1
|
Lee SE, Lee GH. Effects of psoralidin on the expression of glutamate decarboxylases and inhibitory synapse development. JOURNAL OF ASIAN NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH 2024; 26:1106-1114. [PMID: 38753588 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2024.2346297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a major inhibitory neurotransmitter required for excitation/inhibition balance is synthesized by the glutamic acid decarboxylases (GADs) in GABAergic neurons. The levels and activity of GADs are strongly correlated with GABA and neural transmission. Dysregulation of GADs and GABA is associated with various neurological disorders. The study used psoralidin, found in the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia, to investigate its effect on GAD levels and regulatory mechanisms in primary cortical neurons. Psoralidin reduced GAD67 through transcriptional regulation. The reduction was not mediated by the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor. Additionally, psoralidin attenuated the formation of inhibitory synapses in primary hippocampal neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Eun Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Gum Hwa Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee SW, Kim S, Chang Y, Cha H, Noeske R, Choi C, Lee SJ. Quantification of glutathione and its associated spontaneous neuronal activity in major depressive disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2024:S0006-3223(24)01551-8. [PMID: 39218137 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2024.08.018] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glutathione (GSH) is a crucial antioxidant in the human brain. Although proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) using the MEscher-GArwood Point RESolved Spectroscopy (MEGA-PRESS) sequence is highly recommended, limited literature has measured cortical GSH using this method in major psychiatric disorders. METHODS By combining MRS using the MEGA-PRESS and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging, we quantified brain GSH and glutamate in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and precuneus and explore relationships between the GSH levels and intrinsic neuronal activity as well as clinical symptoms among the three groups of healthy controls (HCs, N=30), major depressive disorder (MDD, N=28), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD, N=28). RESULTS GSH concentrations were lower in both the mPFC and precuneus in both the MDD and OCD groups compared to HCs. In HCs, positive correlations were noted between the GSH and glutamate levels, and between GSH and fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) in both regions. However, while these correlations were absent in both patient groups, they showed a weak positive correlation between glutamate and fALFF values. Moreover, GSH levels negatively correlated with depressive and compulsive symptoms in MDD and OCD, respectively. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that reduced GSH levels and an imbalance between GSH and glutamate could increase oxidative stress and alter neurotransmitter signaling, leading to disruptions in GSH-related neurochemical-neuronal coupling and psychopathologies across MDD and OCD. Understanding these mechanisms could provide valuable insights into the underlying processes of these disorders, potentially becoming a springboard for future directions and advancing our knowledge of their neurobiological foundations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Won Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea; Department of Psychiatry, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Seungho Kim
- Department of Medical & Biological Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yongmin Chang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea; Department of Radiology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | | | | | - Changho Choi
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States.
| | - Seung Jae Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea; Department of Psychiatry, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Duarte JMN. Concentrations of glutamate and N-acetylaspartate detected by magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the rat hippocampus correlate with hippocampal-dependent spatial memory performance. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1458070. [PMID: 39219740 PMCID: PMC11362093 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1458070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has been employed to investigate brain metabolite concentrations in vivo, and they vary during neuronal activation, across brain activity states, or upon disease with neurological impact. Whether resting brain metabolites correlate with functioning in behavioral tasks remains to be demonstrated in any of the widely used rodent models. This study tested the hypothesis that, in the absence of neurological disease or injury, the performance in a hippocampal-dependent memory task is correlated with the hippocampal levels of metabolites that are mainly synthesized in neurons, namely N-acetylaspartate (NAA), glutamate and GABA. Experimentally naïve rats were tested for hippocampal-dependent spatial memory performance by measuring spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze, followed by anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in the hippocampus and cortex. Memory performance correlated with hippocampal concentrations of NAA (p = 0.024) and glutamate (p = 0.014) but not GABA. Concentrations of glutamate in the cortex also correlated with spatial memory (p = 0.035). In addition, memory performance was also correlated with the relative volume of the hippocampus (p = 0.041). Altogether, this exploratory study suggests that levels of the neuronal maker NAA and the main excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate are associated with physiological functional capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João M. N. Duarte
- Diabetes and Brain Function Unit, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gao Y, Liu Y, Zhao S, Liu Y, Zhang C, Hui S, Mikkelsen M, Edden RAE, Meng X, Yu B, Xiao L. MRS study on the correlation between frontal GABA+/Glx ratio and abnormal cognitive function in medication-naive patients with narcolepsy. Sleep Med 2024; 119:1-8. [PMID: 38626481 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the GABA+/Glx (glutamate-glutamine) ratio in the prefrontal lobe under non-rapid eye movement sleep between patients with narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) and normal controls and explore the correlation between this difference and abnormal cognitive function, using synchronous electroencephalography-functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (EEG-fMRS). METHODS MRS measurements of GABA+ and Glx concentrations as well as synchronous EEG data were obtained from 26 medication-naive patients with NT1 and 29 sex- and age-matched healthy community volunteers. Cognition was appraised with the Beijing version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and daytime sleepiness was measured using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. All subjects recorded a 2-week sleep log as well as an overnight polysomnography within 1 week before MR scanning to understand their sleep habits and determine sleep stages. After PSG, they also underwent multiple sleep latency trials. Patient/control group differences in the individual measurements of GABA+ and Glx and the GABA+/Glx ratio and their relationship with cognition were assessed. RESULTS The GABA+/Glx ratio and GABA + levels of patients with narcolepsy were higher than those of the control group (P<0.0001 and P = 0.0008, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in Glx levels (P = 0.6360). The GABA+/Glx ratio negatively correlated with abnormal cognitive function (r = -0.6710, P = 0.0002). Moreover, GABA + levels were inversely proportional to rapid eye movement sleep latency (REML) in patients with narcolepsy (r = -0.5019, P = 0.0106). CONCLUSION The GABA+/Glx ratio in the prefrontal lobe was higher in NT1 patients during N2 sleep than in normal controls, mainly caused by GABA + levels; this ratio was negatively related to abnormal cognitive function. In addition, GABA + levels were inversely proportional to REML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Gao
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Yanting Liu
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Sihui Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Yishu Liu
- Sleep Medicine Center, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- MR Research Collaboration Team, Siemens Healthcare, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Steve Hui
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; F. M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mark Mikkelsen
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; F. M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard A E Edden
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; F. M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xiao Meng
- Clinical Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Bing Yu
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Li Xiao
- Sleep Medicine Center, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li T, Steibel JP, Willette AA. Vitamin B6, B12, and Folate's Influence on Neural Networks in the UK Biobank Cohort. Nutrients 2024; 16:2050. [PMID: 38999798 PMCID: PMC11243472 DOI: 10.3390/nu16132050] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One-carbon metabolism coenzymes may influence brain aging in cognitively unimpaired adults. METHODS Baseline data were used from the UK Biobank cohort. Estimated intake of vitamin B6, B12, and folate was regressed onto neural network functional connectivity in five resting-state neural networks. Linear mixed models tested coenzyme main effects and interactions with Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk factors. RESULTS Increased B6 and B12 estimated intake were linked with less functional connectivity in most networks, including the posterior portion of the Default Mode Network. Conversely, higher folate was related to more connectivity in similar networks. AD family history modulated these associations: Increased estimated intake was positively associated with stronger connectivity in the Primary Visual Network and Posterior Default Mode Network in participants with an AD family history. In contrast, increased vitamin B12 estimated intake was associated with less connectivity in the Primary Visual Network and the Cerebello-Thalamo-Cortical Network in those without an AD family history. CONCLUSIONS The differential patterns of association between B vitamins and resting-state brain activity may be important in understanding AD-related changes in the brain. Notably, AD family history appears to play a key role in modulating these relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Li
- Genetics and Genomics Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Juan Pedro Steibel
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Auriel A Willette
- Department of Neurology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 07101, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tseng HH, Wu CY, Chang HH, Lu TH, Chang WH, Hsu CF, Lin RY, Yeh DR, Shaw FZ, Yang YK, Chen PS. Posterior cingulate and medial prefrontal excitation-inhibition balance in euthymic bipolar disorder. Psychol Med 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38825858 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291724001326] [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] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistent cognitive deficits and functional impairments are associated with bipolar disorder (BD), even during the euthymic phase. The dysfunction of default mode network (DMN) is critical for self-referential and emotional mental processes and is implicated in BD. The current study aims to explore the balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, i.e. glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), in hubs of the DMN during the euthymic patients with BD (euBD). METHOD Thirty-four euBD and 55 healthy controls (HC) were recruited to the study. Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), glutamate (with PRESS sequence) and GABA levels (with MEGAPRESS sequence) were measured in the medial prefrontal cortex/anterior cingulate cortex (mPFC/ACC) and the posterior cingulate gyrus (PCC). Measured concentrations of excitatory glutamate/glutamine (Glx) and inhibitory GABA were used to calculate the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) ratio. Executive and attentional functions were respectively assessed using the Wisconsin card-sorting test and continuous performance test. RESULTS euBD performed worse on attentional function than controls (p = 0.001). Compared to controls, euBD had higher E/I ratios in the PCC (p = 0.023), mainly driven by a higher Glx level in the PCC of euBD (p = 0.002). Only in the BD group, a marginally significant negative association between the mPFC E/I ratio (Glx/GABA) and executive function was observed (p = 0.068). CONCLUSIONS Disturbed E/I balance, particularly elevated Glx/GABA ratio in PCC is observed in euBD. The E/I balance in hubs of DMN may serve as potential biomarkers for euBD, which may also contribute to their poorer executive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huai-Hsuan Tseng
- Institute of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng Ying Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hui Hua Chang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Dou-Liou Branch, Yunlin, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hua Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wei Hung Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Dou-Liou Branch, Yunlin, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Fen Hsu
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ren-Yi Lin
- Mind Research and Imaging Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ding-Ruey Yeh
- Mind Research and Imaging Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, College of Health Sciences and Technology, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Zen Shaw
- Mind Research and Imaging Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yen Kuang Yang
- Institute of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Po See Chen
- Institute of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pini L, Salvalaggio A, Corbetta M. Beyond functional MRI signals: molecular and cellular modifiers of the functional connectome and cognition. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:937-938. [PMID: 37862177 PMCID: PMC10749616 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Pini
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, VIMM, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Salvalaggio
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Maurizio Corbetta
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, VIMM, Padova, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Maximo JO, Briend F, Armstrong WP, Kraguljac NV, Lahti AC. Higher-order functional brain networks and anterior cingulate glutamate + glutamine (Glx) in antipsychotic-naïve first episode psychosis patients. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:183. [PMID: 38600117 PMCID: PMC11006887 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02854-7] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human connectome studies have provided abundant data consistent with the hypothesis that functional dysconnectivity is predominant in psychosis spectrum disorders. Converging lines of evidence also suggest an interaction between dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) cortical glutamate with higher-order functional brain networks (FC) such as the default mode (DMN), dorsal attention (DAN), and executive control networks (ECN) in healthy controls (HC) and this mechanism may be impaired in psychosis. Data from 70 antipsychotic-medication naïve first-episode psychosis (FEP) and 52 HC were analyzed. 3T Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) data were acquired from a voxel in the dACC and assessed correlations (positive FC) and anticorrelations (negative FC) of the DMN, DAN, and ECN. We then performed regressions to assess associations between glutamate + glutamine (Glx) with positive and negative FC of these same networks and compared them between groups. We found alterations in positive and negative FC in all networks (HC > FEP). A relationship between dACC Glx and positive and negative FC was found in both groups, but when comparing these relationships between groups, we found contrasting associations between these variables in FEP patients compared to HC. We demonstrated that both positive and negative FC in three higher-order resting state networks are already altered in antipsychotic-naïve FEP, underscoring the importance of also considering anticorrelations for optimal characterization of large-scale functional brain networks as these represent biological processes as well. Our data also adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the role of dACC cortical Glx as a mechanism underlying alterations in functional brain network connectivity. Overall, the implications for these findings are imperative as this particular mechanism may differ in untreated or chronic psychotic patients; therefore, understanding this mechanism prior to treatment could better inform clinicians.Clinical trial registration: Trajectories of Treatment Response as Window into the Heterogeneity of Psychosis: A Longitudinal Multimodal Imaging Study, NCT03442101 . Glutamate, Brain Connectivity and Duration of Untreated Psychosis (DUP), NCT02034253 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose O Maximo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Frederic Briend
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- UMR1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France
| | - William P Armstrong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nina V Kraguljac
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Adrienne C Lahti
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shi L, Fu X, Gui S, Wan T, Zhuo J, Lu J, Li P. Global spatiotemporal synchronizing structures of spontaneous neural activities in different cell types. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2884. [PMID: 38570488 PMCID: PMC10991327 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46975-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has revealed the large-scale nonstationary synchronizations as traveling waves in spontaneous neural activity. However, the interplay of various cell types in fine-tuning these spatiotemporal patters remains unclear. Here, we performed comprehensive exploration of spatiotemporal synchronizing structures across different cell types, states (awake, anesthesia, motion) and developmental axis in male mice. We found traveling waves in glutamatergic neurons exhibited greater variety than those in GABAergic neurons. Moreover, the synchronizing structures of GABAergic neurons converged toward those of glutamatergic neurons during development, but the evolution of waves exhibited varying timelines for different sub-type interneurons. Functional connectivity arises from both standing and traveling waves, and negative connections can be elucidated by the spatial propagation of waves. In addition, some traveling waves were correlated with the spatial distribution of gene expression. Our findings offer further insights into the neural underpinnings of traveling waves, functional connectivity, and resting-state networks, with cell-type specificity and developmental perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Shi
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics and MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
- Research Unit of Multimodal Cross Scale Neural Signal Detection and Imaging, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, HUST-Suzhou Institute for Brainsmatics, JITRI, Suzhou, 215100, China
| | - Xiaoxi Fu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics and MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
- Research Unit of Multimodal Cross Scale Neural Signal Detection and Imaging, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, HUST-Suzhou Institute for Brainsmatics, JITRI, Suzhou, 215100, China
| | - Shen Gui
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics and MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
- Research Unit of Multimodal Cross Scale Neural Signal Detection and Imaging, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, HUST-Suzhou Institute for Brainsmatics, JITRI, Suzhou, 215100, China
| | - Tong Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Hainan University, Sanya, 572025, China
| | - Junjie Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Hainan University, Sanya, 572025, China
| | - Jinling Lu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics and MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China.
