1
|
Bale R, Doshi G. Cross talk about the role of Neuropeptide Y in CNS disorders and diseases. Neuropeptides 2023; 102:102388. [PMID: 37918268 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2023.102388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
A peptide composed of a 36 amino acid called Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is employed in a variety of physiological processes to manage and treat conditions affecting the endocrine, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and neurological systems. NPY naturally binds to G-protein coupled receptors, activating the Y-receptors (Y1-Y5 and y6). The findings on numerous therapeutic applications of NPY for CNS disease are presented in this review by the authors. New targets for treating diseases will be revealed by medication combinations that target NPY and its receptors. This review is mainly focused on disorders such as anxiety, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Machado Joseph disease, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, depression, migraine, alcohol use disorder, and substance use disorder. The findings from the preclinical studies and clinical studies covered in this article may help create efficient therapeutic plans to treat neurological conditions on the one hand and psychiatric disorders on the other. They may also open the door to the creation of novel NPY receptor ligands as medications to treat these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwari Bale
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, V L M Road, Vile Parle (w), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Gaurav Doshi
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, V L M Road, Vile Parle (w), Mumbai 400056, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Raghanti MA, Miller EN, Jones DN, Smith HN, Munger EL, Edler MK, Phillips KA, Hopkins WD, Hof PR, Sherwood CC, Lovejoy CO. Hedonic eating, obesity, and addiction result from increased neuropeptide Y in the nucleus accumbens during human brain evolution. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311118120. [PMID: 37695892 PMCID: PMC10515152 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311118120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is central to motivation and action, exhibiting one of the highest densities of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the brain. Within the NAc, NPY plays a role in reward and is involved in emotional behavior and in increasing alcohol and drug addiction and fat intake. Here, we examined NPY innervation and neurons of the NAc in humans and other anthropoid primates in order to determine whether there are differences among these various species that would correspond to behavioral or life history variables. We quantified NPY-immunoreactive axons and neurons in the NAc of 13 primate species, including humans, great apes, and monkeys. Our data show that the human brain is unique among primates in having denser NPY innervation within the NAc, as measured by axon length density to neuron density, even after accounting for brain size. Combined with our previous finding of increased dopaminergic innervation in the same region, our results suggest that the neurochemical profile of the human NAc appears to have rendered our species uniquely susceptible to neurophysiological conditions such as addiction. The increase in NPY specific to the NAc may represent an adaptation that favors fat intake and contributes to an increased vulnerability to eating disorders, obesity, as well as alcohol and drug dependence. Along with our findings for dopamine, these deeply rooted structural attributes of the human brain are likely to have emerged early in the human clade, laying the groundwork for later brain expansion and the development of cognitive and behavioral specializations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ann Raghanti
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
| | - Elaine N. Miller
- Department of Anthropology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC20052
- Center for the Advanced Study of Human Paleobiology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC20052
| | - Danielle N. Jones
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
| | - Heather N. Smith
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
| | - Emily L. Munger
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
| | - Melissa K. Edler
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
| | - Kimberley A. Phillips
- Department of Psychology, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX78212
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX78245
| | - William D. Hopkins
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX78602
| | - Patrick R. Hof
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029
| | - Chet C. Sherwood
- Department of Anthropology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC20052
- Center for the Advanced Study of Human Paleobiology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC20052
| | - C. Owen Lovejoy
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH44242
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Protective Role and Functional Engineering of Neuropeptides in Depression and Anxiety: An Overview. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10020258. [PMID: 36829752 PMCID: PMC9952193 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10020258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioral disorders, such as anxiety and depression, are prevalent globally and touch children and adults on a regular basis. Therefore, it is critical to comprehend how these disorders are affected. It has been demonstrated that neuropeptides can influence behavior, emotional reactions, and behavioral disorders. This review highlights the majority of the findings demonstrating neuropeptides' behavioral role and functional engineering in depression and anxiety. Gut-brain peptides, hypothalamic releasing hormone peptides, opioid peptides, and pituitary hormone peptides are the four major groups of neuropeptides discussed. Some neuropeptides appear to promote depression and anxiety-like symptoms, whereas others seem to reduce it, all depending on the receptors they are acting on and on the brain region they are localized in. The data supplied here are an excellent starting point for future therapy interventions aimed at treating anxiety and depression.
