1
|
Vassoler FM, Budge KE, Isgate SB, Gildawie KR, Byrnes EM. Neuroplasticity-related genes correlate with individual differences in distinct phases of oxycodone self-administration in male rats. Neuropharmacology 2024; 254:109972. [PMID: 38710443 PMCID: PMC11164234 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic condition associated with long-lasting molecular and behavioral changes. Animals with prolonged access to opioids develop behaviors similar to human OUD. Identifying associated molecular changes can provide insight to underpinnings that lead to or maintain OUD. In pilot studies, we identified several miRNA targets that are altered by the administration of oxycodone. We selected mir182 for follow up as it was recently shown to be dysregulated in plasma of men administered oxycodone. In addition, mir182 is increased in reward-related brain regions of male rats following exposure to various addictive substances. The present study utilizes a long-access oxycodone self-administration paradigm to examine changes in mir182 and its mRNA targets associated with neuroplasticity, which may be involved in the maintenance of OUD-like phenotype in rats. Male rats were trained to self-administer oxycodone (0.1 mg/kg/infusion, i. v.) for 6 h daily sessions for 12 days. Each animal had a yoked saline control that received matched saline infusions. Animals were then tested on a progressive ratio schedule to measure motivation to obtain a single infusion of oxycodone. Drug seeking was measured following 28 days of forced abstinence using a 90-min cued/test. RTqPCR was utilized to measure mir182 and mRNA targets related to neuroplasticity (wnt3, plppr4, pou3f3, tle4, cacna2d, and bdnf) from the nucleus accumbens. Data revealed that animals responded on a continuum for oxycodone. When divided into two groups termed high- and low responders, animals diverged during self-administration acquisition and maintained differences in behavior and gene expression throughout the study. mir182 was upregulated in the nucleus accumbens of both high and low responders and negatively correlated with tle4, which showed a strong negative correlation with reinstatement behavior. mRNA target levels were correlated with behaviors associated with increased severity of OUD behavior in male rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA.
| | - Kerri E Budge
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - Sara B Isgate
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - Kelsea R Gildawie
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Green R, Kirkland AE, Browning BD, Ferguson PL, Gray KM, Squeglia LM. Effect of N-acetylcysteine on neural alcohol cue reactivity and craving in adolescents who drink heavily: A preliminary randomized clinical trial. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024. [PMID: 38960894 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol craving is related to problematic alcohol use; therefore, pharmacotherapies that modulate alcohol craving are of interest. N-acetylcysteine, an over-the-counter antioxidant, is a candidate pharmacotherapy for adolescent alcohol use with the potential to impact craving. Cue-reactivity paradigms using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can identify neural regions implicated in craving and serve as a screening tool for novel pharmacotherapy options. METHODS This preliminary study examined the effect of N-acetylcysteine on neural reactivity to alcohol cues and subjective craving among 31 non-treatment-seeking adolescents (17.6-19.9 years old, 55% female) who use alcohol heavily. In a randomized cross-over design, participants completed three fMRI sessions: baseline and after a 10-day course of N-acetylcysteine (1200 mg twice daily) and matched placebo. The primary outcome was neural response to alcohol versus non-alcohol beverage cues after N-acetylcysteine versus placebo, with a secondary outcome of self-reported subjective craving. RESULTS In the full sample (n = 31), there was no effect of N-acetylcysteine versus placebo on neural alcohol reactivity (ps ≥ 0.49;η p 2 $$ {\upeta_{\mathrm{p}}}^2 $$ s = 0.00-0.07) or self-reported acute alcohol craving (p = 0.18,η p 2 $$ {\upeta_{\mathrm{p}}}^2 $$ = 0.06). However, N-acetylcysteine did reduce self-reported generalized alcohol craving (p = 0.03,η p 2 $$ {\upeta_{\mathrm{p}}}^2 $$ = 0.15). In a subsample of youth who met criteria for past-year alcohol use disorder (n = 19), results remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS N-acetylcysteine may not alter neural reactivity to alcohol cues or acute craving; however, it may reduce general subjective alcohol craving among adolescents who consume alcohol heavily.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ReJoyce Green
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Anna E Kirkland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Brittney D Browning
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Pamela L Ferguson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kevin M Gray
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lindsay M Squeglia
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sardari M, Mohammadpourmir F, Hosseinzadeh Sahafi O, Rezayof A. Neuronal biomarkers as potential therapeutic targets for drug addiction related to sex differences in the brain: Opportunities for personalized treatment approaches. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 134:111068. [PMID: 38944334 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111068] [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: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Biological sex disparities manifest at various stages of drug addiction, including craving, substance abuse, abstinence, and relapse. These discrepancies are underpinned by notable distinctions in neurobiological substrates, encompassing brain structures, functions, and neurotransmitter systems implicated in drug addiction. Neuronal biomarkers, such as neurotransmitters, signaling proteins, and genes may be associated with the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment outcomes in both biological sexes afflicted by drug abuse. Sex differences in the neural reward system, mainly through dopaminergic transmission during drug abuse, can be attributed to modifications in neurotransmitter systems and signaling pathways. This results in distinct patterns of neural activation and responsiveness to addictive substances in males and females. Sex hormones, the estrus/menstrual cycle, and cerebral neurochemistry contribute to the progression of psychological and physiological dependence in both male and female individuals grappling with addiction. Moreover, the alteration of sex hormone balance and neurotransmitter release plays a pivotal role in substance use disorders, subsequently modulating cognitive functions pertinent to reward, including memory formation, decision-making, and locomotor activity. Comparative investigations reveal distinctions in brain region volume, gene expression, neuronal firing, and circuitry in substance use disorders affecting individuals of both biological sexes. This review examines prevalent substance use disorders to elucidate the impact of sex hormones as therapeutic biomarkers on the mesocorticolimbic neurotransmitter systems via diverse mechanisms within the addicted brain. We underscore the imperative necessity of considering these variations to gain a deeper comprehension of addiction mechanisms and potentially discern sex-specific neuronal biomarkers for tailored therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Sardari
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farina Mohammadpourmir
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Oveis Hosseinzadeh Sahafi
- Department of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Ameneh Rezayof
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shafique H, Demers JC, Biesiada J, Golani LK, Cerne R, Smith JL, Szostak M, Witkin JM. ( R)-(-)-Ketamine: The Promise of a Novel Treatment for Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6804. [PMID: 38928508 PMCID: PMC11203826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
NMDA receptor antagonists have potential for therapeutics in neurological and psychiatric diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse disorder (SUD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). (S)-ketamine was the first of a novel class of antidepressants, rapid-acting antidepressants, to be approved for medical use. The stereoisomer, (R)-ketamine (arketamine), is currently under development for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The compound has demonstrated efficacy in multiple animal models. Two clinical studies disclosed efficacy in TRD and bipolar depression. A study by the drug sponsor recently failed to reach a priori clinical endpoints but post hoc analysis revealed efficacy. The clinical value of (R)-ketamine is supported by experimental data in humans and rodents, showing that it is less sedating, does not produce marked psychotomimetic or dissociative effects, has less abuse potential than (S)-ketamine, and produces efficacy in animal models of a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders. The mechanisms of action of the antidepressant effects of (R)-ketamine are hypothesized to be due to NMDA receptor antagonism and/or non-NMDA receptor mechanisms. We suggest that further clinical experimentation with (R)-ketamine will create novel and improved medicines for some of the neurological and psychiatric disorders that are underserved by current medications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hana Shafique
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Julie C. Demers
- Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Julia Biesiada
- Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Lalit K. Golani
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Rok Cerne
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA; (R.C.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Jodi L. Smith
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA; (R.C.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Marta Szostak
- Department of Psychology, SWPS University, 03-815 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Jeffrey M. Witkin
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA; (R.C.); (J.L.S.)