- Research Unit of Multimodal Cross Scale Neural Signal Detection and Imaging, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, HUST-Suzhou Institute for Brainsmatics, JITRI, Suzhou, 215100, China.
| | - Pengcheng Li
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics and MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China.
- Research Unit of Multimodal Cross Scale Neural Signal Detection and Imaging, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, HUST-Suzhou Institute for Brainsmatics, JITRI, Suzhou, 215100, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Hainan University, Sanya, 572025, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schreiner SJ, Van Bergen JMG, Gietl AF, Buck A, Hock C, Pruessmann KP, Henning A, Unschuld PG. Gray matter gamma-hydroxy-butyric acid and glutamate reflect beta-amyloid burden at old age. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 16:e12587. [PMID: 38690510 PMCID: PMC11058481 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12587] [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] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Gamma-hydroxy-butyric acid (GABA) and glutamate are neurotransmitters with essential importance for cognitive processing. Here, we investigate relationships between GABA, glutamate, and brain ß-amyloid (Aß) burden before clinical manifestation of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thirty cognitively healthy adults (age 69.9 ± 6 years) received high-resolution atlas-based 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) at ultra-high magnetic field strength of 7 Tesla for gray matter-specific assessment of GABA and glutamate. We assessed Aß burden with positron emission tomography and risk factors for AD. Higher gray matter GABA and glutamate related to higher Aß-burden (ß = 0.60, p < 0.05; ß = 0.64, p < 0.02), with positive effect modification by apolipoprotein-E-epsilon-4-allele (APOE4) (p = 0.01-0.03). GABA and glutamate negatively related to longitudinal change in verbal episodic memory performance (ß = -0.48; p = 0.02; ß = -0.50; p = 0.01). In vivo measures of GABA and glutamate reflect early AD pathology at old age, in an APOE4-dependent manner. GABA and glutamate may represent promising biomarkers and potential targets for early therapeutic intervention and prevention. Highlights Gray matter-specific metabolic imaging with high-resolution atlas-based MRSI at 7 Tesla.Higher GABA and glutamate relate to ß-amyloid burden, in an APOE4-dependent manner.Gray matter GABA and glutamate identify older adults with high risk of future AD.GABA and glutamate might reflect altered synaptic and neuronal activity at early AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon J. Schreiner
- Institute for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Department of Psychogeriatric MedicinePsychiatric University Hospital Zurich (PUK)ZurichSwitzerland
- Department of NeurologyUniversity Hospital Zurich and University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | | | - Anton F. Gietl
- Institute for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Department of Psychogeriatric MedicinePsychiatric University Hospital Zurich (PUK)ZurichSwitzerland
| | - Alfred Buck
- Department of Nuclear MedicineUniversity Hospital Zurich and University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Christoph Hock
- Institute for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- NeurimmuneSchlierenSwitzerland
| | - Klaas P. Pruessmann
- Institute for Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Zurich and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Anke Henning
- Institute for Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Zurich and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- High‐Field MR CenterMax Planck Institute for Biological CyberneticsTübingenGermany
- Advanced Imaging Research CenterUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTexasUSA
| | - Paul G. Unschuld
- Geriatric Psychiatry ServiceUniversity Hospitals of Geneva (HUG)ThônexSwitzerland
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of Geneva (UniGE)GenevaSwitzerland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kanagasabai K, Palaniyappan L, Théberge J. Precision of metabolite-selective MRS measurements of glutamate, GABA and glutathione: A review of human brain studies. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 37:e5071. [PMID: 38050448 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.5071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Single-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (SV 1 H-MRS) is an in vivo noninvasive imaging technique used to detect neurotransmitters and metabolites. It enables repeated measurements in living participants to build explanatory neurochemical models of psychiatric symptoms and testing of therapeutic approaches. Given the tight link among glutamate, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), glutathione and glutamine within the cellular machinery, MRS investigations of neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders must quantify a network of metabolites simultaneously to capture the pathophysiological states of interest. Metabolite-selective sequences typically provide improved metabolite isolation and spectral modelling simplification for a single metabolite at a time. Non-metabolite-selective sequences provide information on all detectable human brain metabolites, but feature many signal overlaps and require complicated spectral modelling. Although there are short-echo time (TE) MRS sequences that do not use spectral editing and are optimised to target either glutamate, GABA or glutathione, these approaches usually imply a precision tradeoff for the remaining two metabolites. Given the interest in assessing psychiatric and neurocognitive diseases that involve excitation-inhibition imbalances along with oxidative stress, there is a need to survey the literature on the quantification precision of current metabolite-selective MRS techniques. In this review, we locate and describe 17 studies that report on the quality of simultaneously acquired MRS metabolite data in the human brain. We note several factors that influence the data quality for single-shot acquisition of multiple metabolites of interest using metabolite-selective MRS: (1) internal in vivo references; (2) brain regions of interests; (3) field strength of scanner; and/or (4) optimised acquisition parameters. We also highlight the strengths and weaknesses of various SV spectroscopy techniques that were able to quantify in vivo glutamate, GABA and glutathione simultaneously. The insights from this review will assist in the development of new MRS pulse sequences for simultaneous, selective measurements of these metabolites and simplified spectral modelling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kesavi Kanagasabai
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Imaging Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lena Palaniyappan
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Imaging Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean Théberge
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Imaging Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Imaging, St. Joseph's Health Care Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang C, Zhang K, Hu X, Cai X, Chen Y, Gao F, Wang G. Regional GABA levels modulate abnormal resting-state network functional connectivity and cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad535. [PMID: 38271282 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad535] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
More evidence shows that changes in functional connectivity with regard to brain networks and neurometabolite levels correlated to cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis. However, the neurological basis underlying the relationship among neurometabolite levels, functional connectivity, and cognitive impairment remains unclear. For this purpose, we used a combination of magnetic resonance spectroscopy and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to study gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate concentrations in the posterior cingulate cortex, medial prefrontal cortex and left hippocampus, and inter-network functional connectivity in 29 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients and 34 matched healthy controls. Neuropsychological tests were used to evaluate the cognitive function. We found that relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients demonstrated significantly reduced gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate concentrations and aberrant functional connectivity involving cognitive-related networks compared to healthy controls, and both alterations were associated with specific cognition decline. Moreover, mediation analyses indicated that decremented hippocampus gamma-aminobutyric acid levels in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients mediated the association between inter-network functional connectivity in various components of default mode network and verbal memory deficits. In summary, our findings shed new lights on the essential function of GABAergic system abnormalities in regulating network dysconnectivity and functional connectivity in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients, suggesting potential novel approach to treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Kaihua Zhang
- School of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Xianyun Cai
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Yufan Chen
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Guangbin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hu R, Gao L, Chen P, Wei X, Wu X, Xu H. Macroscale neurovascular coupling and functional integration in end-stage renal disease patients with cognitive impairment: A multimodal MRI study. J Neurosci Res 2024; 102:e25277. [PMID: 38284834 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is associated with vascular and neuronal dysfunction, causing neurovascular coupling (NVC) dysfunction, but how NVC dysfunction acts on the mechanism of cognitive impairment in ESRD patients from local to remote is still poorly understood. We recruited 48 ESRD patients and 35 demographically matched healthy controls to scan resting-state functional MRI and arterial spin labeling, then investigated the four types of NVC between amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF), fractional ALFF, regional homogeneity, degree centrality, and cerebral blood perfusion (CBF), and associated functional networks. Our results indicated that ESRD patients showed NVC dysfunction in global gray matter and multiple brain regions due to the mismatch between CBF and neural activity, and associated disrupted functional connectivity (FC) within sensorimotor network (SMN), visual network (VN), default mode network (DMN), salience network (SN), and disrupted FC between them with limbic network (LN), while increased FC between SMN and DMN. Anemia may affect the NVC of middle occipital gyrus and precuneus, and increased pulse pressure may result in disrupted FC with SMN. The NVC dysfunction of the right precuneus, middle frontal gyrus, and parahippocampal gyrus and the FC between the right angular gyrus and the right anterior cingulate gyrus may reflect cognitive impairment in ESRD patients. Our study confirmed that ESRD patients may exist NVC dysfunction and disrupted functional integration in SMN, VN, DMN, SN and LN, serving as one of the mechanisms of cognitive impairment. Anemia and increased pulse pressure may be related risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runyue Hu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peina Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Nephrology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, China
| | - Xiaobao Wei
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Nephrology, Lianyungang No 1 People's Hospital, Lianyungang, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wu
