI responses in 36 depressed individuals rescanned following 8 weeks of treatment. RESULTS Task reaction time was 5% slower in patients. Multiple brain regions showed significant task-related responses, but we observed no statistically significant patient-control group differences (Cohen's d < 0.35). Patient pretreatment brain responses did not predict antidepressant treatment response (area under the curve of the receiver operator characteristic (AUC-ROC) < 0.6) and brain responses were not statistically significantly changed after treatment (Cohen's d < 0.33). CONCLUSION This represents the largest prediction study to date examining emotional faces fMRI features as predictors of antidepressant treatment response. Brain response to this fMRI emotional faces paradigm did not distinguish depressed individuals from healthy controls, nor was it predictive of antidepressant treatment response.Clinical Trial Registration: Site: https://clinicaltrials.gov, Trial Number: NCT02869035, Trial Title: Treatment Outcome in Major Depressive Disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Fisher
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brice Ozenne
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Section of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Melanie Ganz
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vibe G Frokjaer
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vibeke Nh Dam
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brenda Wjh Penninx
- BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anajli Sankar
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kamilla Miskowiak
- BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter S Jensen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gitte M Knudsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin B Jorgensen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,NeuroPharm, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BrainDrugs, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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8
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Psychological mechanisms and functions of 5-HT and SSRIs in potential therapeutic change: Lessons from the serotonergic modulation of action selection, learning, affect, and social cognition. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 119:138-167. [PMID: 32931805 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Uncertainty regarding which psychological mechanisms are fundamental in mediating SSRI treatment outcomes and wide-ranging variability in their efficacy has raised more questions than it has solved. Since subjective mood states are an abstract scientific construct, only available through self-report in humans, and likely involving input from multiple top-down and bottom-up signals, it has been difficult to model at what level SSRIs interact with this process. Converging translational evidence indicates a role for serotonin in modulating context-dependent parameters of action selection, affect, and social cognition; and concurrently supporting learning mechanisms, which promote adaptability and behavioural flexibility. We examine the theoretical basis, ecological validity, and interaction of these constructs and how they may or may not exert a clinical benefit. Specifically, we bridge crucial gaps between disparate lines of research, particularly findings from animal models and human clinical trials, which often seem to present irreconcilable differences. In determining how SSRIs exert their effects, our approach examines the endogenous functions of 5-HT neurons, how 5-HT manipulations affect behaviour in different contexts, and how their therapeutic effects may be exerted in humans - which may illuminate issues of translational models, hierarchical mechanisms, idiographic variables, and social cognition.
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9
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Lovell N, Wilcock A, Bajwah S, Etkind SN, Jolley CJ, Maddocks M, Higginson IJ. Mirtazapine for chronic breathlessness? A review of mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential. Expert Rev Respir Med 2019; 13:173-180. [PMID: 30596298 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2019.1563486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic breathlessness is a common and distressing symptom of advanced disease with few effective treatments. Central nervous system mechanisms are important in respiratory sensation and control. Consequently, drugs which may modify processing and perception of afferent information in the brain may have a role. Antidepressants have been proposed; however, current evidence is limited. Of potentially suitable antidepressants, mirtazapine is an attractive option given its tolerability profile, low cost, and wide availability, along with additional potential benefits. Areas covered: The paper provides an overview of the physiology of breathlessness, with an emphasis on central mechanisms, particularly the role of fear circuits and the associated neurotransmitters. It provides a potential rationale for how mirtazapine may improve chronic breathlessness and quality of life in patients with advanced disease. The evidence was identified by a literature search performed in PubMed through to October 2018. Expert opinion: Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support the routine use of antidepressants for chronic breathlessness in advanced disease. Mirtazapine is a promising candidate to pursue, with definitive randomized controlled trials required to determine its efficacy and safety in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lovell
- a Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation , King's College London , London , UK
| | - A Wilcock
- b University of Nottingham, Palliative Medicine, Hayward House Specialist Palliative Care Unit , Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust , Nottingham , UK
| | - S Bajwah
- a Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation , King's College London , London , UK
| | - S N Etkind
- a Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation , King's College London , London , UK
| | - C J Jolley
- c Centre for Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine , King's College London , UK
| | - M Maddocks
- a Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation , King's College London , London , UK
| | - I J Higginson
- a Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation , King's College London , London , UK
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10
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Godlewska BR. Cognitive neuropsychological theory: Reconciliation of psychological and biological approaches for depression. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 197:38-51. [PMID: 30578809 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
New antidepressants and individualized approaches to treatment, matching specific therapies to individual patients, are urgently needed. For this, a better understanding of processes underpinning the development of depressive symptoms and response to medications are required. The cognitive neuropsychological model offers a novel approach uniquely combining biological and psychological approaches to explain how antidepressants exert their effect, why there is a delay in the onset of their clinical effect, and how changes in emotional processing are an essential step for a clinical antidepressant effect to take place. The paper presents the model and its underpinnings in the form of research in both healthy and depressed individuals, as well as the potential for its practical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata R Godlewska
- Psychopharmacology Research Unit, University Department of Psychiatry (PPRU), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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11
