1
|
Toorie A, Hall CD, Vassoler FM, Peltz G, Byrnes EM. Preconception opioids interact with mouse strain to alter morphine withdrawal in the next generation. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:1435-1446. [PMID: 38503843 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06574-0] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Transgenerational effects of preconception morphine exposure in female rats have been reported which suggest that epigenetic modifications triggered by female opioid exposure, even when that exposure ends several weeks prior to pregnancy, has significant ramifications for their future offspring. OBJECTIVE The current study compares two mouse strains with well-established genetic variation in their response to mu opioid receptor agonists, C57BL/6J (BL6) and 129S1/svlmJ (129) to determine whether genetic background modifies the impact of preconception opioid exposure. METHODS Adolescent females from both strains were injected daily with morphine for a total of 10 days using an increasing dosing regimen with controls receiving saline. Several weeks after their final injection, aged-matched BL6 and 129 morphine (Mor-F0) or saline (Sal-F0) females were mated with drug naïve males to generate Mor-F1 and Sal-F1 offspring, respectively. As adults, F1 mice were made morphine dependent using thrice daily morphine injections for 4 days. On day 5, mice were administered either saline or morphine followed 3 h later by naloxone. Behavioral and physiological signs of withdrawal were then measured. RESULTS Regardless of strain or sex, morphine-dependent Mor-F1 mice had significantly lower levels of withdrawal-induced corticosterone but significantly higher glucose levels when compared to Sal-F1 controls. In contrast, both strain- and preconception opioid exposure effects on physical signs of morphine dependence were observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika Toorie
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Rd, North Grafton, MA, USA
- Department of Biology, Rhode Island College, 600 Mount Pleasant Ave, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Claire Davidson Hall
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Rd, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Fair M Vassoler
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Rd, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Gary Peltz
- Department of Anesthesia, Stanford University School of Medicine, 291 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, 200 Westboro Rd, North Grafton, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Riyahi J, Taslimi Z, Gelfo F, Petrosini L, Haghparast A. Trans-generational effects of parental exposure to drugs of abuse on offspring memory functions. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 160:105644. [PMID: 38548003 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Recent evidence reported that parental-derived phenotypes can be passed on to the next generations. Within the inheritance of epigenetic characteristics allowing the transmission of information related to the ancestral environment to the offspring, the specific case of the trans-generational effects of parental drug addiction has been extensively studied. Drug addiction is a chronic disorder resulting from complex interactions among environmental, genetic, and drug-related factors. Repeated exposures to drugs induce epigenetic changes in the reward circuitry that in turn mediate enduring changes in brain function. Addictive drugs can exert their effects trans-generally and influence the offspring of addicted parents. Although there is growing evidence that shows a wide range of behavioral, physiological, and molecular phenotypes in inter-, multi-, and trans-generational studies, transmitted phenotypes often vary widely even within similar protocols. Given the breadth of literature findings, in the present review, we restricted our investigation to learning and memory performances, as examples of the offspring's complex behavioral outcomes following parental exposure to drugs of abuse, including morphine, cocaine, cannabinoids, nicotine, heroin, and alcohol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javad Riyahi
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science and Technology in Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Taslimi
- Behavioral Disorders and Substance Abuse Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran; Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Francesca Gelfo
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Human Sciences, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Basic Sciences, Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Koijam AS, Singh KD, Nameirakpam BS, Haobam R, Rajashekar Y. Drug addiction and treatment: An epigenetic perspective. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:115951. [PMID: 38043446 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug addiction is a complex disease affected by numerous genetic and environmental factors. Brain regions in reward pathway, neuronal adaptations, genetic and epigenetic interactions causing transcriptional enhancement or repression of multiple genes induce different addiction phenotypes for varying duration. Addictive drug use causes epigenetic alterations and similarly epigenetic changes induced by environment can promote addiction. Epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation and post-translational modifications like methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, sumoylation, dopaminylation and crotonylation of histones, and ADP-ribosylation. Non-coding RNAs also induce epigenetic changes. This review discusses these above areas and stresses the need for exploring epidrugs as a treatment alternative and adjunct, considering the limited success of current addiction treatment strategies. Epigenome editing complexes have lately been effective in eukaryotic systems. Targeted DNA cleavage techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 system, CRISPR-dCas9 complexes, transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) have been exploited as targeted DNA recognition or anchoring platforms, fused with epigenetic writer or eraser proteins and delivered by transfection or transduction methods. Efficacy of epidrugs is seen in various neuropsychiatric conditions and initial results in addiction treatment involving model organisms are remarkable. Epidrugs present a promising alternative treatment for addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arunkumar Singh Koijam
- Insect Bioresources Laboratory, Animal Bioresources Programme, Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable Development, Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India
| | - Kabrambam Dasanta Singh
- Insect Bioresources Laboratory, Animal Bioresources Programme, Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable Development, Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India
| | - Bunindro Singh Nameirakpam
- Insect Bioresources Laboratory, Animal Bioresources Programme, Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable Development, Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India
| | - Reena Haobam
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal 795003, Manipur, India
| | - Yallappa Rajashekar
- Insect Bioresources Laboratory, Animal Bioresources Programme, Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable Development, Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ghaffari K, Dousti Kataj P, Torkaman-Boutorabi A, Vousooghi N. Pre-mating administration of theophylline could prevent the transgenerational effects of maternal morphine dependence on offspring anxiety behavior: The role of dopamine receptors. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 233:173660. [PMID: 37852327 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173660] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Opioid addiction causes some molecular alterations in the brain reward pathway, such as changes in gene expression that may be transferred to the next generation via epigenetic mechanisms such as histone acetylation. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of theophylline as an HDAC (Histone deacetylases) activator on D1 and D2 dopamine receptor expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and anxiety behavior in the offspring of morphine-dependent female rats. Female rats were exposed to escalating doses of morphine for six days and were then treated with theophylline (20 mg/kg) or saline for 10 days before mating with normal male rats. Male and female offspring were tested for anxiety behavior using an elevated plus maze apparatus. Besides, the expression of D1 and D2 dopamine receptors in the NAc was evaluated by real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Results showed that offspring of morphine-dependent female rats had increased expression of both D1 and D2 receptors in the NAc, as well as decreased anxiety behavior, compared to control offspring. However, the mentioned effects were returned to normal levels in the offspring whose morphine-dependent mothers had received theophylline for 10 days before mating. It is concluded that theophylline may be therapeutically effective in minimizing the adverse consequences of maternal morphine dependence on offspring behavior by restoring normal dopamine receptor expression levels and modulating anxiety. To completely comprehend the underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon, more research is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Ghaffari
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parviz Dousti Kataj
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anahita Torkaman-Boutorabi
