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Sakaguchi K, Tawata S. Giftedness and atypical sexual differentiation: enhanced perceptual functioning through estrogen deficiency instead of androgen excess. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1343759. [PMID: 38752176 PMCID: PMC11094242 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1343759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Syndromic autism spectrum conditions (ASC), such as Klinefelter syndrome, also manifest hypogonadism. Compared to the popular Extreme Male Brain theory, the Enhanced Perceptual Functioning model explains the connection between ASC, savant traits, and giftedness more seamlessly, and their co-emergence with atypical sexual differentiation. Overexcitability of primary sensory inputs generates a relative enhancement of local to global processing of stimuli, hindering the abstraction of communication signals, in contrast to the extraordinary local information processing skills in some individuals. Weaker inhibitory function through gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors and the atypicality of synapse formation lead to this difference, and the formation of unique neural circuits that process external information. Additionally, deficiency in monitoring inner sensory information leads to alexithymia (inability to distinguish one's own emotions), which can be caused by hypoactivity of estrogen and oxytocin in the interoceptive neural circuits, comprising the anterior insular and cingulate gyri. These areas are also part of the Salience Network, which switches between the Central Executive Network for external tasks and the Default Mode Network for self-referential mind wandering. Exploring the possibility that estrogen deficiency since early development interrupts GABA shift, causing sensory processing atypicality, it helps to evaluate the co-occurrence of ASC with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and schizophrenia based on phenotypic and physiological bases. It also provides clues for understanding the common underpinnings of these neurodevelopmental disorders and gifted populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kikue Sakaguchi
- Research Department, National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE), Kodaira-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shintaro Tawata
- Graduate School of Human Sciences, Sophia University, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Ye X, Ghosh S, Shin BC, Ganguly A, Maggiotto L, Jacobs JP, Devaskar SU. Brain serotonin and serotonin transporter expression in male and female postnatal rat offspring in response to perturbed early life dietary exposures. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1363094. [PMID: 38576870 PMCID: PMC10991790 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1363094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Serotonin (5-HT) is critical for neurodevelopment and the serotonin transporter (SERT) modulates serotonin levels. Perturbed prenatal and postnatal dietary exposures affect the developing offspring predisposing to neurobehavioral disorders in the adult. We hypothesized that the postnatal brain 5-HT-SERT imbalance associated with gut dysbiosis forms the contributing gut-brain axis dependent mechanism responsible for such ultimate phenotypes. Methods Employing maternal diet restricted (IUGR, n=8) and high fat+high fructose (HFhf, n=6) dietary modifications, rodent brain serotonin was assessed temporally by ELISA and SERT by quantitative Western blot analysis. Simultaneously, colonic microbiome studies were performed. Results At early postnatal (P) day 2 no changes in the IUGR, but a ~24% reduction in serotonin (p = 0.00005) in the HFhf group occurred, particularly in the males (p = 0.000007) revealing a male versus female difference (p = 0.006). No such changes in SERT concentrations emerged. At late P21 the IUGR group reared on HFhf (IUGR/HFhf, (n = 4) diet revealed increased serotonin by ~53% in males (p = 0.0001) and 36% in females (p = 0.023). While only females demonstrated a ~40% decrease in serotonin (p = 0.010), the males only trended lower without a significant change within the HFhf group (p = 0.146). SERT on the other hand was no different in HFhf or IUGR/RC, with only the female IUGR/HFhf revealing a 28% decrease (p = 0.036). In colonic microbiome studies, serotonin-producing Bacteriodes increased with decreased Lactobacillus at P2, while the serotonin-producing Streptococcus species increased in IUGR/HFhf at P21. Sex-specific changes emerged in association with brain serotonin or SERT in the case of Alistipase, Anaeroplasma, Blautia, Doria, Lactococcus, Proteus, and Roseburia genera. Discussion We conclude that an imbalanced 5-HT-SERT axis during postnatal brain development is sex-specific and induced by maternal dietary modifications related to postnatal gut dysbiosis. We speculate that these early changes albeit transient may permanently alter critical neural maturational processes affecting circuitry formation, thereby perturbing the neuropsychiatric equipoise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ye
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and The Neonatal Research Center of the Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Shubhamoy Ghosh
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and The Neonatal Research Center of the Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Bo-Chul Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and The Neonatal Research Center of the Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Amit Ganguly
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and The Neonatal Research Center of the Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Liesbeth Maggiotto
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and The Neonatal Research Center of the Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan P. Jacobs
- The Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sherin U. Devaskar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and The Neonatal Research Center of the Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Wegiel J, Chadman K, London E, Wisniewski T, Wegiel J. Contribution of the serotonergic system to developmental brain abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2024. [PMID: 38500252 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
This review highlights a key role of the serotonergic system in brain development and in distortions of normal brain development in early stages of fetal life resulting in cascades of abnormalities, including defects of neurogenesis, neuronal migration, neuronal growth, differentiation, and arborization, as well as defective neuronal circuit formation in the cortex, subcortical structures, brainstem, and cerebellum of autistic subjects. In autism, defects in regulation of neuronal growth are the most frequent and ubiquitous developmental changes associated with impaired neuron differentiation, smaller size, distorted shape, loss of spatial orientation, and distortion of cortex organization. Common developmental defects of the brain in autism include multiregional focal dysplastic changes contributing to local neuronal circuit distortion, epileptogenic activity, and epilepsy. There is a discrepancy between more than 500 reports demonstrating the contribution of the serotonergic system to autism's behavioral anomalies, highlighted by lack of studies of autistic subjects' brainstem raphe nuclei, the center of brain serotonergic innervation, and of the contribution of the serotonergic system to the diagnostic features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Discovery of severe fetal brainstem auditory system neuronal deficits and other anomalies leading to a spectrum of hearing deficits contributing to a cascade of behavioral alterations, including deficits of social and verbal communication in individuals with autism, is another argument to intensify postmortem studies of the type and topography of, and the severity of developmental defects in raphe nuclei and their contribution to abnormal brain development and to the broad spectrum of functional deficits and comorbid conditions in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarek Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
| | - Kathryn Chadman
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
| | - Eric London
- Department of Psychology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
| | - Thomas Wisniewski
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
- Center for Cognitive Neurology, Department of Neurology, Pathology and Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jerzy Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
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Jeong JH, Lee H, Kim D, Park E, Woo J, Cho Y, Keum G, Lee A, Kang T, Kim J, Choo H, Lee S, Jeon B. Identification of an Antagonist Targeting G Protein and β-Arrestin Signaling Pathways of 5-HT 7R. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:1026-1041. [PMID: 38387042 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In consideration of the limited number of FDA-approved drugs for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), significant efforts have been devoted to identifying novel drug candidates. Among these, 5-HT7R modulators have garnered considerable attention due to their potential in alleviating autism-like behaviors in ASD animal models. In this study, we designed and synthesized biphenyl-3-ylmethylpyrrolidines 3 and biphenyl-3-yl-dihydroimidazoles 4 as 5-HT7R modulators. Through extensive biological tests of 3 and 4 in G protein and β-arrestin signaling pathways of 5-HT7R, it was determined that 2-(2'-methoxy-[1,1'-biphenyl]-3-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole 4h acted as a 5-HT7R antagonist in both signaling pathways. In in vivo study with Shank3-/- transgenic (TG) mice, the self-grooming behavior test was performed with 4h, resulting in a significant reduction in the duration of self-grooming. In addition, an immunohistochemical experiment with 4h restored reduced neurogenesis in Shank3-/- TG mice, which is confirmed by the quantification of doublecortin (DCX) positive neurons, suggesting the promising therapeutic potential of 4h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hyun Jeong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeun Lee
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Doyoung Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunseo Park
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwan Woo
- Research Animal Resource Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yakdol Cho
- Research Animal Resource Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyochang Keum
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ansoo Lee
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Taek Kang
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongjin Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunah Choo
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Lee
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungsun Jeon
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
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Gračan R, Blažević SA, Brižić M, Hranilovic D. Beyond the Brain: Perinatal Exposure of Rats to Serotonin Enhancers Induces Long-Term Changes in the Jejunum and Liver. Biomedicines 2024; 12:357. [PMID: 38397959 PMCID: PMC10887406 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5HT) homeostasis is essential for many physiological processes in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Hyperserotonemia, a measurable sign of 5HT homeostasis disruption, can be caused by 5HT-directed treatment of psychiatric and gastrointestinal diseases. Its impact on the long-term balance and function of 5HT in the peripheral compartment remains unresolved and requires further research due to possible effects on human health. We explored the effects of perinatal 5HT imbalance on the peripheral organs responsible for serotonin metabolism-the jejunum, a synthesis site, and the liver, a catabolism site-in adult rats. Hyperserotonemia was induced by subchronic treatment with serotonin precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP) or serotonin degradation inhibitor tranylcypromine (TCP). The jejunum and liver were collected on postnatal day 70 and analyzed histomorphometrically. Relative mRNA levels of 5HT-regulating proteins were determined using qRT-PCR. Compared to controls, 5HTP- and TCP-treated rats had a reduced number of 5HT-producing cells and expression of the 5HT-synthesising enzyme in the jejunum, and an increased expression of 5HT-transporter accompanied by karyomegaly in hepatocytes, with these differences being more pronounced in the TCP-treated animals. Here, we report that perinatal 5HT disbalance induced long-term cellular and molecular changes in organs regulating 5HT-metabolism, which may have a negative impact on 5HT availability and function in the periphery. Our rat model demonstrates a link between the developmental abnormalities of serotonin homeostasis and 5HT-related changes in adult life and may be suitable for exploring the neurobiological substrates of vulnerability to behavioral and metabolic disorders, as well as for modeling the adverse effects of the prenatal exposure to 5HT enhancers in the human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romana Gračan
- Division of Zoology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Sofia Ana Blažević
- Division of Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (D.H.)
| | - Matea Brižić
- Division of Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (D.H.)
| | - Dubravka Hranilovic
- Division of Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (D.H.)