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Hornboll B, Macoveanu J, Nejad A, Rowe J, Elliott R, Knudsen GM, Siebner HR, Paulson OB. Neuroticism predicts the impact of serotonin challenges on fear processing in subgenual anterior cingulate cortex. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17889. [PMID: 30559408 PMCID: PMC6297157 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36350-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The personality trait neuroticism is associated with increased vulnerability to anxiety and mood disorders, conditions linked with abnormal serotonin neurotransmission and emotional processing. The interaction between neuroticism and serotonin during emotional processing is however not understood. Here we investigate how individual neuroticism scores influence the neural response to negative emotional faces and their sensitivity to serotonergic tone. Twenty healthy participants performed an emotional face task under functional MRI on three occasions: increased serotonin tone following infusion of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), decreased serotonin tone following acute tryptophan depletion (ATD) protocol, and no serotonin challenge (control). During the task, participants performed a gender-discrimination task of neutral, fearful or angry facial expressions. Individual variations in neuroticism scores were associated with neural response of subgenual anterior cingulate cortex to fearful facial expressions. The association was however opposite under the two serotoninergic challenges. The fear-related response in this region and individual neuroticism scores correlated negatively during citalopram challenge and positively during ATD. Thus, neuroticism scores were associated with the relative impact of serotonin challenges on fear processing in subgenual anterior cingulate cortex. This finding may link to a neural mechanism for the variable therapeutic effect of SSRI treatment observed in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Hornboll
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.,Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julian Macoveanu
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.,Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ayna Nejad
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.,Child and Adolescent Mental Health Centre, Capital Region Psychiatry, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - James Rowe
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge University, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rebecca Elliott
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gitte M Knudsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark.,Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hartwig R Siebner
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.,Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Olaf B Paulson
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark. .,Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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12
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Borgsted C, Ozenne B, Mc Mahon B, Madsen MK, Hjordt LV, Hageman I, Baaré WFC, Knudsen GM, Fisher PM. Amygdala response to emotional faces in seasonal affective disorder. J Affect Disord 2018; 229:288-295. [PMID: 29329062 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.12.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is characterized by seasonally recurring depression. Heightened amygdala activation to aversive stimuli is associated with major depressive disorder but its relation to SAD is unclear. We evaluated seasonal variation in amygdala activation in SAD and healthy controls (HC) using a longitudinal design targeting the asymptomatic/symptomatic phases of SAD. We hypothesized increased amygdala activation to aversive stimuli in the winter in SAD individuals (season-by-group interaction). METHODS Seventeen SAD individuals and 15 HCs completed an implicit emotional faces BOLD-fMRI paradigm during summer and winter. We computed amygdala activation (SPM5) to an aversive contrast (angry & fearful minus neutral) and angry, fearful and neutral faces, separately. Season-by-group and main effects were evaluated using Generalized Least Squares. In SAD individuals, we correlated change in symptom severity, assessed with The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression - Seasonal Affective Disorder version (SIGH-SAD), with change in amygdala activation. RESULTS We found no season-by-group, season or group effect on our aversive contrast. Independent of season, SAD individuals showed significantly lower amygdala activation to all faces compared to healthy controls, with no evidence for a season-by-group interaction. Seasonal change in amygdala activation was unrelated to change in SIGH-SAD. LIMITATIONS Small sample size, lack of positive valence stimuli. CONCLUSIONS Amygdala activation to aversive faces is not increased in symptomatic SAD individuals. Instead, we observed decreased amygdala activation across faces, independent of season. Our findings suggest that amygdala activation to angry, fearful and neutral faces is altered in SAD individuals, independent of the presence of depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Borgsted
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brice Ozenne
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brenda Mc Mahon
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin K Madsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Liv V Hjordt
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Hageman
- Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - William F C Baaré
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Kettegård Allé 30, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Gitte M Knudsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick M Fisher
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Section 6931, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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13
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Vai B, Riberto M, Ghiglino D, Poletti S, Bollettini I, Lorenzi C, Colombo C, Benedetti F. A 5-HT 1Areceptor promoter polymorphism influences fronto-limbic functional connectivity and depression severity in bipolar disorder. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2017; 270:1-7. [PMID: 28985530 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2017.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Vai
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy; C.E.R.M.A.C. (Centro di Eccellenza Risonanza Magnetica ad Alto Campo), University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
| | - Martina Riberto
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Ghiglino
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Poletti
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy; C.E.R.M.A.C. (Centro di Eccellenza Risonanza Magnetica ad Alto Campo), University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Bollettini
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy; C.E.R.M.A.C. (Centro di Eccellenza Risonanza Magnetica ad Alto Campo), University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Lorenzi
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Colombo
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Benedetti
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy; C.E.R.M.A.C. (Centro di Eccellenza Risonanza Magnetica ad Alto Campo), University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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14
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Nørgaard M, Ganz M, Svarer C, Fisher PM, Churchill NW, Beliveau V, Grady C, Strother SC, Knudsen GM. Brain Networks Implicated in Seasonal Affective Disorder: A Neuroimaging PET Study of the Serotonin Transporter. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:614. [PMID: 29163018 PMCID: PMC5682039 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of Major Depressive Disorder characterized by seasonally occurring depression that often presents with atypical vegetative symptoms such as hypersomnia and carbohydrate craving. It has recently been shown that unlike healthy people, patients with SAD fail to globally downregulate their cerebral serotonin transporter (5-HTT) in winter, and that this effect seemed to be particularly pronounced in female S-carriers of the 5-HTTLPR genotype. The purpose of this study was to identify a 5-HTT brain network that accounts for the adaption to the environmental stressor of winter in females with the short 5-HTTLPR genotype, a specific subgroup previously reported to be at increased risk for developing SAD. Methods: Nineteen females, either S' carriers (LG- and S-carriers) without SAD (N = 13, mean age 23.6 ± 3.2 year, range 19-28) or S' carriers with SAD (N = 6, mean age 23.7 ± 2.4, range 21-26) were PET-scanned with [11C]DASB during both summer and winter seasons (asymptomatic and symptomatic phase, 38 scans in total) in randomized order, defined as a 12-week interval centered on summer or winter solstice. We used a multivariate Partial Least Squares (PLS) approach with NPAIRS split-half cross-validation, to identify and map a