- Departments of Neuroscience and Trauma Research, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Findley CA, McFadden S.A, Hill T, Peck MR, Quinn K, Hascup KN, Hascup ER. Sexual Dimorphism, Altered Hippocampal Glutamatergic Neurotransmission and Cognitive Impairment in APP Knock-In Mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.05.570100. [PMID: 38106074 PMCID: PMC10723272 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.05.570100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Background It is well established that glutamatergic neurotransmission plays an essential role in learning and memory. Previous studies indicate that glutamate dynamics shift with Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression, contributing to negative cognitive outcomes. Objective In this study, we characterized hippocampal glutamatergic signaling with age and disease progression in a knock-in mouse model of AD (APPNL-F/NL-F). Methods At 2-4 and 18+ months old, male and female APPNL/NL, APPNL-F/NL-F, and C57BL/6 mice underwent cognitive assessment using Morris water maze (MWM) and Novel Object Recognition (NOR). Then, basal and 70 mM KCl stimulus-evoked glutamate release was measured in the dentate gyrus (DG), CA3, and CA1 regions of the hippocampus using a glutamate-selective microelectrode in anesthetized mice. Results Glutamate recordings support elevated stimulus-evoked glutamate release in the DG and CA3 of young APPNL-F/NL-F male mice that declined with age compared to age-matched control mice. Young female APPNL-F/NL-F mice exhibited increased glutamate clearance in the CA1 that slowed with age compared to age-matched control mice. Male and female APPNL-F/NL-F mice exhibited decreased CA1 basal glutamate levels, while males also showed depletion in the CA3. Cognitive assessment demonstrated impaired spatial cognition in aged male and female APPNL-F/NL-F mice, but only aged females displayed recognition memory deficits compared to age-matched control mice. Conclusions: These findings confirm a sex-dependent hyper-to-hypoactivation glutamatergic paradigm in APPNL-F/NL-F mice. Further, data illustrate a sexually dimorphic biological aging process resulting in a more severe cognitive phenotype for female APPNL-F/NL-F mice than their male counterparts. Research outcomes mirror that of human AD pathology and provide further evidence of divergent AD pathogenesis between sexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caleigh A. Findley
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
- Pharmacology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Samuel .A. McFadden
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Tiarra. Hill
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Mackenzie R. Peck
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kathleen Quinn
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kevin N. Hascup
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
- Pharmacology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Erin R. Hascup
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
- Pharmacology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Moke BI, Shipman ML, Lui S, Corbit L. Ceftriaxone reverses diet-induced deficits in goal-directed control. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06621-w. [PMID: 38822850 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06621-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Obesity is associated with numerous health risks and ever-increasing rates are a significant global concern. However, despite weight loss attempts many people have difficulty maintaining weight loss. Previous studies in animals have shown that chronic access to an obesogenic diet can disrupt goal-directed behavior, impairing the ability of animals to flexibly adjust food-seeking behavior following changes in the value of earned outcomes. Changes in behavioral control have been linked to disruption of glutamate transmission in the dorsal medial striatum (DMS), a region critical for the acquisition and expression of goal-directed behavior. OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to test whether ceftriaxone, a beta-lactam antibiotic shown elsewhere to upregulate the expression of the glutamate transporter GLT-1, would improve goal-directed control following long-term exposure to an obesogenic diet. METHODS Male and female rats were given access to either standard chow or chow plus sweetened condensed milk (SCM) for 6 weeks. Access to SCM was ended and rats received daily injections of either ceftriaxone or saline for 6 days. Rats were then trained to press a lever to earn a novel food reward and, finally, were assessed for sensitivity to outcome devaluation. Histological analyses examined changes to GLT-1 protein levels and morphological changes to astrocytes, within the DMS. RESULTS We found that ceftriaxone robustly restored goal-directed behavior in animals following long-term exposure to SCM. While we did not observe changes in protein levels of GLT-1 in the DMS, we observed that SCM induced changes in the morphology of astrocytes in the DMS, and that ceftriaxone mitigated these changes. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that long-term access to a SCM diet impairs goal-directed behavior while also altering the morphology of astrocytes in the DMS. Furthermore, these results suggest that ceftriaxone administration can reverse the impairment of goal-directed behavior potentially through its actions on astrocytes in decision-making circuitry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin-Israel Moke
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, The University of Toronto, 25 Harbord Street, ON, M5S 3G5, Toronto, Canada
| | - Megan L Shipman
- Department of Psychology, The University of Toronto, 100 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
| | - Simon Lui
- Department of Psychology, The University of Toronto, 100 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
| | - Laura Corbit
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, The University of Toronto, 25 Harbord Street, ON, M5S 3G5, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Psychology, The University of Toronto, 100 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Peeters LD, Wills LJ, Cuozzo AM, Ivanich KL, Turney SE, Bullock LP, Price RM, Gass JT, Brown RW. Modulation of mGlu5 reduces rewarding associative properties of nicotine via changes in mesolimbic plasticity: Relevance to comorbid cigarette smoking in psychosis. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 239:173752. [PMID: 38521210 PMCID: PMC11088493 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Antipsychotic medications that are used to treat psychosis are often limited in their efficacy by high rates of severe side effects. Treatment success in schizophrenia is further complicated by high rates of comorbid nicotine use. Dopamine D2 heteroreceptor complexes have recently emerged as targets for the development of more efficacious pharmaceutical treatments for schizophrenia. OBJECTIVE The current study sought to explore the use of the positive allosteric modulator of the mGlu5 receptor 3-Cyano-N-(1,3-diphenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzamide (CDPPB) as a treatment to reduce symptoms related to psychosis and comorbid nicotine use. METHODS Neonatal treatment of animals with the dopamine D2-like receptor agonist quinpirole (NQ) from postnatal day (P)1-21 produces a lifelong increase in D2 receptor sensitivity, showing relevance to psychosis and comorbid tobacco use disorder. Following an 8-day conditioning paradigm, brain tissue in the mesolimbic pathway was analyzed for several plasticity markers, including brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), phosphorylated p70 ribosomal S6 kinase (phospho-p70S6K), and cadherin-13 (Cdh13). RESULTS Pretreatment with CDPPB was effective to block enhanced nicotine conditioned place preference observed in NQ-treated animals. Pretreatment was additionally effective to block the nicotine-induced increase in BDNF and sex-dependent increases in cadherin-13 in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), as well as increased phospho-p70S6K in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) shell found in NQ-treated animals. CONCLUSION In conjunction with prior work, the current study suggests positive allosteric modulation of the mGlu5 receptor, an emerging target for schizophrenia therapeutics, may be effective for the treatment of comorbid nicotine abuse in psychosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loren D Peeters
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Liza J Wills
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Anthony M Cuozzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Kira L Ivanich
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Seth E Turney
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Luke P Bullock
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Robert M Price
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Justin T Gass
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America
| | - Russell W Brown
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Klar J, Slotboom J, Lerch S, Koenig J, Wiest R, Kaess M, Kindler J. Higher striatal glutamate in male youth with internet gaming disorder. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024; 274:301-309. [PMID: 37505291 PMCID: PMC10914841 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-023-01651-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Internet gaming disorder (IGD) was included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a research diagnosis, but little is known about its pathophysiology. Alterations in frontostriatal circuits appear to play a critical role in the development of addiction. Glutamate is considered an essential excitatory neurotransmitter in addictive disorders. This study's aim was to investigate striatal glutamate in youth with IGD compared to healthy controls (HC). Using a cross-sectional design, 25 adolescent male subjects fulfilling DSM-5 criteria for IGD and 26 HC, matched in age, education, handedness and smoking, were included in the analysis. A structural MPRAGE T1 sequence followed by a single-voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy MEGA-PRESS sequence (TR = 1500 ms, TE = 68 ms, 208 averages) with a voxel size of 20 mm3 were recorded on 3 T Siemens Magnetom Prisma scanner. The voxel was placed in the left striatum. Group comparison of the relative glutamate and glutamine (Glx) was calculated using regression analysis. IGD subjects met an average of 6.5 of 9 DSM-5 IGD criteria and reported an average of 29 h of weekly gaming. Regression analysis showed a significant group effect for Glx, with higher Glx levels in IGD as compared to HC (coef. = .086, t (50) = 2.17, p = .035). Our study is the first to show higher levels of Glx in the striatum in youth with IGD. The elevation of Glx in the striatum may indicate hyperactivation of the reward system in IGD. Thus, results confirm that neurochemical alterations can be identified in early stages of behavioral addictions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Klar
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Slotboom
- Support Center for Advanced Neuroimaging (SCAN), Neuroradiology, University Hospital of Bern, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Lerch
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Julian Koenig
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roland Wiest
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Hospital of Bern, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael Kaess
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jochen Kindler
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Weiner SP, Vasquez C, Song S, Zhao K, Ali O, Rosenkilde D, Froemke RC, Carr KD. Sex difference in the effect of environmental enrichment on food restriction-induced persistence of cocaine conditioned place preference and mechanistic underpinnings. ADDICTION NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 10:100142. [PMID: 38323217 PMCID: PMC10843874 DOI: 10.1016/j.addicn.2024.100142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Psychosocial and environmental factors, including loss of natural reward, contribute to the risk of drug abuse. Reward loss has been modeled in animals by removal from social or sexual contact, transfer from enriched to impoverished housing, or restriction of food. We previously showed that food restriction increases the unconditioned rewarding effects of abused drugs and the conditioned incentive effects of drug-paired environments. Mechanistic studies provided evidence of decreased basal dopamine (DA) transmission, adaptive upregulation of signaling downstream of D1 DA receptor stimulation, synaptic upscaling and incorporation of calcium-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) in medium spiny neurons (MSNs) of nucleus accumbens (NAc). These findings align with the still evolving 'reward deficiency' hypothesis of drug abuse. The present study tested whether a compound natural reward that is known to increase DA utilization, environmental enrichment, would prevent the persistent expression of cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP) otherwise observed in food restricted rats, along with the mechanistic underpinnings. Because nearly all prior investigations of both food restriction and environmental enrichment effects on cocaine CPP were conducted in male rodents, both sexes were included in the present study. Results indicate that environmental enrichment curtailed the persistence of CPP expression, decreased signaling downstream of the D1R, and decreased the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in NAc MSNs of food restricted male, but not female, rats. The failure of environmental enrichment to significantly decrease food restriction-induced synaptic insertion of CP-AMPARs, and how this may accord with previous pharmacological findings that blockade of CP-AMPARs reverses behavioral effects of food restriction is discussed. In addition, it is speculated that estrous cycle-dependent fluctuations in DA release, receptor density and MSN excitability may obscure the effect of increased DA signaling during environmental enrichment, thereby interfering with development of the cellular and behavioral effects that enrichment produced in males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney P. Weiner
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Carolina Vasquez
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
- Diabetes Research Program, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Soomin Song
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Kaiyang Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Omar Ali
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Danielle Rosenkilde
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Robert C. Froemke
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
- Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Kenneth D. Carr
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
- Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 435 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lynch MA. A case for seeking sex-specific treatments in Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1346621. [PMID: 38414633 PMCID: PMC10897030 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1346621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
There is no satisfactory explanation for the sex-related differences in the incidence of many diseases and this is also true of Alzheimer's disease (AD), where females have a higher lifetime risk of developing the disease and make up about two thirds of the AD patient population. The importance of understanding the cause(s) that account for this disproportionate distribution cannot be overestimated, and is likely to be a significant factor in the search for therapeutic strategies that will combat the disease and, furthermore, potentially point to a sex-targeted approach to treatment. This review considers the literature in the context of what is known about the impact of sex on processes targeted by drugs that are in clinical trial for AD, and existing knowledge on differing responses of males and females to these drugs. Current knowledge strongly supports the view that trials should make assessing sex-related difference in responses a priority with a focus on exploring the sex-stratified treatments.