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Domingues RR, Wiltbank MC, Hernandez LL. Maternal serotonin: implications for the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors during gestation†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:17-28. [PMID: 37098165 PMCID: PMC10344603 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal use of antidepressants has increased throughout the last decades; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are the most prescribed antidepressants. Despite the widespread use of SSRI by women during reproductive age and pregnant women, an increasing amount of research warns of possible detrimental effects of maternal use of SSRI during pregnancy including low birthweight/small for gestational age and preterm birth. In this review, we revisited the impact of maternal use of SSRI during pregnancy, its impact on serotonin homeostasis in the maternal and fetal circulation and the placenta, and its impact on pregnancy outcomes-particularly intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. Maternal use of SSRI increases maternal and fetal serotonin. The increase in maternal circulating serotonin and serotonin signaling likely promotes vasoconstriction of the uterine and placental vascular beds decreasing blood perfusion to the uterus and consequently to the placenta and fetus with potential impact on placental function and fetal development. Several adverse pregnancy outcomes are similar between women, sheep, and rodents (decreased placental size, decreased birthweight, shorter gestation length/preterm birth, neonatal morbidity, and mortality) highlighting the importance of animal studies to assess the impacts of SSRI. Herein, we address the complex interactions between maternal SSRI use during gestation, circulating serotonin, and the regulation of blood perfusion to the uterus and fetoplacental unit, fetal growth, and pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael R Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Milo C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Laura L Hernandez
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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7
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Lin F, Wang X, Luo R, Yuan B, Ye S, Yang T, Xiao L, Chen J. Maternal LPS Exposure Enhances the 5-HT Level in the Prefrontal Cortex of Autism-like Young Offspring. Brain Sci 2023; 13:958. [PMID: 37371436 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by reduced social interactions, impaired communication, and stereotyped behavior. The aim of this research is to investigate the changes in serotonin (5-HT) in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) of autism-like offspring induced by maternal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with LPS to establish an autism-like model in their offspring. Offspring prenatally exposed to LPS showed autism-like behavior. The serotonin level in the mPFC of 2-week-old offspring was noticeably increased after maternal LPS exposure. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in pathways related to tryptophan metabolism and the serotonin system, as shown in RNA-seq findings. Consistently, tryptophan and serotonin metabolisms were altered in 2-week-old LPS-exposed offspring. The mRNA expression levels of 5-HT catabolic enzymes were remarkably reduced or tended to decrease. Moreover, maternal LPS exposure resulted in a higher serotonin 1B receptor (5-HT1BR) expression level in the mPFC but no difference in tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) or serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT). The concentrations of 5-HT in serum and colon were increased in LPS-exposed offspring. Meanwhile, the expression level of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) in the colon was increased after maternal LPS treatment, whereas SERT was reduced. Furthermore, Golgi-Cox staining showed that neuronal dendritic length and spine density were significantly reduced in the mPFC of LPS-exposed offspring. The current study reveals that maternal LPS treatment resulted in an exaltation of the 5-HT of mPFC in ASD-like young rats, which may partly be caused by the abnormal elevation of 5-HT metabolism in its colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Lin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Ruifang Luo
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Binlin Yuan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Shasha Ye
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
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8
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Nicotine's effect on cognition, a friend or foe? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 124:110723. [PMID: 36736944 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Tobacco smoking is a preventable cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Smoking comes in form of absorption of many compounds, among which nicotine is the main psychoactive component of tobacco and its positive and negative reinforcement effects are proposed to be the key mechanism for the initiation and maintenance of smoking. Growing evidence suggests that the cognitive enhancement effects of nicotine may also contribute to the difficulty of quitting smoking, especially in individuals with psychiatric disorders. In this review, we first introduce the beneficial effect of nicotine on cognition including attention, short-term memory and long-term memory. We next summarize the beneficial effect of nicotine on cognition under pathological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Schizophrenia, Stress-induced Anxiety, Depression, and drug-induced memory impairment. The possible mechanism underlying nicotine's effect is also explored. Finally, nicotine's detrimental effect on cognition is discussed, including in the prenatal and adolescent periods, and high-dose nicotine- and withdrawal-induced memory impairment is emphasized. Therefore, nicotine serves as both a friend and foe. Nicotine-derived compounds could be a promising strategy to alleviate neurological disease-associated cognitive deficit, however, due to nicotine's detrimental effect, continued educational programs and public awareness campaigns are needed to reduce tobacco use among pregnant women and smoking should be quitted even if it is e-cigarette, especially for the adolescents.
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Bezenah JC, Tejada AN, Garcia DA, Lopez K, Richie JA, Amodeo DA, Amodeo LR. Early prenatal and late prenatal escitalopram exposure differentially impacts behavioral flexibility and anxiety-related behaviors in adulthood. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 224:173534. [PMID: 36889444 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are medications commonly used by pregnant women. While SSRIs have been considered safe during pregnancy, there is limited understanding of the long-term consequences of prenatal SSRI exposure on adult behavioral processes. Recent human studies have demonstrated prenatal exposure to some SSRIs in humans may increase susceptibility to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delays. While escitalopram is one of the most effective antidepressants, it is also one of the newer available SSRIs, resulting in less information on its safety profile during pregnancy. The current study administered escitalopram (0 or 10 mg/kg, s.c.) to nulliparous female Long-Evans rats for the first (G1-10) or last half (G11-20) of the gestational period. Young adult male and female offspring were subsequently tested on a battery of behavioral tasks consisting of probabilistic reversal learning task, open field conflict, marble burying and social approach tasks. Results demonstrate that escitalopram exposure during the first half of pregnancy resulted in reduced anxiety-like behavior (disinhibition) on the modified open field and enhanced flexibility on the probabilistic reversal learning task. Exposure to escitalopram later in pregnancy resulted in an increase in marble burying behavior, but no differences were found with the other measures. These results suggest that exposure to escitalopram during the first half of prenatal development can have long lasting changes on adult behavior demonstrating better behavioral flexibility and lower anxiety-like behavior compared to non-exposed controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Bezenah
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America
| | - Alexandra N Tejada
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America
| | - Dominic A Garcia
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America
| | - Korina Lopez
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America
| | - Johnna A Richie
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America
| | - Dionisio A Amodeo
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America
| | - Leslie R Amodeo
- Department of Psychology, California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA 92407, United States of America.
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Beopoulos A, Géa M, Fasano A, Iris F. Autism spectrum disorders pathogenesis: Toward a comprehensive model based on neuroanatomic and neurodevelopment considerations. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:988735. [PMID: 36408388 PMCID: PMC9671112 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.988735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) involves alterations in neural connectivity affecting cortical network organization and excitation to inhibition ratio. It is characterized by an early increase in brain volume mediated by abnormal cortical overgrowth patterns and by increases in size, spine density, and neuron population in the amygdala and surrounding nuclei. Neuronal expansion is followed by a rapid decline from adolescence to middle age. Since no known neurobiological mechanism in human postnatal life is capable of generating large excesses of frontocortical neurons, this likely occurs due to a dysregulation of layer formation and layer-specific neuronal migration during key early stages of prenatal cerebral cortex development. This leads to the dysregulation of post-natal synaptic pruning and results in a huge variety of forms and degrees of signal-over-noise discrimination losses, accounting for ASD clinical heterogeneities, including autonomic nervous system abnormalities and comorbidities. We postulate that sudden changes in environmental conditions linked to serotonin/kynurenine supply to the developing fetus, throughout the critical GW7 - GW20 (Gestational Week) developmental window, are likely to promote ASD pathogenesis during fetal brain development. This appears to be driven by discrete alterations in differentiation and patterning mechanisms arising from in utero RNA editing, favoring vulnerability outcomes over plasticity outcomes. This paper attempts to provide a comprehensive model of the pathogenesis and progression of ASD neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessio Fasano
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Center for Celiac Research and Treatment, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
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11
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Nozari A, Gagné R, Lu C, Yauk C, Trudeau VL. Brief Developmental Exposure to Fluoxetine Causes Life-Long Alteration of the Brain Transcriptome in Zebrafish. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:847322. [PMID: 35573988 PMCID: PMC9097470 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.847322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fluoxetine (FLX) and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are widely used to treat depressive disorders during pregnancy. Early-life exposure to FLX is known to disrupt the normal function of the stress axis in humans, rodents, and teleosts. We used a zebrafish line with a cortisol-inducible fluorescent transgene to study the effects of developmental daily exposure to FLX (54 µg/L) on the transcriptomic profile of brain tissues in exposed larvae and later as 6-month-old adults. High throughput RNA sequencing was conducted on brain tissues in unstressed and stressed conditions. Long-lasting effects of FLX were observed in telencephalon (Tel) and hypothalamus (Hyp) of adult zebrafish with 1927 and 5055 genes significantly (≥1.2 fold-change, false-discovery p-value < 0.05) dysregulated in unstressed condition, respectively. Similar findings were observed in Hyp with 1245 and 723 genes being significantly dysregulated in stressed adults, respectively. Differentially expressed genes converted to Homo sapiens orthologues were used for Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. The results showed alteration of pathways involved in neuroendocrine signaling, cholesterol metabolism and synaptogenesis. Enriched networks included lipid metabolism, molecular transport, and nervous system development. Analysis of putative upstream transcription regulators showed potential dysregulation of clocka and nr3c1 which control circadian rhythm, stress response, cholesterol metabolism and histone modifications. Several genes involved in epigenetic regulation were also affected by FLX, including dnmt3a, adarb1, adarb2, hdac4, hdac5, hdac8, and atf2. We report life-long disruptive effects of FLX on pathways associated with neuroendocrine signaling, stress response and the circadian rhythm, and all of which are implicated in the development of depressive disorders in humans. Our results raise concern for the persistent endocrine-disrupting potential of brief antidepressant exposure during embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Nozari
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Remi Gagné
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Chunyu Lu
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Carole Yauk
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Vance L. Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Vance L. Trudeau,
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12