whole-brain pattern of 5-HTT levels that distinguished the brains of females without SAD from females suffering from SAD. Results: We identified a pattern of 5-HTT levels, distinguishing females with SAD from those without SAD; it included the right superior frontal gyrus, brainstem, globus pallidus (bilaterally) and the left hippocampus. Across seasons, female S' carriers without SAD showed nominally higher 5-HTT levels in these regions compared to female S' carriers with SAD, but the group difference was only significant in the winter. Female S' carriers with SAD, in turn, displayed robustly increased 5-HTT levels in the ventral striatum (bilaterally), right orbitofrontal cortex, middle frontal gyrus (bilaterally), extending to the left supramarginal gyrus, left precentral gyrus and left postcentral gyrus during winter compared to female S' carriers without SAD. Limitations: The study is preliminary and limited by small sample size in the SAD group (N = 6). Conclusions: These findings provide novel exploratory evidence for a wintertime state-dependent difference in 5-HTT levels that may leave SAD females with the short 5-HTTLPR genotype more vulnerable to persistent stressors like winter. The affected brain regions comprise a distributed set of areas responsive to emotion, voluntary, and planned movement, executive function, and memory. The preliminary findings provide additional insight into the neurobiological components through which the anatomical distribution of serotonergic discrepancies between individuals genetically predisposed to SAD, but with different phenotypic presentations during the environmental stressor of winter, may constitute a potential biomarker for resilience against developing SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Nørgaard
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Melanie Ganz
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Svarer
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick M. Fisher
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Vincent Beliveau
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cheryl Grady
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest and Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen C. Strother
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest and Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gitte M. Knudsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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15
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Komulainen E, Glerean E, Meskanen K, Heikkilä R, Nummenmaa L, Raij TT, Lahti J, Jylhä P, Melartin T, Isometsä E, Ekelund J. Single dose of mirtazapine modulates whole-brain functional connectivity during emotional narrative processing. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2017; 263:61-69. [PMID: 28366871 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The link between neurotransmitter-level effects of antidepressants and their clinical effect remain poorly understood. A single dose of mirtazapine decreases limbic responses to fearful faces in healthy subjects, but it is unknown whether this effect applies to complex emotional situations and dynamic connectivity between brain regions. Thirty healthy volunteers listened to spoken emotional narratives during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). In an open-label design, 15 subjects received 15mg of mirtazapine two hours prior to fMRI while 15 subjects served as a control group. We assessed the effects of mirtazapine on regional neural responses and dynamic functional connectivity associated with valence and arousal. Mirtazapine attenuated responses to unpleasant events in the right fronto-insular cortex, while modulating responses to arousing events in the core limbic regions and the cortical midline structures (CMS). Mirtazapine decreased responses to unpleasant and arousing events in sensorimotor areas and the anterior CMS implicated in self-referential processing and formation of subjective feelings. Mirtazapine increased functional connectivity associated with positive valence in the CMS and limbic regions. Mirtazapine triggers large-scale changes in regional responses and functional connectivity during naturalistic, emotional stimuli. These span limbic, sensorimotor, and midline brain structures, and may be relevant to the clinical effectiveness of mirtazapine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Komulainen
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Enrico Glerean
- Aalto University, School of Science, Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Espoo, Finland
| | - Katarina Meskanen
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Roope Heikkilä
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lauri Nummenmaa
- Turku PET Centre and Department of Psychology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Tuukka T Raij
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland; Aalto University, School of Science, Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Espoo, Finland; Aalto NeuroImaging, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - Jari Lahti
- University of Helsinki, Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Helsinki, Finland; Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki collegium of Advanced Studies, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pekka Jylhä
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland; National Institute of Health and Welfare, Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tarja Melartin
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Erkki Isometsä
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jesper Ekelund
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland; Vaasa Hospital District, Department of Psychiatry, Vaasa, Finland
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16
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Raab K, Kirsch P, Mier D. Understanding the impact of 5-HTTLPR, antidepressants, and acute tryptophan depletion on brain activation during facial emotion processing: A review of the imaging literature. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 71:176-197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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17
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Vai B, Bulgarelli C, Godlewska BR, Cowen PJ, Benedetti F, Harmer CJ. Fronto-limbic effective connectivity as possible predictor of antidepressant response to SSRI administration. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2016; 26:2000-2010. [PMID: 27756525 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2016.09.640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The timely selection of the optimal treatment for depressed patients is critical to improve remission rates. The detection of pre-treatment variables able to predict differential treatment response may provide novel approaches for treatment selection. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) modulate the fronto-limbic functional response and connectivity, an effect preceding the overt clinical antidepressant effects. Here we investigated whether the cortico-limbic connectivity associated with emotional bias measured before SSRI administration predicts the efficacy of antidepressant treatment in MDD patients. fMRI and Dynamic Causal Modeling (DCM) were combined to study if effective connectivity might differentiate healthy controls (HC) and patients affected by major depression who later responded (RMDD, n=21), or failed to respond (nRMDD, n=12), to 6 weeks of escitalopram administration. Sixteen DCMs exploring connectivity between anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC), Amygdala (Amy), and fusiform gyrus (FG) were constructed. Analyses revealed that nRMDD had reduced endogenous connectivity from Amy to VLPFC and to ACC, with an increased connectivity and modulation of the ACC to Amy connectivity when processing of fearful emotional stimuli compared to HC. RMDD and HC did not significantly differ among themselves. Pre-treatment effective connectivity in fronto-limbic circuitry could be an important factor affecting antidepressant response, and highlight the mechanisms which may be involved in recovery from depression. These results suggest that fronto-limbic connectivity might provide a neural biomarker to predict the clinical outcome to SSRIs administration in major depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Vai
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy; Department of Human Studies, Libera Università Maria Ss. Assunta, Roma, Italy.