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Research Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Vousooghi
- Research Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Falconnier C, Caparros-Roissard A, Decraene C, Lutz PE. Functional genomic mechanisms of opioid action and opioid use disorder: a systematic review of animal models and human studies. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4568-4584. [PMID: 37723284 PMCID: PMC10914629 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02238-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
In the past two decades, over-prescription of opioids for pain management has driven a steep increase in opioid use disorder (OUD) and death by overdose, exerting a dramatic toll on western countries. OUD is a chronic relapsing disease associated with a lifetime struggle to control drug consumption, suggesting that opioids trigger long-lasting brain adaptations, notably through functional genomic and epigenomic mechanisms. Current understanding of these processes, however, remain scarce, and have not been previously reviewed systematically. To do so, the goal of the present work was to synthesize current knowledge on genome-wide transcriptomic and epigenetic mechanisms of opioid action, in primate and rodent species. Using a prospectively registered methodology, comprehensive literature searches were completed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Of the 2709 articles identified, 73 met our inclusion criteria and were considered for qualitative analysis. Focusing on the 5 most studied nervous system structures (nucleus accumbens, frontal cortex, whole striatum, dorsal striatum, spinal cord; 44 articles), we also conducted a quantitative analysis of differentially expressed genes, in an effort to identify a putative core transcriptional signature of opioids. Only one gene, Cdkn1a, was consistently identified in eleven studies, and globally, our results unveil surprisingly low consistency across published work, even when considering most recent single-cell approaches. Analysis of sources of variability detected significant contributions from species, brain structure, duration of opioid exposure, strain, time-point of analysis, and batch effects, but not type of opioid. To go beyond those limitations, we leveraged threshold-free methods to illustrate how genome-wide comparisons may generate new findings and hypotheses. Finally, we discuss current methodological development in the field, and their implication for future research and, ultimately, better care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Falconnier
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Alba Caparros-Roissard
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Charles Decraene
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives UMR 7364, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Pierre-Eric Lutz
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Toussaint AB, Ellis AS, Bongiovanni AR, Peterson DR, Bavley CC, Karbalaei R, Mayberry HL, Bhakta S, Dressler CC, Imperio CG, Maurer JJ, Schmidt HD, Chen C, Bland K, Liu-Chen LY, Wimmer ME. Paternal morphine exposure enhances morphine self-administration and induces region-specific neural adaptations in reward-related brain regions of male offspring. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.03.522600. [PMID: 36711571 PMCID: PMC9881847 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.03.522600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background A growing body of preclinical studies report that preconceptional experiences can have a profound and long-lasting impact on adult offspring behavior and physiology. However, less is known about paternal drug exposure and its effects on reward sensitivity in the next generation. Methods Adult male rats self-administered morphine for 65 days; controls received saline. Sires were bred to drug-naïve dams to produce first-generation (F1) offspring. Morphine, cocaine, and nicotine self-administration were measured in adult F1 progeny. Molecular correlates of addiction-like behaviors were measured in reward-related brain regions of drug naïve F1 offspring. Results Male, but not female offspring produced by morphine-exposed sires exhibited dose-dependent increased morphine self-administration and increased motivation to earn morphine infusions under a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement. This phenotype was drug-specific as self-administration of cocaine, nicotine, and sucrose were not altered by paternal morphine history. The male offspring of morphine-exposed sires also had increased expression of mu-opioid receptors in the ventral tegmental area but not in the nucleus accumbens. Conclusions Paternal morphine exposure increased morphine addiction-like behavioral vulnerability in male but not female progeny. This phenotype is likely driven by long-lasting neural adaptations within the reward neural brain pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andre B Toussaint
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alexandra S Ellis
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Angela R Bongiovanni
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Drew R Peterson
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Charlotte C Bavley
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Reza Karbalaei
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hannah L Mayberry
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shivam Bhakta
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carmen C Dressler
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Caesar G Imperio
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John J Maurer
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Heath D Schmidt
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chongguang Chen
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences. Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kathryn Bland
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences. Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lee-Yuan Liu-Chen
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences. Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mathieu E Wimmer
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Anderson EM, Taniguchi M. Epigenetic Effects of Addictive Drugs in the Nucleus Accumbens. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:828055. [PMID: 35813068 PMCID: PMC9260254 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.828055] [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: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use induces long-lasting behavioral changes and drug craving. Increasing evidence suggests that epigenetic gene regulation contributes to the development and expression of these long-lasting behavioral alterations. Here we systematically review extensive evidence from rodent models of drug-induced changes in epigenetic regulation and epigenetic regulator proteins. We focus on histone acetylation and histone methylation in a brain region important for drug-related behaviors: the nucleus accumbens. We also discuss how experimentally altering these epigenetic regulators via systemically administered compounds or nucleus accumbens-specific manipulations demonstrate the importance of these proteins in the behavioral effects of drugs and suggest potential therapeutic value to treat people with substance use disorder. Finally, we discuss limitations and future directions for the field of epigenetic studies in the behavioral effects of addictive drugs and suggest how to use these insights to develop efficacious treatments.
Collapse
|
8
|
Alaee E, Farahani F, Semnanian S, Azizi H. Prenatal exposure to morphine enhances excitability in locus coeruleus neurons. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:1049-1060. [PMID: 35674919 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Opioid abuse during pregnancy may have noteworthy effects on the child's behavioral, emotional and cognitive progression. In this study, we assessed the effect of prenatal exposure to morphine on electrophysiological features of locus coeruleus (LC) noradrenergic neurons which is involved in modulating cognitive performance. Pregnant dams were randomly divided into two groups, that is a prenatal saline treated and prenatal morphine-treated group. To this end, on gestational days 11-18, either morphine or saline (twice daily, s.c.) was administered to pregnant dams. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were conducted on LC neurons of male offspring. The evoked firing rate, instantaneous frequency and action potentials half-width, and also input resistance of LC neurons significantly increased in the prenatal morphine group compared to the saline group. Moreover, action potentials decay slope, after hyperpolarization amplitude, rheobase current, and first spike latency were diminished in LC neurons following prenatal exposure to morphine. In addition, resting membrane potential, rise slope, and amplitude of action potentials were not changed by prenatal morphine exposure. Together, the current findings show a significant enhancement in excitability of the LC neurons following prenatal morphine exposure, which may affect the release of norepinephrine to other brain regions and/or cognitive performances of the offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Alaee
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Farahani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Semnanian
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gillespie A, Mayberry HL, Wimmer ME, Sillivan SE. microRNA expression levels in the nucleus accumbens correlate with morphine-taking but not morphine-seeking behaviour in male rats. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 55:1742-1755. [PMID: 35320877 PMCID: PMC9314918 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