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Abdelwahab LA, Galal OO, Abd El-Rahman SS, El-Brairy AI, Khattab MM, El-Khatib AS. Targeting the oxytocin system to ameliorate early life depressive-like behaviors in maternally-separated rats. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:1445-1457. [PMID: 34349049 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b21-00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) - "the love hormone" - has been involved in the anti-depressant activity of some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The exact mechanism underlying the OXT pathway in depression is not fully clear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of OXT analogue, carbetocin (CBT) and the SSRI, escitalopram (ESCIT) on depressive-like behaviors following maternal separation (MS). It is worthy to mention that intranasal CBT has been approved by FDA for Prader-Willi syndrome. Adolescent Wistar albino maternally-separated rats were given CBT, (100 μg/animal/day via inhalation route), and, ESCIT, (20 mg kg-1, po) either alone or in combination for 7 days. Repeated 3-h MS demonstrated increased immobility time in forced swim test (FST) and decreased locomotor activity in open field test. MS elevated plasma level of adrenocortico-trophic hormone (ACTH) but notably reduced plasma OXT, with no effect on hippocampal OXT-R expression. Following MS, hippocampal contents of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors (5HT1A-R), serotonin transporter (SERT) were increased. CBT and ESCIT corrected the behavioral dysfunction in FST and suppressed the high levels of ACTH. Additionally, both treatments boosted OXT level, reduced 5HT1A-R and normalized SERT contents, which reflects increased availability of serotonin. Finally, CBT markedly ameliorated the histopathological damage induced by MS and suppressed the increased glial fibrillary acidic protein. CBT and ESCIT manage depressive-like behavior by positively affecting serotonergic and oxytocinergic systems. Targeting OXT system -using CBT- ameliorated depressive like behaviors induced by maternal separation most probably via enhancing OXT plasma levels, attenuating hormonal ACTH and restoring the expression of hippocampal oxytocin and serotonin mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lobna A Abdelwahab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA)
| | - Omneya O Galal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University (ACU)
| | | | - Amany I El-Brairy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA)
| | - Mahmoud M Khattab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University
| | - Aiman S El-Khatib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University
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13
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Gillera SEA, Marinello WP, Cao KT, Horman BM, Stapleton HM, Patisaul HB. Sex-specific Disruption of the Prairie Vole Hypothalamus by Developmental Exposure to a Flame Retardant Mixture. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6285199. [PMID: 34038511 PMCID: PMC8571712 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) with social deficits is conspicuously rising, particularly in boys. Flame retardants (FRs) have long been associated with increased risk, and prior work by us and others in multiple species has shown that developmental exposure to the common FR mixture Firemaster 550 (FM 550) sex-specifically alters socioemotional behaviors including anxiety and pair bond formation. In rats, FRs have also been shown to impair aspects of osmoregulation. Because vasopressin (AVP) plays a role in both socioemotional behavior and osmotic balance we hypothesized that AVP and its related nonapeptide oxytocin (OT) would be vulnerable to developmental FM 550 exposure. We used the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaste) to test this because it is spontaneously prosocial. Using siblings of prairie voles used in a prior study that assessed behavioral deficits resulting from developmental FM 550 exposure across 3 doses, here we tested the hypothesis that FM 550 sex-specifically alters AVP and OT neuronal populations in critical nuclei, such as the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), that coordinate those behaviors, as well as related dopaminergic (determined by tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunolabeling) populations. Exposed females had fewer AVP neurons in the anterior PVN and more A13 TH neurons in the zona incerta than controls. By contrast, in FM 550 males, A13 TH neuron numbers in the zona incerta were decreased but only in 1 dose group. These results expand on previous work showing evidence of endocrine disruption of OT/AVP pathways, including to subpopulations of PVN AVP neurons that coordinate osmoregulatory functions in the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Kevin T Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh NC 27695, USA
- Correspondence: Heather B Patisaul, Professor of Biological Sciences, NC State University, 127 David Clark Labs, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA. E-mail:
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14
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Meurer YDSR, Linhares SSG, Lima ADC, de Aquino ACQ, Brandão LEM, Nôga DA, Campelo CLDC, Lima RH, Cavalcante JDS, Engelberth RCGJ, Ribeiro AM, Silva RH. Postnatal exposure to fluoxetine led to cognitive-emotional alterations and decreased parvalbumin positive neurons in the hippocampus of juvenile Wistar rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:616-632. [PMID: 34196404 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during development results in behavioural impairment in adulthood in humans and animal models. Indeed, serotonergic overexpression in early life leads to structural and functional changes in brain circuits that control cognition and emotion. However, the effects of developmental exposure to these substances on the behaviour of adolescent rats are conflicting and remain poorly characterised. We performed a behavioural screening to investigate the effects of postnatal exposure to fluoxetine on memory and behaviours related to anxiety, anhedonia, and depression, as well we evaluate the parvalbumin expression in hippocampus of juvenile (~PND45) female and male rats. Fluoxetine (daily 20 mg/kg s.c. injections from PND7-PND21)- or vehicle-treated adolescent rats went through several behavioural tasks (from PND 38 to PND52) and were subject to transcardial perfusion and brain removal for immunohistochemical analysis (PND53). We found that postnatal exposure to fluoxetine increased anxiety- and depression-like behaviours in the open field and sucrose preference and forced swimming tests, respectively. In addition, this treatment induced working memory and short-term (but not long-term) recognition memory impairments, and reduced parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the hippocampus. In addition, the results revealed developmental sex-dependent effects of fluoxetine postnatal treatment on adolescent rats' behaviour. These outcomes indicate that affective disorders and mnemonic alterations caused by SSRIs perinatal exposure can be present at adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ywlliane da Silva Rodrigues Meurer
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Memory and Cognition Studies Laboratory, Post-graduate Program of Cognitive Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Laboratory of Neurochemical Studies, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Sara Sophia Guedes Linhares
- Laboratory of Neurochemical Studies, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Alvaro da Costa Lima
- Memory and Cognition Studies Laboratory, Post-graduate Program of Cognitive Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Antonio Carlos Queiroz de Aquino
- Laboratory of Neurochemical Studies, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ramon Hypólito Lima
- Graduate Program in Neuroengineering, Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Macaíba, Brazil
| | - Jeferson de Souza Cavalcante
- Laboratory of Neurochemical Studies, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Alessandra Mussi Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Neuroscience and Bioprospecting of Natural Products, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Santos, Brazil
| | - Regina Helena Silva
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Liu K, Garcia A, Park JJ, Toliver AA, Ramos L, Aizenman CD. Early Developmental Exposure to Fluoxetine and Citalopram Results in Different Neurodevelopmental Outcomes. Neuroscience 2021; 467:110-121. [PMID: 34048796 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are commonly prescribed for prenatal depression, there exists controversy over adverse effects of SSRI use on fetal development. Few studies have adequately isolated outcomes due to SSRI exposure and those due to maternal psychiatric conditions. Here, we directly investigated outcomes of exposure to widely-used SSRIs Fluoxetine and Citalopram on the developing nervous system of Xenopus laevis tadpoles, using an integrative experimental approach. We exposed tadpoles to low doses of Citalopram and Fluoxetine during a critical developmental period and found that different experimental groups displayed opposing behavioral effects. While both groups showed reduced schooling behavior, the Fluoxetine group showed increased seizure susceptibility and reduced startle habituation. In contrast, Citalopram treated tadpoles had decreased seizure susceptibility and increased habituation. Both groups had abnormal dendritic morphology in the optic tectum, a brain area important for behaviors tested. Whole-cell electrophysiological recordings of tectal neurons showed no differences in synaptic function; however, tectal cells from Fluoxetine-treated tadpoles had decreased voltage gated K+ currents while cells in the Citalopram group had increased K+ currents. Both behavioral and electrophysiological findings indicate that cells and circuits in the Fluoxetine treated optic tecta are hyperexcitable, while the Citalopram group exhibits decreased excitability. Taken together, these results show that early developmental exposure to SSRIs is sufficient to induce neurodevelopmental effects, however these effects can be complex and vary depending on the SSRI. This may explain some discrepancies across human studies, and further underscores the importance of serotonergic signaling for the developing nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Liu
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, United States
| | - Alfonso Garcia
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, United States
| | - Jenn J Park
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, United States
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16
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Khodaverdi M, Rahdar M, Davoudi S, Hajisoltani R, Tavassoli Z, Ghasemi Z, Amini AE, Hosseinmardi N, Behzadi G, Janahmadi M. 5-HT7 receptor activation rescues impaired synaptic plasticity in an autistic-like rat model induced by prenatal VPA exposure. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 183:107462. [PMID: 34015444 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a severe life-long neuropsychiatric disorder. Alterations and imbalance of several neurochemical systems may be involved in ASD pathophysiology, of them, serotonergic neurotransmission dysfunction and deficiency may underlie behavioral abnormalities associated with ASD. However, the functional importance of serotonergic receptors, particularly 5HT7 receptors in ASD pathology remains poorly defined. Serotonin receptor subtype 7 (5-HT7R) plays a direct regulatory role in the development and also for the mature function of the brain, therefore, further studies are necessary to elucidate the role of these receptors in the etiology of autism. To address this issue, we combined here behavioral, electrophysiological methods to further characterize the contribution of 5-HT7Rs in the prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure-induced impairment in synaptic plasticity and their impact on the associated behavioral changes. This may help to unravel the underlying cellular mechanisms involved in ASD and can lead to new treatment and/or prevention therapies based on the role of the serotonergic system for autism. Findings revealed that compared to control, autistic-like offspring showed increased anxiety-like behavior, reduced social interaction, decreased locomotor activity, and impaired identification of the novel object. However, administration of 5-HT7Rs agonist, LP-211, for 7 consecutive days before testing from postnatal day 21 to 27 reversed all behavioral deficits induced by prenatal exposure to VPA in offspring. Also, both short-term depression and long-term potentiation were impaired in the autistic-like pups, but activation of 5-HT7Rs rescued the LTP impairment in the autistic-like group so that there was no significant difference between the two groups. Blockade of 5-HT7Rs caused LTP impairment following HFS in the autistic-like group. Besides, there was a significant difference in LTD induction following SB-269970 application between the control and the autistic-like groups measured at first 10 min following TPS. Moreover, both the number and the size of retrograde fast blue-labelled neurons in the raphe nuclei were reduced. Overall, these results provide for the first time, as far as we know, functional evidence for the restorative role of 5-HT7Rs activation against prenatal VPA exposure induced behavioral deficits and hippocampal synaptic plasticity impairment. Therefore, these receptors could be a potential and promising pharmacotherapy target for the treatment of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Khodaverdi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Rahdar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Davoudi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razieh Hajisoltani
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Tavassoli
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Ghasemi
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aeen Ebrahim Amini