Collapse
|
11
|
Proaño SB, Miller CK, Krentzel AA, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Sex steroid hormones, the estrous cycle, and rapid modulation of glutamatergic synapse properties in the striatal brain regions with a focus on 17β-estradiol and the nucleus accumbens. Steroids 2024; 201:109344. [PMID: 37979822 PMCID: PMC10842710 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The striatal brain regions encompassing the nucleus accumbens core (NAcc), shell (NAcs) and caudate-putamen (CPu) regulate cognitive functions including motivated behaviors, habit, learning, and sensorimotor action, among others. Sex steroid hormone sensitivity and sex differences have been documented in all of these functions in both normative and pathological contexts, including anxiety, depression and addiction. The neurotransmitter glutamate has been implicated in regulating these behaviors as well as striatal physiology, and there are likewise documented sex differences in glutamate action upon the striatal output neurons, the medium spiny neurons (MSNs). Here we review the available data regarding the role of steroid sex hormones such as 17β-estradiol (estradiol), progesterone, and testosterone in rapidly modulating MSN glutamatergic synapse properties, presented in the context of the estrous cycle as appropriate. Estradiol action upon glutamatergic synapse properties in female NAcc MSNs is most comprehensively discussed. In the female NAcc, MSNs exhibit development period-specific sex differences and estrous cycle variations in glutamatergic synapse properties as shown by multiple analyses, including that of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs). Estrous cycle-differences in NAcc MSN mEPSCs can be mimicked by acute exposure to estradiol or an ERα agonist. The available evidence, or lack thereof, is also discussed concerning estrogen action upon MSN glutamatergic synapse in the other striatal regions as well as the underexplored roles of progesterone and testosterone. We conclude that there is strong evidence regarding estradiol action upon glutamatergic synapse function in female NAcs MSNs and call for more research regarding other hormones and striatal regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie B Proaño
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Christiana K Miller
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Amanda A Krentzel
- Office of Research and Innovation, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - David M Dorris
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Siddiqi MT, Podder D, Pahng AR, Athanason AC, Nadav T, Cates-Gatto C, Kreifeldt M, Contet C, Roberts AJ, Edwards S, Roberto M, Varodayan FP. Prefrontal cortex glutamatergic adaptations in a mouse model of alcohol use disorder. ADDICTION NEUROSCIENCE 2023; 9:100137. [PMID: 38152067 PMCID: PMC10752437 DOI: 10.1016/j.addicn.2023.100137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) produces cognitive deficits, indicating a shift in prefrontal cortex (PFC) function. PFC glutamate neurotransmission is mostly mediated by α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid-type ionotropic receptors (AMPARs); however preclinical studies have mostly focused on other receptor subtypes. Here we examined the impact of early withdrawal from chronic ethanol on AMPAR function in the mouse medial PFC (mPFC). Dependent male C57BL/6J mice were generated using the chronic intermittent ethanol vapor-two bottle choice (CIE-2BC) paradigm. Non-dependent mice had access to water and ethanol bottles but did not receive ethanol vapor. Naïve mice had no ethanol exposure. We used patch-clamp electrophysiology to measure glutamate neurotransmission in layer 2/3 prelimbic mPFC pyramidal neurons. Since AMPAR function can be impacted by subunit composition or plasticity-related proteins, we probed their mPFC expression levels. Dependent mice had higher spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current (sEPSC) amplitude and kinetics compared to the Naïve/Non-dependent mice. These effects were seen during intoxication and after 3-8 days withdrawal, and were action potential-independent, suggesting direct enhancement of AMPAR function. Surprisingly, 3 days withdrawal decreased expression of genes encoding AMPAR subunits (Gria1/2) and synaptic plasticity proteins (Dlg4 and Grip1) in Dependent mice. Further analysis within the Dependent group revealed a negative correlation between Gria1 mRNA levels and ethanol intake. Collectively, these data establish a role for mPFC AMPAR adaptations in the glutamatergic dysfunction associated with ethanol dependence. Future studies on the underlying AMPAR plasticity mechanisms that promote alcohol reinforcement, seeking, drinking and relapse behavior may help identify new targets for AUD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahum T. Siddiqi
- Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-SUNY, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
| | - Dhruba Podder
- Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-SUNY, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
| | - Amanda R. Pahng
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 533 Bolivar Street, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, 2400 Canal Street, 11F, New Orleans, LA, 70119, USA
| | - Alexandria C. Athanason
- Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-SUNY, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
| | - Tali Nadav
- Animal Models Core Facility, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Chelsea Cates-Gatto
- Animal Models Core Facility, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Max Kreifeldt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Candice Contet
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Amanda J. Roberts
- Animal Models Core Facility, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 533 Bolivar Street, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Florence P. Varodayan
- Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-SUNY, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Boyko M, Gruenbaum BF, Oleshko A, Merzlikin I, Zlotnik A. Diet's Impact on Post-Traumatic Brain Injury Depression: Exploring Neurodegeneration, Chronic Blood-Brain Barrier Destruction, and Glutamate Neurotoxicity Mechanisms. Nutrients 2023; 15:4681. [PMID: 37960334 PMCID: PMC10649677 DOI: 10.3390/nu15214681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a profound impact on cognitive and mental functioning, leading to lifelong impairment and significantly diminishing the quality of life for affected individuals. A healthy blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a crucial role in guarding the brain against elevated levels of blood glutamate, making its permeability a vital aspect of glutamate regulation within the brain. Studies have shown the efficacy of reducing excess glutamate in the brain as a treatment for post-TBI depression, anxiety, and aggression. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the involvement of dietary glutamate in the development of depression after TBI. We performed a literature search to examine the effects of diets abundant in glutamate, which are common in Asian populations, when compared to diets low in glutamate, which are prevalent in Europe and America. We specifically explored these effects in the context of chronic BBB damage after TBI, which may initiate neurodegeneration and subsequently have an impact on depression through the mechanism of chronic glutamate neurotoxicity. A glutamate-rich diet leads to increased blood glutamate levels when contrasted with a glutamate-poor diet. Within the context of chronic BBB disruption, elevated blood glutamate levels translate to heightened brain glutamate concentrations, thereby intensifying neurodegeneration due to glutamate neurotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Boyko
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84101, Israel
| | - Benjamin F Gruenbaum
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Anna Oleshko
- Department of Biology and Methods of Teaching Biology, A. S. Makarenko Sumy State Pedagogical University, Sumy 40002, Ukraine
| | - Igor Merzlikin
- Department of Biology and Methods of Teaching Biology, A. S. Makarenko Sumy State Pedagogical University, Sumy 40002, Ukraine
| | - Alexander Zlotnik
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84101, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen W, Zhang Y, Liang J, Zhang Z, Zhang L, Huang E, Zhang G, Lu L, Han Y, Shi J. Disrupting astrocyte-neuron lactate transport prevents cocaine seeking after prolonged withdrawal. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi4462. [PMID: 37878699 PMCID: PMC10599624 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi4462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Energy supply, especially the transfer of lactate from astrocytes to neurons, is critical for neuronal plasticity. However, its role in the incubation of cocaine craving remains largely unknown. Using an extended-access self-administration model and in vivo 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we found that lactate synthesis in the central amygdala (CeA) is required for the intensified cocaine craving after prolonged withdrawal. Furthermore, incubated cocaine seeking was associated with a selective increase in monocarboxylate transporter 2 (MCT2) and MCT4 expression levels. Down-regulation of astrocytic MCT4 or neuronal MCT2 using targeted antisense oligonucleotides or cell type-specific shRNA attenuated cocaine craving and reduced the expression of plasticity-related proteins and excitatory synaptic transmission. Meanwhile, lactate administration rescued MCT4 but not MCT2 disruption-induced behavioral changes due to the inability of lactate to be transported into neurons. Together, our study highlights the critical role of astrocyte-neuron lactate transport in the CeA in the incubation of cocaine craving and suggests a potential therapeutic target for drug addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Chen