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haibo Xu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yamada T, Watanabe T, Sasaki Y. Plasticity-stability dynamics during post-training processing of learning. Trends Cogn Sci 2024; 28:72-83. [PMID: 37858389 PMCID: PMC10842181 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2023.09.002] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Learning continues beyond the end of training. Post-training learning is supported by changes in plasticity and stability in the brain during both wakefulness and sleep. However, the lack of a unified measure for assessing plasticity and stability dynamics during training and post-training periods has limited our understanding of how these dynamics shape learning. Focusing primarily on procedural learning, we integrate work using behavioral paradigms and a recently developed measure, the excitatory-to-inhibitory (E/I) ratio, to explore the delicate balance between plasticity and stability and its relationship to post-training learning. This reveals plasticity-stability cycles during both wakefulness and sleep that enhance learning and protect it from new learning during post-training processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yamada
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Takeo Watanabe
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Yuka Sasaki
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Parrella NF, Hill AT, Dipnall LM, Loke YJ, Enticott PG, Ford TC. Inhibitory dysfunction and social processing difficulties in autism: A comprehensive narrative review. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 169:113-125. [PMID: 38016393 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The primary inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) has a prominent role in regulating neural development and function, with disruption to GABAergic signalling linked to behavioural phenotypes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly autism. Such neurochemical disruption, likely resulting from diverse genetic and molecular mechanisms, particularly during early development, can subsequently affect the cellular balance of excitation and inhibition in neuronal circuits, which may account for the social processing difficulties observed in autism and related conditions. This comprehensive narrative review integrates diverse streams of research from several disciplines, including molecular neurobiology, genetics, epigenetics, and systems neuroscience. In so doing it aims to elucidate the relevance of inhibitory dysfunction to autism, with specific focus on social processing difficulties that represent a core feature of this disorder. Many of the social processing difficulties experienced in autism have been linked to higher levels of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate and/or lower levels of inhibitory GABA. While current therapeutic options for social difficulties in autism are largely limited to behavioural interventions, this review highlights the psychopharmacological studies that explore the utility of GABA modulation in alleviating such difficulties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aron T Hill
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lillian M Dipnall
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Early Life Epigenetics Group, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Yuk Jing Loke
- Epigenetics Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter G Enticott
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Talitha C Ford
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kang Y, Kang W, Kim A, Tae WS, Ham BJ, Han KM. Decreased cortical gyrification in major depressive disorder. Psychol Med 2023; 53:7512-7524. [PMID: 37154200 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723001216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early neurodevelopmental deviations, such as abnormal cortical folding patterns, are candidate biomarkers of major depressive disorder (MDD). We aimed to investigate the association of MDD with the local gyrification index (LGI) in each cortical region at the whole-brain level, and the association of the LGI with clinical characteristics of MDD. METHODS We obtained T1-weighted images from 234 patients with MDD and 215 healthy controls (HCs). The LGI values from 66 cortical regions in the bilateral hemispheres were automatically calculated according to the Desikan-Killiany atlas. We compared the LGI values between the MDD and HC groups using analysis of covariance, including age, sex, and years of education as covariates. The association between the clinical characteristics and LGI values was investigated in the MDD group. RESULTS Compared with HCs, patients with MDD showed significantly decreased LGI values in the cortical regions, including the bilateral ventrolateral and dorsolateral prefrontal cortices, medial and lateral orbitofrontal cortices, insula, right rostral anterior cingulate cortex, and several temporal and parietal regions, with the largest effect size in the left pars triangularis (Cohen's f2 = 0.361; p = 1.78 × 10-13). Regarding the association of clinical characteristics with LGIs within the MDD group, recurrence and longer illness duration were associated with increased gyrification in several occipital and temporal regions, which showed no significant difference in LGIs between the MDD and HC groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the LGI may be a relatively stable neuroimaging marker associated with MDD predisposition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youbin Kang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooyoung Kang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Aram Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Suk Tae
- Brain Convergence Research Center, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Joo Ham
- Brain Convergence Research Center, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Man Han
- Brain Convergence Research Center, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mawla I, Huang Z, Kaplan CM, Ichesco E, Waller N, Larkin TE, Zöllner HJ, Edden RA, Harte SE, Clauw DJ, Mashour GA, Napadow V, Harris RE. Large-scale momentary brain co-activation patterns are associated with hyperalgesia and mediate focal neurochemistry and cross-network functional connectivity in fibromyalgia. Pain 2023; 164:2737-2748. [PMID: 37751539 PMCID: PMC10652715 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002973] [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: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Fibromyalgia has been characterized by augmented cross-network functional communication between the brain's sensorimotor, default mode, and attentional (salience/ventral and dorsal) networks. However, the underlying mechanisms of these aberrant communication patterns are unknown. In this study, we sought to understand large-scale topographic patterns at instantaneous timepoints, known as co-activation patterns (CAPs). We found that a sustained pressure pain challenge temporally modulated the occurrence of CAPs. Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we found that greater basal excitatory over inhibitory neurotransmitter levels within the anterior insula orchestrated higher cross-network connectivity between the anterior insula and the default mode network through lower occurrence of a CAP encompassing the attentional networks during sustained pain. Moreover, we found that hyperalgesia in fibromyalgia was mediated through increased occurrence of a CAP encompassing the sensorimotor network during sustained pain. In conclusion, this study elucidates the role of momentary large-scale topographic brain patterns in shaping noxious information in patients with fibromyalgia, while laying the groundwork for using precise spatiotemporal dynamics of the brain for the potential development of therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Mawla
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Zirui Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Chelsea M. Kaplan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Eric Ichesco
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Noah Waller
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Tony E. Larkin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Helge J. Zöllner
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Richard A.E. Edden
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Steven E. Harte
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Daniel J. Clauw
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - George A. Mashour
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Vitaly Napadow
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Richard E. Harris
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, School of Medicine, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care, School of Medicine, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Xu X, Lin L, Wu S, Sun S. Exploring Successful Cognitive Aging: Insights Regarding Brain Structure, Function, and Demographics. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1651. [PMID: 38137099 PMCID: PMC10741933 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In the realm of cognitive science, the phenomenon of "successful cognitive aging" stands as a hallmark of individuals who exhibit cognitive abilities surpassing those of their age-matched counterparts. However, it is paramount to underscore a significant gap in the current research, which is marked by a paucity of comprehensive inquiries that deploy substantial sample sizes to methodically investigate the cerebral biomarkers and contributory elements underpinning this cognitive success. It is within this context that our present study emerges, harnessing data derived from the UK Biobank. In this study, a highly selective cohort of 1060 individuals aged 65 and above was meticulously curated from a larger pool of 17,072 subjects. The selection process was guided by their striking cognitive resilience, ascertained via rigorous evaluation encompassing both generic and specific cognitive assessments, compared to their peers within the same age stratum. Notably, the cognitive abilities of the chosen participants closely aligned with the cognitive acumen commonly observed in middle-aged individuals. Our study leveraged a comprehensive array of neuroimaging-derived metrics, obtained from three Tesla MRI scans (T1-weighted images, dMRI, and resting-state fMRI). The metrics included image-derived phenotypes (IDPs) that addressed grey matter morphology, the strength of brain network connectivity, and the microstructural attributes of white matter. Statistical analyses were performed employing ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U tests, and chi-square tests to evaluate the distinctive aspects of IDPs pertinent to the domain of successful cognitive aging. Furthermore, these analyses aimed to elucidate lifestyle practices that potentially underpin the maintenance of cognitive acumen throughout the aging process. Our findings unveiled a robust and compelling association between heightened cognitive aptitude and the integrity of white matter structures within the brain. Furthermore, individuals who exhibited successful cognitive aging demonstrated markedly enhanced activity in the cerebral regions responsible for auditory perception, voluntary motor control, memory retention, and emotional regulation. These advantageous cognitive attributes were mirrored in the health-related lifestyle choices of the surveyed cohort, characterized by elevated educational attainment, a lower incidence of smoking, and a penchant for moderate alcohol consumption. Moreover, they displayed superior grip strength and enhanced walking speeds. Collectively, these findings furnish valuable insights into the multifaceted determinants of successful cognitive aging, encompassing both neurobiological constituents and lifestyle practices. Such comprehensive comprehension significantly contributes to the broader discourse on aging, thereby establishing a solid foundation for the formulation of targeted interventions aimed at fostering cognitive well-being among aging populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinze Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Environment and Life, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (X.X.); (S.W.); (S.S.)
| | - Lan Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Environment and Life, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (X.X.); (S.W.); (S.S.)
- Intelligent Physiological Measurement and Clinical Translation, Beijing International Base for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Shuicai Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Environment and Life, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (X.X.); (S.W.); (S.S.)
- Intelligent Physiological Measurement and Clinical Translation, Beijing International Base for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Shen Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Environment and Life, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (X.X.); (S.W.); (S.S.)