| | - Chiara Bulgarelli
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Philip J Cowen
- University Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Francesco Benedetti
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Milan, Italy
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18
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Sabino ADV, Chagas MHN, Osório FL. Effects of psychotropic drugs used in the treatment of anxiety disorders on the recognition of facial expressions of emotion: Critical analysis of literature. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 71:802-809. [PMID: 27810346 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Deficits in recognition of facial expressions of emotion (RFEE) play a central role in the manifestation of anxiety disorders (AD). We systematically reviewed the literature to determine effects of drugs used in AD treatment on RFEE, based on outcomes of accuracy rate, reaction time, and intensity. Electronic databases, including Pubmed, PsycINFO, and Scielo, were used without time constraints. Twenty-six clinical/experimental studies on healthy subjects, focusing on 11 drugs, published in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, were selected. We found that increased recognition of happiness was associated with acute use of citalopram, fluoxetine, duloxetine, and reboxetine. Increased and decreased recognition of negative emotions were associated with the use of selective serotonin and/or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, respectively. Benzodiazepine favored recognition of negative emotions. Differences in reaction time were rarely observed. Stimuli with distinct emotion intensities produced similar effects. Specific changes occurred in RFEE depending on the drug, its administration route and dose, and emotion valence. Evidences indicate significant effects on emotional processing relevant to clinical practice, particularly in treating patients with emotional disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alini Daniéli Viana Sabino
- Department of Neurosciences and Behaviour, Medical School of RibeirãoPreto, University of São Paulo, Avenida dos Bandeirantes 3900, CEP 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Marcos Hortes N Chagas
- Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís (SP-310), Km 235, CEP 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Flávia L Osório
- Department of Neurosciences and Behaviour, Medical School of RibeirãoPreto, University of São Paulo, Avenida dos Bandeirantes 3900, CEP 14048-900, Brazil; Technology Institute (INCT, CNPq) for Translational Medicine, Brazil.
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19
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Godar SC, Fite PJ, McFarlin KM, Bortolato M. The role of monoamine oxidase A in aggression: Current translational developments and future challenges. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 69:90-100. [PMID: 26776902 PMCID: PMC4865459 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 01/02/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Drawing upon the recent resurgence of biological criminology, several studies have highlighted a critical role for genetic factors in the ontogeny of antisocial and violent conduct. In particular, converging lines of evidence have documented that these maladaptive manifestations of aggression are influenced by monoamine oxidase A (MAOA), the enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of brain serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. The interest on the link between MAOA and aggression was originally sparked by Han Brunner's discovery of a syndrome characterized by marked antisocial behaviors in male carriers of a nonsense mutation of this gene. Subsequent studies showed that MAOA allelic variants associated with low enzyme activity moderate the impact of early-life maltreatment on aggression propensity. In spite of overwhelming evidence pointing to the relationship between MAOA and aggression, the neurobiological substrates of this link remain surprisingly elusive; very little is also known about the interventions that may reduce the severity of pathological aggression in genetically predisposed subjects. Animal models offer a unique experimental tool to investigate these issues; in particular, several lines of transgenic mice harboring total or partial loss-of-function Maoa mutations have been shown to recapitulate numerous psychological and neurofunctional endophenotypes observed in humans. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the link between MAOA and aggression; in particular, we will emphasize how an integrated translational strategy coordinating clinical and preclinical research may prove critical to elucidate important aspects of the pathophysiology of aggression, and identify potential targets for its diagnosis, prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean C Godar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA
| | - Paula J Fite
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA; Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA
| | - Kenneth M McFarlin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, (KS), USA.