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Liang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhongyu Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Libo Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Enze Huang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guipeng Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Lin Lu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ying Han
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- The Key Laboratory for Neuroscience of the Ministry of Education and Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kaushik S, Ahmad F, Choudhary S, Mathkor DM, Mishra BN, Singh V, Haque S. Critical appraisal and systematic review of genes linked with cocaine addiction, depression and anxiety. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105270. [PMID: 37271299 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent lifestyle changes have resulted in tremendous peer pressure and mental stress, and increased the incidences of chronic psychological disorders; like addiction, depression and anxiety (ADA). In this context, the stress-tolerance levels vary amongst individuals and genetic factors play prominent roles. Vulnerable individuals may often be drawn towards drug-addiction to combat stress. This systematic review critically appraises the relationship of various genetic factors linked with the incidences of ADA development. For coherence, we focused solely on cocaine as a substance of abuse in this study. Online scholarly databases were used to screen pertinent literature using apt keywords; and the final retrieval included 42 primary-research articles. The major conclusion drawn from this systematic analysis states that there are 51 genes linked with the development of ADA; and 3 (BDNF, PERIOD2 and SLC6A4) of them are common to all the three aspects of ADA. Further, inter-connectivity analyses of the 51 genes further endorsed the central presence of BDNF and SLC6A4 genes in the development of ADA disorders. The conclusions derived from this systematic study pave the way for future studies for the identification of diagnostic biomarkers and drug targets; and for the development of novel and effective therapeutic regimens against ADA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shradhha Kaushik
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow 226021, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
| | - Sunita Choudhary
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow 226021, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Darin Mansor Mathkor
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bhartendu Nath Mishra
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow 226021, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vineeta Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow 226021, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon; Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, the United Arab Emirates.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Deng L, Wu L, Gao R, Xu X, Chen C, Liu J. Non-Opioid Anesthetics Addiction: A Review of Current Situation and Mechanism. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1259. [PMID: 37759860 PMCID: PMC10526861 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13091259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug addiction is one of the major worldwide health problems, which will have serious adverse consequences on human health and significantly burden the social economy and public health. Drug abuse is more common in anesthesiologists than in the general population because of their easier access to controlled substances. Although opioids have been generally considered the most commonly abused drugs among anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists, the abuse of non-opioid anesthetics has been increasingly severe in recent years. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the clinical situation and potential molecular mechanisms of non-opioid anesthetics addiction. This review incorporates the clinical and biomolecular evidence supporting the abuse potential of non-opioid anesthetics and the foreseeable mechanism causing the non-opioid anesthetics addiction phenotypes, promoting a better understanding of its pathogenesis and helping to find effective preventive and curative strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liyun Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.D.); (L.W.); (R.G.); (X.X.); (J.L.)
- The Research Units of West China (2018RU012)-Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lining Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.D.); (L.W.); (R.G.); (X.X.); (J.L.)
- The Research Units of West China (2018RU012)-Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rui Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.D.); (L.W.); (R.G.); (X.X.); (J.L.)
- The Research Units of West China (2018RU012)-Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaolin Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.D.); (L.W.); (R.G.); (X.X.); (J.L.)
- The Research Units of West China (2018RU012)-Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chan Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.D.); (L.W.); (R.G.); (X.X.); (J.L.)
- The Research Units of West China (2018RU012)-Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.D.); (L.W.); (R.G.); (X.X.); (J.L.)
- The Research Units of West China (2018RU012)-Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Knouse MC, Deutschmann AU, Nenov MN, Wimmer ME, Briand LA. Sex differences in pre- and post-synaptic glutamate signaling in the nucleus accumbens core. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:52. [PMID: 37596655 PMCID: PMC10439632 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00537-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glutamate signaling within the nucleus accumbens underlies motivated behavior and is involved in psychiatric disease. Although behavioral sex differences in these processes are well-established, the neural mechanisms driving these differences are largely unexplored. In these studies, we examine potential sex differences in synaptic plasticity and excitatory transmission within the nucleus accumbens core. Further understanding of baseline sex differences in reward circuitry will shed light on potential mechanisms driving behavioral differences in motivated behavior and psychiatric disease. METHODS Behaviorally naïve adult male and female Long-Evans rats, C57Bl/6J mice, and constitutive PKMζ knockout mice were killed and tissue containing the nucleus accumbens core was collected for ex vivo slice electrophysiology experiments. Electrophysiology recordings examined baseline sex differences in synaptic plasticity and transmission within this region and the potential role of PKMζ in long-term depression. RESULTS Within the nucleus accumbens core, both female mice and rats exhibit higher AMPA/NMDA ratios compared to male animals. Further, female mice have a larger readily releasable pool of glutamate and lower release probability compared to male mice. No significant sex differences were detected in spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current amplitude or frequency. Finally, the threshold for induction of long-term depression was lower for male animals than females, an effect that appears to be mediated, in part, by PKMζ. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that there are baseline sex differences in synaptic plasticity and excitatory transmission in the nucleus accumbens core. Our data suggest there are sex differences at multiple levels in this region that should be considered in the development of pharmacotherapies to treat psychiatric illnesses such as depression and substance use disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa C Knouse
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Andre U Deutschmann
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Miroslav N Nenov
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Mathieu E Wimmer
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Lisa A Briand
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
- Neuroscience Program, Temple University, Weiss Hall, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Corbett CM, Miller EN, Wannen EE, Rood BD, Chandler DJ, Loweth JA. Cocaine Exposure Increases Excitatory Synaptic Transmission and Intrinsic Excitability in the Basolateral Amygdala in Male and Female Rats and across the Estrous Cycle. Neuroendocrinology 2023; 113:1127-1139. [PMID: 37271140 PMCID: PMC10623393 DOI: 10.1159/000531351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sex and ovarian hormones influence cocaine seeking and relapse vulnerability, but less is known regarding the cellular and synaptic mechanisms contributing to these behavioral sex differences. One factor thought to influence cue-induced seeking behavior following withdrawal is cocaine-induced changes in the spontaneous activity of pyramidal neurons in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). However, the mechanisms underlying these changes, including potential sex or estrous cycle effects, are unknown. METHODS Ex vivo whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology was conducted to investigate the effects of cocaine exposure, sex, and estrous cycle fluctuations on two properties that can influence spontaneous activity of BLA pyramidal neurons: (1) frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) and (2) intrinsic excitability. Recordings of BLA pyramidal neurons were conducted in adult male and female rats and across the estrous cycle following 2-4 weeks of withdrawal from extended-access cocaine self-administration (6 h/day for 10 days) or drug-naïve conditions. RESULTS In both sexes, cocaine exposure increased the frequency, but not amplitude, of sEPSCs and neuronal intrinsic excitability. Across the estrous cycle, sEPSC frequency and intrinsic excitability were significantly elevated only in cocaine-exposed females in the estrus stage of the cycle, a stage when cocaine-seeking behavior is known to be enhanced. CONCLUSIONS Here, we identify potential mechanisms underlying cocaine-induced alterations in the spontaneous activity of BLA pyramidal neurons in both sexes along with changes in these properties across the estrous cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire M. Corbett