Collapse
|
4
|
Ramos A, Granzotto N, Kremer R, Boeder AM, de Araújo JFP, Pereira AG, Izídio GS. Hunting for Genes Underlying Emotionality in the Laboratory Rat: Maps, Tools and Traps. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1840-1863. [PMID: 36056863 PMCID: PMC10514530 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220901154034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientists have systematically investigated the hereditary bases of behaviors since the 19th century, moved by either evolutionary questions or clinically-motivated purposes. The pioneer studies on the genetic selection of laboratory animals had already indicated, one hundred years ago, the immense complexity of analyzing behaviors that were influenced by a large number of small-effect genes and an incalculable amount of environmental factors. Merging Mendelian, quantitative and molecular approaches in the 1990s made it possible to map specific rodent behaviors to known chromosome regions. From that point on, Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) analyses coupled with behavioral and molecular techniques, which involved in vivo isolation of relevant blocks of genes, opened new avenues for gene mapping and characterization. This review examines the QTL strategy applied to the behavioral study of emotionality, with a focus on the laboratory rat. We discuss the challenges, advances and limitations of the search for Quantitative Trait Genes (QTG) playing a role in regulating emotionality. For the past 25 years, we have marched the long journey from emotionality-related behaviors to genes. In this context, our experiences are used to illustrate why and how one should move forward in the molecular understanding of complex psychiatric illnesses. The promise of exploring genetic links between immunological and emotional responses are also discussed. New strategies based on humans, rodents and other animals (such as zebrafish) are also acknowledged, as they are likely to allow substantial progress to be made in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André Ramos
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | - Natalli Granzotto
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | - Rafael Kremer
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Developmental and Cellular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | - Ariela Maína Boeder
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | - Julia Fernandez Puñal de Araújo
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Developmental and Cellular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | - Aline Guimarães Pereira
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Developmental and Cellular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | - Geison Souza Izídio
- Behavior Genetics Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Graduate Program of Developmental and Cellular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Smith NK, Kondev V, Hunt TR, Grueter BA. Neuropeptide Y modulates excitatory synaptic transmission and promotes social behavior in the mouse nucleus accumbens. Neuropharmacology 2022; 217:109201. [PMID: 35917875 PMCID: PMC9836361 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Social interactions define the human experience, but these integral behaviors are disrupted in many psychiatric disorders. Social behaviors have evolved over millennia, and neuromodulatory systems that promote social behavior in invertebrates are also present in mammalian brains. One such conserved neuromodulator, neuropeptide Y (NPY), acts through several receptors including the Y1r, Y2r, and Y5r. These receptors are present in brain regions that control social behavior, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc). However, whether NPY modulates NAc neurotransmission is unknown. Using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology of NAc neurons, we find that multiple NPY receptors regulate excitatory synaptic transmission in a cell-type specific manner. At excitatory synapses onto D1+ MSNs, Y1r activity enhances transmission while Y2r suppresses transmission. At excitatory synapses onto D1- MSNs, Y5r activity enhances transmission while Y2r suppresses transmission. Directly infusing NPY or the Y1r agonist [Leu31, Pro34]-NPY into the NAc significantly increases social interaction with an unfamiliar conspecific. Inhibition of an enzyme that breaks down NPY, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), shifts the effect of NPY on D1+ MSNs to a Y1r dominated phenotype. Together, these results increase our understanding of how NPY regulates neurotransmission in the NAc and identify a novel mechanism underlying the control of social behavior. Further, they reveal a potential strategy to shift NPY signaling for therapeutic gain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas K. Smith
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Veronika Kondev
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Thomas R. Hunt
- College of Arts and Sciences, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Brad A. Grueter