- Intelligent Physiological Measurement and Clinical Translation, Beijing International Base for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sikes-Keilp C, Rubinow DR. GABA-ergic Modulators: New Therapeutic Approaches to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:679-693. [PMID: 37542704 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01030-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is characterized by the predictable onset of mood and physical symptoms secondary to gonadal steroid fluctuation during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Although menstrual-related affective dysfunction is responsible for considerable functional impairment and reduction in quality of life worldwide, currently approved treatments for PMDD are suboptimal in their effectiveness. Research over the past two decades has suggested that the interaction between allopregnanolone, a neurosteroid derivative of progesterone, and the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system represents an important relationship underlying symptom genesis in reproductive-related mood disorders, including PMDD. The objective of this narrative review is to discuss the plausible link between changes in GABAergic transmission secondary to the fluctuation of allopregnanolone during the luteal phase and mood impairment in susceptible individuals. As part of this discussion, we explore promising findings from early clinical trials of several compounds that stabilize allopregnanolone signaling during the luteal phase, including dutasteride, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor; isoallopregnanolone, a GABA-A modulating steroid antagonist; and ulipristal acetate, a selective progesterone receptor modulator. We then reflect on the implications of these therapeutic advances, including how they may promote our knowledge of affective regulation more generally. We conclude that these and other studies of PMDD may yield critical insight into the etiopathogenesis of affective disorders, considering that (1) symptoms in PMDD have a predictable onset and offset, allowing for examination of affective state kinetics, and (2) GABAergic interventions in PMDD can be used to better understand the relationship between mood states, network regulation, and the balance between excitatory and inhibitory signaling in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Sikes-Keilp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina Hospitals, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
| | - David R Rubinow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina Hospitals, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li T, Willette AA, Wang Q, Pollpeter A, Larsen BA, Mohammadiarvejeh P, Fili M. Alzheimer's Disease Genetic Influences Impact the Associations between Diet and Resting-State Functional Connectivity: A Study from the UK Biobank. Nutrients 2023; 15:3390. [PMID: 37571327 PMCID: PMC10420831 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153390] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Red wine and dairy products have been staples in human diets for a long period. However, the impact of red wine and dairy intake on brain network activity remains ambiguous and requires further investigation. METHODS This study investigated the associations between dairy and red wine consumption and seven neural networks' connectivity with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from a sub-cohort of the UK Biobank database. Linear mixed models were employed to regress dairy and red wine consumption against the intrinsic functional connectivity for each neural network. Interactions with Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk factors, including apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) genotype, TOMM40 genotype, and family history of AD, were also assessed. RESULT More red wine consumption was associated with enhanced connectivity in the central executive function network and posterior default mode network. Greater milk intake was correlated with more left executive function network connectivity, while higher cheese consumption was linked to reduced posterior default mode network connectivity. For participants without a family history of Alzheimer's disease (AD), increased red wine consumption was positively correlated with enhanced left executive function network connectivity. In contrast, participants with a family history of AD displayed diminished network connectivity in relation to their red wine consumption. The association between cheese consumption and neural network connectivity was influenced by APOE4 status, TOMM40 status, and family history, exhibiting contrasting patterns across different subgroups. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that family history modifies the relationship between red wine consumption and network strength. The interaction effects between cheese intake and network connectivity may vary depending on the presence of different genetic factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Li
- Genetics and Genomics Interdepartmental Graduate Program, Iowa State University, 1109 HNSB, 2302 Osborn Drive Ames, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Auriel A. Willette
- Department of Neurology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, College of Human Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA;
| | - Amy Pollpeter
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA;
| | - Brittany A. Larsen
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA;
| | - Parvin Mohammadiarvejeh
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (P.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Mohammad Fili
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (P.M.); (M.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pini L, Salvalaggio A, Wennberg AM, Dimakou A, Matteoli M, Corbetta M. The pollutome-connectome axis: a putative mechanism to explain pollution effects on neurodegeneration. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 86:101867. [PMID: 36720351 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The study of pollutant effects is extremely important to address the epochal challenges we are facing, where world populations are increasingly moving from rural to urban centers, revolutionizing our world into an urban world. These transformations will exacerbate pollution, thus highlighting the necessity to unravel its effect on human health. Epidemiological studies have reported that pollution increases the risk of neurological diseases, with growing evidence on the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Air pollution and water pollutants are the main chemicals driving this risk. These chemicals can promote inflammation, acting in synergy with genotype vulnerability. However, the biological underpinnings of this association are unknown. In this review, we focus on the link between pollution and brain network connectivity at the macro-scale level. We provide an updated overview of epidemiological findings and studies investigating brain network changes associated with pollution exposure, and discuss the mechanistic insights of pollution-induced brain changes through neural networks. We explain, in detail, the pollutome-connectome axis that might provide the functional substrate for pollution-induced processes leading to cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration. We describe this model within the framework of two pollutants, air pollution, a widely recognized threat, and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a large class of synthetic chemicals which are currently emerging as new neurotoxic source.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Pini
- Department of Neuroscience and Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Italy; Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, VIMM, Padova, Italy.
| | | | - Alexandra M Wennberg
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anastasia Dimakou
- Department of Neuroscience and Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Michela Matteoli
- Neuro Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milano, Italy; CNR Institute of Neuroscience, Milano, Italy
| | - Maurizio Corbetta
- Department of Neuroscience and Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Italy; Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, VIMM, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen X, Song X, Öngür D, Du F. Association of default-mode network neurotransmitters and inter-network functional connectivity in first episode psychosis. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:781-788. [PMID: 36788375 PMCID: PMC10066209 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01546-y] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Multiple psychiatric disorders are characterized by a failure to suppress default-mode network (DMN) activity during tasks and by weaker anti-correlations between DMN and other brain networks at rest. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are poorly understood. At the cellular level, neuronal activity is regulated by multiple neurochemical processes including cycling of glutamate and GABA, the major excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in brain. By combining functional MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques, it has been shown that the neurotransmitter concentrations in DMN modulate not only functional activity during cognitive tasks, but also the functional connectivity between DMN and other brain networks such as frontoparietal executive control network (CN) at rest in the healthy brain. In the current study, we extend previous research to first episode psychosis (FEP) patients and their relatives. We detected higher glutamate (Glu) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) in FEP compared to healthy controls without a significant difference in GABA. We also observed a significantly lower functional anti-correlated connectivity between critical nodes within the DMN (MPFC) and CN (DLPFC) in FEP. Furthermore, the relationship between MPFC Glu and GABA concentrations and the functional anti-correlation that is seen in healthy people was absent in FEP patients. These findings imply that both the DMN Glu level and the interaction between DMN and CN are affected by the illness, as is the association between neurochemistry and functional connectivity. A better understanding of this observation could provide opportunities for developing novel treatment strategies for psychosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Psychotic Disorders Division, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Xiaopeng Song
- Psychotic Disorders Division, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Wuhan Zhongke Industrial Research Institute of Medical Science, Wuhan, Hubei, 430075, China
| | - Dost Öngür
- Psychotic Disorders Division, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Fei Du
- Psychotic Disorders Division, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, CA, 02478, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bavato F, Esposito F, Dornbierer DA, Zölch N, Quednow BB, Staempfli P, Landolt HP, Seifritz E, Bosch OG. Subacute changes in brain functional network connectivity after nocturnal sodium oxybate intake are associated with anterior cingulate GABA. Cereb Cortex 2023:7086058. [DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractSodium oxybate (γ-hydroxybutyrate, GHB) is an endogenous GHB/GABAB receptor agonist, clinically used to promote slow-wave sleep and reduce next-day sleepiness in disorders such as narcolepsy and fibromyalgia. The neurobiological signature of these unique therapeutic effects remains elusive. Promising current neuropsychopharmacological approaches to understand the neural underpinnings of specific drug effects address cerebral resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) patterns and neurometabolic alterations. Hence, we performed a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized, cross-over pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging study with a nocturnal administration of GHB, combined with magnetic resonance spectroscopy of GABA and glutamate in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). In sum, 16 healthy male volunteers received 50 mg/kg GHB p.o. or placebo at 02:30 a.m. to maximize deep sleep enhancement and multi-modal brain imaging was performed at 09:00 a.m. of the following morning. Independent component analysis of whole-brain rsFC revealed a significant increase of rsFC between the salience network (SN) and the right central executive network (rCEN) after GHB intake compared with placebo. This SN-rCEN coupling was significantly associated with changes in GABA levels in the ACC (pall < 0.05). The observed neural pattern is compatible with a functional switch to a more extrinsic brain state, which may serve as a neurobiological signature of the wake-promoting effects of GHB.
Collapse
|
24
|
Nettekoven C, Mitchell L, Clarke WT, Emir U, Campbell J, Johansen-Berg H, Jenkinson N, Stagg CJ. Cerebellar GABA Change during Visuomotor Adaptation Relates to Adaptation Performance and Cerebellar Network Connectivity: A Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging Study. J Neurosci 2022; 42:7721-7732. [PMID: 36414012 PMCID: PMC9581563 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0096-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor adaptation is crucial for performing accurate movements in a changing environment and relies on the cerebellum. Although cerebellar involvement has been well characterized, the neurochemical changes in the cerebellum underpinning human motor adaptation remain unknown. We used a novel magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) technique to measure changes in the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the human cerebellum during visuomotor adaptation. Participants (n = 17, six female) used their right hand to adapt to a rotated cursor in the scanner, compared with a control task requiring no adaptation. We spatially resolved adaptation-driven GABA changes at the cerebellar nuclei and cerebellar cortex in the left and the right cerebellar hemisphere independently and found that simple right-hand movements increase GABA in the right cerebellar nuclei and decreases GABA in the left. When isolating adaptation-driven GABA changes, we found that GABA in the left cerebellar nuclei and the right cerebellar nuclei diverged, although GABA change from baseline at the right cerebellar nuclei was not different from zero at the group level. Early adaptation-driven GABA fluctuations in the right cerebellar nuclei correlated with adaptation performance. Participants showing greater GABA decrease adapted better, suggesting early GABA change is behaviorally relevant. Early GABA change also correlated with functional connectivity change in a cerebellar network. Participants showing greater decreases in GABA showed greater strength increases in cerebellar network connectivity. Results were specific to GABA, to adaptation, and to the cerebellar network. This study provides first evidence for plastic changes in cerebellar neurochemistry during motor adaptation. Characterizing these naturally occurring neurochemical changes may provide a basis for developing therapeutic interventions to facilitate human motor adaptation.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Despite motor adaptation being fundamental to maintaining accurate movements, its neurochemical basis remains poorly understood, perhaps because measuring neurochemicals in the human cerebellum is technically challenging. Using a novel magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging method, this study provides evidence for GABA changes in the left compared with the right cerebellar nuclei driven by both simple movement and motor adaptation. Although right cerebellar GABA changes were not significantly different from zero at the group level, the adaptation-driven GABA fluctuations in the right cerebellar nuclei correlated with adaptation performance and with functional connectivity change in a cerebellar network. These results show the first evidence for plastic changes in cerebellar neurochemistry during a cerebellar learning task. This provides the basis for developing therapeutic interventions that facilitate these naturally occurring changes to amplify cerebellar-dependent learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Nettekoven
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU UK
- Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
- Medical Research Council Brain Network Dynamics Unit, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TH UK
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX UK
| | - Leah Mitchell
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU UK
| | - William T Clarke
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU UK
- Medical Research Council Brain Network Dynamics Unit, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TH UK
| | - Uzay Emir
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, Purdue, Indiana 47907
| | - Jon Campbell
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU UK
| | - Heidi Johansen-Berg
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU UK
- Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Ned Jenkinson
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT UK
| | - Charlotte J Stagg
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU UK
- Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Combining CRISPR-Cas9 and brain imaging to study the link from genes to molecules to networks. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122552119. [PMID: 36161926 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122552119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptors, transporters, and ion channels are important targets for therapy development in neurological diseases, but their mechanistic role in pathogenesis is often poorly understood. Gene editing and in vivo imaging approaches will help to identify the molecular and functional role of these targets and the consequence of their regional dysfunction on the whole-brain level. We combine CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing with in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) and functional MRI (fMRI) to investigate the direct link between genes, molecules, and the brain connectome. The extensive knowledge of the Slc18a2 gene encoding the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2), involved in the storage and release of dopamine, makes it an excellent target for studying the gene network relationships while structurally preserving neuronal integrity and function. We edited the Slc18a2 in the substantia nigra pars compacta of adult rats and used in vivo molecular imaging besides behavioral, histological, and biochemical assessments to characterize the CRISPR-Cas9-mediated VMAT2 knockdown. Simultaneous PET/fMRI was performed to investigate molecular and functional brain alterations. We found that stage-specific adaptations of brain functional connectivity follow the selective impairment of presynaptic dopamine storage and release. Our study reveals that recruiting different brain networks is an early response to the dopaminergic dysfunction preceding neuronal cell loss. Our combinatorial approach is a tool to investigate the impact of specific genes on brain molecular and functional dynamics, which will help to develop tailored therapies for normalizing brain function.