A powerful motivation to seek opioids remains after drug cessation and intensifies during extended periods of abstinence. Unfortunately, biomarkers associated with continued drug seeking have not been described. Moreover, previous studies have focused on the effects of early abstinence with little exploration into the long-term drug-induced mechanisms that occur after extended abstinence. Here we demonstrated that 30 days (D) of forced abstinence results in a time-dependent increase in morphine seeking in a rat model of morphine self-administration (SA). We measured expression of known drug-responsive microRNAs (miRNAs) in the nucleus accumbens, an area critical for reward-related plasticity, during early or late abstinence in animals that underwent either a cue-induced relapse test or no relapse test. miRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that represent suitable biomarker candidates due to their long-lasting nature. mir-32-5p levels during early abstinence negatively correlated with active lever pressing in both cue-exposed and cue-naïve animals. mir-1298-5p positively correlated with drug SA history after a relapse test during late abstinence. When animals underwent acute abstinence with no relapse test, mir-1298-5p correlated with drug infusions and active lever pressing during SA. In late abstinence with no relapse test, mir-137-3p negatively correlated with drug infusions. Regulation of mir-32-5p target genes and significant correlation of target gene mRNA with mir-32-5p was observed after abstinence. These results indicate that lasting regulation of miRNA expression is associated with drug intake following morphine SA. In addition, we conclude that the miRNA profile undergoes regulation from early to late abstinence and miRNA expression may indicate past drug history.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aria Gillespie
- Center for Substance Abuse ResearchTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA,Department of Neural SciencesTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Hannah L. Mayberry
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, College of Liberal ArtsTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Mathieu E. Wimmer
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, College of Liberal ArtsTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Stephanie E. Sillivan
- Center for Substance Abuse ResearchTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA,Department of Neural SciencesTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Vassoler FM, Isgate SB, Budge KE, Byrnes EM. HPA axis dysfunction during morphine withdrawal in offspring of female rats exposed to opioids preconception. Neurosci Lett 2022; 773:136479. [PMID: 35085692 PMCID: PMC8908356 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use and abuse remain a significant public health problem, particularly in the United States. Indeed, it is estimated that up to 10% of youths (age 12-18) have taken opioids illicitly. A growing body of evidence suggests that this level of widespread opioid exposure can have effects that extend to subsequent generations. Utilizing a well-established rodent model of preconception adolescent opioid exposure in females, we found decreased opioid self-administration coupled with increased cocaine self-administration in adult offspring. This bidirectional effect may be related to negative affect associated with opioid withdrawal, including enhanced stress reactivity. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the adult offspring of females exposed to morphine during adolescence will demonstrate increased signs of opioid withdrawal when compared to offspring of saline controls. Females were administered increasing doses of morphine (5-25 mg/kg s.c.) or saline (1 ml/kg) from postnatal day 30 (PND30)-PND39. They were then maintained drug free for a minimum of 4 weeks and mated with drug-naïve males on or after PND70. As adults, their male and female offspring (referred to as Mor-F1 or Sal-F1) were administered morphine (10 mg/kg s.c.) twice a day for 5 days. They were then tested for spontaneous withdrawal behaviors for the next 4 days (∼PND70). Levels of corticotropin releasing hormone (Crh) and urocortin 3 (Ucn3) were examined in the amygdala at 48 h and 96 h of withdrawal. Circulating corticosterone was measured at 48 h. Results indicate that Mor-F1 males are heavier than Sal-F1 males with no baseline differences in females. However, Mor-F1 females did not gain weight at the same rate as Sal-F1 females during withdrawal. While there were no differences in somatic withdrawal signs, gene expression data revealed a sex-specific and time-dependent effect on Crh as well as increased Ucn3 and corticosterone in females at 48hrs withdrawal. Overall, these data point to differences in withdrawal and stress reactivity in Mor-F1 animals that may contribute to observed differences in addiction-like behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Grafton, MA 01536, USA.
| | - Sara B Isgate
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Grafton, MA 01536, USA
| | - Kerri E Budge
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Grafton, MA 01536, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Grafton, MA 01536, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Toorie AM, Vassoler FM, Qu F, Slonim D, Schonhoff CM, Byrnes EM. Intergenerational effects of preconception opioids on glucose homeostasis and hepatic transcription in adult male rats. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1599. [PMID: 35102183 PMCID: PMC8803846 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05528-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescence represents a period of significant neurodevelopment during which adverse experiences can lead to prolonged effects on disease vulnerability, including effects that can impact future offspring. Adolescence is a common period for the initiation of drug use, including the use of opioids. Beyond effects on central reward, opioids also impact glucose metabolism, which can impact the risk of diabetes. Moreover, recent animal models suggest that the effects of adolescent opioids can effect glucose metabolism in future offspring. Indeed, we demonstrated that the adult male offspring of females exposed to morphine for 10 days during adolescence (referred to as MORF1 males) are predisposed to the adverse effects of an obesogenic diet. As adults, MORF1 males fed a high fat moderate sucrose diet (FSD) for just 6 weeks had increased fasting glucose and insulin levels when compared to age-matched offspring of females exposed to saline during adolescence (SALF1 males). Clinically, a similar profile of impaired fasting glucose has been associated with hepatic insulin resistance and an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Thus, in the current study, we used RNA sequencing to determine whether adult MORF1 males demonstrate significant alterations in the hepatic transcriptome suggestive of alterations in metabolism. Age-matched SALF1 and MORF1 males were fed either FSD or control diet (CD) for 8 weeks. Similar to our previous observations, FSD-maintained MORF1 males gained more weight and displayed both fasting hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia when compared to FSD-maintained SALF1 males, with no significant effect on glucagon. No differences in bodyweight or fasting-induce glucose were observed in control diet (CD)-maintained F1 males, although there was a trend for CD MORF1 males to display elevated levels of fasting insulin. Unexpectedly, transcriptional analyses revealed profound differences in the hepatic transcriptome of CD-maintained MORF1 and SALF1 (1686 differentially expressed genes) with no significant differences between FSD-maintained MORF1 and SALF1 males. As changes in the hepatic transcriptome were not revealed under 8 weeks FSD conditions, we extended the feeding paradigm and conducted a glucose tolerance test to determine whether impaired fasting glucose observed in FSD MORF1 males was due to peripheral insulin resistance. Impaired glucose tolerance was observed in both CD and FSD MORF1 males, and to a more limited extent in FSD SALF1 males. These findings implicate intergenerational effects of adolescent morphine exposure on the risk of developing insulin resistance and associated comorbidities, even in the absence of an obesogenic diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika M Toorie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, Peabody Pavilion, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Fair M Vassoler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, Peabody Pavilion, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Fangfang Qu
- Department of Computer Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Donna Slonim
- Department of Computer Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Christopher M Schonhoff
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, Peabody Pavilion, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, Peabody Pavilion, North Grafton, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Blackwood CA, Cadet JL. Epigenetic and Genetic Factors Associated With Opioid Use Disorder: Are These Relevant to African American Populations. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:798362. [PMID: 35002733 PMCID: PMC8727544 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.798362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, the number of people suffering from opioid use disorder has skyrocketed in all populations. Nevertheless, observations of racial disparities amongst opioid overdose deaths have recently been described. Opioid use disorder is characterized by compulsive drug consumption followed by periods of withdrawal and recurrent relapses while patients are participating in treatment programs. Similar to other rewarding substances, exposure to opioid drugs is accompanied by epigenetic changes in the brain. In addition, genetic factors that are understudied in some racial groups may also impact the clinical manifestations of opioid use disorder. These studies are important because genetic factors and epigenetic alterations may also influence responses to pharmacological therapeutic approaches. Thus, this mini-review seeks to briefly summarize what is known about the genetic bases of opioid use disorder in African Americans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A. Blackwood