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20
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Warren MB, Pringle A, Harmer CJ. A neurocognitive model for understanding treatment action in depression. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2015; 370:20140213. [PMID: 26240428 PMCID: PMC4528825 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2014.0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The way in which emotion is represented and processed in the human brain is an expanding area of research and has key implications for how we understand and potentially treat affective disorders such as depression. Characterizing the effects of pharmacological manipulations of key neurotransmitter systems can also help reveal the neurochemical underpinnings of emotional processing and how common antidepressant drugs may work in the treatment of depression and anxiety. This approach has revealed that depression is associated with both neural and behavioural biases towards negative over positive stimuli. Evidence from pharmacological challenge studies suggests that antidepressant treatment acts to normalize these biases early on in treatment, resulting in patients experiencing the world in a more positive way, improving their mood over time. This model is supported by evidence from both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. The unique perspective on antidepressant treatment offered by this approach provides some insights into individual response to treatment, as well as novel approaches to drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Warren
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Abbie Pringle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Catherine J Harmer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
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21
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Madsen MK, Mc Mahon B, Andersen SB, Siebner HR, Knudsen GM, Fisher PM. Threat-related amygdala functional connectivity is associated with 5-HTTLPR genotype and neuroticism. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2015; 11:140-9. [PMID: 26245837 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsv098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Communication between the amygdala and other brain regions critically regulates sensitivity to threat, which has been associated with risk for mood and affective disorders. The extent to which these neural pathways are genetically determined or correlate with risk-related personality measures is not fully understood. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we evaluated independent and interactive effects of the 5-HTTLPR genotype and neuroticism on amygdala functional connectivity during an emotional faces paradigm in 76 healthy individuals. Functional connectivity between left amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and between both amygdalae and a cluster including posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus and visual cortex was significantly increased in 5-HTTLPR S' allele carriers relative to L(A)L(A) individuals. Neuroticism was negatively correlated with functional connectivity between right amygdala and mPFC and visual cortex, and between both amygdalae and left lateral orbitofrontal (lOFC) and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC). Notably, 5-HTTLPR moderated the association between neuroticism and functional connectivity between both amygdalae and left lOFC/vlPFC, such that S' carriers exhibited a more negative association relative to L(A)L(A) individuals. These findings provide novel evidence for both independent and interactive effects of 5-HTTLPR genotype and neuroticism on amygdala communication, which may mediate effects on risk for mood and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Korsbak Madsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Brenda Mc Mahon
- Neurobiology Research Unit and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Sofie Bech Andersen
- Neurobiology Research Unit and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Hartwig Roman Siebner
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark, Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark, and Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, 2400 Copenhagen NW, Denmark
| | - Gitte Moos Knudsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark,
| | - Patrick MacDonald Fisher
- Neurobiology Research Unit and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
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Abstract
Aggression and violence represent a significant public health concern and a clinical challenge for the mental healthcare provider. A great deal has been revealed regarding the neurobiology of violence and aggression, and an integration of this body of knowledge will ultimately serve to advance clinical diagnostics and therapeutic interventions. We will review here the latest findings regarding the neurobiology of aggression and violence. First, we will introduce the construct of aggression, with a focus on issues related to its heterogeneity, as well as the importance of refining the aggression phenotype in order to reduce pathophysiologic variability. Next we will examine the neuroanatomy of aggression and violence, focusing on regional volumes, functional studies, and interregional connectivity. Significant emphasis will be on the amygdala, as well as amygdala-frontal circuitry. Then we will turn our attention to the neurochemistry and molecular genetics of aggression and violence, examining the extensive findings on the serotonergic system, as well as the growing literature on the dopaminergic and vasopressinergic systems. We will also address the contribution of steroid hormones, namely, cortisol and testosterone. Finally, we will summarize these findings with a focus on reconciling inconsistencies and potential clinical implications; and, then we will suggest areas of focus for future directions in the field.
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Ma Y, Li B, Wang C, Zhang W, Rao Y, Han S. Allelic variation in 5-HTTLPR and the effects of citalopram on the emotional neural network. Br J Psychiatry 2015; 206:385-92. [PMID: 25745133 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.114.150128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as citalopram, which selectively block serotonin transporter (5-HTT) activity, are widely used in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. Numerous neuroimaging studies have examined the effects of SSRIs on emotional processes. However, there are considerable inter-individual differences in SSRI effect, and a recent meta-analysis further revealed discrepant effects of acute SSRI administration on neural responses to negative emotions in healthy adults. AIMS We examined how a variant of the serotonin-transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR), which affects the expression and function of 5-HTT, influenced the acute effects of an SSRI (citalopram) on emotion-related brain activity in healthy adults. METHOD Combining genetic neuroimaging, pharmacological technique and a psychological paradigm of emotion recognition, we scanned the short/short (s/s) and long/long (l/l) variants of 5-HTTLPR during perception of fearful, happy and neutral facial expressions after the acute administration of an SSRI (i.e. 30 mg citalopram administered orally) or placebo administration. RESULTS We found that 5-HTTLPR modulated the acute effects of citalopram on neural responses to negative emotions. Specifically, relative to placebo, citalopram increased amygdala and insula activity in l/l but not s/s homozygotes during perception of fearful faces. Similar analyses of brain activity in response to happy faces did not show any significant effects. CONCLUSIONS Our combined pharmacogenetic and functional imaging results provide a neurogenetic mechanism for discrepant acute effects of SSRIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yina Ma
- Yina Ma, PhD, Department of Psychology, Peking University, China, and Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Bingfeng Li, BS, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Chenbo Wang, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Wenxia Zhang, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Yi Rao, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Shihui Han, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Bingfeng Li