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - Emily N.D. Miller
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - Erin E. Wannen
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - Benjamin D Rood
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - Daniel J. Chandler
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jessica A. Loweth
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Corbett CM, Miller EN, Loweth JA. mGlu5 inhibition in the basolateral amygdala prevents estrous cycle-dependent changes in cue-induced cocaine seeking. ADDICTION NEUROSCIENCE 2023; 5:100055. [PMID: 36778664 PMCID: PMC9915145 DOI: 10.1016/j.addicn.2022.100055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Drug associated cues are a common relapse trigger for individuals recovering from cocaine use disorder. Sex and ovarian hormones influence patterns of cocaine use and relapse vulnerability, with studies indicating that females show increased cue-induced craving and relapse vulnerability compared to males. In a rodent model of cocaine craving and relapse vulnerability, cue-induced cocaine seeking behavior following weeks of withdrawal from extended-access cocaine self-administration is higher in females in the estrus stage of the reproductive (estrous) cycle (Estrus Females) compared to both Males and females in all other stages (Non-Estrus Females). However, the neuronal substrates and cellular mechanisms underlying these sex differences is not fully understood. One region that contributes to both sex differences in behavioral responding and cue-induced cocaine seeking is the basolateral amygdala (BLA), while one receptor known to play a critical role in mediating cocaine seeking behavior is metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5). Here we assessed the effects of BLA mGlu5 inhibition following prolonged withdrawal from cocaine self-administration on observed estrous cycle-dependent changes in cue-induced cocaine seeking behavior. We found that BLA microinjections of the mGlu5 antagonist MTEP selectively reduced the enhanced cue-induced cocaine seeking normally observed in Estrus Females while having no effect on cocaine seeking in Males and Non-Estrus Females. These findings identify a unique interaction between cocaine-exposure, estrous cycle fluctuations and BLA mGlu5-dependent transmission on cue-induced cocaine seeking behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire M. Corbett
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, United States,Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, United States
| | - Emily N.D. Miller
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, United States
| | - Jessica A. Loweth
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, United States,Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, United States,Corresponding author at: Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ 08084, United States. (J.A. Loweth)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Griffin WC, Lopez MF, Woodward JJ, Becker HC. Alcohol dependence and the ventral hippocampal influence on alcohol drinking in male mice. Alcohol 2023; 106:44-54. [PMID: 36328184 PMCID: PMC9868110 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Examining neural circuits underlying persistent, heavy drinking provides insight into the neurobiological mechanisms driving alcohol use disorder. Facilitated by its connectivity with other parts of the brain such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc), the ventral hippocampus (vHC) supports many behaviors, including those related to reward seeking and addiction. These studies used a well-established mouse model of alcohol (ethanol) dependence. After surgery to infuse DREADD-expressing viruses (hM4Di, hM3Dq, or mCherry-only) into the vHC and position guide cannula above the NAc, male C57BL/6J mice were treated in the CIE drinking model that involved repeated cycles of chronic intermittent alcohol (CIE) vapor or air (CTL) exposure alternating with weekly test drinking cycles in which mice were offered alcohol (15% v/v) 2 h/day. Additionally, smaller groups of mice were evaluated for either cFos expression or glutamate release using microdialysis procedures. In CIE mice expressing inhibitory (hM4Di) DREADDs in the vHC, drinking increased as expected, but CNO (3 mg/kg intraperitoneally [i.p.]) given 30 min before testing did not alter alcohol intake. However, in CTL mice expressing hM4Di, CNO significantly increased alcohol drinking (∼30%; p < 0.05) to levels similar to the CIE mice. The vHC-NAc pathway was targeted by infusing CNO into the NAc (3 or 10 μM/side) 30 min before testing. CNO activation of the pathway in mice expressing excitatory (hM3Dq) DREADDs selectively reduced consumption in CIE mice back to CTL levels (∼35-45%; p < 0.05) without affecting CTL alcohol intake. Lastly, activating the vHC-NAc pathway increased cFos expression and evoked significant glutamate release from the vHC terminals in the NAc. These data indicate that reduced activity of the vHC increases alcohol consumption and that targeted, increased activity of the vHC-NAc pathway attenuates excessive drinking associated with alcohol dependence. Thus, these findings indicate that the vHC and its glutamatergic projections to the NAc are involved in excessive alcohol drinking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William C Griffin
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| | - Marcelo F Lopez
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - John J Woodward
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Howard C Becker
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29425-0742, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Johnson CS, Mermelstein PG. The interaction of membrane estradiol receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors in adaptive and maladaptive estradiol-mediated motivated behaviors in females. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 168:33-91. [PMID: 36868633 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptors were initially identified as intracellular, ligand-regulated transcription factors that result in genomic change upon ligand binding. However, rapid estrogen receptor signaling initiated outside of the nucleus was also known to occur via mechanisms that were less clear. Recent studies indicate that these traditional receptors, estrogen receptor α and estrogen receptor β, can also be trafficked to act at the surface membrane. Signaling cascades from these membrane-bound estrogen receptors (mERs) can rapidly alter cellular excitability and gene expression, particularly through the phosphorylation of CREB. A principal mechanism of neuronal mER action has been shown to occur through glutamate-independent transactivation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu), which elicits multiple signaling outcomes. The interaction of mERs with mGlu has been shown to be important in many diverse functions in females, including driving motivated behaviors. Experimental evidence suggests that a large part of estradiol-induced neuroplasticity and motivated behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, occurs through estradiol-dependent mER activation of mGlu. Herein we will review signaling through estrogen receptors, both "classical" nuclear receptors and membrane-bound receptors, as well as estradiol signaling through mGlu. We will focus on how the interactions of these receptors and their downstream signaling cascades are involved in driving motivated behaviors in females, discussing a representative adaptive motivated behavior (reproduction) and maladaptive motivated behavior (addiction).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Johnson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Giacometti LL, Buck LA, Barker JM. Estrous cycle and hormone regulation of stress-induced reinstatement of reward seeking in female mice. ADDICTION NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 4:100035. [PMID: 36540408 PMCID: PMC9762733 DOI: 10.1016/j.addicn.2022.100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Women are more vulnerable to stress-induced craving, which may be associated with increased vulnerability to relapse. Susceptibility to stress-induced craving also appears to be modulated by the menstrual cycle and is negatively correlated with circulating progesterone levels in women. However, the factors that contribute to relapse vulnerability are poorly characterized in female animals. In this study, we assessed whether chronic ethanol exposure, estrous cycle, or exogenous progesterone administration modulated vulnerability to stress-induced reinstatement. To model ethanol dependence, adult female C57Bl/6J mice underwent chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure via vapor inhalation. Seventy-two hours after the final ethanol exposure, food-restricted mice began training in a conditioned place preference paradigm (CPP) for a food reward, followed by extinction training. Mice were then subjected to forced swim stress and assessed for reinstatement of their preference for the reward-paired chamber. CIE did not affect stress-induced reinstatement. However, stress-induced reinstatement was attenuated during the diestrus phase, when endogenous levels of progesterone peak in female mice. Further, administration of exogenous progesterone mimicked the attenuated reinstatement observed in diestrus. These findings indicate that circulating hormone levels modulate susceptibility to relapse-like behaviors and implicate progesterone as a potential target for treating stress-induced relapse in women.