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Azadi M, Moazen P, Wiskerke J, Semnanian S, Azizi H. Preconception paternal morphine exposure leads to an impulsive phenotype in male rat progeny. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:3435-3446. [PMID: 34427719 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05962-0] [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: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Identifying the long-term neurocognitive implications of opioid addiction may further our understanding of the compulsive nature of this brain disorder. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of paternal adolescent opiate exposure on cognitive performance (visual attention, impulsivity, and compulsivity) in the next generation. METHODS Male Wistar rats received escalating doses of morphine (2.5-25 mg/kg, s.c.) or saline for 10 days during adolescence (P30-39). In adulthood (P70-80), these rats were allowed to mate with drug-naive females. Male offspring from morphine- and saline-exposed sires, once in adulthood, were trained and tested in the 5-choice serial reaction time test (5-CSRTT) to evaluate their cognitive abilities under baseline, drug-free conditions as well as following acute (1, 3, 5 mg/kg morphine) and subchronic morphine (5 mg/kg morphine for 5 days) treatment. Behavioral effects of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone were also assessed. RESULTS Morphine-sired offspring exhibited delayed learning when the shortest stimulus duration (1 s) was introduced, i.e., when cognitive load was highest. These subjects also exhibited a reduced ability to exert inhibitory control, as reflected by increased premature and perseverative responding under drug-free baseline conditions in comparison to saline-sired rats. These impairments could not be reversed by administration of naloxone. Moreover, impulsive behavior was further enhanced in morphine-sired rats following acute and subchronic morphine treatment. CONCLUSION Paternal opiate exposure during adolescence was found to primarily impair inhibitory control in male progeny. These results further our understanding of the long-term costs and risk of opioid abuse, extending across generations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Azadi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Moazen
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Joost Wiskerke
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Saeed Semnanian
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Vassoler FM, Wimmer ME. Consequences of Parental Opioid Exposure on Neurophysiology, Behavior, and Health in the Next Generations. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2021; 11:a040436. [PMID: 32601130 PMCID: PMC8485740 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a040436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Substance abuse and the ongoing opioid epidemic represents a large societal burden. This review will consider the long-term impact of opioid exposure on future generations. Prenatal, perinatal, and preconception exposure are reviewed with discussion of both maternal and paternal influences. Opioid exposure can have long-lasting effects on reproductive function, gametogenesis, and germline epigenetic programming, which can influence embryogenesis and alter the developmental trajectory of progeny. The potential mechanisms by which preconception maternal and paternal opioid exposure produce deleterious consequences on the health, behavior, and physiology of offspring that have been identified by clinical and animal studies will be discussed. The timing, nature, dosing, and duration of prenatal opioid exposure combined with other important environmental considerations influence the extent to which these manipulations affect parents and their progeny. Epigenetic inheritance refers to the transmission of environmental insults across generations via mechanisms independent of the DNA sequence. This topic will be further explored in the context of prenatal, perinatal, and preconception opioid exposure for both the maternal and paternal lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Tufts University, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Grafton, Massachusetts 01536, USA
| | - Mathieu E Wimmer
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gerra MC, Dallabona C, Arendt-Nielsen L. Epigenetic Alterations in Prescription Opioid Misuse: New Strategies for Precision Pain Management. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081226. [PMID: 34440400 PMCID: PMC8392465 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Prescription opioids are used for some chronic pain conditions. However, generally, long-term therapy has unwanted side effects which may trigger addiction, overdose, and eventually cause deaths. Opioid addiction and chronic pain conditions have both been associated with evidence of genetic and epigenetic alterations. Despite intense research interest, many questions about the contribution of epigenetic changes to this typology of addiction vulnerability and development remain unanswered. The aim of this review was to summarize the epigenetic modifications detected in specific tissues or brain areas and associated with opioid prescription and misuse in patients who have initiated prescribed opioid management for chronic non-cancer pain. The review considers the effects of opioid exposure on the epigenome in central and peripheral tissues in animal models and human subjects and highlights the mechanisms in which opioid epigenetics may be involved. This will improve our current understanding, provide the basis for targeted, personalized pain management, and thus balance opioid risks and benefits in managing chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carla Gerra
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark;
- Correspondence:
| | - Cristina Dallabona
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43123 Parma, Italy;
| | - Lars Arendt-Nielsen
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark;
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vassoler FM, Byrnes EM. Transgenerational effects on anxiety-like behavior following adolescent morphine exposure in female rats. Behav Brain Res 2021; 406:113239. [PMID: 33731277 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Global opioid use and misuse remains high, despite efforts to decrease rates of prescribing and diversion. Chronic exposure to opioids, particularly during critical periods of development, can lead to long-lasting effects, including effects that may extend to future generations. Using a rodent model, we have demonstrated significant transgenerational effects of female adolescent morphine exposure, despite the absence of in utero drug exposure. While these effects have been observed in both sexes, effects on anxiety-like behavior were only observed in F1 females. The current study was designed to examine both inter- and transgenerational effects of adolescent morphine exposure on anxiety-like behavior. Female Sprague Dawley rats were administered increasing doses of morphine (5-25 mg/kg s.c.) or saline for 10 days during adolescence (PND30-39). Adult diestrous female offspring (MORF1 or SALF1) and grand offspring (F2) were tested for anxiety-like behavior using the elevated plus maze (EPM). F1 females cross-fostered to donor mothers were also examined. The results show that MORF1 and MORF2 females spend significantly more time on the open arms of the EPM compared to SALF1 controls, an effect that persisted in cross-fostered females. Additional studies demonstrate that this effect is estrous cycle dependent, as decreased anxiety-like behavior was observed in diestrus, while increased anxiety-like behavior was observed in estrus. These behavioral effects were not associated with any differences in circulating corticosterone either at baseline or following EPM testing. Thus, female adolescent morphine exposure alters the regulation of anxiety-like behavior in an estrous-dependent manner and this effect persists in the F2 generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, United States
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Toorie AM, Vassoler FM, Qu F, Schonhoff CM, Bradburn S, Murgatroyd CA, Slonim DK, Byrnes EM. A history of opioid exposure in females increases the risk of metabolic disorders in their future male offspring. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12856. [PMID: 31782234 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide consumption of opioids remains at historic levels. Preclinical studies report intergenerational effects on the endogenous opioid system of future progeny following preconception morphine exposure. Given the role of endogenous opioids in energy homeostasis, such effects could impact metabolism in the next generation. Thus, we examined diet-induced modifications in F1 male progeny of morphine-exposed female rats (MORF1). When fed a high fat-sugar diet (FSD) for 6 weeks, MORF1 males display features of emerging metabolic syndrome; they consume more food, gain more weight, and develop fasting-induced hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. In the hypothalamus, proteins involved in energy homeostasis are modified and RNA sequencing revealed down-regulation of genes associated with neuronal plasticity, coupled with up-regulation of genes associated with immune, inflammatory, and metabolic processes that are specific to FSD-maintained MORF1 males. Thus, limited preconception morphine exposure in female rats increases the risk of metabolic syndrome/type 2 diabetes in the next generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika M. Toorie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine Tufts University North Grafton Massachusetts