- Yina Ma, PhD, Department of Psychology, Peking University, China, and Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Bingfeng Li, BS, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Chenbo Wang, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Wenxia Zhang, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Yi Rao, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Shihui Han, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenbo Wang
- Yina Ma, PhD, Department of Psychology, Peking University, China, and Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Bingfeng Li, BS, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Chenbo Wang, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Wenxia Zhang, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Yi Rao, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Shihui Han, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxia Zhang
- Yina Ma, PhD, Department of Psychology, Peking University, China, and Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Bingfeng Li, BS, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Chenbo Wang, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Wenxia Zhang, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Yi Rao, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Shihui Han, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Rao
- Yina Ma, PhD, Department of Psychology, Peking University, China, and Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Bingfeng Li, BS, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Chenbo Wang, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Wenxia Zhang, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Yi Rao, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Shihui Han, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shihui Han
- Yina Ma, PhD, Department of Psychology, Peking University, China, and Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Bingfeng Li, BS, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Chenbo Wang, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Wenxia Zhang, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Yi Rao, PhD, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences at School of Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China; Shihui Han, PhD, Department of Psychology and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Fluctuations in [¹¹C]SB207145 PET binding associated with change in threat-related amygdala reactivity in humans. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:1510-8. [PMID: 25560201 PMCID: PMC4397409 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin critically affects the neural processing of emotionally salient stimuli, including indices of threat; however, how alterations in serotonin signaling contribute to changes in brain function is not well understood. Recently, we showed in a placebo-controlled study of 32 healthy males that brain serotonin 4 receptor (5-HT4) binding, assessed with [(11)C]SB207145 PET, was sensitive to a 3-week intervention with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine, supporting it as an in vivo model for fluctuations in central serotonin levels. Participants also underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging while performing a gender discrimination task of fearful, angry, and neutral faces. This offered a unique opportunity to evaluate whether individual fluctuations in central serotonin levels, indexed by change in [(11)C]SB207145 binding, predicted changes in threat-related reactivity (ie, fear and angry vs neutral faces) within a corticolimbic circuit including the amygdala and medial prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex. We observed a significant association such that decreased brain-wide [(11)C]SB207145 binding (ie, increased brain serotonin levels) was associated with lower threat-related amygdala reactivity, whereas intervention group status did not predict change in corticolimbic reactivity. This suggests that in the healthy brain, interindividual responses to pharmacologically induced and spontaneously occurring fluctuations in [(11)C]SB207145 binding, a putative marker of brain serotonin levels, affect amygdala reactivity to threat. Our finding also supports that change in brain [(11)C]SB207145 binding may be a relevant marker for evaluating neurobiological mechanisms underlying sensitivity to threat and serotonin signaling.
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25
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Fisher PM, Grady CL, Madsen MK, Strother SC, Knudsen GM. 5-HTTLPR differentially predicts brain network responses to emotional faces. Hum Brain Mapp 2015; 36:2842-51. [PMID: 25929825 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.22811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The effects of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on neural responses to emotionally salient faces have been studied extensively, focusing on amygdala reactivity and amygdala-prefrontal interactions. Despite compelling evidence that emotional face paradigms engage a distributed network of brain regions involved in emotion, cognitive and visual processing, less is known about 5-HTTLPR effects on broader network responses. To address this, we evaluated 5-HTTLPR differences in the whole-brain response to an emotional faces paradigm including neutral, angry and fearful faces using functional magnetic resonance imaging in 76 healthy adults. We observed robust increased response to emotional faces in the amygdala, hippocampus, caudate, fusiform gyrus, superior temporal sulcus and lateral prefrontal and occipito-parietal cortices. We observed dissociation between 5-HTTLPR groups such that LA LA individuals had increased response to only angry faces, relative to neutral ones, but S' carriers had increased activity for both angry and fearful faces relative to neutral. Additionally, the response to angry faces was significantly greater in LA LA individuals compared to S' carriers and the response to fearful faces was significantly greater in S' carriers compared to LA LA individuals. These findings provide novel evidence for emotion-specific 5-HTTLPR effects on the response of a distributed set of brain regions including areas responsive to emotionally salient stimuli and critical components of the face-processing network. These findings provide additional insight into neurobiological mechanisms through which 5-HTTLPR genotype may affect personality and related risk for neuropsychiatric illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Fisher
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark.,Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Cheryl L Grady
- Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Martin K Madsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark.,Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Stephen C Strother
- Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Medical Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gitte M Knudsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark.,Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark
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26
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Knudsen GM, Jensen PS, Erritzoe D, Baaré WFC, Ettrup A, Fisher PM, Gillings N, Hansen HD, Hansen LK, Hasselbalch SG, Henningsson S, Herth MM, Holst KK, Iversen P, Kessing LV, Macoveanu J, Madsen KS, Mortensen EL, Nielsen FÅ, Paulson OB, Siebner HR, Stenbæk DS, Svarer C, Jernigan TL, Strother SC, Frokjaer VG. The Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi) database. Neuroimage 2015; 124:1213-1219. [PMID: 25891375 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2015.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We here describe a multimodality neuroimaging containing data from healthy volunteers and patients, acquired within the Lundbeck Foundation Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi) in Copenhagen, Denmark. The data is of particular relevance for neurobiological research questions related to the serotonergic transmitter system with its normative data on the serotonergic subtype receptors 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, 5-HT2A, and 5-HT4 and the 5-HT transporter (5-HTT), but can easily serve other purposes. The Cimbi database and Cimbi biobank were formally established in 2008 with the purpose to store the wealth of Cimbi-acquired data in a highly structured and standardized manner in accordance with the regulations issued by the Danish Data Protection Agency as well as to provide a quality-controlled resource for future hypothesis-generating and hypothesis-driven studies. The Cimbi database currently comprises a total of 1100 PET and 1000 structural and functional MRI scans and it holds a multitude of additional data, such as genetic and biochemical data, and scores from 17 self-reported questionnaires and from 11 neuropsychological paper/computer tests. The database associated Cimbi biobank currently contains blood and in some instances saliva samples from about 500 healthy volunteers and 300 patients with e.g., major depression, dementia, substance abuse, obesity, and impulsive aggression. Data continue to be added to the Cimbi database and biobank.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitte M Knudsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Peter S Jensen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David Erritzoe