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN, 37232, USA,Corresponding author. 1161 21st Avenue South * T4202-MCN Nashville, TN, 37232-2520, USA, (B.A. Grueter)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Carboni L, El Khoury A, Beiderbeck DI, Neumann ID, Mathé AA. Neuropeptide Y, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and neurokinin A in brain regions of HAB rats correlate with anxiety-like behaviours. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 57:1-14. [PMID: 35008014 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are pervasive psychiatric disorders causing great suffering. The high (HAB) and low (LAB) anxiety-related behaviour rats were selectively bred to investigate neurobiological correlates of anxiety. We compared the level of neuropeptides relevant for anxiety- and depression-related behaviours in selected brain regions of HAB and LAB rats. Increased anxiety and depression-like behaviours of male and female HAB rats in the elevated plus-maze and forced swim tests were accompanied by elevated levels of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the prefrontal (PFC), frontal (FC) and cingulate cortex (CCx), the striatum, and periaqueductal grey (PAG). Moreover, HAB rats displayed sex-dependent, elevated levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in PFC, FC, CCx, hippocampus, and PAG. Higher neurokinin A (NKA) levels were detected in CCx, striatum, and PAG in HAB males and in CCx and hypothalamus in HAB females. Increased neurotensin was detected in CCx and PAG in HAB males and in hypothalamus in HAB females. Elevated corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) levels appeared in female HAB hypothalamus. Significant correlations were found between anxiety-like behaviour and NPY, CGRP, NKA, and neurotensin, particularly with NPY in CCx and striatum, CGRP in FC and hippocampus, and NKA in entorhinal cortex. This is the first report of NPY, CGRP, NKA, Neurotensin, and CRH measurements in brain regions of HAB and LAB rats, which showed widespread NPY and CGRP alterations in cortical regions, with NKA and neurotensin changes localised in sub-cortical areas. The results may contribute to elucidate pathophysiological mechanisms underlying anxiety and depression and should facilitate identifying novel therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Carboni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Aram El Khoury
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniela I Beiderbeck
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Aleksander A Mathé
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Birdogan A, Salur E, Tuzcu F, Gokmen RC, Ozturk Bintepe M, Aypar B, Keser A, Balkan B, Koylu EO, Kanit L, Gozen O. Chronic oral nicotine administration and withdrawal regulate the expression of neuropeptide Y and its receptors in the mesocorticolimbic system. Neuropeptides 2021; 90:102184. [PMID: 34425507 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and its receptors are involved in the regulation of mood, stress, and anxiety. In parallel, NPY signaling may play a vital role in the negative affective state induced by drug withdrawal. This study examined the changes in the transcript levels of NPY, Y1, Y2, and Y5 receptors in the mesocorticolimbic system during chronic nicotine exposure and withdrawal. Rats were administered with nicotine (initial dose: 25 μg/ml, maintenance dose: 50 μg/ml, free base) in drinking water for 12 weeks. Control group received only tap water. In the final week of the study, some of the nicotine-treated animals continued to receive nicotine (0-W), whereas some were withdrawn for either 24 (24-W) or 48 (48-W) h. All animals were decapitated after the evaluation of somatic signs (frequency of gasps, eye blinks, ptosis, shakes, teeth chatter) and the duration of locomotor activity and immobility. mRNA levels of NPY, Y1, Y2, and Y5 receptors in the mesocorticolimbic system were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Results showed that nicotine withdrawal increased overall somatic signs. Moreover, chronic nicotine treatment increased the duration of locomotor activity, whereas withdrawal increased the duration of immobility. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that chronic nicotine treatment increased NPY mRNA levels in the hippocampus. On the other hand, 24- and 48-h withdrawals increased NPY mRNA levels in the amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), Y1 and Y2 mRNA levels in the nucleus accumbens and mPFC, and Y5 mRNA levels in the mPFC. These findings suggest that nicotine withdrawal enhances NPY signaling in the mesocorticolimbic system, which could be an important mechanism involved in regulating the negative affective state triggered during nicotine withdrawal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Birdogan
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Elif Salur
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Fulya Tuzcu
- Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ramazan C Gokmen
- Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Buket Aypar
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Keser
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Center for Brain Research, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Burcu Balkan
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Center for Brain Research, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ersin O Koylu
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Center for Brain Research, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Lutfiye Kanit
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Center for Brain Research, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Oguz Gozen
- Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Izmir, Turkey; Ege University, Center for Brain Research, Izmir, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yamada S, van Kooten N, Mori T, Taguchi K, Tsujimura A, Tanaka M. Efferent and Afferent Connections of Neuropeptide Y Neurons in the Nucleus Accumbens of Mice. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:741868. [PMID: 34566585 PMCID: PMC8460764 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.741868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a neural peptide distributed widely in the brain and has various functions in each region. We previously reported that NPY neurons in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) are involved in the regulation of anxiety behavior. Anterograde and retrograde tracing studies suggest that neurons in the NAc project to several areas, such as the lateral hypothalamus (LH) and ventral pallidum (VP), and receive afferent projections from the cortex, thalamus, and amygdala. However, the neural connections between accumbal NPY neurons and other brain areas in mice remain unclear. In this study, we sought to clarify these anatomical connections of NPY neurons in the NAc by investigating their neural outputs and inputs. To selectively map NPY neuronal efferents from the NAc, we injected Cre-dependent adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) into the NAc of NPY-Cre mice. This revealed that NAc NPY neurons exclusively projected to the LH. We confirmed this by injecting cholera toxin b subunit (CTb), a retrograde tracer, into the LH and found that approximately 7–10% of NPY neurons in the NAc were double-labeled for mCherry and CTb. Moreover, retrograde tracing using recombinant rabies virus (rRABV) also identified NAc NPY projections to the LH. Finally, we investigated monosynaptic input to the NPY neurons in the NAc using rRABV. We found that NPY neurons in the NAc received direct synaptic connections from the midline thalamic nuclei and posterior basomedial amygdala. These findings provide new insight into the neural networks of accumbal NPY neurons and should assist in elucidating their functional roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shunji Yamada
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nienke van Kooten
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takuma Mori
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology Shinshu University, School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Taguchi
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tsujimura
- Department of Basic Geriatrics, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaki Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tanaka M, Yamada S, Watanabe Y. The Role of Neuropeptide Y in the Nucleus Accumbens. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147287. [PMID: 34298907 PMCID: PMC8307209 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY), an abundant peptide in the central nervous system, is expressed in neurons of various regions throughout the brain. The physiological and behavioral effects of NPY are mainly mediated through Y1, Y2, and Y5 receptor subtypes, which are expressed in regions regulating food intake, fear and anxiety, learning and memory, depression, and posttraumatic stress. In particular, the nucleus accumbens (NAc) has one of the highest NPY concentrations in the brain. In this review, we summarize the role of NPY in the NAc. NPY is expressed principally in medium-sized aspiny neurons, and numerous NPY immunoreactive fibers are observed in the NAc. Alterations in NPY expression under certain conditions through intra-NAc injections of NPY or receptor agonists/antagonists revealed NPY to be involved in the characteristic functions of the NAc, such as alcohol intake and drug addiction. In addition, control of mesolimbic dopaminergic release via NPY receptors may take part in these functions. NPY in the NAc also participates in fat intake and emotional behavior. Accumbal NPY neurons and fibers may exert physiological and pathophysiological actions partly through neuroendocrine mechanisms and the autonomic nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamikyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-75-251-5300
| | - Shunji Yamada
- Department of Anatomy, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamikyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan;
| | - Yoshihisa Watanabe
- Department of Basic Geriatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamikyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Moreira Júnior RE, de Carvalho LM, Dos Reis DC, Cassali GD, Faria AMC, Maioli TU, Brunialti-Godard AL. Diet-induced obesity leads to alterations in behavior and gut microbiota composition in mice. J Nutr Biochem 2021; 92:108622. [PMID: 33705942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2021.108622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The high prevalence of obesity and associated metabolic disorders are one of the major public health problems worldwide. Among the main causal factors of obesity, excessive consumption of food rich in sugar and fat stands out due to its high energy density. The regulation of food intake relies on hypothalamic control by the action of several neuropeptides. Excessive consumption of hypercaloric diets has impact in the behavior and in the gut microbiota. In the present study, we used a high-sugar and fat (HSB) diet for 12 weeks to induce obesity in C57BL/6 mice and to investigate its effects on the gut microbiota, hypothalamic peptides, and behavior. We hypothesize that chronic consumption of HSB diet can change the behavior. Additionally, we also hypothesize that changes in gut microbiota can be associated with changes in the transcriptional regulation of hypothalamic peptides and behavior. To evaluate the gut microbiota, we performed the sequencing of 16S rRNA gene, which demonstrate that HSB diet modulates the gut microbiota with an increase in the Firmicutes and Actinobacteria phylum and a decrease of Bacteroidetes phylum. The real time qPCR revealed that HSB-fed mice presented changes in the transcriptional regulation of hypothalamic neuropeptides genes such as Npy, Gal and Galr1. The Marble-burying and Light/dark box tests also showed an alteration in anxiety and impulsive behaviors for the HSB-fed mice. Our data provides evidence that obesity induced by HSB diet consumption is associated with alterations in gut microbiota and behavior, highlighting the multifactorial characteristics of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renato Elias Moreira Júnior