Collapse
|
23
|
Sketriene D, Battista D, Lalert L, Kraiwattanapirom N, Thai HN, Leeboonngam T, Knackstedt LA, Nithianantharajah J, Sumithran P, Lawrence AJ, Brown RM. Compulsive‐like eating of high‐fat high‐sugar food is associated with ‘addiction‐like’ glutamatergic dysfunction in obesity prone rats. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13206. [PMID: 36001420 PMCID: PMC9541933 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chronic overeating is a core feature of diet‐induced obesity. There is increasing evidence that in vulnerable individuals, such overeating could become compulsive, resembling an addictive disorder. The transition to compulsive substance use has been linked with changes at glutamatergic synapses in the nucleus accumbens. In this study, we investigated a potential link between such glutamatergic dysregulation and compulsive‐like eating using a rat model of diet‐induced obesity. A conditioned suppression task demonstrated that diet‐induced obese rats display eating despite negative consequences, as their consumption was insensitive to an aversive cue. Moreover, nucleus accumbens expression of GluA1 and xCT proteins was upregulated in diet‐induced obese animals. Lastly, both a computed ‘addiction score’ (based on performance across three criteria) and weight gain were positively correlated with changes in GluA1 and xCT expression in the nucleus accumbens. These data demonstrate that the propensity for diet‐induced obesity is associated with compulsive‐like eating of highly palatable food and is accompanied by ‘addiction‐like’ glutamatergic dysregulation in the nucleus accumbens, thus providing neurobiological evidence of addiction‐like pathology in this model of obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Sketriene
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
- The Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Australia
| | - Damien Battista
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
| | - Laddawan Lalert
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
- School of Medicine Walailak University Nakhon Si Thammarat Thailand
| | - Natcharee Kraiwattanapirom
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences Mahidol University Nakhon Pathom Thailand
| | - Han Ngoc Thai
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
| | - Tanawan Leeboonngam
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
- The Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Australia
| | | | - Jess Nithianantharajah
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
| | - Priya Sumithran
- Department of Medicine (St Vincent's) University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
- Department of Endocrinology Austin Health Melbourne Australia
| | - Andrew J. Lawrence
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
| | - Robyn M. Brown
- Mental Health Research Theme The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Parkville Melbourne Australia
- The Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Camchong J, Haynos AF, Hendrickson T, Fiecas MB, Gilmore CS, Mueller BA, Kushner MG, Lim KO. Resting Hypoconnectivity of Theoretically Defined Addiction Networks during Early Abstinence Predicts Subsequent Relapse in Alcohol Use Disorder. Cereb Cortex 2022; 32:2688-2702. [PMID: 34671808 PMCID: PMC9393062 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Theoretical models of addiction suggest that alterations in addiction domains including incentive salience, negative emotionality, and executive control lead to relapse in alcohol use disorder (AUD). To determine whether the functional organization of neural networks underlying these domains predict subsequent relapse, we generated theoretically defined addiction networks. We collected resting functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 45 individuals with AUD during early abstinence (number of days abstinent M = 25.40, SD = 16.51) and calculated the degree of resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) within these networks. Regression analyses determined whether the RSFC strength in domain-defined addiction networks measured during early abstinence predicted subsequent relapse (dichotomous or continuous relapse metrics). RSFC within each addiction network measured during early abstinence was significantly lower in those that relapsed (vs. abstained) and predicted subsequent time to relapse. Lower incentive salience RSFC during early abstinence increased the odds of relapsing. Neither RSFC in a control network nor clinical self-report measures predicted relapse. The association between low incentive salience RSFC and faster relapse highlights the need to design timely interventions that enhance RSFC in AUD individuals at risk of relapsing faster.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Camchong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN 55454, USA
| | - A F Haynos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN 55454, USA
| | - T Hendrickson
- University of Minnesota Informatics Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - M B Fiecas
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - C S Gilmore
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
| | - B A Mueller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN 55454, USA
| | - M G Kushner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN 55454, USA
| | - K O Lim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, MN 55454, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Riluzole prevents stress-induced spine plasticity in the hippocampus but mimics it in the amygdala. Neurobiol Stress 2022; 18:100442. [PMID: 35330860 PMCID: PMC8938913 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress elicits divergent patterns of structural plasticity in the amygdala and hippocampus. Despite these contrasting effects, at least one of the immediate consequences of stress – elevated levels of extracellular glutamate – is similar in both brain areas. This raises the possibility that the contrasting effects of stress on neuronal plasticity is shaped by differences in astrocytic glutamate clearance in these two brain areas. Although astrocytes play a key role in glutamate reuptake, past analyses of, and interventions against, stress-induced plasticity have focused largely on neurons. Hence, we tested the impact of riluzole, which potentiates glutamate clearance by astrocytic glutamate transporters, on principal neurons and astrocytes in the basal amygdala (BA) and hippocampal area CA1. Chronic immobilization stress reduced spine-density on CA1 pyramidal neurons of male rats. Riluzole, administered in the drinking water during chronic stress, prevented this decrease; but, the drug by itself had no effect. In contrast, the same chronic stress enhanced spine-density on BA principal neurons, and this effect, unlike area CA1, was not reversed by riluzole. Strikingly, riluzole treatment alone also caused spinogenesis in the BA. Thus, the same riluzole treatment that prevented the effect of stress on spines in the hippocampus, mimicked its effect in the amygdala. Further, chronic stress and riluzole alone decreased the neuropil volume occupied by astrocytes in both the BA and CA1 area. Riluzole treatment in stressed animals, however, did not reverse or further add to this reduction in either region. Thus, while the effects on astrocytes were similar, neuronal changes were distinct between the two areas following stress, riluzole and the two together. Therefore, similar to the impact of repeated stress, pharmacological potentiation of glutamate clearance, with or without stress, also leads to differential effects on dendritic spines in principal neurons of the amygdala and hippocampus. This highlights differences in the astrocytic glutamate reuptake machinery that are likely to have important functional consequences for stress-induced dysfunction, and its reversal, in two brain areas implicated in stress-related psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
|
26
|
Montanari M, Martella G, Bonsi P, Meringolo M. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Focus on Glutamatergic Neurotransmission. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073861. [PMID: 35409220 PMCID: PMC8998955 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in the glutamatergic system have been increasingly documented in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Glutamate-centered theories of ASD are based on evidence from patient samples and postmortem studies, as well as from studies documenting abnormalities in glutamatergic gene expression and metabolic pathways, including changes in the gut microbiota glutamate metabolism in patients with ASD. In addition, preclinical studies on animal models have demonstrated glutamatergic neurotransmission deficits and altered expression of glutamate synaptic proteins. At present, there are no approved glutamatergic drugs for ASD, but several ongoing clinical trials are currently focusing on evaluating in autistic patients glutamatergic pharmaceuticals already approved for other conditions. In this review, we provide an overview of the literature concerning the role of glutamatergic neurotransmission in the pathophysiology of ASD and as a potential target for novel treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Montanari
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Martella
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Paola Bonsi
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Meringolo
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Price ME, McCool BA. Structural, functional, and behavioral significance of sex and gonadal hormones in the basolateral amygdala: A review of preclinical literature. Alcohol 2022; 98:25-41. [PMID: 34371120 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is intimately involved in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders such as anxiety and alcohol use disorder (AUD). These disorders have clear sex biases, with women more likely to develop an anxiety disorder and men more likely to develop AUD. Preclinical models have largely confirmed these sex-specific vulnerabilities and emphasize the effects of sex hormones on behaviors influenced by the BLA. This review will discuss sex differences in BLA-related behaviors and highlight potential mechanisms mediated by altered BLA structure and function, including the composition of GABAergic interneuron subpopulations, glutamatergic pyramidal neuron morphology, glutamate/GABA neurotransmission, and neuromodulators. Further, sex hormones differentially organize dimorphic circuits during sensitive developmental periods (organizational effects) and initiate more transient effects throughout adulthood (activational effects). Current literature indicates that estradiol and allopregnanolone, a neuroactive progestogen, generally reduce BLA-related behaviors through a variety of mechanisms, including activation of estrogen receptors or facilitation of GABAA-mediated inhibition, respectively. This enhanced GABAergic inhibition may protect BLA pyramidal neurons from the excitability associated with anxiety and alcohol withdrawal. Understanding sex differences and the effects of sex hormones on BLA structure and function may help explain sex-specific vulnerabilities in BLA-related behaviors and ultimately improve treatments for anxiety and AUD.
Collapse
|
28
|
Nicolas C, Zlebnik NE, Farokhnia M, Leggio L, Ikemoto S, Shaham Y. Sex Differences in Opioid and Psychostimulant Craving and Relapse: A Critical Review. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:119-140. [PMID: 34987089 PMCID: PMC11060335 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.121.000367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
A widely held dogma in the preclinical addiction field is that females are more vulnerable than males to drug craving and relapse. Here, we first review clinical studies on sex differences in psychostimulant and opioid craving and relapse. Next, we review preclinical studies on sex differences in psychostimulant and opioid reinstatement of drug seeking after extinction of drug self-administration, and incubation of drug craving (time-dependent increase in drug seeking during abstinence). We also discuss ovarian hormones' role in relapse and craving in humans and animal models and speculate on brain mechanisms underlying their role in cocaine craving and relapse in rodent models. Finally, we discuss imaging studies on brain responses to cocaine cues and stress in men and women.The results of the clinical studies reviewed do not appear to support the notion that women are more vulnerable to psychostimulant and opioid craving and relapse. However, this conclusion is tentative because most of the studies reviewed were correlational, not sufficiently powered, and not a priori designed to detect sex differences. Additionally, imaging studies suggest sex differences in brain responses to cocaine cues and stress. The results of the preclinical studies reviewed provide evidence for sex differences in stress-induced reinstatement and incubation of cocaine craving but not cue- or cocaine-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking. These sex differences are modulated in part by ovarian hormones. In contrast, the available data do not support the notion of sex differences in craving and relapse/reinstatement for methamphetamine or opioids in rodent models. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This systematic review summarizes clinical and preclinical studies on sex differences in psychostimulant and opioid craving and relapse. Results of the clinical studies reviewed do not appear to support the notion that women are more vulnerable to psychostimulant and opioid craving and relapse. Results of preclinical studies reviewed provide evidence for sex differences in reinstatement and incubation of cocaine seeking but not for reinstatement or incubation of methamphetamine or opioid seeking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Céline Nicolas
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France (C.N.); Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA (N.E.Z.); Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD (M.F., L.L., S.I., Y.S.); and Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (M.F., L.L.)
| | - Natalie E Zlebnik
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France (C.N.); Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA (N.E.Z.); Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD (M.F., L.L., S.I., Y.S.); and Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (M.F., L.L.)
| | - Mehdi Farokhnia
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France (C.N.); Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA (N.E.Z.); Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD (M.F., L.L., S.I., Y.S.); and Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (M.F., L.L.)