- Department of Biology Rhode Island College North Providence Rhode Island
| | - Fair M. Vassoler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine Tufts University North Grafton Massachusetts
| | - Fangfang Qu
- Department of Computer Science Tufts University Medford Massachusetts
| | - Christopher M. Schonhoff
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine Tufts University North Grafton Massachusetts
| | - Steven Bradburn
- Division of Biomedical Sciences Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester UK
| | | | - Donna K. Slonim
- Department of Computer Science Tufts University Medford Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth M. Byrnes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine Tufts University North Grafton Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Salmanzadeh H, Ahmadi-Soleimani SM, Azadi M, Halliwell RF, Azizi H. Adolescent Substance Abuse, Transgenerational Consequences and Epigenetics. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:1560-1569. [PMID: 33655865 PMCID: PMC8762180 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210303121519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood and a critical period in brain development. Adolescence in humans is also associated with increased expression of risk-taking behaviors. Epidemiological and clinical studies, for example, show a surge of drug abuse and raise the hypothesis that the adolescent brain undergoes critical changes resulting in diminished control. Determining how substance abuse during this critical period might cause longterm neurobiological changes in cognition and behavior is therefore critically important. The present work aims to provide an evaluation of the transgenerational and multi-generational phenotypes derived from parent animals exposed to drugs of abuse only during their adolescence. Specifically, we will consider changes found following the administration of cannabinoids, nicotine, alcohol and opiates. In addition, epigenetic modifications of the genome following drug exposure will be discussed as emerging evidence of the underlying adverse transgenerational effects. Notwithstanding, much of the new data discussed here is from animal models, indicating that future clinical studies are much needed to better understand the neurobiological consequences and mechanisms of drug actions on the human brains' development and maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Robert F. Halliwell
- Address correspondence to this author at the TJ Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, California, USA; Tel: +1 (209) 946 2074; E-mail: and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Tel: +98-21-82884587; Fax: +98-21-82884528; E-mail:
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Address correspondence to this author at the TJ Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, California, USA; Tel: +1 (209) 946 2074; E-mail: and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Tel: +98-21-82884587; Fax: +98-21-82884528; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hempel BJ, Crissman ME, Imanalieva A, Melkumyan M, Winston CA, Riley AL. Cross-generational THC Exposure Weakly Attenuates Cocaine's Rewarding Effects in Adult Male Offspring. Physiol Behav 2020; 227:113164. [PMID: 32891609 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents represent a large demographic of marijuana consumers. Regrettably, use during this developmental period has been associated with above average health risks. A growing body of evidence suggests that adolescent drug use in the lifetime of a parent can modify behavior and neurochemistry in descendants without direct exposure. The current study was designed to evaluate the effects of pre-conception THC during adolescence on vulnerability to cocaine in adult male offspring. Male and female rats were given an intermittent THC (0 or 1.5 mg/kg) exposure regimen during the adolescent window and mated with drug group conspecifics in adulthood. F1-THC and F1-Veh pups were cross fostered to drug naïve control dams. In Experiment 1, adult offspring underwent cocaine (0 or 15 mg/kg) locomotor sensitization procedures and showed no effect of parental THC exposure on locomotor activity. In Experiment 2, intravenous catheters were implanted and subjects were tested under a number of reinforcement schedules with cocaine (FR1, FR5, FR10, PR, dose-response, extinction, cue + stress induced reinstatement). F1-THC subjects exhibited a slight decrease in cocaine responding during acquisition and a more rapid extinction, but they failed to produce significant differences on any other measure. These findings indicate that adolescent cannabis use likely has minimal effects on cocaine abuse liability in the next generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Briana J Hempel
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20016, USA.
| | - Madeline E Crissman
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20016, USA
| | - Aikerim Imanalieva
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20016, USA
| | - Mariam Melkumyan
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20016, USA
| | - Chloe A Winston
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20016, USA
| | - Anthony L Riley
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Brynildsen JK, Sanchez V, Yohn NL, Carpenter MD, Blendy JA. Sex-specific transgenerational effects of morphine exposure on reward and affective behaviors. Behav Brain Res 2020; 395:112842. [PMID: 32745660 PMCID: PMC8941987 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Current estimates indicate that millions of people in the United States abuse opioid drugs, which may also affect their offspring. To determine whether parental exposure to morphine alters reward and affective behaviors in subsequent generations we exposed male and female C57BL/6NTac mice to morphine (75 mg) or placebo pellets for 4 weeks. Naïve mice were used as mating partners to create subsequent generations (F1 and F2). Adult male and female F1 and F2 mice were tested in the morphine conditioned place preference paradigm (CPP), marble burying (MB), acoustic startle response (ASR), and open field tests (OFT). Paternal morphine exposure resulted in significantly attenuated preference scores amongst F1 male offspring, but significantly higher preference scores amongst F1 female offspring at the lowest CPP dose tested (5 mg/kg). In contrast, maternal exposure to morphine did not affect morphine reward in the F1 generation; however, the F2 male offspring of morphine-exposed F0 females displayed significantly higher CPP preference scores. Preference scores in F2 females were not affected by F0 male or female morphine exposure. Sex-specific alterations in affective behaviors were observed only in the offspring of F0 males exposed to morphine with F1 males spending less time in the center of the open field and F1 females spending more time in the center of the open field. One generation later, affective behaviors were no longer altered in F2 males but F2 females from the F0 male morphine exposure buried more marbles in the MB test. In summary, early exposure to morphine in males and females causes lineage-specific inheritance of reward and affective behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Brynildsen
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Victoria Sanchez
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicole L Yohn
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marco D Carpenter
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Julie A Blendy
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Baratta AM, Rathod RS, Plasil SL, Seth A, Homanics GE. Exposure to drugs of abuse induce effects that persist across generations. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 156:217-277. [PMID: 33461664 PMCID: PMC8167819 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Substance use disorders are highly prevalent and continue to be one of the leading causes of disability in the world. Notably, not all people who use addictive drugs develop a substance use disorder. Although substance use disorders are highly heritable, patterns of inheritance cannot be explained purely by Mendelian genetic mechanisms. Vulnerability to developing drug addiction depends on the interplay between genetics and environment. Additionally, evidence from the past decade has pointed to the role of epigenetic inheritance in drug addiction. This emerging field focuses on how environmental perturbations, including exposure to addictive drugs, induce epigenetic modifications that are transmitted to the embryo at fertilization and modify developmental gene expression programs to ultimately impact subsequent generations. This chapter highlights intergenerational and transgenerational phenotypes in offspring following a history of parental drug exposure. Special attention is paid to parental preconception exposure studies of five drugs of abuse (alcohol, cocaine, nicotine, cannabinoids, and opiates) and associated behavioral and physiological outcomes in offspring. The highlighted studies demonstrate that parental exposure to drugs of abuse has enduring effects that persist into subsequent generations. Understanding the contribution of epigenetic inheritance in drug addiction may provide clues for better treatments and therapies for substance use disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa M Baratta