- Laboratório de Genética Animal e Humana, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luana Martins de Carvalho
- Laboratório de Genética Animal e Humana, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Diego Carlos Dos Reis
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada, Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Geovanni Dantas Cassali
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada, Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Caetano Faria
- Departmento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Tatiani Uceli Maioli
- Departamento de Nutrição, Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia Brunialti-Godard
- Laboratório de Genética Animal e Humana, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gebara E, Zanoletti O, Ghosal S, Grosse J, Schneider BL, Knott G, Astori S, Sandi C. Mitofusin-2 in the Nucleus Accumbens Regulates Anxiety and Depression-like Behaviors Through Mitochondrial and Neuronal Actions. Biol Psychiatry 2021; 89:1033-1044. [PMID: 33583561 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence points to a central role of mitochondria in psychiatric disorders. However, little is known about the molecular players that regulate mitochondria in neural circuits regulating anxiety and depression and about how they impact neuronal structure and function. Here, we investigated the role of molecules involved in mitochondrial dynamics in medium spiny neurons (MSNs) from the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a hub of the brain's motivation system. METHODS We assessed how individual differences in anxiety-like (measured via the elevated plus maze and open field tests) and depression-like (measured via the forced swim and saccharin preference tests) behaviors in outbred rats relate to mitochondrial morphology (electron microscopy and 3-dimensional reconstructions) and function (mitochondrial respirometry). Mitochondrial molecules were measured for protein (Western blot) and messenger RNA (quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, RNAscope) content. Dendritic arborization (Golgi Sholl analyses), spine morphology, and MSN excitatory inputs (patch-clamp electrophysiology) were characterized. MFN2 overexpression in the NAc was induced through an AAV9-syn1-MFN2. RESULTS Highly anxious animals showed increased depression-like behaviors, as well as reduced expression of the mitochondrial GTPase MFN2 in the NAc. They also showed alterations in mitochondria (i.e., respiration, volume, and interactions with the endoplasmic reticulum) and MSNs (i.e., dendritic complexity, spine density and typology, and excitatory inputs). Viral MFN2 overexpression in the NAc reversed all of these behavioral, mitochondrial, and neuronal phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Our results implicate a causal role for accumbal MFN2 on the regulation of anxiety and depression-like behaviors through actions on mitochondrial and MSN structure and function. MFN2 is posited as a promising therapeutic target to treat anxiety and associated behavioral disturbances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elias Gebara
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olivia Zanoletti
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sriparna Ghosal
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jocelyn Grosse
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bernard L Schneider
- Bertarelli Platform for Gene Therapy, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Graham Knott
- Biological Electron Microscopy Facility, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Simone Astori
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Sandi
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Trait anxiety, a personality risk factor associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 105:110124. [PMID: 33035604 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease in elderly population and the leading cause of dementia worldwide. While senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles have been proposed as the principal histopathologic hallmarks of AD, the exact etiology of this disease is still far from being clearly understood. AD has been recognized as pathological consequences of complex interactions among genetic, aging, medical, life style and psychosocial factors. Recently, the roles of neuroticism personality traits in AD incidence and progression have come into focus. More specifically, increasing evidence has further shown that the trait anxiety, one major component of neuroticism predicting the individual vulnerability in response to stress, is a risk factor for AD and may correlated with various AD pathologies. In this review, we summarized recent literature on the association of trait anxiety with AD. We also discussed the possible neuroendocrinological and neurochemical mechanisms of this association, which may provide clinical implications for AD diagnosis and therapy.