Collapse
|
26
|
Rideaux R, Ehrhardt SE, Wards Y, Filmer HL, Jin J, Deelchand DK, Marjańska M, Mattingley JB, Dux PE. On the relationship between GABA+ and glutamate across the brain. Neuroimage 2022; 257:119273. [PMID: 35526748 PMCID: PMC9924060 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Equilibrium between excitation and inhibition (E/I balance) is key to healthy brain function. Conversely, disruption of normal E/I balance has been implicated in a range of central neurological pathologies. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) provides a non-invasive means of quantifying in vivo concentrations of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, which could be used as diagnostic biomarkers. Using the ratio of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters as an index of E/I balance is common practice in MRS work, but recent studies have shown inconsistent evidence for the validity of this proxy. This is underscored by the fact that different measures are often used in calculating E/I balance such as glutamate and Glx (glutamate and glutamine). Here we used a large MRS dataset obtained at ultra-high field (7 T) measured from 193 healthy young adults and focused on two brain regions - prefrontal and occipital cortex - to resolve this inconsistency. We find evidence that there is an inter-individual common ratio between GABA+ (γ-aminobutyric acid and macromolecules) and Glx in the occipital, but not prefrontal cortex. We further replicate the prefrontal result in a legacy dataset (n = 78) measured at high-field (3 T) strength. By contrast, with ultra-high field MRS data, we find extreme evidence that there is a common ratio between GABA+ and glutamate in both prefrontal and occipital cortices, which cannot be explained by participant demographics, signal quality, fractional tissue volume, or other metabolite concentrations. These results are consistent with previous electrophysiological and theoretical work supporting E/I balance. Our findings indicate that MRS-detected GABA+ and glutamate (but not Glx), are a reliable measure of E/I balance .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reuben Rideaux
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
| | - Shane E Ehrhardt
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Yohan Wards
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Hannah L Filmer
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Jin Jin
- Siemens Healthcare Pty Ltd, Brisbane, Australia; Center for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Dinesh K Deelchand
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Małgorzata Marjańska
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jason B Mattingley
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia; School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Paul E Dux
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Antón-Toro LF, Bruña R, Del Cerro-León A, Shpakivska D, Mateos-Gordo P, Porras-Truque C, García-Gómez R, Maestú F, García-Moreno LM. Electrophysiological resting-state hyperconnectivity and poorer behavioural regulation as predisposing profiles of adolescent binge drinking. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13199. [PMID: 35754100 PMCID: PMC9286401 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent Binge Drinking (BD) has become an increasing health and social concern, with detrimental consequences for brain development and functional integrity. However, research on neurophysiological and neuropsychological traits predisposing to BD are limited at this time. In this work, we conducted a 2‐year longitudinal magnetoencephalography (MEG) study over a cohort of initially alcohol‐naïve adolescents with the purpose of exploring anomalies in resting‐state electrophysiological networks, impulsivity, sensation‐seeking, and dysexecutive behaviour able to predict future BD patterns. In a sample of 67 alcohol‐naïve adolescents (age = 14.5 ± 0.9), we measured resting‐state activity using MEG. Additionally, we evaluated their neuropsychological traits using self‐report ecological scales (BIS‐11, SSS‐V, BDEFS, BRIEF‐SR and DEX). In a second evaluation, 2 years later, we measured participant's alcohol consumption, sub‐dividing the original sample in two groups: future binge drinkers (22 individuals, age 14.6 ± 0.8; eight females) and future light/no drinkers (17 individuals, age 14.5 ± 0.8; eight females). Then, we searched for differences predating alcohol BD intake. We found abnormalities in MEG resting state, in a form of gamma band hyperconnectivity, in those adolescents who transitioned into BD years later. Furthermore, they showed higher impulsivity, dysexecutive behaviours and sensation seeking, positively correlated with functional connectivity (FC). Sensation seeking and impulsivity mainly predicted BD severity in the future, while the relationship between dysexecutive trait and FC with future BD was mediated by sensation seeking. These findings shed light to electrophysiological and neuropsychological traits of vulnerability towards alcohol consumption. We hypothesise that these differences may rely on divergent neurobiological development of inhibitory neurotransmission pathways and executive prefrontal circuits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Antón-Toro
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Bruña
- Department of Radiology, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Del Cerro-León
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Danylyna Shpakivska
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Mateos-Gordo
- Department of Psychobiology and Methodology in Behavioral Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Claudia Porras-Truque
- Department of Psychobiology and Methodology in Behavioral Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel García-Gómez
- Department of Psychobiology and Methodology in Behavioral Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Maestú
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel García-Moreno
- Department of Psychobiology and Methodology in Behavioral Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Koush Y, Rothman DL, Behar KL, de Graaf RA, Hyder F. Human brain functional MRS reveals interplay of metabolites implicated in neurotransmission and neuroenergetics. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2022; 42:911-934. [PMID: 35078383 PMCID: PMC9125492 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x221076570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
While functional MRI (fMRI) localizes brain activation and deactivation, functional MRS (fMRS) provides insights into the underlying metabolic conditions. There is much interest in measuring task-induced and resting levels of metabolites implicated in neuroenergetics (e.g., lactate, glucose, or β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB)) and neurotransmission (e.g., γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) or pooled glutamate and glutamine (Glx)). Ultra-high magnetic field (e.g., 7T) has boosted the fMRS quantification precision, reliability, and stability of spectroscopic observations using short echo-time (TE) 1H-MRS techniques. While short TE 1H-MRS lacks sensitivity and specificity for fMRS at lower magnetic fields (e.g., 3T or 4T), most of these metabolites can also be detected by J-difference editing (JDE) 1H-MRS with longer TE to filter overlapping resonances. The 1H-MRS studies show that JDE can detect GABA, Glx, lactate, and BHB at 3T, 4T and 7T. Most recently, it has also been demonstrated that JDE 1H-MRS is capable of reliable detection of metabolic changes in different brain areas at various magnetic fields. Combining fMRS measurements with fMRI is important for understanding normal brain function, but also clinically relevant for mechanisms and/or biomarkers of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. We provide an up-to-date overview of fMRS research in the last three decades, both in terms of applications and technological advances. Overall the emerging fMRS techniques can be expected to contribute substantially to our understanding of metabolism for brain function and dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yury Koush
- Magnetic Resonance Research Center, Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Douglas L Rothman
- Magnetic Resonance Research Center, Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kevin L Behar
- Magnetic Resonance Research Center, Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robin A de Graaf
- Magnetic Resonance Research Center, Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Fahmeed Hyder
- Magnetic Resonance Research Center, Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Jia K, Frangou P, Karlaftis VM, Ziminski JJ, Giorgio J, Rideaux R, Zamboni E, Hodgson V, Emir U, Kourtzi Z. Neurochemical and functional interactions for improved perceptual decisions through training. J Neurophysiol 2022; 127:900-912. [PMID: 35235415 PMCID: PMC8977131 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00308.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Learning and experience are known to improve our ability to make perceptual decisions. Yet, our understanding of the brain mechanisms that support improved perceptual decisions through training remains limited. Here, we test the neurochemical and functional interactions that support learning for perceptual decisions in the context of an orientation identification task. Using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), we measure neurotransmitters (i.e., glutamate, GABA) that are known to be involved in visual processing and learning in sensory [early visual cortex (EV)] and decision-related [dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)] brain regions. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI), we test for functional interactions between these regions that relate to decision processes. We demonstrate that training improves perceptual judgments (i.e., orientation identification), as indicated by faster rates of evidence accumulation after training. These learning-dependent changes in decision processes relate to lower EV glutamate levels and EV-DLPFC connectivity, suggesting that glutamatergic excitation and functional interactions between visual and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex facilitate perceptual decisions. Further, anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in EV impairs learning, suggesting a direct link between visual cortex excitation and perceptual decisions. Our findings advance our understanding of the role of learning in perceptual decision making, suggesting that glutamatergic excitation for efficient sensory processing and functional interactions between sensory and decision-related regions support improved perceptual decisions.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Combining multimodal brain imaging [magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), functional connectivity] with interventions [transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)], we demonstrate that glutamatergic excitation and functional interactions between sensory (visual) and decision-related (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) areas support our ability to optimize perceptual decisions through training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Jia
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Polytimi Frangou
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Vasilis M Karlaftis
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph J Ziminski
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Giorgio
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Reuben Rideaux
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Elisa Zamboni
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Hodgson
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Uzay Emir
- Purdue University School of Health Sciences, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Zoe Kourtzi
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Li M, Danyeli LV, Colic L, Wagner G, Smesny S, Chand T, Di X, Biswal BB, Kaufmann J, Reichenbach JR, Speck O, Walter M, Sen ZD. The differential association between local neurotransmitter levels and whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity in two distinct cingulate cortex subregions. Hum Brain Mapp 2022; 43:2833-2844. [PMID: 35234321 PMCID: PMC9120566 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany.,Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lena Vera Danyeli
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lejla Colic
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany.,Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Gerd Wagner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany
| | - Stefan Smesny
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Tara Chand
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Xin Di
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Bharat B Biswal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jörn Kaufmann
- Department of Neurology, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen R Reichenbach
- Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany.,Medical Physics Group, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Michael Stifel Center Jena for Data-Driven & Simulation Science (MSCJ), Jena, Germany.,Center of Medical Optics and Photonics (CeMOP), Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Speck
- Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany.,Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany.,Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Martin Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany.,Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Zümrüt Duygu Sen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health, DZP, Germany.,Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Li W, Xu J, Xiang Q, Zhuo K, Zhang Y, Liu D, Li Y. Neurometabolic and functional changes of default-mode network relate to clinical recovery in first-episode psychosis patients: A longitudinal 1H-MRS and fMRI study. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 34:102970. [PMID: 35240468 PMCID: PMC8889416 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.102970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antipsychotic treatment has improved the disrupted functional connectivity (FC) and neurometabolites levels of the default mode network (DMN) in schizophrenia patients, but a direct relationship between FC change, neurometabolic level alteration, and symptom improvement has not been built. This study examined the association between the alterations in DMN FC, the changes of neurometabolites levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC), and the improvementsinpsychopathology in a longitudinal study of drug-naïve first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients. METHODS Thirty-two drug-naïve FEP patients and 30 matched healthy controls underwent repeated assessments with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and 3T proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy as well as resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. The levels of γ-aminobutyric acid, glutamate, N-acetyl-aspartate in MPFC, and the FC of DMN were measured. After 8-week antipsychotic treatment, 24 patients were re-examined. RESULTS After treatment, the changes in γ-aminobutyric acid were correlated with the alterations of FC between the MPFC and DMN, while the changes in N-acetyl-aspartate were associated with the alterations of FC between the posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus and DMN. The FC changes of both regions were correlated with patients PANSS positive score reductions. The structural equation modeling analyses revealed that the changes of DMN FC mediated the relationship between the changes of neurometabolites and the symptom improvements of the patients. CONCLUSIONS The derived neurometabolic-functional changes underlying the clinical recovery provide insights into the prognosis of FEP patients. It is noteworthy that this is an exploratory study, and future work with larger sample size is needed to validate our findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Jiale Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Qiong Xiang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Kaiming Zhuo
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Yaoyu Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Dengtang Liu
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China; Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China; Institute of Mental Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, PR China.