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Richa S Rathod
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sonja L Plasil
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Amit Seth
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Gregg E Homanics
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Swain Y, Muelken P, Skansberg A, Lanzdorf D, Haave Z, LeSage MG, Gewirtz JC, Harris AC. Higher anhedonia during withdrawal from initial opioid exposure is protective against subsequent opioid self-administration in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:2279-2291. [PMID: 32388620 PMCID: PMC7354901 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05532-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Understanding factors contributing to individual differences in vulnerability to opioid addiction is essential for developing more effective preventions and treatments, yet few reliable behavioral predictors of subsequent opioid self-administration have been identified in rodents. Sensitivity to the acute effects of initial drug exposure predicts later addiction vulnerability in both humans and animals, but the relationship between sensitivity to withdrawal from initial drug exposure and later drug use vulnerability is unclear. OBJECTIVE The goal of the current study was to evaluate whether the degree of anhedonia experienced during withdrawal from early opioid exposure predicts subsequent vulnerability to opioid self-administration. METHODS Rats were first tested for withdrawal sensitivity following acute injections of morphine (i.e., "acute dependence"), measured as elevations in intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) thresholds (anhedonia-like behavior) during naloxone-precipitated and spontaneous withdrawal. Rats were then tested for addiction-like behavior using various measures of i.v. morphine self-administration (MSA) including acquisition, demand, extinction, and reinstatement induced by morphine, stress, and/or drug-associated cues. RESULTS Greater naloxone-precipitated withdrawal across repeated morphine injections and greater peak spontaneous withdrawal severity following a single morphine injection were associated with lower addiction-like behavior on multiple MSA measures. Withdrawal-induced anhedonia predicted a wider range of MSA measures than did any individual measure of MSA itself. CONCLUSIONS Our data establish WIA as one of the first behavioral measures to predict individual differences in opioid SA in rodents. This model promises to be useful for furthering our understanding of behavioral and neurobiological mechanisms underlying vulnerability to opioid addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yayi Swain
- Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute,,University of Minnesota Department of Psychology
| | | | - Annika Skansberg
- Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute,,University of Minnesota Department of Psychology
| | - Danielle Lanzdorf
- Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute,,University of Minnesota Department of Psychology
| | - Zachary Haave
- Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute,,University of Minnesota Department of Neuroscience
| | - Mark G. LeSage
- Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute,,University of Minnesota Department of Psychology,,University of Minnesota Department of Medicine
| | - Jonathan C. Gewirtz
- University of Minnesota Department of Psychology,,University of Minnesota Department of Neuroscience
| | - Andrew C. Harris
- Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute,,University of Minnesota Department of Psychology,,University of Minnesota Department of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cross-Generational THC Exposure Alters Heroin Reinforcement in Adult Male Offspring. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 212:107985. [PMID: 32386920 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An emerging area of preclinical research has investigated whether drug use in parents prior to conception influences drug responsivity in their offspring. The present work sought to further characterize such effects with cannabis by examining whether a parental THC history modified locomotor sensitization to morphine and self-administration of heroin in adult progeny. METHODS Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to eight injections of 0 or 1.5 mg/kg THC during adolescence and bred with subjects from the same dose group. In Experiment 1, adult male and female offspring (F1-THC and F1-Veh) underwent locomotor sensitization procedures with morphine over five trials followed by a 5-day abstinence period and a final morphine challenge. In Experiment 2, subjects were trained to self-administer heroin and tested under a number of conditions (FR1, FR5, FR10, PR, dose response assessment, extinction, cue- + stress-induced reinstatement). RESULTS Germline THC exposure had no effect on morphine locomotor sensitization. However, F1-THC males displayed a reduced motivation to self-administer heroin relative to F1-Veh males. CONCLUSIONS The present data indicate that parental THC exposure alters the reinforcing properties of heroin in a sex-specific manner. As such, mild to moderate cannabis use during adolescence may alter heroin abuse liability for males in the subsequent generation, but have limited effects on females.
Collapse
|
24
|
Paternal morphine self-administration produces object recognition memory deficits in female, but not male offspring. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1209-1221. [PMID: 31912193 PMCID: PMC7124995 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05450-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Parental drug use around or before conception can have adverse consequences for offspring. Historically, this research has focused on the effects of maternal substance use on future generations but less is known about the influence of the paternal lineage. This study focused on the impact of chronic paternal morphine exposure prior to conception on behavioral outcomes in male and female progeny. OBJECTIVES This study sought to investigate the impact of paternal morphine self-administration on anxiety-like behavior, the stress response, and memory in male and female offspring. METHODS Adult, drug-naïve male and female progeny of morphine-treated sires and controls were evaluated for anxiety-like behavior using defensive probe burying and novelty-induced hypophagia paradigms. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function was assessed by measuring plasma corticosterone levels following a restraint stressor in male and female progeny. Memory was probed using a battery of tests including object location memory, novel object recognition, and contextual fear conditioning. RESULTS Paternal morphine exposure did not alter anxiety-like behavior or stress-induced HPA axis activation in male or female offspring. Morphine-sired male and female offspring showed intact hippocampus-dependent memory: they performed normally on the long-term fear conditioning and object location memory tests. In contrast, paternal morphine exposure selectively disrupted novel object recognition in female, but not male, progeny. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that paternal morphine taking produces sex-specific and selective impairments in object recognition memory while leaving hippocampal function largely intact.
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
This paper is the fortieth consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2017 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (1), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (2) and humans (3), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (4), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (5), stress and social status (6), learning and memory (7), eating and drinking (8), drug abuse and alcohol (9), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (10), mental illness and mood (11), seizures and neurologic disorders (12), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (13), general activity and locomotion (14), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (15), cardiovascular responses (16), respiration and thermoregulation (17), and immunological responses (18).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, CUNY, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY, 11367, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Multi-, Inter-, and Transgenerational Effects of Drugs of Abuse on Behavior. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2020; 42:247-258. [PMID: 31396893 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2019_106] [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: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is a burgeoning field that has recently garnered much attention. A growing body of evidence identifies behavioral phenotypes associated with inter-, multi-, and transgenerational studies following a wide variety of parental exposures. This chapter in current topics in behavioral neurogenomics examines the evidence for the presence of behavioral phenotypes and, in particular, the varied and often opposite behavioral responses observed with protocol shifts. Effects following parental exposure to drugs of abuse are used as an example of the wide range of behavioral outcomes and the variability associated with these multiple generation studies. The behavioral phenotypes associated with drug exposure are reviewed in depth.