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Narges Hosseinmardi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gila Behzadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahyar Janahmadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Li X, Zhang K, He X, Zhou J, Jin C, Shen L, Gao Y, Tian M, Zhang H. Structural, Functional, and Molecular Imaging of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:1051-1071. [PMID: 33779890 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00673-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder associated with both genetic and environmental risks. Neuroimaging approaches have been widely employed to parse the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying ASD, and provide critical insights into the anatomical, functional, and neurochemical changes. We reviewed recent advances in neuroimaging studies that focused on ASD by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), or single-positron emission tomography (SPECT). Longitudinal structural MRI has delineated an abnormal developmental trajectory of ASD that is associated with cascading neurobiological processes, and functional MRI has pointed to disrupted functional neural networks. Meanwhile, PET and SPECT imaging have revealed that metabolic and neurotransmitter abnormalities may contribute to shaping the aberrant neural circuits of ASD. Future large-scale, multi-center, multimodal investigations are essential to elucidate the neurophysiological underpinnings of ASD, and facilitate the development of novel diagnostic biomarkers and better-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Laboratory for Pathophysiological and Health Science, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Xiao He
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Jinyun Zhou
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chentao Jin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Lesang Shen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yuanxue Gao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Mei Tian
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical PET Center, The Second Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- The College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
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Ye X, Shin BC, Baldauf C, Ganguly A, Ghosh S, Devaskar SU. Developing Brain Glucose Transporters, Serotonin, Serotonin Transporter, and Oxytocin Receptor Expression in Response to Early-Life Hypocaloric and Hypercaloric Dietary, and Air Pollutant Exposures. Dev Neurosci 2021; 43:27-42. [PMID: 33774619 DOI: 10.1159/000514709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Perturbed maternal diet and prenatal exposure to air pollution (AP) affect the fetal brain, predisposing to postnatal neurobehavioral disorders. Glucose transporters (GLUTs) are key in fueling neurotransmission; deficiency of the neuronal isoform GLUT3 culminates in autism spectrum disorders. Along with the different neurotransmitters, serotonin (5-HT) and oxytocin (OXT) are critical for the development of neural connectivity. Serotonin transporter (SERT) modulates synaptic 5-HT levels, while the OXT receptor (OXTR) mediates OXT action. We hypothesized that perturbed brain GLUT1/GLUT3 regulated 5-HT-SERT imbalance, which serves as a contributing factor to postnatal neuropsychiatric phenotypes, with OXT/OXTR providing a counterbalance. Employing maternal diet restriction (intrauterine growth restriction [IUGR]), high-fat (HF) dietary modifications, and prenatal exposure to simulated AP, fetal (E19) murine brain 5-HT was assessed by ELISA with SERT and OXTR being localized by immunohistochemistry and measured by quantitative Western blot analysis. IUGR with lower head weights led to a 48% reduction in male and female fetal brain GLUT3 with no change in GLUT1, when compared to age- and sex-matched controls, with no significant change in OXTR. In addition, a ∼50% (p = 0.005) decrease in 5-HT and SERT concentrations was displayed in fetal IUGR brains. In contrast, despite emergence of microcephaly, exposure to a maternal HF diet or AP caused no significant changes. We conclude that in the IUGR during fetal brain development, reduced GLUT3 is associated with an imbalanced 5-HT-SERT axis. We speculate that these early changes may set the stage for altering the 5HT-SERT neural axis with postnatal emergence of associated neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ye
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and the Neonatal Research Center of the UCLA Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Bo-Chul Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and the Neonatal Research Center of the UCLA Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Claire Baldauf
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and the Neonatal Research Center of the UCLA Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Amit Ganguly
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and the Neonatal Research Center of the UCLA Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Shubhamoy Ghosh
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and the Neonatal Research Center of the UCLA Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sherin U Devaskar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology and the Neonatal Research Center of the UCLA Children's Discovery & Innovation Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Luhach K, Kulkarni GT, Singh VP, Sharma B. Effect of papaverine on developmental hyperserotonemia induced autism spectrum disorder related behavioural phenotypes by altering markers of neuronal function, inflammation, and oxidative stress in rats. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2021; 48:614-625. [PMID: 33480092 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hyperserotonemia, in the early developmental phase, generates a variety of behavioural and biochemical phenotypes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in rats. Papaverine is known to provide benefits in various brain conditions. We investigated the role of a selective phosphodiesterase-10A (PDE10A) inhibitor, papaverine on ASD related behavioural phenotypes (social behaviour deficits, repetitive behaviour, anxiety and hyperlocomotion) in developmental hyperserotonemia (DHS) rat model. Also, effects on important biochemical markers related with neuronal function (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-neuronal survival and phosphorylated-cAMP response element binding protein (pCREB)-neuronal transcription factor), brain inflammation (interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α) and brain oxidative stress (TBARS and GSH) were studied in important brain areas (frontal cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus and striatum). Administration of a non-selective serotonin receptor agonist, such as 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT) to rats prenatally (gestational day 12 - day of parturition) and during early stages (postnatal day (PND) 0 -PND20) of development, resulted in impaired behaviour and brain biochemistry. Administration of papaverine (15/30 mg/kg ip) to 5-MT administered rats from PND21 to PND48, resulted in improvement of behavioural deficits. Also, papaverine administration significantly increased the levels of BDNF, pCREB/CREB, IL-10, GSH and significantly decreased TNF-α, IL-6 and TBARS levels in different brain areas. Papaverine, in both doses rectified important behavioural phenotypes related with ASD, the higher dose (30 mg/kg ip) showed significantly greater improvement than 15 mg/kg ip, possibly by improving neuronal function, brain inflammation and brain oxidative stress. Thus, PDE10A could be a probable target for pharmacological interventions and furthering our understanding of ASD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanishk Luhach
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Giriraj T Kulkarni
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Vijay P Singh
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Academy of scientific and Innovative research, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India.,CNS and CVS Pharmacology, Conscience Research, Delhi, India
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20
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Serotonin transporter availability in adults with autism-a positron emission tomography study. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:1647-1658. [PMID: 32848204 PMCID: PMC8159737 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-00868-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Impairments in social interaction and communication, in combination with restricted, repetitive behaviors and interests, define the neurodevelopmental diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The biological underpinnings of ASD are not well known, but the hypothesis of serotonin (5-HT) involvement in the neurodevelopment of ASD is one of the longest standing. Reuptake through the 5-HT transporter (5-HTT) is the main pathway decreasing extracellular 5-HT in the brain and a marker for the 5-HT system, but in vivo investigations of the 5-HTT and the 5-HT system in ASD are scarce and so far inconclusive. To quantify possible alterations in the 5-HT system in ASD, we used positron emission tomography and the radioligand [11C]MADAM to measure 5-HTT availability in the brain of 15 adults with ASD and 15 controls. Moreover, we examined correlations between regional 5-HTT availability and behavioral phenotype assessments regarding ASD core symptoms. In the ASD group, we found significantly lower 5-HTT availability in total gray matter, brainstem, and 9 of 18 examined subregions of gray matter. In addition, several correlations between regional 5-HTT availability and social cognitive test performance were found. The results confirm the hypothesis that 5-HTT availability is lower in the brain of adult individuals with ASD, and are consistent with the theory of 5-HT involvement in ASD neurodevelopment. The findings endorse the central role of 5-HT in the physiology of ASD, and confirm the need for a continued investigation of the 5-HT system in order to disentangle the biology of ASD.
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21
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Lawrence RH, Palumbo MC, Freeman SM, Guoynes CD, Bales KL. Developmental Fluoxetine Exposure Alters Behavior and Neuropeptide Receptors in the Prairie Vole. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:584731. [PMID: 33304247 PMCID: PMC7701284 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.584731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) increases the risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), however, the underlying neurobiology of this effect is not fully understood. Here we used the socially monogamous prairie vole as a translational model of developmental SSRI exposure. Paired female prairie voles (n = 20) were treated with 5 mg/kg subcutaneous fluoxetine (FLX) or saline (SAL) daily from birth of the second litter until the day of birth of the 4th litter. This design created three cohorts of FLX exposure: postnatal exposure in litter 2, both prenatal and postnatal exposure in litter 3, and prenatal exposure in litter 4. Post-weaning, subjects underwent behavioral testing to detect changes in sociality, repetitive behavior, pair-bond formation, and anxiety-like behavior. Quantitative receptor autoradiography was performed for oxytocin, vasopressin 1a, and serotonin 1a receptor density in a subset of brains. We observed increased anxiety-like behavior and reduced sociality in developmentally FLX exposed adults. FLX exposure decreased oxytocin receptor binding in the nucleus accumbens core and central amygdala, and vasopressin 1a receptor binding in the medial amygdala. FLX exposure did not affect serotonin 1A receptor binding in any areas examined. Changes to oxytocin and vasopressin receptors may underlie the behavioral changes observed and have translational implications for the mechanism of the increased risk of ASD subsequent to prenatal SSRI exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H Lawrence
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Michelle C Palumbo
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Sara M Freeman
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,Department of Biology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Caleigh D Guoynes
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Karen L Bales
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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22
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The early overgrowth theory of autism spectrum disorder: Insight into convergent mechanisms from valproic acid exposure and translational models. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020. [PMID: 32711813 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The development of new approaches for the clinical management of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can only be realized through a better understanding of the neurobiological changes associated with ASD. One strategy for gaining deeper insight into the neurobiological mechanisms associated with ASD is to identify converging pathogenic processes associated with human idiopathic clinicopathology that are conserved in translational models of ASD. In this chapter, we first present the early overgrowth theory of ASD. Second, we introduce valproic acid (VPA), one of the most robust and well-known environmental risk factors associated with ASD, and we summarize the rapidly growing body of animal research literature using VPA as an ASD translational model. Lastly, we will detail the mechanisms of action of VPA and its impact on functional neural systems, as well as discuss future research directions that could have a lasting impact on the field.
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Abstract
AbstractIn summary, genetics, as well as foetal and early life environmental factors shape the size or capacity of our monoamine systems, of which the serotonergic one might play a leading role. Those constitutional properties then form the biological basis for personality traits, such as impulsiveness and “sensation seeking”, which interact with psychosocial settings and life events to form a pattern of reactivity to a current life event or psychosocial situation, shown as a high or low order of magnitude of gene-environment interaction. In the present paper emphasis is put on the role of genotypes of the serotonin transporter, of monoamine oxidases A and B, and of platelet monoamine oxidase B activity, which all have been shown to be of importance for behaviour and with obvious effects of interactions with environment. Under unfortunate circumstances constitutional properties might be strong enough to result in vulnerability for suicide, even with a modest influence of environment.