| | - Yao Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Rafique SA, Steeves JKE. Modulating intrinsic functional connectivity with visual cortex using low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Brain Behav 2022; 12:e2491. [PMID: 35049143 PMCID: PMC8865167 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intrinsic network connectivity becomes altered in pathophysiology. Noninvasive brain stimulation can modulate pathological functional networks in an attempt to restore the inherent response. To determine its usefulness for visual-related disorders, we developed procedures investigating repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) protocols targeting the visual cortex on modulating connectivity associated with the visual network and default mode network (DMN). METHODS We compared two low-frequency (1 Hz) rTMS protocols to the visual cortex (V1)-a single 20 min session and five successive 20 min sessions (accelerated/within-session rTMS)-using multi-echo resting-state functional magnetic resonance whole-brain imaging and resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC). We also explored the relationship between rsFC and rTMS-induced changes in key inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. GABA (GABA+) and glutamate (Glx) concentrations were measured in vivo using magnetic resonance spectroscopy. RESULTS Acute disruption with a single rTMS session caused widespread connectivity reconfiguration with nodes of interest. Changes were not evident immediately post-rTMS but were observed at 1 h post-rTMS. Accelerated sessions resulted in weak alterations in connectivity, producing a relatively homeostatic response. Changes in GABA+ and Glx concentrations with network connectivity were dependent on the rTMS protocol. CONCLUSIONS This proof-of-concept study offers new perspectives to assess stimulation-induced neural processes involved in intrinsic functional connectivity and the potential for rTMS to modulate nodes interconnected with the visual cortex. The differential effects of single-session and accelerated rTMS on physiological markers are crucial for furthering the advancement of treatment modalities in visual cortex related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara A Rafique
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Vision Research, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer K E Steeves
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Vision Research, York University, Toronto, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Avgerinos KI, Mullins RJ, Egan JM, Kapogiannis D. Ketone Ester Effects on Biomarkers of Brain Metabolism and Cognitive Performance in Cognitively Intact Adults ≥ 55 Years Old. A Study Protocol for a Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. J Prev Alzheimers Dis 2022; 9:54-66. [PMID: 35098974 PMCID: PMC9359666 DOI: 10.14283/jpad.2022.3] [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] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ketone bodies have been proposed as an "energy rescue" for the Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain, which underutilizes glucose. Prior research has shown that oral ketone monoester (KME) safely induces robust ketosis in humans and has demonstrated cognitive-enhancing and pathology-reducing properties in animal models of AD. However, human evidence that KME may enhance brain ketone metabolism, improve cognitive performance and engage AD pathogenic cascades is scarce. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of ketone monoester (KME) on brain metabolism, cognitive performance and AD pathogenic cascades in cognitively normal older adults with metabolic syndrome and therefore at higher risk for AD. DESIGN Double-blinded randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. SETTING Clinical Unit of the National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, US. PARTICIPANTS Fifty cognitively intact adults ≥ 55 years old, with metabolic syndrome. INTERVENTION Drinks containing 25 g of KME or isocaloric placebo consumed three times daily for 28 days. OUTCOMES Primary: concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in precuneus measured with Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS). Exploratory: plasma and urine BHB, multiple brain and muscle metabolites detected with MRS, cognition assessed with the PACC and NIH toolbox, biomarkers of AD and metabolic mediators in plasma extracellular vesicles, and stool microbiome. DISCUSSION This is the first study to investigate the AD-biomarker and cognitive effects of KME in humans. Ketone monoester is safe, tolerable, induces robust ketosis, and animal studies indicate that it can modify AD pathology. By conducting a study of KME in a population at risk for AD, we hope to bridge the existing gap between pre-clinical evidence and the potential for brain-metabolic, pro-cognitive, and anti-Alzheimer's effects in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K I Avgerinos
- Dimitrios Kapogiannis, Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, 8C228, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Email address: ; Telephone: +1 410 350 3953
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
APOE, TOMM40, and sex interactions on neural network connectivity. Neurobiol Aging 2022; 109:158-165. [PMID: 34740077 PMCID: PMC8694046 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The Apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4) haplotype is the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Translocase of Outer Mitochondrial Membrane-40 (TOMM40) gene maintains cellular bioenergetics, which is disrupted in AD. TOMM40 rs2075650 ('650) G versus A carriage is consistently related to neural and cognitive outcomes, but it is unclear if and how it interacts with APOE. We examined 21 orthogonal neural networks among 8,222 middle-aged to aged participants in the UK Biobank cohort. ANOVA and multiple linear regression tested main effects and interactions with APOE and TOMM40 '650 genotypes, and if age and sex acted as moderators. APOE ε4 was associated with less strength in multiple networks, while '650 G versus A carriage was related to more language comprehension network strength. In APOE ε4 carriers, '650 G-carriage led to less network strength with increasing age, while in non-G-carriers this was only seen in women but not men. TOMM40 may shift what happens to network activity in aging APOE ε4 carriers depending on sex.
Collapse
|
35
|
Demchenko I, Tassone VK, Kennedy SH, Dunlop K, Bhat V. Intrinsic Connectivity Networks of Glutamate-Mediated Antidepressant Response: A Neuroimaging Review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:864902. [PMID: 35722550 PMCID: PMC9199367 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.864902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional monoamine-based pharmacotherapy, considered the first-line treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), has several challenges, including high rates of non-response. To address these challenges, preclinical and clinical studies have sought to characterize antidepressant response through monoamine-independent mechanisms. One striking example is glutamate, the brain's foremost excitatory neurotransmitter: since the 1990s, studies have consistently reported altered levels of glutamate in MDD, as well as antidepressant effects following molecular targeting of glutamatergic receptors. Therapeutically, this has led to advances in the discovery, testing, and clinical application of a wide array of glutamatergic agents, particularly ketamine. Notably, ketamine has been demonstrated to rapidly improve mood symptoms, unlike monoamine-based interventions, and the neurobiological basis behind this rapid antidepressant response is under active investigation. Advances in brain imaging techniques, including functional magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and positron emission tomography, enable the identification of the brain network-based characteristics distinguishing rapid glutamatergic modulation from the effect of slow-acting conventional monoamine-based pharmacology. Here, we review brain imaging studies that examine brain connectivity features associated with rapid antidepressant response in MDD patients treated with glutamatergic pharmacotherapies in contrast with patients treated with slow-acting monoamine-based treatments. Trends in recent brain imaging literature suggest that the activity of brain regions is organized into coherent functionally distinct networks, termed intrinsic connectivity networks (ICNs). We provide an overview of major ICNs implicated in depression and explore how treatment response following glutamatergic modulation alters functional connectivity of limbic, cognitive, and executive nodes within ICNs, with well-characterized anti-anhedonic effects and the enhancement of "top-down" executive control. Alterations within and between the core ICNs could potentially exert downstream effects on the nodes within other brain networks of relevance to MDD that are structurally and functionally interconnected through glutamatergic synapses. Understanding similarities and differences in brain ICNs features underlying treatment response will positively impact the trajectory and outcomes for adults suffering from MDD and will facilitate the development of biomarkers to enable glutamate-based precision therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Demchenko
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, Mental Health and Addictions Service, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Center for Depression and Suicide Studies, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Vanessa K Tassone
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, Mental Health and Addictions Service, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sidney H Kennedy
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, Mental Health and Addictions Service, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Center for Depression and Suicide Studies, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Katharine Dunlop
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, Mental Health and Addictions Service, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Center for Depression and Suicide Studies, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Venkat Bhat
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, Mental Health and Addictions Service, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Center for Depression and Suicide Studies, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Costigan A, Umla-Runge K, Evans C, Raybould R, Graham K, Lawrence A. Evidence against altered excitatory/inhibitory balance in the posteromedial cortex of young adult APOE E4 carriers: A resting state 1H-MRS study. NEUROIMAGE. REPORTS 2021; 1:100059. [PMID: 36896169 PMCID: PMC9986794 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynirp.2021.100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A strategy to gain insight into early changes that may predispose people to Alzheimer's disease (AD) is to study the brains of younger cognitively healthy people that are at increased genetic risk of AD. The Apolipoprotein (APOE) E4 allele is the strongest genetic risk factor for AD, and several neuroimaging studies comparing APOE E4 carriers with non-carriers at age ∼20-30 years have detected hyperactivity (or reduced deactivation) in posteromedial cortex (PMC), a key hub of the default network (DN), which has a high susceptibility to early amyloid deposition in AD. Transgenic mouse models suggest such early network activity alterations may result from altered excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance, but this is yet to be examined in humans. Here we test the hypothesis that PMC fMRI hyperactivity could be underpinned by altered levels of excitatory (glutamate) and/or inhibitory (GABA) neurotransmitters in this brain region. Forty-seven participants (20 APOE E4 carriers and 27 non-carriers) aged 18-25 years underwent resting-state proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), a non-invasive neuroimaging technique to measure glutamate and GABA in vivo. Metabolites were measured in a PMC voxel of interest and in a comparison voxel in the occipital cortex (OCC). There was no difference in either glutamate or GABA between the E4 carriers and non-carriers in either MRS voxel, or in the ratio of glutamate to GABA, a measure of E/I balance. Default Bayesian t-tests revealed evidence in support of this null finding. Our findings suggest that PMC hyperactivity in APOE E4 carriers is unlikely to be associated with, or possibly may precede, alterations in local resting-state PMC neurotransmitters, thus informing our understanding of the spatio-temporal sequence of early network alterations underlying APOE E4 related AD risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A.G. Costigan
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - K. Umla-Runge
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - C.J. Evans
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - R. Raybould
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Cardiff, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - K.S. Graham
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - A.D. Lawrence
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Dynamic Recovery: GABA Agonism Restores Neural Variability in Older, Poorer Performing Adults. J Neurosci 2021; 41:9350-9360. [PMID: 34732523 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0335-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with cognitive impairment, but there are large individual differences in these declines. One neural measure that is lower in older adults and predicts these individual differences is moment-to-moment brain signal variability. Testing the assumption that GABA should heighten neural variability, we examined whether reduced brain signal variability in older, poorer performing adults could be boosted by increasing GABA pharmacologically. Brain signal variability was estimated using fMRI in 20 young and 24 older healthy human adults during placebo and GABA agonist sessions. As expected, older adults exhibited lower signal variability at placebo, and, crucially, GABA agonism boosted older adults' variability to the levels of young adults. Furthermore, poorer performing older adults experienced a greater increase in variability on drug, suggesting that those with more to gain benefit the most from GABA system potentiation. GABA may thus serve as a core neurochemical target in future work on aging- and cognition-related human brain dynamics.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Prior research indicates that moment-to-moment brain signal variability is lower in older, poorer performing adults. We found that this reduced brain signal variability could be boosted through GABA agonism in older adults to the levels of young adults and that this boost was largest in the poorer performing older adults. These results provide the first evidence that brain signal variability can be restored by increasing GABAergic activity and suggest the promise of developing interventions targeting inhibitory systems to help slow cognitive declines in healthy aging.