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France (C.N.); Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA (N.E.Z.); Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD (M.F., L.L., S.I., Y.S.); and Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (M.F., L.L.)
| | - Satoshi Ikemoto
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France (C.N.); Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA (N.E.Z.); Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD (M.F., L.L., S.I., Y.S.); and Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (M.F., L.L.)
| | - Yavin Shaham
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France (C.N.); Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA (N.E.Z.); Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD (M.F., L.L., S.I., Y.S.); and Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (M.F., L.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Patel AV, Codeluppi SA, Ervin KSJ, St-Denis MB, Choleris E, Bailey CDC. Developmental Age and Biological Sex Influence Muscarinic Receptor Function and Neuron Morphology within Layer VI of the Medial Prefrontal Cortex. Cereb Cortex 2021; 32:3137-3158. [PMID: 34864929 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab406] [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: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Acetylcholine (ACh) neurotransmission within the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) plays an important modulatory role to support mPFC-dependent cognitive functions. This role is mediated by ACh activation of its nicotinic (nAChR) and muscarinic (mAChR) classes of receptors, which are both present on mPFC layer VI pyramidal neurons. While the expression and function of nAChRs have been characterized thoroughly for rodent mPFC layer VI neurons during postnatal development, mAChRs have not been characterized in detail. We employed whole-cell electrophysiology with biocytin filling to demonstrate that mAChR function is greater during the juvenile period of development than in adulthood for both sexes. Pharmacological experiments suggest that each of the M1, M2, and M3 mAChR subtypes contributes to ACh responses in these neurons in a sex-dependent manner. Analysis of dendrite morphology identified effects of age more often in males, as the amount of dendrite matter was greatest during the juvenile period. Interestingly, a number of positive correlations were identified between the magnitude of ACh/mAChR responses and dendrite morphology in juvenile mice that were not present in adulthood. To our knowledge, this work describes the first detailed characterization of mAChR function and its correlation with neuron morphology within layer VI of the mPFC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh V Patel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sierra A Codeluppi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kelsy S J Ervin
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Myles B St-Denis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Elena Choleris
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Craig D C Bailey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Giacometti LL, Huh JW, Raghupathi R. Sex and estrous-phase dependent alterations in depression-like behavior following mild traumatic brain injury in adolescent rats. J Neurosci Res 2021; 100:490-505. [PMID: 34850450 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24989] [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: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), high school and collegiate-aged females tend to report more emotional symptoms than males. Adolescent male and female rats (35 days old) were subjected to mild TBI and evaluated for anxiety- and depression-like behaviors using the elevated plus maze and forced swim test (FST), respectively, and cellular alterations. Injured brains did not exhibit an overt lesion, atrophy of tissue or astrocytic reactivity underneath the impact site at 6-week post-injury, suggestive of the mild nature of trauma. Neither male nor female brain-injured rats exhibited anxiety-like behavior at 2 or 6 weeks, regardless of estrous phase at the time of behavior testing. Brain-injured male rats did not exhibit any alterations in immobility, swimming and climbing times in the FST compared to sham-injured rats at either 2- or 6-week post-injury. Brain-injured female rats did, however, exhibit an increase in immobility (in the absence of changes in swimming and climbing times) in the FST at 6 weeks post-injury only during the estrus phase of the estrous cycle, suggestive of a depression-like phenotype. Combined administration of the estrogen receptor antagonist, tamoxifen, and the progesterone receptor antagonist, mifepristone, during proestrus was able to prevent the depression-like phenotype observed during estrus. Taken together, these data suggest that female rats may be more vulnerable to exhibiting behavioral deficits following mild TBI and that estrous phase may play a role in depression-like behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Giacometti
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jimmy W Huh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ramesh Raghupathi
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Fesser EA, Gianatiempo O, Berardino BG, Alberca CD, Urrutia L, Falasco G, Sonzogni SV, Chertoff M, Cánepa ET. Impaired social cognition caused by perinatal protein malnutrition evokes neurodevelopmental disorder symptoms and is intergenerationally transmitted. Exp Neurol 2021; 347:113911. [PMID: 34767796 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113911] [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: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Nutritional inadequacy before birth and during postnatal life can seriously interfere with brain development and lead to persistent deficits in learning and behavior. In this work, we asked if protein malnutrition affects domains of social cognition and if these phenotypes can be transmitted to the next generation. Female mice were fed with a normal or hypoproteic diet during pregnancy and lactation. After weaning, offspring were fed with a standard chow. Social interaction, social recognition memory, and dominance were evaluated in both sexes of F1 offspring and in the subsequent F2 generation. Glucose metabolism in the whole brain was analyzed through preclinical positron emission tomography. Genome-wide transcriptional analysis was performed in the medial prefrontal cortex followed by gene-ontology enrichment analysis. Compared with control animals, malnourished mice exhibited a deficit in social motivation and recognition memory and displayed a dominant phenotype. These altered behaviors, except for dominance, were transmitted to the next generation. Positron emission tomography analysis revealed lower glucose metabolism in the medial prefrontal cortex of F1 malnourished offspring. This brain region showed genome-wide transcriptional dysregulation, including 21 transcripts that overlapped with autism-associated genes. Our study cannot exclude that the lower maternal care provided by mothers exposed to a low-protein diet caused an additional impact on social cognition. Our results showed that maternal protein malnutrition dysregulates gene expression in the medial prefrontal cortex, promoting altered offspring behavior that was intergenerationally transmitted. These results support the hypothesis that early nutritional deficiency represents a risk factor for the emergence of symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía A Fesser
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Octavio Gianatiempo
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bruno G Berardino
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina D Alberca
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Urrutia
- Centro de Imágenes Moleculares, Fleni, Escobar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Germán Falasco
- Centro de Imágenes Moleculares, Fleni, Escobar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina V Sonzogni
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariela Chertoff
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eduardo T Cánepa
- Grupo Neuroepigenética y Adversidades Tempranas, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kondakova EV, Vershinina OS, Lopatenko MV, Franceschi C, Ivanchenko MV, Vedunova MV. Sex-Specific Age-Related Changes in Methylation of Certain Genes. Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2021; 13:26-31. [PMID: 34603752 PMCID: PMC8482819 DOI: 10.17691/stm2021.13.3.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to conduct a functional analysis of sex-specific age-related changes in DNA methylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E V Kondakova
- Assistant, Department of General and Medical Genetics, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| | - O S Vershinina
- Junior Researcher, Department of Applied Mathematics, Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| | - M V Lopatenko
- Student, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| | - C Franceschi
- Professor Emeritus, Senior Researcher, Photonics Center, Department of Fundamental and Applied Research; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia; Mater Studiorum; University of Bologna, 33 Via Zamboni, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - M V Ivanchenko
- Head of the Department of Applied Mathematics, Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| | - M V Vedunova
- Head of the Department of General and Medical Genetics, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia; Director of the Institute of Biology and Biomedicine; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603950, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Purpose of Review Substance use disorders (SUD) affect differentially women and men. Although the prevalence has been reported higher in men, those women with addictive disorders present a more vulnerable profile and are less likely to enter treatment than men. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of how sex and gender may influence epidemiology, clinical manifestations, social impact, and the neurobiological basis of these differences of women with SUD, based on human research. Recent Findings The differences in prevalence rates between genders are getting narrower; also, women tend to increase the amount of consumption more rapidly than men, showing an accelerated onset of the SUD (telescoping effect). In respect to clinical features, the most important differences are related to the risk of experience psychiatric comorbidity, the exposure to intimate partner violence, and the associated high risks in sexual and reproductive health; and those who are mothers and addicted to substances are at risk of losing the custody of children accumulating more adverse life events. Some of these differences can be based on neurobiological differences: pharmacokinetic response to substances, sensitivity to gonadal hormones, differences in neurobiological systems as glutamate, endocannabinoids, and genetic differences. Summary Specific research in women who use drugs is very scarce and treatments are not gender-sensitive oriented. For these reasons, it is important to guarantee access to the appropriate treatment of women who use drugs and a need for a gender perspective in the treatment and research of substance use disorders.