Collapse
|
27
|
Vassoler FM, Toorie AM, Teceno DN, Walia P, Moore DJ, Patton TD, Byrnes EM. Paternal morphine exposure induces bidirectional effects on cocaine versus opioid self-administration. Neuropharmacology 2020; 162:107852. [PMID: 31726075 PMCID: PMC8274248 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The United States is in the midst of an opioid epidemic and is thus experiencing unprecedented levels of opioid exposure. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that this may have consequences on multiple generations. The current set of experiments examined the effect of male adolescent opioid exposure on cocaine and opioid self-administration in the F1 generation. Male Sprague Dawley rats were administered increasing doses of morphine (5-25 mg/kg, s.c.) for 10 days during adolescence (P30-39). Rats were then maintained drug free until adulthood (P70-80) at which point they were mated with drug-naïve females. Male and female F1 offspring were first examined for cocaine self-administration during adulthood. Naïve littermates were tested for morphine self-administration acquisition followed by a within subjects design progressive ratio test for morphine, oxycodone, and cocaine. Results show that male and female F1 rats have delayed acquisition and decreased intake of cocaine. In addition, they have blunted PR levels compared to Sal-F1 control rats. Female Mor-F1 rats also demonstrate increased levels of morphine intake during acquisition and increased PR responding for oxycodone. Surprisingly, even following acquisition of morphine self-administration, Mor-F1 males and females still demonstrate blunted effort for cocaine. There were no differences in sucrose self-administration in naïve littermates. MorF0 seminiferous tubules demonstrated increased levels of acetylated histone H3 and there were increased levels of BDNF mRNA in the mPFC in male and female F1 offspring. Together, these data identify systems that are vulnerable to the impact of opioids in the F0 generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA.
| | - Anika M Toorie
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Delaney N Teceno
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Pankhuri Walia
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Deion J Moore
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Trevor D Patton
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
In recent decades, human sociocultural changes have increased the numbers of fathers that are involved in direct caregiving in Western societies. This trend has led to a resurgence of interest in understanding the mechanisms and effects of paternal care. Across the animal kingdom, paternal caregiving has been found to be a highly malleable phenomenon, presenting with great variability among and within species. The emergence of paternal behaviour in a male animal has been shown to be accompanied by substantial neural plasticity and to be shaped by previous and current caregiving experiences, maternal and infant stimuli and ecological conditions. Recent research has allowed us to gain a better understanding of the neural basis of mammalian paternal care, the genomic and circuit-level mechanisms underlying paternal behaviour and the ways in which the subcortical structures that support maternal caregiving have evolved into a global network of parental care. In addition, the behavioural, neural and molecular consequences of paternal caregiving for offspring are becoming increasingly apparent. Future cross-species research on the effects of absence of the father and the transmission of paternal influences across generations may allow research on the neuroscience of fatherhood to impact society at large in a number of important ways.
Collapse
|
29
|
Preconception maternal cocaine self-administration increases the reinforcing efficacy of cocaine in male offspring. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:3429-3437. [PMID: 31236644 PMCID: PMC6895412 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05307-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Although the influence of gestational cocaine exposure on offspring has been the focus of a sustained research effort, the effect of preconception cocaine self-administration by dams on progeny has received far less attention. METHOD In the current study, adult female rats were allowed to self-administer cocaine 2 h a day for 60 days and then after a 10-day wash out period, bred to naïve males. Maternal behavior was measured in dams until weaning. When male and female progeny reached adulthood, anxiety-like behavior, memory, and cocaine self-administration were assessed in separate cohorts of rats. RESULTS Despite a total of at least 30 days of cocaine abstinence, the quality of maternal behaviors was negatively affected by previous cocaine exposure as reflected by less time spent with pups as well as an excess of other maladaptive maternal behaviors. Measures of anxiety-like behavior and memory were not affected by maternal cocaine intake in either male or female offspring. In contrast, male, but not female, the progeny of dams exposed to cocaine showed increased reinforcing efficacy of cocaine as measured by cocaine self-administration under a progressive ratio schedule. The fact that cocaine self-administration was influenced only in the male offspring of cocaine-exposed dams argues against this phenotype being linked to altered maternal behavior, although this possibility cannot be ruled out completely. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these results indicate that preconception cocaine self-administration by dams results in the relatively selective enhancement of cocaine addiction-like behavior in male offspring.
Collapse
|
30
|
Bell AM, Hellmann JK. An Integrative Framework for Understanding the Mechanisms and Multigenerational Consequences of Transgenerational Plasticity. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ECOLOGY, EVOLUTION, AND SYSTEMATICS 2019; 50:97-118. [PMID: 36046014 PMCID: PMC9427003 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-110218-024613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Transgenerational plasticity (TGP) occurs when the environment experienced by a parent influences the development of their offspring. In this article, we develop a framework for understanding the mechanisms and multi-generational consequences of TGP. First, we conceptualize the mechanisms of TGP in the context of communication between parents (senders) and offspring (receivers) by dissecting the steps between an environmental cue received by a parent and its resulting effects on the phenotype of one or more future generations. Breaking down the problem in this way highlights the diversity of mechanisms likely to be involved in the process. Second, we review the literature on multigenerational effects and find that the documented patterns across generations are diverse. We categorize different multigenerational patterns and explore the proximate and ultimate mechanisms that can generate them. Throughout, we highlight opportunities for future work in this dynamic and integrative area of study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Bell
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Program in Neuroscience and Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Jennifer K Hellmann
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pachenari N, Azizi H, Semnaniann S. Adolescent Morphine Exposure in Male Rats Alters the Electrophysiological Properties of Locus Coeruleus Neurons of the Male Offspring. Neuroscience 2019; 410:108-117. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
|
32
|
Vassoler FM, Toorie AM, Byrnes EM. Increased cocaine reward in offspring of females exposed to morphine during adolescence. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1261-1272. [PMID: 30506236 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE A growing body of evidence demonstrates that environmental exposures can impact the physiology and behavior of subsequent generations. We have previously demonstrated reduced morphine self-administration in the F1 and F2 offspring of female rats exposed to morphine during adolescence. OBJECTIVES The current study was designed to determine whether attenuated self-administration for a substance not in the opioid class is also observed in the F1 progeny of adolescent morphine exposed females. METHODS Female adolescent rats were administered morphine at increasing doses for 10 days (P30-39). Females then remained drug free for at least 3 weeks prior to mating with drug-naïve males. As adults, male and female offspring (F1 animals) were tested for cocaine self-administration acquisition, progressive ratio, extinction, and reinstatement. In addition, β-endorphin peptide levels were measured in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of behaviorally experienced animals following reinstatement and in behaviorally naïve littermates after acute cocaine (0 or 10 mg/kg, i.p.). Proopiomelanocortin, the polypeptide that is cleaved to produce β-endorphin, as well as β-endorphin, was examined in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and the nucleus accumbens, respectively. Finally, corticosterone was measured following acute cocaine. RESULTS While no differences were observed during the cocaine acquisition phase (FR-1 and FR-5 schedules), under a PR schedule, Mor-F1 animals (both males and females) had increased motivated responding for cocaine. In addition, Mor-F1 males demonstrated enhanced reinstatement compared to Sal-F1 males. In Mor-F1 males, an acute injection of cocaine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) decreased β-endorphin levels in the NAc compared to a saline injection while acute cocaine increased β-endorphin in the NAc in Sal-F1 males compared to saline injection. Following acute cocaine, Mor-F1 males had significantly lower levels of β-endorphin in the Nac compared to Sal-F1 males. Additionally, β-endorphin levels in the nucleus accumbens were negatively correlated with reinstatement behavior only in Mor-F1 males. Levels of POMC in the arcuate nucleus were elevated in Mor-F1 males compared to Sal-F1 males, a main effect driven primarily by POMC levels in the acute cocaine condition. These changes were not observed in Mor-F1 females. Finally, plasma corticosterone was increased in Mor-F1 males regardless of acute injection while Mor-F1 females displayed increased corticosterone in response to acute cocaine. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that morphine prior to conception increases the rewarding effects of cocaine in male and female offspring. In addition, sex-specific alterations in endogenous opioids and hypothalamic physiology were observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA.