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24
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Hernández-Carballo G, Ruíz-Luna EA, López-López G, Manjarrez E, Flores-Hernández J. Changes in Serotonin Modulation of Glutamate Currents in Pyramidal Offspring Cells of Rats Treated With 5-MT during Gestation. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E221. [PMID: 32276365 PMCID: PMC7225987 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10040221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in stimuli and feeding in pregnant mothers alter the behavior of offspring. Since behavior is mediated by brain activity, it is expected that postnatal changes occur at the level of currents, receptors or soma and dendrites structure and modulation. In this work, we explore at the mechanism level the effects on Sprague-Dawley rat offspring following the administration of serotonin (5-HT) agonist 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT). We analyzed whether 5-HT affects the glutamate-activated (IGlut) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-activated currents (IGlut, INMDA) in dissociated pyramidal neurons from the prefrontal cortex (PFC). For this purpose, we performed voltage-clamp experiments on pyramidal neurons from layers V-VI of the PFC of 40-day-old offspring born from 5-MT-treated mothers at the gestational days (GD) 11 to 21. We found that the pyramidal-neurons from the PFC of offspring of mothers treated with 5-MT exhibit a significant increased reduction in both the IGlut and INMDA when 5-HT was administered. Our results suggest that the concentration increase of a neuromodulator during the gestation induces changes in its modulatory action over the offspring ionic currents during the adulthood thus contributing to possible psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Hernández-Carballo
- Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla C.P.72570, Mexico; (G.H.-C.); (E.A.R.-L.); (E.M.)
| | - Evelyn A. Ruíz-Luna
- Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla C.P.72570, Mexico; (G.H.-C.); (E.A.R.-L.); (E.M.)
| | - Gustavo López-López
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla C.P.72570, Mexico;
| | - Elias Manjarrez
- Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla C.P.72570, Mexico; (G.H.-C.); (E.A.R.-L.); (E.M.)
| | - Jorge Flores-Hernández
- Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla C.P.72570, Mexico; (G.H.-C.); (E.A.R.-L.); (E.M.)
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25
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Alzghoul L. Role of Vitamin D in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:4357-4367. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191122092215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive developmental disorder with heterogeneous etiology.
Vitamin D can function as a fat-soluble vitamin as well as a hormone, and can exert its effect through both genomic
and non-genomic mechanisms. In the last decades, several studies have examined the relationship between
vitamin D levels and ASD. These studies demonstrated that low vitamin D status in early development has been
hypothesized as an environmental risk factor for ASD. Both in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated that
vitamin D deficiency in early life can alter brain development, dysregulates neurotransmitter balance in the brain,
decreases body and brain antioxidant ability, and alters the immune system in ways that resemble pathological
features commonly seen in ASD. In this review, we focused on the association between vitamin D and ASD. In
addition, the above-mentioned mechanisms of action that link vitamin D deficiency with ASD were also discussed.
Finally, clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation treatment of ASD have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loai Alzghoul
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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26
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Chakraborti B, Verma D, Guhathakurta S, Jaiswal P, Singh AS, Sinha S, Ghosh S, Mukhopadhyay K, Mohanakumar KP, Rajamma U. Gender-Specific Effect of 5-HT and 5-HIAA on Threshold Level of Behavioral Symptoms and Sex-Bias in Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2020; 13:1375. [PMID: 31998058 PMCID: PMC6961535 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Platelet hyperserotonemia in a subset of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) probands, efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in reducing behavioral deficits and gender-bias in normal serotonin (5-hydroxy tryptamine or 5-HT) synthesis suggest disruption in stringent regulation of serotonin metabolism in ASD. Therefore, we investigated the changes in 5-HT and 5-hydroxy indole acetic acid (5-HIAA) in ASD probands to assess its effect on the behavior of male and female probands. ASD cases (n = 215) were examined using childhood autism rating scale (CARS). Platelet 5-HT (104 cases and 26 controls) and platelet/plasma 5-HIAA (73 cases and 17 controls) were estimated using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrochemical detector (HPLC-ECD). In male probands, we observed increase in platelet 5-HT content in association with increase in the score for adaptive responses and increase in platelet 5-HIAA levels with concomitant decline in the score for intellectual response. Age did not influence the neurochemical parameters, but imitation, listening responses and nonverbal communication scores decreased with age. Conversely in female probands, plasma 5-HIAA level significantly attenuated with age, when platelet 5-HT content remained unchanged. Interestingly, platelet/plasma 5-HT and plasma 5-HIAA were higher in female controls. Female probands displayed severe autism-associated behaviors. Overall results indicate gender-bias in 5-HT and 5-HIAA regulation, which probably increases the threshold level of ASD phenotypes in the females, thereby affecting ASD prevalence in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barnali Chakraborti
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Deepak Verma
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Subhrangshu Guhathakurta
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India.,Division of Neuroscience, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Preeti Jaiswal
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Asem Surindro Singh
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India.,Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Swagata Sinha
- Out Patient's Department, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Saurabh Ghosh
- Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Kanchan Mukhopadhyay
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Kochupurackal P Mohanakumar
- Cell Biology & Physiology Division, Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India.,Inter University Centre for Biomedical Research and Super Speciality Hospital, Mahatma Gandhi University,, Kottayam, India
| | - Usha Rajamma
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India.,Inter University Centre for Biomedical Research and Super Speciality Hospital, Mahatma Gandhi University,, Kottayam, India
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27
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Serotonin transporter deficiency alters socioemotional ultrasonic communication in rats. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20283. [PMID: 31889084 PMCID: PMC6937290 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been widely established that serotonin plays important role in the regulation of emotional and social behaviour. Rodents with a genetic deletion of the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) are used as a model to study lifelong consequences of increased extracellular 5‐HT levels due to its impaired reuptake. SERT knock-out (SERT-KO) mice and rats consistently showed anxiety-like symptoms and social deficits. Nevertheless, the impact of SERT deletion on socioemotional ultrasonic communication has not been addressed. Here we investigated the impact of lifelong serotonin abundance on ultrasonic vocalisation accompanying social interactions and open field exploration in rats. SERT-KO rats displayed reduced overall duration of social contacts, but increased time spent on following the conspecific. The altered pattern of social behaviour in SERT-KO rats was accompanied by the structural changes in ultrasonic vocalisations, as they differed from their controls in distribution of call categories. Moreover, SERT deletion resulted in anxiety-like behaviours assessed in the open field test. Their anxious phenotype resulted in a lower tendency to emit appetitive 50-kHz calls during novelty exploration. The present study demonstrates that genetic deletion of SERT not only leads to the deficits in social interaction and increased anxiety but also affects ultrasonic communication.
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28
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Gillera SEA, Marinello WP, Horman BM, Phillips AL, Ruis MT, Stapleton HM, Reif DM, Patisaul HB. Sex-specific effects of perinatal FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) exposure on socioemotional behavior in prairie voles. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2019; 79:106840. [PMID: 31730801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2019.106840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly rising incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders with social deficits is raising concern that developmental exposure to environmental contaminants may be contributory. Firemaster 550 (FM 550) is one of the most prevalent flame-retardant (FR) mixtures used in foam-based furniture and baby products and contains both brominated and organophosphate components. We and others have published evidence of developmental neurotoxicity and sex specific effects of FM 550 on anxiety-like and exploratory behaviors. Using a prosocial animal model, we investigated the impact of perinatal FM 550 exposure on a range of socioemotional behaviors including anxiety, attachment, and memory. Virtually unknown to toxicologists, but widely used in the behavioral neurosciences, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) is a uniquely valuable model organism for examining environmental factors on sociality because this species is spontaneously prosocial, biparental, and displays attachment behaviors including pair bonding. Dams were exposed to 0, 500, 1000, or 2000 μg of FM 550 via subcutaneous (sc) injections throughout gestation, and pups were directly exposed beginning the day after birth until weaning. Adult offspring of both sexes were then subjected to multiple tasks including open field, novel object recognition, and partner preference. Effects were dose responsive and sex-specific, with females more greatly affected. Exposure-related outcomes in females included elevated anxiety, decreased social interaction, decreased exploratory motivation, and aversion to novelty. Exposed males also had social deficits, with males in all three dose groups failing to show a partner preference. Our studies demonstrate the utility of the prairie vole for investigating the impact of chemical exposures on social behavior and support the hypothesis that developmental FR exposure impacts the social brain. Future studies will probe the possible mechanisms by which these effects arise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Matthew T Ruis
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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29
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Gyawali S, Patra BN. Autism spectrum disorder: Trends in research exploring etiopathogenesis. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 73:466-475. [PMID: 31077508 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition in which affected individuals have difficulties while interacting and communicating socially, and repetitive behaviors. It has a multifactorial etiology. Various risk factors, including genetic and environmental influences, have been explored while trying to understand its causation. As older evidence was suggestive of a high heritability, a majority of research focused on finding the underlying genetic causes of autism. Due to these efforts, there have been advances in the knowledge of some of the genetic factors associated with autism. But a recent trend also shows an increasing interest in exploration of various potential environmental triggers. These efforts have brought us closer to understanding the elusive disorder more so than ever before. The current review discusses the recent trends in research exploring the etiopathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreeya Gyawali
- Department of Psychiatry and National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Bichitra Nanda Patra
- Department of Psychiatry and National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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30
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Stereological Investigation of the Rat Ventral Thalamic Nuclei Following Developmental Hyperserotonemia. Neuroscience 2019; 411:202-210. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.05.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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31
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Takumi T, Tamada K, Hatanaka F, Nakai N, Bolton PF. Behavioral neuroscience of autism. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 110:60-76. [PMID: 31059731 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Several genetic causes of ASD have been identified and this has enabled researchers to construct mouse models. Mouse behavioral tests reveal impaired social interaction and communication, as well as increased repetitive behavior and behavioral inflexibility in these mice, which correspond to core behavioral deficits observed in individuals with ASD. However, the connection between these behavioral abnormalities and the underlying dysregulation in neuronal circuits and synaptic function is poorly understood. Moreover, different components of the ASD phenotype may be linked to dysfunction in different brain regions, making it even more challenging to chart the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in ASD. Here we summarize the research on mouse models of ASD and their contribution to understanding pathophysiological mechanisms. Specifically, we emphasize abnormal serotonin production and regulation, as well as the disruption in circadian rhythms and sleep that are observed in a subset of ASD, and propose that spatiotemporal disturbances in brainstem development may be a primary cause of ASD that propagates towards the cerebral cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Takumi
- RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.
| | - Kota Tamada
- RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | | | - Nobuhiro Nakai
- RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Patrick F Bolton
- Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
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32
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Neurodevelopmental and behavioral consequences of perinatal exposure to the HIV drug efavirenz in a rodent model. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:84. [PMID: 30745561 PMCID: PMC6370772 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Efavirenz is recommended as a preferred first-line drug for women of childbearing potential living with human immunodeficiency virus. Efavirenz is known for its central nervous system side effects, which are partly mediated by serotonergic actions. The neurotransmitter serotonin exerts neurotrophic effects during neurodevelopment and antenatal exposure to serotonergic agents has been linked to developmental delay. Although the teratogenic risks of efavirenz appear to be minimal, data on long-term developmental effects remain scarce. Here, we aimed to investigate the short- and long-term behavioral and neurodevelopmental effects of perinatal efavirenz exposure. We treated pregnant rats from gestation day 1 until postnatal day 7 with efavirenz (100 mg/kg) or vehicle. We measured behavioral outcomes in male offspring during the first 3 postnatal weeks, adolescence and adulthood, and conducted brain immunohistochemistry analyses after sacrifice. Perinatal efavirenz exposure resulted in reduced body weight and delayed reflex and motor development. During adulthood, we observed a decrease in the total number of cells and mature neurons in the motor cortex, as well as an increase in the number of Caspase-3-positive cells and serotonergic fibers. Together, our data show a developmental delay and persistent changes in the brain motor cortex of rats exposed to efavirenz perinatally. Because over 1 million children born annually are exposed to antiretroviral therapy, our findings underline the need for clinical studies on long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of perinatal exposure to efavirenz.