Collapse
|
34
|
Vaughan G, Kompanijec K, Malik S, Bechard AR. Childhood trauma and post-trauma environment affect fear memory and alcohol use differently in male and female mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 219:108471. [PMID: 33385691 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood trauma is associated with the development of adult mental health and substance use disorders, with females generally being more at risk. Alcohol is commonly used for coping with trauma, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects ∼14.4 million adult Americans annually. Research investigating sex differences in the environmental modification of anxiety and alcohol use following childhood trauma will extend our understanding of the etiology of AUD. Here, we sought to model the interacting effects of a single-episode late childhood trauma with post-trauma environment on adult alcohol use using male and female mice. METHODS C57Bl6/J mice (d22) exposed to predator odor (TMT) or water were reared in standard environments (SE) or environmental enrichment (EE). Mice were assessed for adolescent anxiety and conditioned fear, and for adult alcohol use in a limited access, response non-contingent, alcohol exposure paradigm. RESULTS A single exposure to predator odor was an effective stressor, inducing long-term sex-dependent changes in conditioned fear and alcohol behaviors that interacted with post-trauma environment. Adolescent EE females showed more conditioned freezing to the trauma-associated context. Adult EE mice consumed less total alcohol than SE mice. However, alcohol use across time differed for males and females. Exposure to a childhood stressor increased alcohol use significantly in females, but not males. EE males, but not EE females, drank less than SE counterparts. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this model recapitulate greater vulnerability to childhood trauma in females and support sex differences in post-trauma development of conditioned fear and alcohol use that are modified by environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Vaughan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, SUNY Geneseo, 1 College Circle, Geneseo, NY, 14454, United States.
| | - Katherine Kompanijec
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, SUNY Geneseo, 1 College Circle, Geneseo, NY, 14454, United States.
| | - Shreyya Malik
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, SUNY Geneseo, 1 College Circle, Geneseo, NY, 14454, United States.
| | - Allison R Bechard
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, SUNY Geneseo, 1 College Circle, Geneseo, NY, 14454, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Yap S, Luki J, Hanstock CC, Seres P, Shandro T, Hanstock SEC, Lirette A, Zhao HH, Aitchison KJ, Le Melledo JM. Decreased Medial Prefrontal Cortex Glutamate Levels in Perimenopausal Women. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:763562. [PMID: 34966302 PMCID: PMC8710490 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.763562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: There is an increased risk of experiencing depression during perimenopause (PM), a period of rapidly changing female hormone concentrations. Women at particular risk of developing major depression (MD) during PM are those with history of mood sensitivity to female hormone fluctuations i.e., women with a history of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and/or post-partum depression (PPD). Depressive symptomology has been associated with fluctuations of glutamate (Glu) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) in MD patients as well as PMDD and PPD patients. The objective of the study was to compare MPFC Glu levels in healthy perimenopausal and reproductive-aged (RD) women. Methods: Medial prefrontal cortex Glu levels in healthy perimenopausal (n = 15) and healthy RD women (n = 16) were compared via Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) scan using a 3 Tesla (T) magnet. Absence of depressive symptomology and psychiatric comorbidity was confirmed via semi-structured interview. Participants were scanned during the early follicular phase (FP) of the menstrual cycle (MC). Results: Mean MPFC Glu concentrations were decreased in the PM group compared to RD group (PM mean = 0.57 ± 0.03, RD mean = 0.63 ± 0.06, t = -3.84, df = 23.97, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Perimenopause is associated with decreases in MPFC Glu levels. This decrease may be contributing to the increased risk of experiencing depression during PM. Further research should assess MPFC Glu levels in perimenopausal women suffering from MD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sidney Yap
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jessica Luki
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Peter Seres
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Tami Shandro
- Lois Hole Hospital for Women, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Alynna Lirette
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Katherine J Aitchison
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,The Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Edmonton Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Chiang VSC, Park JH. Glutamate in Male and Female Sexual Behavior: Receptors, Transporters, and Steroid Independence. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:589882. [PMID: 33328921 PMCID: PMC7732465 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.589882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival of animal species predicates on the success of sexual reproduction. Neurotransmitters play an integral role in the expression of these sexual behaviors in the brain. Here, we review the role of glutamate in sexual behavior in rodents and non-rodent species for both males and females. These encompass the release of glutamate and correlations with glutamate receptor expression during sexual behavior. We then present the effects of glutamate on sexual behavior, as well as the effects of antagonists and agonists on different glutamate transporters and receptors. Following that, we discuss the potential role of glutamate on steroid-independent sexual behavior. Finally, we demonstrate the interaction of glutamate with other neurotransmitters to impact sexual behavior. These sexual behavior studies are crucial in the development of novel treatments of sexual dysfunction and in furthering our understanding of the complexity of sexual diversity. In the past decade, we have witnessed the burgeoning of novel techniques to study and manipulate neuron activity, to decode molecular events at the single-cell level, and to analyze behavioral data. They pose exciting avenues to gain further insight into future sexual behavior research. Taken together, this work conveys the essential role of glutamate in sexual behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vic Shao-Chih Chiang
- Developmental and Brain Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jin Ho Park
- Developmental and Brain Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Giacometti LL, Chandran K, Figueroa LA, Barker JM. Astrocyte modulation of extinction impairments in ethanol-dependent female mice. Neuropharmacology 2020; 179:108272. [PMID: 32801026 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rates of alcohol use disorders are increasing in women, and there is growing evidence that both the cognitive and biological consequences of alcohol dependence are distinct in women as compared to men. Despite this, the neurobehavioral outcomes of chronic alcohol exposure are poorly characterized in women and female animals. In this study, we find that ethanol dependence impaired extinction of reward seeking in a food conditioned place preference task in female mice. At the same time point, ethanol-dependent females exhibited astrocytic dysregulation as indicated by a brain region-specific reduction in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. Using a chemogenetic strategy, we demonstrate that modulating astrocyte function via chemogenetic activation of Gq-signaling in nucleus accumbens astrocytes transiently rescued extinction in ethanol-dependent females without impacting basal reward seeking. These findings identify astrocyte function as a potential target for the restoration of behavioral flexibility following chronic alcohol exposure in females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Giacometti
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Kelsey Chandran
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Laura A Figueroa
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Jacqueline M Barker
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Giacometti LL, Huang F, Hamilton BS, Barker JM. Brain region-dependent alterations in polysialic acid immunoreactivity across the estrous cycle in mice. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104851. [PMID: 32941849 PMCID: PMC7725886 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
N-glycosylation is a posttranslational modification that plays significant roles in regulating protein function. One form of N-glycosylation, polysialylation, has been implicated in many processes including learning and memory, addiction, and neurodegenerative disease. Polysialylation appears to be modulated by the estrous cycle in the hypothalamus in rat, but this has not been assessed in other brain regions. To determine if polysialylation was similarly estrous phase-dependent in other neuroanatomical structures, the percent area of polysialic acid (PSA) immunoreactivity in subregions of the medial prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and nucleus accumbens was assessed in each of the four phases in adult female mice. In this study, we found that PSA immunoreactivity fluctuated across the estrous cycle in a subregion-specific manner. In the prefrontal cortex, PSA immunoreactivity was significantly lower in proestrus phase compared to estrus in the prelimbic cortex, but did not differ across the estrous cycle in the infralimbic cortex. In the hippocampus, PSA immunoreactivity was significantly increased in proestrus compared to metestrus in the CA1 and CA2 and compared to diestrus in CA3, but remain unchanged in the dentate gyrus. PSA immunoreactivity did not vary across the estrous cycle in the nucleus accumbens core or shell. These findings may have implications for estrous cycle-dependent alterations in behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Giacometti
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102, United States of America
| | - Fangyi Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102, United States of America
| | - Brianna S Hamilton
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102, United States of America
| | - Jacqueline M Barker
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Perry CJ, Campbell EJ, Drummond KD, Lum JS, Kim JH. Sex differences in the neurochemistry of frontal cortex: Impact of early life stress. J Neurochem 2020; 157:963-981. [PMID: 33025572 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic events during early life have been linked with later life psychopathology. To understand this risk factor, researchers have studied the effects of prenatal and postnatal early life stress on neurochemical changes. Here we review the rodent literature on sex differences and sex-specific impact of early life stress on frontal cortex neurochemistry. This region is implicated in regulating motivation and emotion, which are often disrupted in psychological disorders. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) in particular is one of the last brain regions to develop, and there are sex differences in the rate of this development. To draw direct comparisons between sexes, our review of the literature was restricted to studies where the effects of prenatal or postnatal stress had been described in male and female littermates. This literature included research describing glutamate, γ-amino butyric acid (GABA), corticosteroids, monoamines, and cannabinoids. We found that sex-dependent effects of stress are mediated by the age at which stress is experienced, age at test, and type of stress endured. More research is required, particularly into the effects of adolescent stress on male and female littermates. We hope that a greater understanding of sex-specific susceptibilities in response to stress across development will help to uncover risk factors for psychological disorders in vulnerable populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina J Perry
- Mental Health Theme, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - Erin J Campbell
- Mental Health Theme, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - Katherine D Drummond
- Mental Health Theme, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - Jeremy S Lum
- Neuropharmacology and Molecular Psychiatry Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jee Hyun Kim
- Mental Health Theme, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|