Collapse
|
38
|
Naskar A, Vattikonda A, Deco G, Roy D, Banerjee A. Multiscale dynamic mean field (MDMF) model relates resting-state brain dynamics with local cortical excitatory-inhibitory neurotransmitter homeostasis. Netw Neurosci 2021; 5:757-782. [PMID: 34746626 PMCID: PMC8567829 DOI: 10.1162/netn_a_00197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous computational models have related spontaneous resting-state brain activity with local excitatory–inhibitory balance in neuronal populations. However, how underlying neurotransmitter kinetics associated with E–I balance govern resting-state spontaneous brain dynamics remains unknown. Understanding the mechanisms by virtue of which fluctuations in neurotransmitter concentrations, a hallmark of a variety of clinical conditions, relate to functional brain activity is of critical importance. We propose a multiscale dynamic mean field (MDMF) model—a system of coupled differential equations for capturing the synaptic gating dynamics in excitatory and inhibitory neural populations as a function of neurotransmitter kinetics. Individual brain regions are modeled as population of MDMF and are connected by realistic connection topologies estimated from diffusion tensor imaging data. First, MDMF successfully predicts resting-state functional connectivity. Second, our results show that optimal range of glutamate and GABA neurotransmitter concentrations subserve as the dynamic working point of the brain, that is, the state of heightened metastability observed in empirical blood-oxygen-level-dependent signals. Third, for predictive validity the network measures of segregation (modularity and clustering coefficient) and integration (global efficiency and characteristic path length) from existing healthy and pathological brain network studies could be captured by simulated functional connectivity from an MDMF model. How changes in neurotransmitter kinetics impact the organization of large-scale neurocognitive networks is an open question in neuroscience. Here, we propose a multiscale dynamic mean field (MDMF) model that incorporates biophysically realistic kinetic parameters of receptor binding in a dynamic mean field model and captures brain dynamics from the “whole brain.” MDMF could reliably reproduce the resting-state brain functional connectivity patterns. Further employing graph theoretic methods, MDMF could qualitatively explain the idiosyncrasies of network integration and segregation measures reported by previous clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Naskar
- Cognitive Brain Dynamics Lab, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Gurgaon, India
| | - Anirudh Vattikonda
- Cognitive Brain Dynamics Lab, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Gurgaon, India
| | - Gustavo Deco
- Computational Neuroscience Research Group, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dipanjan Roy
- Cognitive Brain Dynamics Lab, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Gurgaon, India
| | - Arpan Banerjee
- Cognitive Brain Dynamics Lab, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Gurgaon, India
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ironside M, Moser AD, Holsen LM, Zuo CS, Du F, Perlo S, Richards CE, Duda JM, Chen X, Nickerson LD, Null KE, Nascimento N, Crowley DJ, Misra M, Goldstein JM, Pizzagalli DA. Reductions in rostral anterior cingulate GABA are associated with stress circuitry in females with major depression: a multimodal imaging investigation. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:2188-2196. [PMID: 34363015 PMCID: PMC8505659 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01127-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The interplay between cortical and limbic regions in stress circuitry calls for a neural systems approach to investigations of acute stress responses in major depressive disorder (MDD). Advances in multimodal imaging allow inferences between regional neurotransmitter function and activation in circuits linked to MDD, which could inform treatment development. The current study investigated the role of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in stress circuitry in females with current and remitted MDD. Multimodal imaging data were analyzed from 49 young female adults across three groups (current MDD, remitted MDD (rMDD), and healthy controls). GABA was assessed at baseline using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and functional MRI data were collected before, during, and after an acute stressor and analyzed using a network modeling approach. The MDD group showed an overall lower cortisol response than the rMDD group and lower rostral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) GABA than healthy controls. Across groups, stress decreased activation in the frontoparietal network (FPN) but increased activation in the default mode network (DMN) and a network encompassing the ventromedial prefrontal cortex-striatum-anterior cingulate cortex (vmPFC-Str-ACC). Relative to controls, the MDD and rMDD groups were characterized by decreased FPN and salience network (SN) activation overall. Rostral ACC GABA was positively associated with connectivity between an overlapping limbic network (Temporal-Insula-Amygdala) and two other circuits (FPN and DMN). Collectively, these findings indicate that reduced GABA in females with MDD was associated with connectivity differences within and across key networks implicated in depression. GABAergic treatments for MDD might alleviate stress circuitry abnormalities in females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ironside
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Amelia D Moser
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Laura M Holsen
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Divison of Women's Health, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chun S Zuo
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Fei Du
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Schizophrenia and Bipolar Research Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Sarah Perlo
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Christine E Richards
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Jessica M Duda
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Xi Chen
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Schizophrenia and Bipolar Research Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Lisa D Nickerson
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Kaylee E Null
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Nara Nascimento
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - David J Crowley
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Madhusmita Misra
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jill M Goldstein
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Diego A Pizzagalli
- Center for Depression, Anxiety and Stress Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Maximo JO, Briend F, Armstrong WP, Kraguljac NV, Lahti AC. Salience network glutamate and brain connectivity in medication-naïve first episode patients - A multimodal magnetic resonance spectroscopy and resting state functional connectivity MRI study. Neuroimage Clin 2021; 32:102845. [PMID: 34662778 PMCID: PMC8526757 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2021.102845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Salience network (SN) connectivity is altered in schizophrenia, but the pathophysiological origin remains poorly understood. The goal of this multimodal neuroimaging study was to investigate the role of glutamatergic metabolism as putative mechanism underlying SN dysconnectivity in first episode psychosis (FEP) subjects. METHODS We measured glutamate + glutamine (Glx) in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) from 70 antipsychotic-naïve FEP subjects and 52 healthy controls (HC). The dACC was then used as seed to define positive and negative resting state functional connectivity (FC) of the SN. We used multiple regression analyses to test main effects and group interactions of Glx and FC associations. RESULTS dACC Glx levels did not differ between groups. Positive FC was significantly reduced in FEP compared to HC, and no group differences were found in negative FC. Group interactions of Glx-FC associations were found within the SN for positive FC, and in parietal cortices for negative FC. In HC, higher Glx levels predicted greater positive FC in the dACC and insula, and greater negative FC of the lateral parietal cortex. These relationships were weaker or absent in FEP. CONCLUSIONS Here, we found that positive FC in the SN is already altered in medication-naïve FEP, underscoring the importance of considering both correlations and anticorrelations for characterization of pathology. Our data demonstrate that Glx and functional connectivity work differently in FEP than in HC, pointing to a possible mechanism underlying dysconnectivity in psychosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose O Maximo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Frederic Briend
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; UMR1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France
| | - William P Armstrong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nina V Kraguljac
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Adrienne C Lahti
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Zacharopoulos G, Sella F, Emir U, Cohen Kadosh R. The relation between parietal GABA concentration and numerical skills. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17656. [PMID: 34480033 PMCID: PMC8417296 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Several scientific, engineering, and medical advancements are based on breakthroughs made by people who excel in mathematics. Our current understanding of the underlying brain networks stems primarily from anatomical and functional investigations, but our knowledge of how neurotransmitters subserve numerical skills, the building block of mathematics, is scarce. Using 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (N = 54, 3T, semi-LASER sequence, TE = 32 ms, TR = 3.5 s), the study examined the relation between numerical skills and the brain's major inhibitory (GABA) and excitatory (glutamate) neurotransmitters. A negative association was found between the performance in a number sequences task and the resting concentration of GABA within the left intraparietal sulcus (IPS), a key region supporting numeracy. The relation between GABA in the IPS and number sequences was specific to (1) parietal but not frontal regions and to (2) GABA but not glutamate. It was additionally found that the resting functional connectivity of the left IPS and the left superior frontal gyrus was positively associated with number sequences performance. However, resting GABA concentration within the IPS explained number sequences performance above and beyond the resting frontoparietal connectivity measure. Our findings further motivate the study of inhibition mechanisms in the human brain and significantly contribute to our current understanding of numerical cognition's biological bases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Zacharopoulos
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK.
| | - Francesco Sella
- Centre for Mathematical Cognition, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Uzay Emir
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2051, USA
| | - Roi Cohen Kadosh
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Jiménez-Balado J, Eich TS. GABAergic dysfunction, neural network hyperactivity and memory impairments in human aging and Alzheimer's disease. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 116:146-159. [PMID: 33573856 PMCID: PMC8292162 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we focus on the potential role of the γ-aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) system in age-related episodic memory impairments in humans, with a particular focus on Alzheimer's disease (AD). Well-established animal models have shown that GABA plays a central role in regulating and synchronizing neuronal signaling in the hippocampus, a brain area critical for episodic memory that undergoes early and significant morphologic and functional changes in the course of AD. Neuroimaging research in humans has documented hyperactivity in the hippocampus and losses of resting state functional connectivity in the Default Mode Network, a network that itself prominently includes the hippocampus-presaging episodic memory decline in individuals at-risk for AD. Apolipoprotein ε4, the highest genetic risk factor for AD, is associated with GABAergic dysfunction in animal models, and episodic memory impairments in humans. In combination, these findings suggest that GABA may be the linchpin in a complex system of factors that eventually leads to the principal clinical hallmark of AD: episodic memory loss. Here, we will review the current state of literature supporting this hypothesis. First, we will focus on the molecular and cellular basis of the GABAergic system and its role in memory and cognition. Next, we report the evidence of GABA dysregulations in AD and normal aging, both in animal models and human studies. Finally, we outline a model of GABAergic dysfunction based on the results of functional neuroimaging studies in humans, which have shown hippocampal hyperactivity to episodic memory tasks concurrent with and even preceding AD diagnosis, along with factors that may modulate this association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Jiménez-Balado
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Teal S Eich
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Chen Y, Zhang J. How Energy Supports Our Brain to Yield Consciousness: Insights From Neuroimaging Based on the Neuroenergetics Hypothesis. Front Syst Neurosci 2021; 15:648860. [PMID: 34295226 PMCID: PMC8291083 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2021.648860] [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: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Consciousness is considered a result of specific neuronal processes and mechanisms in the brain. Various suggested neuronal mechanisms, including the information integration theory (IIT), global neuronal workspace theory (GNWS), and neuronal construction of time and space as in the context of the temporospatial theory of consciousness (TTC), have been laid forth. However, despite their focus on different neuronal mechanisms, these theories neglect the energetic-metabolic basis of the neuronal mechanisms that are supposed to yield consciousness. Based on the findings of physiology-induced (sleep), pharmacology-induced (general anesthesia), and pathology-induced [vegetative state/unresponsive wakeful syndrome (VS/UWS)] loss of consciousness in both human subjects and animals, we, in this study, suggest that the energetic-metabolic processes focusing on ATP, glucose, and γ-aminobutyrate/glutamate are indispensable for functional connectivity (FC) of normal brain networks that renders consciousness possible. Therefore, we describe the energetic-metabolic predispositions of consciousness (EPC) that complement the current theories focused on the neural correlates of consciousness (NCC).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yali Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical college, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zacharopoulos G, Sella F, Cohen Kadosh K, Hartwright C, Emir U, Cohen Kadosh R. Predicting learning and achievement using GABA and glutamate concentrations in human development. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3001325. [PMID: 34292934 PMCID: PMC8297926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has highlighted the role of glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in learning and plasticity. What is currently unknown is how this knowledge translates to real-life complex cognitive abilities that emerge slowly and how the link between these neurotransmitters and human learning and plasticity is shaped by development. While some have suggested a generic role of glutamate and GABA in learning and plasticity, others have hypothesized that their involvement shapes sensitive periods during development. Here we used a cross-sectional longitudinal design with 255 individuals (spanning primary school to university) to show that glutamate and GABA in the intraparietal sulcus explain unique variance both in current and future mathematical achievement (approximately 1.5 years). Furthermore, our findings reveal a dynamic and dissociable role of GABA and glutamate in predicting learning, which is reversed during development, and therefore provide novel implications for models of learning and plasticity during childhood and adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Zacharopoulos
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Sella
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematical Cognition, Loughborough University, United Kingdom