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33
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Murthi P, Vaillancourt C. RETRACTED: Placental serotonin systems in pregnancy metabolic complications associated with maternal obesity and gestational diabetes mellitus. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1866:165391. [PMID: 30738809 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal).
The publication was retracted by request of the authors following an investigation by Monash University performed following its Procedures for Investigating Code Breaches and in accordance with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research.
The University concluded on the balance of probability that a significant part of the text in the paper was included without knowledge, without consent and without correct attribution of the original author who, at the time, was a student at the University. The results discussed in the review article are still scientifically valid.
☆
This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Membrane Transporters and Receptors in Pregnancy Metabolic Complications edited by Luis Sobrevia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padma Murthi
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Hudson Institute of Medical Research, The Ritchie Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec and Biomed Research Center, 531 Boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada; Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
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Fleiss B, Wong F, Brownfoot F, Shearer IK, Baud O, Walker DW, Gressens P, Tolcos M. Knowledge Gaps and Emerging Research Areas in Intrauterine Growth Restriction-Associated Brain Injury. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:188. [PMID: 30984110 PMCID: PMC6449431 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a complex global healthcare issue. Concerted research and clinical efforts have improved our knowledge of the neurodevelopmental sequelae of IUGR which has raised the profile of this complex problem. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of therapies to prevent the substantial rates of fetal demise or the constellation of permanent neurological deficits that arise from IUGR. The purpose of this article is to highlight the clinical and translational gaps in our knowledge that hamper our collective efforts to improve the neurological sequelae of IUGR. Also, we draw attention to cutting-edge tools and techniques that can provide novel insights into this disorder, and technologies that offer the potential for better drug design and delivery. We cover topics including: how we can improve our use of crib-side monitoring options, what we still need to know about inflammation in IUGR, the necessity for more human post-mortem studies, lessons from improved integrated histology-imaging analyses regarding the cell-specific nature of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals, options to improve risk stratification with genomic analysis, and treatments mediated by nanoparticle delivery which are designed to modify specific cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi Fleiss
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bobbi Fleiss
| | - Flora Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Newborn, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Fiona Brownfoot
- Translational Obstetrics Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabelle K. Shearer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Olivier Baud
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Division of Neonatal Intensive Care, University Hospitals of Geneva, Children's Hospital, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David W. Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Pierre Gressens
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- PremUP, Paris, France
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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Ranzil S, Walker DW, Borg AJ, Wallace EM, Ebeling PR, Murthi P. The relationship between the placental serotonin pathway and fetal growth restriction. Biochimie 2018; 161:80-87. [PMID: 30605696 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2018.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a complex disorder of human pregnancy that leads to poor health outcomes in offspring. These range from immediate risks such as perinatal morbidity and stillbirths, to long-term complications including severe neurodevelopmental problems. Despite its relatively high global prevalence, the aetiology of FGR and its complications is not currently well understood. We now know that serotonin (5-HT) is synthesised in the placenta and is crucial for early fetal forebrain development in mice. However, the contribution of a disrupted placental 5-HT synthetic pathway to the pathophysiology of placental insufficiency in FGR and its significant fetal neurodevelopmental complications are unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suveena Ranzil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Australia; The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Anthony J Borg
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Australia; The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter R Ebeling
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Padma Murthi
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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Tanaka M, Sato A, Kasai S, Hagino Y, Kotajima-Murakami H, Kashii H, Takamatsu Y, Nishito Y, Inagaki M, Mizuguchi M, Hall FS, Uhl GR, Murphy D, Sora I, Ikeda K. Brain hyperserotonemia causes autism-relevant social deficits in mice. Mol Autism 2018; 9:60. [PMID: 30498565 PMCID: PMC6258166 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-018-0243-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hyperserotonemia in the brain is suspected to be an endophenotype of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Reducing serotonin levels in the brain through modulation of serotonin transporter function may improve ASD symptoms. Methods We analyzed behavior and gene expression to unveil the causal mechanism of ASD-relevant social deficits using serotonin transporter (Sert) knockout mice. Results Social deficits were observed in both heterozygous knockout mice (HZ) and homozygous knockout mice (KO), but increases in general anxiety were only observed in KO mice. Two weeks of dietary restriction of the serotonin precursor tryptophan ameliorated both brain hyperserotonemia and ASD-relevant social deficits in Sert HZ and KO mice. The expression of rather distinct sets of genes was altered in Sert HZ and KO mice, and a substantial portion of these genes was also affected by tryptophan depletion. Tryptophan depletion in Sert HZ and KO mice was associated with alterations in the expression of genes involved in signal transduction pathways initiated by changes in extracellular serotonin or melatonin, a derivative of serotonin. Only expression of the AU015836 gene was altered in both Sert HZ and KO mice. AU015836 expression and ASD-relevant social deficits normalized after dietary tryptophan restriction. Conclusions These findings reveal a Sert gene dose-dependent effect on brain hyperserotonemia and related behavioral sequelae in ASD and a possible therapeutic target to normalize brain hyperserotonemia and ASD-relevant social deficits. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13229-018-0243-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Tanaka
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan.,2Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan.,3Department of Developmental Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Sato
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan.,4Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinya Kasai
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Yoko Hagino
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Hiroko Kotajima-Murakami
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Hirofumi Kashii
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Yukio Takamatsu
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Yasumasa Nishito
- 5Center for Basic Technology Research, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masumi Inagaki
- 3Department of Developmental Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Mizuguchi
- 6Department of Developmental Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - F Scott Hall
- 7Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH USA
| | - George R Uhl
- 8Branch of Molecular Neurobiology, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD USA.,9Research Service, New Mexico VA Health Care System, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Dennis Murphy
- 10Laboratory of Clinical Science, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Ichiro Sora
- 11Department of Psychiatry, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Ikeda
- 1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addictive Substance Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan.,2Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
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Examining the Reversibility of Long-Term Behavioral Disruptions in Progeny of Maternal SSRI Exposure. eNeuro 2018; 5:eN-NWR-0120-18. [PMID: 30073191 PMCID: PMC6071194 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0120-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonergic dysregulation is implicated in numerous psychiatric disorders. Serotonin plays widespread trophic roles during neurodevelopment; thus perturbations to this system during development may increase risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. Epidemiological studies have examined association between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment during pregnancy and increased autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk in offspring. It is unclear from these studies whether ASD susceptibility is purely related to maternal psychiatric diagnosis, or if treatment poses additional risk. We sought to determine whether maternal SSRI treatment alone or in combination with genetically vulnerable background was sufficient to induce offspring behavior disruptions relevant to ASD. We exposed C57BL/6J or Celf6+/- mouse dams to fluoxetine (FLX) during different periods of gestation and lactation and characterized offspring on tasks assessing social communicative interaction and repetitive behavior patterns including sensory sensitivities. We demonstrate robust reductions in pup ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) and alterations in social hierarchy behaviors, as well as perseverative behaviors and tactile hypersensitivity. Celf6 mutant mice demonstrate social communicative deficits and perseverative behaviors, without further interaction with FLX. FLX re-exposure in adulthood ameliorates the tactile hypersensitivity yet exacerbates the dominance phenotype. This suggests acute deficiencies in serotonin levels likely underlie the abnormal responses to sensory stimuli, while the social alterations are instead due to altered development of social circuits. These findings indicate maternal FLX treatment, independent of maternal stress, can induce behavioral disruptions in mammalian offspring, thus contributing to our understanding of the developmental role of the serotonin system and the possible risks to offspring of SSRI treatment during pregnancy.
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Burke MW, Fillion M, Mejia J, Ervin FR, Palmour RM. Perinatal MAO Inhibition Produces Long-Lasting Impairment of Serotonin Function in Offspring. Brain Sci 2018; 8:brainsci8060106. [PMID: 29891804 PMCID: PMC6025445 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8060106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to transmitter functions, many neuroamines have trophic or ontogenetic regulatory effects important to both normal and disordered brain development. In previous work (Mejia et al., 2002), we showed that pharmacologically inhibiting monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity during murine gestation increases the prevalence of behaviors thought to reflect impulsivity and aggression. The goal of the present study was to determine the extent to which this treatment influences dopamine and serotonin innervation of murine cortical and subcortical areas, as measured by regional density of dopamine (DAT) and serotonin transporters (SERT). We measured DAT and SERT densities at 3 developmental times (PND 14, 35 and 90) following inhibition of MAO A, or MAO B or both throughout murine gestation and early post-natal development. DAT binding was unaltered within the nigrostriatal pathway, but concurrent inhibition of MAO-A and MAO-B significantly and specifically reduced SERT binding by 10–25% in both the frontal cortex and raphe nuclei. Low levels of SERT binding persisted (PND 35, 90) after the termination (PND 21) of exposure to MAO inhibitors and was most marked in brain structures germane to the previously described behavioral changes. The relatively modest level of enzyme inhibition (25–40%) required to produce these effects mandates care in the use of any compound which might inhibit MAO activity during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Burke
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA.
| | - Myriam Fillion
- Departments of Biology, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada.
| | - Jose Mejia
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3J 3T4, Canada.
| | - Frank R Ervin
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada.
| | - Roberta M Palmour
- Departments of Biology, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada.
- Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada.