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - William F C Baaré
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anders Ettrup
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick M Fisher
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nic Gillings
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; PET and Cyclotron Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne D Hansen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Kai Hansen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; DTU Compute, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Steen G Hasselbalch
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne Henningsson
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Matthias M Herth
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; PET and Cyclotron Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Klaus K Holst
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, DK-1014 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pernille Iversen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lars V Kessing
- Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julian Macoveanu
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kathrine Skak Madsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Erik L Mortensen
- Department of Public Health and Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Finn Årup Nielsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; DTU Compute, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Olaf B Paulson
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hartwig R Siebner
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dea S Stenbæk
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Svarer
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Terry L Jernigan
- Center for Human Development, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Stephen C Strother
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vibe G Frokjaer
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Biskup CS, Gaber T, Helmbold K, Bubenzer-Busch S, Zepf FD. Amino acid challenge and depletion techniques in human functional neuroimaging studies: an overview. Amino Acids 2015; 47:651-83. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-015-1919-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Phillips ML, Chase HW, Sheline YI, Etkin A, Almeida JR, Deckersbach T, Trivedi MH. Identifying predictors, moderators, and mediators of antidepressant response in major depressive disorder: neuroimaging approaches. Am J Psychiatry 2015; 172:124-38. [PMID: 25640931 PMCID: PMC4464814 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2014.14010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite significant advances in neuroscience and treatment development, no widely accepted biomarkers are available to inform diagnostics or identify preferred treatments for individuals with major depressive disorder. METHOD In this critical review, the authors examine the extent to which multimodal neuroimaging techniques can identify biomarkers reflecting key pathophysiologic processes in depression and whether such biomarkers may act as predictors, moderators, and mediators of treatment response that might facilitate development of personalized treatments based on a better understanding of these processes. RESULTS The authors first highlight the most consistent findings from neuroimaging studies using different techniques in depression, including structural and functional abnormalities in two parallel neural circuits: serotonergically modulated implicit emotion regulation circuitry, centered on the amygdala and different regions in the medial prefrontal cortex; and dopaminergically modulated reward neural circuitry, centered on the ventral striatum and medial prefrontal cortex. They then describe key findings from the relatively small number of studies indicating that specific measures of regional function and, to a lesser extent, structure in these neural circuits predict treatment response in depression. CONCLUSIONS Limitations of existing studies include small sample sizes, use of only one neuroimaging modality, and a focus on identifying predictors rather than moderators and mediators of differential treatment response. By addressing these limitations and, most importantly, capitalizing on the benefits of multimodal neuroimaging, future studies can yield moderators and mediators of treatment response in depression to facilitate significant improvements in shorter- and longer-term clinical and functional outcomes.
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Enhancement of Healthy Personality Through Psychiatric Medication: The Influence of SSRIs on Neuroticism and Extraversion. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-014-9226-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Schaefer A, Burmann I, Regenthal R, Arélin K, Barth C, Pampel A, Villringer A, Margulies DS, Sacher J. Serotonergic modulation of intrinsic functional connectivity. Curr Biol 2014; 24:2314-8. [PMID: 25242032 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2014.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin functions as an essential neuromodulator that serves a multitude of roles, most prominently balancing mood. Serotonergic challenge has been observed to reduce intrinsic functional connectivity in brain regions implicated in mood regulation. However, the full scope of serotonergic action on functional connectivity in the human brain has not been explored. Here, we show evidence that a single dose of a serotonin reuptake inhibitor dramatically alters functional connectivity throughout the whole brain in healthy subjects (n = 22). Our network-centrality analysis reveals a widespread decrease in connectivity in most cortical and subcortical areas. In the cerebellum and thalamus, however, we find localized increases. These rapid and brain-encompassing connectivity changes linked to acute serotonin transporter blockade suggest a key role for the serotonin transporter in the modulation of the functional macroscale connectome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Schaefer
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Clinical Imaging Research Centre & Singapore Insitute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, 117583 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Inga Burmann
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ralf Regenthal
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Rudolf-Boehm-Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Leipzig, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katrin Arélin
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Clinic of Cognitive Neurology, University Hospital Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Leipzig Research Center for Civilization Diseases, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Claudia Barth
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - André Pampel
- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Unit, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Clinic of Cognitive Neurology, University Hospital Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Leipzig Research Center for Civilization Diseases, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Integrated Research and Treatment Center Adiposity Diseases, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Mind and Brain Institute, Charité and Humboldt University, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel S Margulies
- Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Mind and Brain Institute, Charité and Humboldt University, 10099 Berlin, Germany; Max Planck Research Group for Neuroanatomy & Connectivity, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Julia Sacher
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Clinic of Cognitive Neurology, University Hospital Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Mind and Brain Institute, Charité and Humboldt University, 10099 Berlin, Germany.