| | - Kathrin Cohen Kadosh
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Hartwright
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, Aston University, United Kingdom
| | - Uzay Emir
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, United States of America
| | - Roi Cohen Kadosh
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Pretzsch CM, Floris DL, Voinescu B, Elsahib M, Mendez MA, Wichers R, Ajram L, Ivin G, Heasman M, Pretzsch E, Williams S, Murphy DGM, Daly E, McAlonan GM. Modulation of striatal functional connectivity differences in adults with and without autism spectrum disorder in a single-dose randomized trial of cannabidivarin. Mol Autism 2021; 12:49. [PMID: 34210360 PMCID: PMC8252312 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00454-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a high cost to affected individuals and society, but treatments for core symptoms are lacking. To expand intervention options, it is crucial to gain a better understanding of potential treatment targets, and their engagement, in the brain. For instance, the striatum (caudate, putamen, and nucleus accumbens) plays a central role during development and its (atypical) functional connectivity (FC) may contribute to multiple ASD symptoms. We have previously shown, in the adult autistic and neurotypical brain, the non-intoxicating cannabinoid cannabidivarin (CBDV) alters the balance of striatal 'excitatory-inhibitory' metabolites, which help regulate FC, but the effects of CBDV on (atypical) striatal FC are unknown. METHODS To examine this in a small pilot study, we acquired resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 28 men (15 neurotypicals, 13 ASD) on two occasions in a repeated-measures, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. We then used a seed-based approach to (1) compare striatal FC between groups and (2) examine the effect of pharmacological probing (600 mg CBDV/matched placebo) on atypical striatal FC in ASD. Visits were separated by at least 13 days to allow for drug washout. RESULTS Compared to the neurotypicals, ASD individuals had lower FC between the ventral striatum and frontal and pericentral regions (which have been associated with emotion, motor, and vision processing). Further, they had higher intra-striatal FC and higher putamenal FC with temporal regions involved in speech and language. In ASD, CBDV reduced hyperconnectivity to the neurotypical level. LIMITATIONS Our findings should be considered in light of several methodological aspects, in particular our participant group (restricted to male adults), which limits the generalizability of our findings to the wider and heterogeneous ASD population. CONCLUSION In conclusion, here we show atypical striatal FC with regions commonly associated with ASD symptoms. We further provide preliminary proof of concept that, in the adult autistic brain, acute CBDV administration can modulate atypical striatal circuitry towards neurotypical function. Future studies are required to determine whether modulation of striatal FC is associated with a change in ASD symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier: NCT03537950. Registered May 25th, 2018-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03537950?term=NCT03537950&draw=2&rank=1 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M. Pretzsch
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Dorothea L. Floris
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bogdan Voinescu
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Liaison Psychiatry, Bristol Royal Infirmary, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Malka Elsahib
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Maria A. Mendez
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert Wichers
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Psychiatry GGZ Geest, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Ajram
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Medicines Discovery Catapult, Alderley Park, Alderley Edge, SK10 4TG Cheshire UK
| | - Glynis Ivin
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Pharmacy, London, UK
| | - Martin Heasman
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Pharmacy, London, UK
| | - Elise Pretzsch
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Steven Williams
- Department of Neuroimaging Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Declan G. M. Murphy
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Eileen Daly
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Gráinne M. McAlonan
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF UK
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zacharopoulos G, Emir U, Cohen Kadosh R. The cross-sectional interplay between neurochemical profile and brain connectivity. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:2722-2733. [PMID: 33835605 PMCID: PMC8127145 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurochemical profile and brain connectivity are both critical aspects of brain function. However, our knowledge of their interplay across development is currently poor. We combined single-voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy and resting functional magnetic resonance imaging in a cross-sectional sample spanning from childhood to adulthood which was reassessed in ~1.5 years (N = 293). We revealed the developmental trajectories of 20 neurochemicals in two key developmental brain regions (the intraparietal sulcus, IPS, and the middle frontal gyrus, MFG). We found that certain neurochemicals exhibited similar developmental trajectories across the two regions, while other trajectories were region-specific. Crucially, we mapped the connectivity of the brain regions IPS and MFG to the rest of the brain across development as a function of regional glutamate and GABA concentration. We demonstrated that glutamate concentration within the IPS is modulated by age in explaining IPS connectivity with frontal, temporal and parietal regions. In mature participants, higher glutamate within the IPS was related to more negative connectivity while the opposite pattern was found for younger participants. Our findings offer specific developmental insights on the interplay between the brain's resting activity and the glutamatergic system both of which are crucial for regulating normal functioning and are dysregulated in several clinical conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Zacharopoulos
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Uzay Emir
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Roi Cohen Kadosh
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Zacharopoulos G, Sella F, Cohen Kadosh R. The impact of a lack of mathematical education on brain development and future attainment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2013155118. [PMID: 34099561 PMCID: PMC8214709 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2013155118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Formal education has a long-term impact on an individual's life. However, our knowledge of the effect of a specific lack of education, such as in mathematics, is currently poor but is highly relevant given the extant differences between countries in their educational curricula and the differences in opportunities to access education. Here we examined whether neurotransmitter concentrations in the adolescent brain could classify whether a student is lacking mathematical education. Decreased γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration within the middle frontal gyrus (MFG) successfully classified whether an adolescent studies math and was negatively associated with frontoparietal connectivity. In a second experiment, we uncovered that our findings were not due to preexisting differences before a mathematical education ceased. Furthermore, we showed that MFG GABA not only classifies whether an adolescent is studying math or not, but it also predicts the changes in mathematical reasoning ∼19 mo later. The present results extend previous work in animals that has emphasized the role of GABA neurotransmission in synaptic and network plasticity and highlight the effect of a specific lack of education on MFG GABA concentration and learning-dependent plasticity. Our findings reveal the reciprocal effect between brain development and education and demonstrate the negative consequences of a specific lack of education during adolescence on brain plasticity and cognitive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Zacharopoulos
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, United Kingdom;
| | - Francesco Sella
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, United Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematical Cognition, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom
| | - Roi Cohen Kadosh
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, United Kingdom;
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
McCutcheon RA, Pillinger T, Rogdaki M, Bustillo J, Howes OD. Glutamate connectivity associations converge upon the salience network in schizophrenia and healthy controls. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:322. [PMID: 34045446 PMCID: PMC8159959 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01455-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations in cortical inter-areal functional connectivity, and aberrant glutamatergic signalling are implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia but the relationship between the two is unclear. We used multimodal imaging to identify areas of convergence between the two systems. Two separate cohorts were examined, comprising 195 participants in total. All participants received resting state functional MRI to characterise functional brain networks and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) to measure glutamate concentrations in the frontal cortex. Study A investigated the relationship between frontal cortex glutamate concentrations and network connectivity in individuals with schizophrenia and healthy controls. Study B also used 1H-MRS, and scanned individuals with schizophrenia and healthy controls before and after a challenge with the glutamatergic modulator riluzole, to investigate the relationship between changes in glutamate concentrations and changes in network connectivity. In both studies the network based statistic was used to probe associations between glutamate and connectivity, and glutamate associated networks were then characterised in terms of their overlap with canonical functional networks. Study A involved 76 individuals with schizophrenia and 82 controls, and identified a functional network negatively associated with glutamate concentrations that was concentrated within the salience network (p < 0.05) and did not differ significantly between patients and controls (p > 0.85). Study B involved 19 individuals with schizophrenia and 17 controls and found that increases in glutamate concentrations induced by riluzole were linked to increases in connectivity localised to the salience network (p < 0.05), and the relationship did not differ between patients and controls (p > 0.4). Frontal cortex glutamate concentrations are associated with inter-areal functional connectivity of a network that localises to the salience network. Changes in network connectivity in response to glutamate modulation show an opposite effect compared to the relationship observed at baseline, which may complicate pharmacological attempts to simultaneously correct glutamatergic and connectivity aberrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert A McCutcheon
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK. .,Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, UK. .,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK. .,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Toby Pillinger
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK.,Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria Rogdaki
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK.,Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Juan Bustillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Oliver D Howes
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK.,Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Rideaux R. No balance between glutamate+glutamine and GABA+ in visual or motor cortices of the human brain: A magnetic resonance spectroscopy study. Neuroimage 2021; 237:118191. [PMID: 34023450 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2021.118191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Theoretical work, supported by electrophysiological evidence, asserts that a balance between excitation and inhibition (E/I) is critical for healthy brain function. In magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies, the ratio of excitatory (glutamate) and inhibitory (γ-aminobutyric acid, GABA) neurotransmitters is often used as a proxy for this E/I balance. Recent MRS work found a positive correlation between GABA+ and Glx (glutamate+glutamine) in medial parietal cortex, providing validation for this proxy and supporting the link between the E/I balance observed in electrophysiology and that detected with MRS. Here we assess the same relationship, between GABA+ and Glx, in visual and motor cortices of male and female human participants. We find moderate to strong evidence that there is no positive correlation between these neurotransmitters in either location. We show this holds true when controlling for a range of other factors (i.e., demographics, signal quality, tissue composition, other neurochemicals) and regardless of the state of neural activity (i.e., resting/active). These results show that there is no brain-wide balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters and indicates a dissociation between the E/I balance observed in electrophysiological work and the ratio of MRS-detected neurotransmitters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reuben Rideaux
- Department of Psychology, Downing Street, University of Cambridge, UK; Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Posse S, Sa De La Rocque Guimaraes B, Hutchins-Delgado T, Vakamudi K, Fotso Tagne K, Moeller S, Dager SR. On the acquisition of the water signal during water suppression: High-speed MR spectroscopic imaging with water referencing and concurrent functional MRI. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2021; 34:e4261. [PMID: 31999397 PMCID: PMC7390701 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the utility of concurrent water signal acquisition as part of the water suppression in MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI), to allow simultaneous water referencing for metabolite quantification, and to concurrently acquire functional MRI (fMRI) data. We integrated a spatial-spectral binomial water excitation RF pulse and a short spatial-spectral echo-planar readout into the water suppression module of 2D and 3D proton-echo-planar-spectroscopic-imaging (PEPSI) with a voxel size as small as 4 x 4 x 6 mm3 . Metabolite quantification in reference to tissue water was validated in healthy controls for different prelocalization methods (spin-echo, PRESS and semi-LASER) and the clinical feasibility of a 3-minute 3D semi-Laser PEPSI scan (TR/TE: 1250/32 ms) with water referencing in patients with brain tumors was demonstrated. Spectral quality, SNR, Cramer-Rao-lower-bounds and water suppression efficiency were comparable with conventional PEPSI. Metabolite concentration values in reference to tissue water, using custom LCModel-based spectral fitting with relaxation correction, were in the range of previous studies and independent of the prelocalization method used. Next, we added a phase-encoding undersampled echo-volumar imaging (EVI) module during water suppression to concurrently acquire metabolite maps with water referencing and fMRI data during task execution and resting state in healthy controls. Integration of multimodal signal acquisition prolongated minimum TR by less than 50 ms on average. Visual and motor activation in concurrent fMRI/MRSI (TR: 1250-1500 ms, voxel size: 4 x 4 x 6 mm3 ) was readily detectable in single-task blocks with percent signal change comparable with conventional fMRI. Resting-state connectivity in sensory and motor networks was detectable in 4 minutes. This hybrid water suppression approach for multimodal imaging has the potential to significantly reduce scan time and extend neuroscience research and clinical applications through concurrent quantitative MRSI and fMRI acquisitions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Posse
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Bruno Sa De La Rocque Guimaraes
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | | | - Kishore Vakamudi
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Kevin Fotso Tagne
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Steen Moeller
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Stephen R Dager
- Departments of Radiology and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|