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Nilsson KW, Åslund C, Comasco E, Oreland L. Gene-environment interaction of monoamine oxidase A in relation to antisocial behaviour: current and future directions. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2018; 125:1601-1626. [PMID: 29881923 PMCID: PMC6224008 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-018-1892-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Since the pioneering finding of Caspi and co-workers in 2002 that exposure to childhood maltreatment predicted later antisocial behaviour (ASB) in male carriers of the low-activity MAOA-uVNTR allele, frequent replication studies have been published. Two meta-analyses, one in 2006 and the other in 2014, confirmed the original findings by Caspi and co-workers. In the present paper, we review the literature, note some methodological aspects of candidate gene–environment interaction (cG×E) studies and suggest some future directions. Our conclusions are as follows. (1) The direction of the effect in a cG×E model may differ according to the positive and negative environmental background of the population. (2) There is a predictor-intersection problem such that when measuring one type of maltreatment in a person, other kinds of maltreatment often co-occur. Other forms of abuse are implicitly considered in statistical models; therefore, it is difficult to draw conclusions about the effects of timing and the severity of different forms of stressful life events in relation to ASB. (3) There is also an outcome-intersection problem because of the major intersection of ASB and other forms of mental health problems. It is likely that the G×E with MAOA is related to a common unmeasured factor. (4) For the G×E model, in which the effect of the gene on the outcome variable is dependent on other predictor variables, theoretically, hypothesis-driven statistical modelling is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kent W Nilsson
- Centre for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden.
| | - Cecilia Åslund
- Centre for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lars Oreland
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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40
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Rubinchik-Stern M, Shmuel M, Bar J, Kovo M, Eyal S. Adverse placental effects of valproic acid: Studies in perfused human placentas. Epilepsia 2018; 59:993-1003. [PMID: 29667177 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In utero exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been associated with worse pregnancy outcomes compared to all other antiepileptic drugs. We have previously shown that VPA alters the expression of placental transporters for hormones and nutrients in vitro and in pregnant mice. Here, our aim was to characterize the effects of short exposure to VPA on the expression of carriers for compounds essential for fetal development in human placentas ex vivo, under controlled conditions. METHODS Placentas were obtained from cesarean deliveries of women with no known epilepsy. Cotyledons were cannulated and perfused in the absence or the presence of VPA (42, 83, or 166 μg/mL; n = 6/group) in the maternal perfusate over 180 minutes. A customized gene panel array was used to analyze the expression of carrier genes in the perfused cotyledons. We additionally measured in the perfused placentas folic acid concentrations and histone acetylation. RESULTS VPA significantly altered the mRNA levels of major carriers for folic acid, glucose, choline, thyroid hormones, and serotonin (P < .05) and reduced placental folate concentrations by 25%-35% (P = .059). The effects were observed at therapeutic concentrations sufficient to enhance placental histone acetylation, and some were concentration-dependent. SIGNIFICANCE Our results point to the placenta as a novel target of VPA, implying potential involvement of the placenta in VPA's adverse fetal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Rubinchik-Stern
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Miriam Shmuel
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jacob Bar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Kovo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Ellegood J, Yee Y, Kerr TM, Muller CL, Blakely RD, Henkelman RM, Veenstra-VanderWeele J, Lerch JP. Analysis of neuroanatomical differences in mice with genetically modified serotonin transporters assessed by structural magnetic resonance imaging. Mol Autism 2018; 9:24. [PMID: 29651330 PMCID: PMC5894125 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-018-0210-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The serotonin (5-HT) system has long been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as indicated by elevated whole blood and platelet 5-HT, altered platelet and brain receptor and transporter binding, and genetic linkage and association findings. Based upon work in genetically modified mice, 5-HT is known to influence several aspects of brain development, but systematic neuroimaging studies have not previously been reported. In particular, the 5-HT transporter (serotonin transporter, SERT; 5-HTT) gene, Slc6a4, has been extensively studied. Methods Using a 7-T MRI and deformation-based morphometry, we assessed neuroanatomical differences in an Slc6a4 knockout mouse on a C57BL/6 genetic background, along with an Slc6a4 Ala56 knockin mouse on two different genetic backgrounds (129S and C57BL/6). Results Individually (same sex, same background, same genotype), the only differences found were in the female Slc6a4 knockout mouse; all the others had no significant differences. However, an analysis of variance across the whole study sample revealed a significant effect of Slc6a4 on the amygdala, thalamus, dorsal raphe nucleus, and lateral and frontal cortices. Conclusions This work shows that an increase or decrease in SERT function has a significant effect on the neuroanatomy in 5-HT relevant regions, particularly the raphe nuclei. Notably, the Slc6a4 Ala56 knockin alone appears to have an insignificant, but suggestive, effect compared to the KO, which is consistent with Slc6a4 function. Despite the small number of 5-HT neurons and their localization to the brainstem, it is clear that 5-HT plays an important role in neuroanatomical organization. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13229-018-0210-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Ellegood
- 1Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, 25 Orde Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7 Canada
| | - Yohan Yee
- 1Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, 25 Orde Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7 Canada.,4Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S Canada
| | - Travis M Kerr
- 3Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235 USA
| | | | - Randy D Blakely
- 2Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235 USA.,3Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235 USA.,5Department of Biomedical Science and Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL 33431 USA
| | - R Mark Henkelman
- 1Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, 25 Orde Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7 Canada.,4Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S Canada
| | - Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele
- 2Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235 USA.,6Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027 USA
| | - Jason P Lerch
- 1Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, 25 Orde Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7 Canada.,4Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S Canada
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Kliman HJ, Quaratella SB, Setaro AC, Siegman EC, Subha ZT, Tal R, Milano KM, Steck TL. Pathway of Maternal Serotonin to the Human Embryo and Fetus. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1609-1629. [PMID: 29381782 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-03025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] is essential to intrauterine development, but its source is debated. We used immunocytochemistry to gauge 5-HT, its biosynthetic enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1); an importer (serotonin transporter, 5-HTT/SERT/SLC6A); other transporters [P-glycoprotein 1 (P-gp/ABCB1), OCT3/SLC22A3, and gap junction connexin-43]; and the 5-HT degradative enzyme monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) in sections of placentas. In humans, 5-HT was faintly stained only in first-trimester trophoblasts, whereas TPH1 was not seen at any stage. SERT was expressed in syncytiotrophoblasts and, more strongly, in cytotrophoblasts. MAOA was prominent in syncytiotrophoblasts, OCT3 and gap junctions were stained in cytotrophoblasts, and P-gp was present at the apical surfaces of both epithelia. 5-HT added to cultured placental explants accumulated in the trophoblast epithelium and reached the villus core vessels. Trophoblast uptake was blocked by the SERT inhibitor escitalopram. Inhibition of gap junctions with heptanol prevented the accumulation of 5-HT in cytotrophoblasts, whereas blocking OCT3 with decynium-22 and P-gp with mitotane led to its accumulation in cytotrophoblasts. Reducing 5-HT destruction by inhibiting MAOA with clorgyline increased the accumulation of 5-HT throughout the villus. In the mouse fetus, intravascular platelets stained prominently for 5-HT at day 13.5, whereas the placenta and yolk sac endoderm were both negative. TPH1 was not detected, but SERT was prominent in these mouse tissues. We conclude that serotonin is conveyed from the maternal blood stream through syncytiotrophoblasts, cytotrophoblasts and the villus core to the fetus through a physiological pathway that involves at least SERT, gap junctions, P-gp, OCT3, and MAOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey J Kliman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | | | | | | | - Reshef Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Milano
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Theodore L Steck
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Comasco E, Rangmar J, Eriksson UJ, Oreland L. Neurological and neuropsychological effects of low and moderate prenatal alcohol exposure. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2018; 222. [PMID: 28470828 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Several explanations for the diverse results in research on foetal alcohol spectrum disorders or alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder might be at hand: timing, amount and patterns of alcohol exposure, as well as complex epigenetic responses. The genetic background of the offspring and its interaction with other prenatal and post-natal environmental cues are likely also of importance. In the present report, key findings about the possible effects of low and moderate doses of maternal alcohol intake on the neuropsychological development of the offspring are reviewed and plausible mechanisms discussed. Special focus is put on the serotonergic system within developmental and gene-environment frameworks. The review also suggests guidelines for future studies and also summarizes some of to-be-answered questions of relevance to clinical practice. Contradictory findings and paucity of studies on the effects of exposure to low alcohol levels during foetal life for the offspring's neuropsychological development call for large prospective studies, as well as for studies including neuroimaging and multi-omics analyses to dissect the neurobiological underpinnings of alcohol exposure-related phenotypes and to identify biomarkers. Finally, it remains to be investigated whether any safe threshold of alcohol drinking during pregnancy can be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience; Uppsala University; Uppsala Sweden
| | - J. Rangmar
- Department of Psychology; University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
| | - U. J. Eriksson
- Department of Medical Cell Biology; Uppsala University; Uppsala Sweden
| | - L. Oreland
- Department of Neuroscience; Uppsala University; Uppsala Sweden
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Sjaarda CP, Hecht P, McNaughton AJM, Zhou A, Hudson ML, Will MJ, Smith G, Ayub M, Liang P, Chen N, Beversdorf D, Liu X. Interplay between maternal Slc6a4 mutation and prenatal stress: a possible mechanism for autistic behavior development. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8735. [PMID: 28821725 PMCID: PMC5562880 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07405-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The low activity allele of the maternal polymorphism, 5HTTLPR, in the serotonin transporter, SLC6A4, coupled with prenatal stress is reported to increase the risk for children to develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Similarly, maternal Slc6a4 knock-out and prenatal stress in rodents results in offspring demonstrating ASD-like characteristics. The present study uses an integrative genomics approach to explore mechanistic changes in early brain development in mouse embryos exposed to this maternal gene-environment phenomenon. Restraint stress was applied to pregnant Slc6a4 +/+ and Slc6a4 +/- mice and post-stress embryonic brains were assessed for whole genome level profiling of methylome, transcriptome and miRNA using Next Generation Sequencing. Embryos of stressed Slc6a4 +/+ dams exhibited significantly altered methylation profiles and differential expression of 157 miRNAs and 1009 genes affecting neuron development and cellular adhesion pathways, which may function as a coping mechanism to prenatal stress. In striking contrast, the response of embryos of stressed Slc6a4 +/- dams was found to be attenuated, shown by significantly reduced numbers of differentially expressed genes (458) and miRNA (0) and genome hypermethylation. This attenuated response may pose increased risks on typical brain development resulting in development of ASD-like characteristics in offspring of mothers with deficits in serotonin related pathways during stressful pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvin P Sjaarda
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Queen's Genomics Lab at Ongwanada (QGLO), Ongwanada Resource Center, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrick Hecht
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Amy J M McNaughton
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Queen's Genomics Lab at Ongwanada (QGLO), Ongwanada Resource Center, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Audrina Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Queen's Genomics Lab at Ongwanada (QGLO), Ongwanada Resource Center, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa L Hudson
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Queen's Genomics Lab at Ongwanada (QGLO), Ongwanada Resource Center, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matt J Will
- Psychological Sciences and Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Garth Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Child Development Centre, Hotel Dieu Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Muhammad Ayub
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ping Liang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nansheng Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David Beversdorf
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Departments of Radiology, Neurology, and Psychological Sciences, and the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, and William and Nancy Thompson Endowed Chair in Radiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Xudong Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada. .,Queen's Genomics Lab at Ongwanada (QGLO), Ongwanada Resource Center, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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45
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The Role of Malnutrition during Pregnancy and Its Effects on Brain and Skeletal Muscle Postnatal Development. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/jfmk2030030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
“Foetal programming” refers to nutritional and hormonal variations during pregnancy. A maternal proper diet has a fundamental role in decreasing pregnancy complications and to prevent possible diseases in postnatal life. In our narrative review, we analyze and discuss the role of malnutrition during pregnancy and its effects on pre- and postnatal development of embryos. Our review proposes a comprehensive and careful analysis of the studies in this field regarding malnutrition and foetal programming. Evidence shows that nutrient imbalance before implantation may result in somatic hypoevolutism at birth, and endocrine and metabolic dysfunctions in postnatal life. In addition, the maternal malnutrition could exert a suppressive effect on the maternal and foetal immune response. It could also affect both the proliferation of myogenic precursors reducing the number of muscle fibres and the future reproductive maturation with possible consequent impaired fertility and quality of gametes. In conclusion, it is necessary to develop dietary strategies to optimize nutrition, not only during pregnancy but already when it is programmed, in order to improve the outcomes of pregnancy, promote growth, healthy child development, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and slow down the metabolic decline associated with aging.