Collapse
|
13
|
Xu YH, Wang XX, Wang MJ, Liu YY, Xue Z, Chen JX. Influence of progestational stress on BDNF and NMDARs in the hippocampus of male offspring and amelioration by Chaihu Shugan San. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 135:111204. [PMID: 33548869 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progestational stress has been proven to be a risk for the neural development of offspring, especially in the hippocampus. However, whether Chaihu Shugan San (CSS) can ameliorate hippocampal neural development via the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) 2A (NR2A) and 2B (NR2B), and the mechanism of such action remains unclear. METHODS Thirty-six female rats were randomly allocated into control, chronic immobilization stress (CIS) and CSS groups according to the random number table, respectively. The male offspring were fed for 21 days after birth then randomly divided into the same three groups (6 rats/group) as the female rats. Female rats, except for the control group, underwent 21-day CIS to established a progestational stress anxiety-like model which was evaluated by body weight, the elevated plus-maze (EPM) test and serum dopamine (DA) measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression levels of estrogen receptors (ERα/ERβ) and progesterone receptor (PR) in female rat ovaries were quantified by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot analysis. The hippocampal tissue in the 21-day offspring was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The concentration of BDNF, NR2A, and NR2B were measured by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry in the CA3 and dentate gyrus (DG) regions of offsprings' hippocampus. RESULTS Compared with the female control group, significant differences in body weight, EPM test and DA concentration were observed in the CIS group, meanwhile, the concentration of ERα (P < 0.05), PR (P < 0.05) and ERβ in the ovaries were decreased. In the offsprings' hippocampus of the CIS group, the chromatin of the nucleus was edge set and with condensed and irregular morphology nucleus, and the cytoplasm was unevenly stained with spaces around the cells, moreover, the expression levels of BDNF, NR2A, and NR2B were also declined (P < 0.05). However, Chaihu Shugan San reversed these changes, especially the BDNF in the DG region (P < 0.05), and NR2A and NR2B in the CA3 and DG region (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS CSS could ameliorate the neural development of the hippocampus in offspring damaged by anxiety-like progestational stress in female rats via regulating the expression levels of ERα, ERβ, and PR in female rat ovaries and BDNF, NR2A, and NR2B in the hippocampus of their offspring.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/genetics
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/genetics
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/metabolism
- Estrogen Receptor beta/genetics
- Estrogen Receptor beta/metabolism
- Female
- Gestational Age
- Hippocampus/drug effects
- Hippocampus/metabolism
- Hippocampus/pathology
- Male
- Neurogenesis/drug effects
- Ovary/drug effects
- Ovary/metabolism
- Plant Extracts/pharmacology
- Pregnancy
- Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/genetics
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Restraint, Physical
- Signal Transduction
- Stress, Psychological/drug therapy
- Stress, Psychological/genetics
- Stress, Psychological/metabolism
- Stress, Psychological/pathology
- Rats
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Hui Xu
- School of Basic Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xin-Xing Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China
| | - Ming-Jing Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China
| | - Yue-Yun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhe Xue
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jia-Xu Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; Formula-Pattern Research Center, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Terrill SJ, Subramanian KS, Lan R, Liu CM, Cortella AM, Noble EE, Kanoski SE. Nucleus accumbens melanin-concentrating hormone signaling promotes feeding in a sex-specific manner. Neuropharmacology 2020; 178:108270. [PMID: 32795460 PMCID: PMC7544677 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is an orexigenic neuropeptide produced in the lateral hypothalamus and zona incerta that increases food intake. The neuronal pathways and behavioral mechanisms mediating the orexigenic effects of MCH are poorly understood, as is the extent to which MCH-mediated feeding outcomes are sex-dependent. Here we investigate the hypothesis that MCH-producing neurons act in the nucleus accumbens shell (ACBsh) to promote feeding behavior and motivation for palatable food in a sex-dependent manner. We utilized ACBsh MCH receptor (MCH1R)-directed pharmacology as well as a dual virus chemogenetic approach to selectively activate MCH neurons that project to the ACBsh. Results reveal that both ACBsh MCH1R activation and activating ACBsh-projecting MCH neurons increase consumption of standard chow and palatable sucrose in male rats without affecting motivated operant responding for sucrose, general activity levels, or anxiety-like behavior. In contrast, food intake was not affected in female rats by either ACBsh MCH1R activation or ACBsh-projecting MCH neuron activation. To determine a mechanism for this sexual dimorphism, we investigated whether the orexigenic effect of ACBsh MCH1R activation is reduced by endogenous estradiol signaling. In ovariectomized female rats on a cyclic regimen of either estradiol (EB) or oil vehicle, ACBsh MCH1R activation increased feeding only in oil-treated rats, suggesting that EB attenuates the ability of ACBsh MCH signaling to promote food intake. Collective results show that MCH ACBsh signaling promotes feeding in an estrogen- and sex-dependent manner, thus identifying novel neurobiological mechanisms through which MCH and female sex hormones interact to influence food intake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Terrill
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF 252, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Keshav S Subramanian
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF 252, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Rae Lan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF 252, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Clarissa M Liu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF 252, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Alyssa M Cortella
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF 252, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Emily E Noble
- Department of Foods and Nutrition, University of Georgia, 129 Barrow Hall, Athens, GA, 30602, United States.