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Three-week bright-light intervention has dose-related effects on threat-related corticolimbic reactivity and functional coupling. Biol Psychiatry 2014; 76:332-9. [PMID: 24439303 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2013.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bright-light intervention is reported to successfully treat depression, in particular seasonal affective disorder, but the neural pathways and molecular mechanisms mediating its effects are unclear. An amygdala-prefrontal cortex corticolimbic circuit regulates responses to salient environmental stimuli (e.g., threat) and may underlie these effects. Serotonin signaling modulates this circuit and is implicated in the pathophysiology of seasonal and other affective disorders. METHODS We evaluated the effects of a bright-light intervention protocol on threat-related corticolimbic reactivity and functional coupling, assessed with an emotional faces functional magnetic resonance imaging paradigm at preintervention and postintervention. In a double-blind study conducted in the winter, 30 healthy male subjects received bright-light intervention (dose range between participants: .1-11.0 kilolux) for 30 minutes daily over a period of 3 weeks. Additionally, we considered serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) genotype status as a model for differences in serotonin signaling and moderator of intervention effects. RESULTS Bright-light dose significantly negatively affected threat-related amygdala and prefrontal reactivity in a dose-dependent manner. Conversely, amygdala-prefrontal and intraprefrontal functional coupling increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Genotype status significantly moderated bright-light intervention effects on intraprefrontal functional coupling. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to evaluate the effects of clinically relevant bright-light intervention on threat-related brain function. We show that amygdala-prefrontal reactivity and communication are significantly affected by bright-light intervention, an effect partly moderated by genotype. These novel findings support that this threat-related corticolimbic circuit is sensitive to light intervention and may mediate the therapeutic effects of bright-light intervention.
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Simonsen A, Scheel-Krüger J, Jensen M, Roepstorff A, Møller A, Frith CD, Campbell-Meiklejohn D. Serotoninergic effects on judgments and social learning of trustworthiness. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:2759-69. [PMID: 24464530 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3444-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Certain disorders, such as depression and anxiety, to which serotonin dysfunction is historically associated, are also associated with lower assessments of other people's trustworthiness. Serotonergic changes are known to alter cognitive responses to threatening stimuli. This effect may manifest socially as reduced apparent trustworthiness of others. Trustworthiness judgments can emerge from either direct observation or references provided by third parties. OBJECTIVE We assessed whether explicit judgments of trustworthiness and social influences on those judgments are altered by changes within serotonergic systems. METHODS We implemented a double-blind between-subject design where 20 healthy female volunteers received a single dose of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) citalopram (2 × 20 mg), while 20 control subjects (matched on age, intelligence, and years of education) received a placebo. Subjects performed a face-rating task assessing how trustworthy they found 153 unfamiliar others (targets). After each rating, the subjects were told how other subjects, on average, rated the same target. The subjects then performed 30 min of distractor tasks before, unexpectedly, being asked to rate all 153 faces again, in a random order. RESULTS Compared to subjects receiving a placebo, subjects receiving citalopram rated targets as less trustworthy. They also conformed more to opinions of others, when others rated targets to be even less trustworthy than subjects had initially indicated. The two effects were independent of negative effects of citalopram on subjective state. CONCLUSIONS This is evidence that serotonin systems can mediate explicit assessment and social learning of the trustworthiness of others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arndis Simonsen
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
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Hornboll B, Macoveanu J, Rowe J, Elliott R, Paulson OB, Siebner HR, Knudsen GM. Acute serotonin 2A receptor blocking alters the processing of fearful faces in the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala. J Psychopharmacol 2013; 27:903-14. [PMID: 23824248 PMCID: PMC4606977 DOI: 10.1177/0269881113494106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptor has been implicated in neural-processing of emotionally salient information. To elucidate its role in processing of fear and anger, healthy individuals were studied with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) after 5-HT2A receptor blockade, while judging the gender of neutral, fearful and angry faces. METHODS 5-HT2A receptors were blocked with ketanserin to a variable degree across subjects by adjusting the time between ketanserin-infusion and onset of the fMRI protocol. Neocortical 5-HT2A receptor binding in terms of the binding potential (BPp ) was assessed prior to fMRI with (18)F-altanserin positron emission tomography (PET) and subsequently integrated in the fMRI data analysis. Also functional connectivity analysis was employed to evaluate the effect of ketanserin blocking on connectivity. RESULTS Compared to a control session, 5-HT2A receptor blockade reduced the neural response to fearful faces in the medial orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), independently of 5-HT2A receptor occupancy or neocortical 5-HT2A receptor BPp . The medial OFC also showed increased functional coupling with the left amygdala during processing of fearful faces depending on the amount of blocked 5-HT2A receptors. CONCLUSIONS 5-HT2A receptor mediated signaling increases the sensitivity of the OFC to fearful facial expressions and regulates the strength of a negative feedback signal from the OFC to amygdala during processing of fearful faces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Hornboll
- Danish Research Center for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Center for Integrated Molecular Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julian Macoveanu
- Danish Research Center for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Center for Integrated Molecular Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - James Rowe
- Center for Integrated Molecular Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cambridge University Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Elliott
- Neuroscience & Psychiatry Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Olaf B. Paulson
- Danish Research Center for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Center for Integrated Molecular Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hartwig R. Siebner
- Danish Research Center for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Center for Integrated Molecular Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gitte M. Knudsen
- Center for Integrated Molecular Imaging (Cimbi), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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