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Ait Bali Y, Ba-Mhamed S, Bennis M. Behavioral and Immunohistochemical Study of the Effects of Subchronic and Chronic Exposure to Glyphosate in Mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2017; 11:146. [PMID: 28848410 PMCID: PMC5550406 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many epidemiological studies have described an adolescent-related psychiatric illness and sensorimotor deficits after Glyphosate based herbicide (GBH) exposure. GBH exposure in animal models of various ages suggests that it may be neurotoxic and could impact brain development and subsequently, behavior in adulthood. However, its neurotoxic effects on adolescent brain remain unclear and the results are limited. The present study was conducted to evaluate the neurobehavioral effects of GBH following acute, subchronic (6 weeks) and chronic (12 weeks) exposure (250 or 500 mg/kg/day) in mice treated from juvenile age until adulthood. Mice were subjected to behavioral testing with the open field (OF), the elevated plus maze, the tail suspension and Splash tests (STs). Their behaviors related to exploratory activity, anxiety and depression-like were recorded. After completion of the behavioral testing, adult mice were sacrificed and the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and serotonin (5-HT) in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN), the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and the ventral medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) was evaluated using immunohistochemical procedure. Our results indicate that unlike acute exposure, both subchronic and chronic exposure to GBH induced a decrease in body weight gain and locomotor activity, and an increase of anxiety and depression-like behavior levels. In addition, the immunohistochemical findings showed that only the chronic treatment induced a reduction of TH-immunoreactivity. However, both subchronic and chronic exposure produced a reduction of 5-HT-immunoreactivity in the DRN, BLA and ventral mPFC. Taken together, our data suggest that exposure to GBH from juvenile age through adulthood in mice leads to neurobehavioral changes that stem from the impairment of neuronal developmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassine Ait Bali
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Neurobiology and Behavior (URAC-37), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad UniversityMarrakech, Morocco
| | - Saadia Ba-Mhamed
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Neurobiology and Behavior (URAC-37), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad UniversityMarrakech, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Bennis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Neurobiology and Behavior (URAC-37), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad UniversityMarrakech, Morocco
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47
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Won E, Han KM, Kang J, Kim A, Yoon HK, Chang HS, Park JY, Lee MS, Greenberg T, Tae WS, Ham BJ. Vesicular monoamine transporter 1 gene polymorphism and white matter integrity in major depressive disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 77:138-145. [PMID: 28408293 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The genetic variant of the vesicular monoamine transporter 1 gene (VMAT1) has been suggested to be associated with monoaminergic signaling and neural circuit activity related to emotion processing. We aimed to investigate microstructural changes in white matter tracts of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), and examined the interaction effect between VMAT1 Thr136Ile (rs1390938) polymorphism and MDD on white matter integrity. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and VMAT1 Thr136Ile (rs1390938) genotyping were performed on 103 patients diagnosed with MDD and 83 healthy control participants. DTI was used to investigate microstructural changes in white matter tracts in patients compared to healthy controls. The possible interaction effect between rs1390938 and MDD on white matter integrity was also assessed. Patients with MDD exhibited lower fractional anisotropy (FA) values of the forceps major (p<0.001), forceps minor (p=0.001), inferior longitudinal fasciculus (left: p=0.001; right: p<0.001), parietal endings of the superior longitudinal fasciculus (left: p<0.001; right: p=0.002), left temporal endings of the superior longitudinal fasciculus (p=0.001), and right uncinate fasciculus (p=0.001). Significant genotype-by-diagnosis interaction effects were observed on FA values of the right uncinate fasciculus (p=0.001), with A-allele carrier patients exhibiting lower FA values compared to G-allele homozygous patients (p=0.003). No significant differences in FA values were observed between genotype subgroups among healthy controls. Our results may contribute to the evidence indicating an association between the VMAT1 gene and structural brain alterations in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsoo Won
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Man Han
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - June Kang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Aram Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Kyoung Yoon
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun Soo Chang
- Department of Medical Bioscience, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Young Park
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Min-Soo Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tsafrir Greenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Woo-Suk Tae
- Brain Convergence Research Center, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung-Joo Ham
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Brain Convergence Research Center, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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48
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Sprowles JL, Hufgard JR, Gutierrez A, Bailey RA, Jablonski SA, Williams MT, Vorhees CV. Differential effects of perinatal exposure to antidepressants on learning and memory, acoustic startle, anxiety, and open‐field activity in Sprague‐Dawley rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2017; 61:92-111. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jenna L.N. Sprowles
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
| | - Jillian R. Hufgard
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
- University of Cincinnati, College of MedicineCincinnatiOH45229United States
| | - Arnold Gutierrez
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
- University of Cincinnati, College of MedicineCincinnatiOH45229United States
| | - Rebecca A. Bailey
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
- University of Cincinnati, College of MedicineCincinnatiOH45229United States
| | - Sarah A. Jablonski
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
| | - Michael T. Williams
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
- University of Cincinnati, College of MedicineCincinnatiOH45229United States
| | - Charles V. Vorhees
- Division of NeurologyCincinnati Children's Research FoundationCincinnatiOHUnited States
- University of Cincinnati, College of MedicineCincinnatiOH45229United States
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49
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Andalib S, Emamhadi MR, Yousefzadeh-Chabok S, Shakouri SK, Høilund-Carlsen PF, Vafaee MS, Michel TM. Maternal SSRI exposure increases the risk of autistic offspring: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Eur Psychiatry 2017; 45:161-166. [PMID: 28917161 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most common antidepressants used to preclude maternal pregnancy depression. There is a growing body of literature assessing the association of prenatal exposure to SSRIs with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The present systematic review and meta-analysis reviewed the medical literature and pooled the results of the association of prenatal exposure to SSRIs with ASD. METHODS Published investigations in English by June 2016 with keywords of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRI, autism spectrum disorder, ASD, pregnancy, childhood, children, neurodevelopment were identified using databases PubMed and PMC, MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar. Cochran's Q statistic-value (Q), degree of freedom (df), and I2 indices (variation in odds ratio [OR] attributable to heterogeneity) were calculated to analyze the risk of heterogeneity of the within- and between-study variability. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported by a Mantel-Haenszel test. RESULTS There was a non-significant heterogeneity for the included studies ([Q=3.61, df=6, P=0.730], I2=0%). The pooled results showed a significant association between prenatal SSRI exposure and ASD (OR=1.82, 95% CI=1.59-2.10, Z=8.49, P=0.00). CONCLUSION The evidence from the present study suggests that prenatal exposure to SSRIs is associated with a higher risk of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Andalib
- Neuroscience Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Poursina Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
| | - M R Emamhadi
- Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - S Yousefzadeh-Chabok
- Neuroscience Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Poursina Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - S K Shakouri
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - P F Høilund-Carlsen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - M S Vafaee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatry Region of Southern, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Center for Applied Neuroscience, BRIDGE, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Neurosciences Research Center, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - T M Michel
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatry Region of Southern, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Center for Applied Neuroscience, BRIDGE, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Neurosciences Research Center, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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50
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Tang X, Li J, Jiang T, Han SH, Yao DY. Experimental occlusal disharmony - A promoting factor for anxiety in rats under chronic psychological stress. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 75:165-175. [PMID: 28185964 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Clinically, patients under chronic psychological stress (PS) appear to be more susceptible to occlusal disharmony (OD) compared with those without PS. OD was proved to introduce anxiety-like stress. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to investigate whether OD would affect psychological stress-induced anxiety and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS Chronic PS was induced by a communication box, and OD was produced by bonding a 0.3mm-thick crown on the right maxillary first molar of male Sprague-Dawley rats. Sixty-seven rats were randomly divided into 8 groups: (A) chronic PS plus OD group (n=6); (B) chronic PS plus sham OD group (n=6); (C) chronic PS only group (n=6); (D) OD group (n=6); (E) sham OD group (n=6); (F) control group (n=6); (G) naive group (n=6); (H) foot-shock group (n=25). Open-field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze test (EPM) were conducted on the 7th, 21th, 35th day to measure the anxiety level of each group except naive and foot-shock group. In addition, corticosterone (CORT) level in serum, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) expressions in prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampal CA1 and dentate gyrus (DG) areas were measured on the 35th day to elucidate the mechanism(s) by which the exacerbation occurred. RESULTS The significant differences in OFT and EPM tests on day 21 or day 35 between groups (p<0.01) indicated the successful establishment of animal model of PS or OD. And there was a significant increase in CORT concentration in serum (p<0.01), 5-HT expressions in PFC, hippocampal DG areas and 5-HT2AR expressions in PFC, hippocampal CA1 areas (p<0.05) in group A, B, C, D compared with group F. Similar results were also found in group A, B, C, D when compared with group G (p<0.05) except 5-HT expression in DG area in group C and D (p>0.05), together with a gradual decrease in values of all the parameters mentioned above from group A to group G. CONCLUSION The significant changes in exploratory behaviors, serum CORT concentration, 5-HT and 5-HT2AR expressions induced by OD in rats with or without chronic PS, and more obvious alterations in rats with chronic PS, may indicate that OD may be a promoting factor for anxiety through both peripheral and central pathways via the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and 5-HT system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Tang
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ting Jiang
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shu-Hui Han
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong-Yuan Yao
- Jiangxi Mental Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
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