| | - Scott E Kanoski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF 252, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chen WC, Liu YB, Liu WF, Zhou YY, He HF, Lin S. Neuropeptide Y Is an Immunomodulatory Factor: Direct and Indirect. Front Immunol 2020; 11:580378. [PMID: 33123166 PMCID: PMC7573154 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.580378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY), which is widely distributed in the nervous system, is involved in regulating a variety of biological processes, including food intake, energy metabolism, and emotional expression. However, emerging evidence points to NPY also as a critical transmitter between the nervous system and immune system, as well as a mediator produced and released by immune cells. In vivo and in vitro studies based on gene-editing techniques and specific NPY receptor agonists and antagonists have demonstrated that NPY is responsible for multifarious direct modulations on immune cells by acting on NPY receptors. Moreover, via the central or peripheral nervous system, NPY is closely connected to body temperature regulation, obesity development, glucose metabolism, and emotional expression, which are all immunomodulatory factors for the immune system. In this review, we focus on the direct role of NPY in immune cells and particularly discuss its indirect impact on the immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Can Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yi-Bin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Feng Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Ying-Ying Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - He-Fan He
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China.,Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China.,Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Franco LO, Carvalho MJ, Costa J, Ferreira PA, Guedes JR, Sousa R, Edfawy M, Seabra CM, Cardoso AL, Peça J. Social subordination induced by early life adversity rewires inhibitory control of the prefrontal cortex via enhanced Npy1r signaling. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1438-1447. [PMID: 32492699 PMCID: PMC7360628 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0727-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Social hierarchies are present in most mammalian species. In nature, hierarchies offer a tradeoff between reduction of in-group fighting between males, at the expense of an asymmetric sharing of resources. Early life experiences and stress are known to influence the rank an individual attains in adulthood, but the associated cellular and synaptic alterations are poorly understood. Using a maternal separation protocol, we show that care-deprived mice display a long-lasting submissive phenotype, increased social recognition, and enhanced explorative behavior. These alterations are consistent with an adaptation that favors exploration rather than confrontation within a group setting. At the neuronal level, these animals display dendritic atrophy and enhanced inhibitory synaptic inputs in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) neurons. To determine what could underlie this synaptic modification, we first assessed global gene expression changes via RNAseq, and next focused on a smaller subset of putatively altered synaptic receptors that could explain the changes in synaptic inhibition. Using different cohorts of maternally deprived mice, we validated a significant increase in the expression of Npy1r, a receptor known to play a role in maternal care, anxiety, foraging, and regulation of group behavior. Using electrophysiological recordings in adult mice while blocking NPY1R signaling, we determined that this receptor plays a key role in enhancing GABAergic currents in mice that experience maternal deprivation. Taken together, our work highlights the potential of regulating NPY1R in social anxiety disorders and the alterations induced in brain circuitry as a consequence of early life stress and adversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara O. Franco
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cInstitute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cPhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mário J. Carvalho
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,MIT-Portugal Bioengineering Systems Doctoral Program, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jéssica Costa
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cPhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Pedro A. Ferreira
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana R. Guedes
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cInstitute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Renato Sousa
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mohamed Edfawy
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cInstitute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina M. Seabra
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cInstitute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana L. Cardoso
- 0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cCNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal ,0000 0000 9511 4342grid.8051.cInstitute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Peça
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|