| | - Anika M Toorie
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Azadi M, Azizi H, Haghparast A. Paternal exposure to morphine during adolescence induces reward-resistant phenotype to morphine in male offspring. Brain Res Bull 2019; 147:124-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
34
|
Wimmer ME, Vassoler FM, White SL, Schmidt HD, Sidoli S, Han Y, Garcia BA, Pierce RC. Impaired cocaine-induced behavioral plasticity in the male offspring of cocaine-experienced sires. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 49:1115-1126. [PMID: 30565761 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Our previous work indicated that male, but not female, offspring of cocaine-experienced sires display blunted cocaine self-administration. We extended this line of investigation to examine behavioral sensitization, a commonly used model of cocaine-induced behavioral and neuronal plasticity. Results indicated that male, but not female, offspring of cocaine-taking sires showed deficits in the ability of repeated systemic cocaine injections to induce augmented locomotor activity. The reduced cocaine sensitization phenotype in male progeny was associated with changes in histone post-translational modifications, epigenetic processes that regulate gene expression by controlling the accessibility of genes to transcriptional machinery, in the nucleus accumbens of first-generation male progeny. Thus, five histone post-translational modifications were significantly altered in the male progeny of cocaine-exposed sires. In contrast, self-administration of nicotine was unaltered in male and female offspring suggesting that the intergenerational effects of paternal cocaine taking may be drug-specific. Interestingly, the reduced sensitivity to cocaine previously observed in the male offspring of cocaine-taking sires dissipated in the grand-offspring. Both male and female grand-progeny of cocaine-exposed sires showed unaltered cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization and cocaine self-administration. Taken together, these findings indicate that paternal cocaine taking produces changes in multiple cocaine addiction-related behaviors in male progeny, which do not persist beyond the first generation of offspring. Moreover, the altered sensitivity to cocaine in first-generation male progeny of cocaine-sired male offspring was associated with epigenetic modifications in the nucleus accumbens, a nucleus that plays a critical role in cocaine-associated behavioral plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu E Wimmer
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, College of Liberal Arts, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Fair M Vassoler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, Grafton, Massachusetts
| | - Samantha L White
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Heath D Schmidt
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Simone Sidoli
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Yumiao Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Benjamin A Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - R Christopher Pierce
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Rose EJ, Picci G, Fishbein DH. Neurocognitive Precursors of Substance Misuse Corresponding to Risk, Resistance, and Resilience Pathways: Implications for Prevention Science. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:399. [PMID: 31258493 PMCID: PMC6586742 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies of substance misuse prevention generally focus on characteristics that typify risk, with the assumption that the prevalence of the problem will be optimally reduced by identifying, targeting, and reducing or eliminating risk factors. However, this risk-centered approach neglects variations in individual-level and environmental characteristics that portend differential pathways that are distinguishable by timing of substance use initiation (e.g., early versus delayed), the likelihood of use escalation versus eventual desistance, and enduring abstinence, despite exposure to significant risk factors. Considering the various underpinnings of these distinct substance use trajectories is critical to a more nuanced understanding of the effects, potency, and malleability of factors that are known to increase risk or confer protection. Here, we discuss three pathways relative to substance use patterns and predictors in the context of adversity, a well-known, highly significant influence on propensity for substance misuse. The first pathway is designated as "high risk" based on early onset of substance use, rapid escalation, and proneness to substance use disorders. Individuals who defy all odds and eventually exhibit adaptive developmental outcomes despite an initial maladaptive reaction to adversity, are referred to as "resilient." However, another categorization that has not been adequately characterized is "resistant." Resistant individuals include those who do not exhibit problematic substance use behaviors (e.g., early onset and escalation) and do not develop substance use disorders or other forms of psychopathology, despite significant exposure to factors that normally increase the propensity for such outcomes (e.g. trauma and/or adversity). In this paper, we apply this conceptualization of risk, resistance, and resilience for substance misuse to a more fine-grained analysis of substance use pathways and their corresponding patterns (e.g., non-use, initiation, escalation, desistance). The significance of the progression of neurocognitive functioning over the course of development is discussed as well as how this knowledge may be translated to make a science-based determination of intervention targets. This more encompassing theoretical model has direct implications for primary prevention and clinical approaches to disrupt risk pathways and to optimize long-term outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Jane Rose
- Program for Translational Research on Adversity and Neurodevelopment (P-TRAN), The Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Giorgia Picci
- Program for Translational Research on Adversity and Neurodevelopment (P-TRAN), The Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Diana H Fishbein
- Program for Translational Research on Adversity and Neurodevelopment (P-TRAN), The Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.,Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Becker JB, Chartoff E. Sex differences in neural mechanisms mediating reward and addiction. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:166-183. [PMID: 29946108 PMCID: PMC6235836 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-018-0125-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence in humans and laboratory animals for biologically based sex differences in every phase of drug addiction: acute reinforcing effects, transition from occasional to compulsive use, withdrawal-associated negative affective states, craving, and relapse. There is also evidence that many qualitative aspects of the addiction phases do not differ significantly between males and females, but one sex may be more likely to exhibit a trait than the other, resulting in population differences. The conceptual framework of this review is to focus on hormonal, chromosomal, and epigenetic organizational and contingent, sex-dependent mechanisms of four neural systems that are known-primarily in males-to be key players in addiction: dopamine, mu-opioid receptors (MOR), kappa opioid receptors (KOR), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We highlight data demonstrating sex differences in development, expression, and function of these neural systems as they relate-directly or indirectly-to processes of reward and addictive behavior, with a focus on psychostimulants and opioids. We identify gaps in knowledge about how these neural systems interact with sex to influence addictive behavior, emphasizing throughout that the impact of sex can be highly nuanced and male/female data should be reported regardless of the outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill B Becker
- Department of Psychology and the Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Elena Chartoff
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sabzevari S, Rohbani K, Sadat-Shirazi MS, Babhadi-Ashar N, Shakeri A, Ashabi G, Khalifeh S, Ale-Ebrahim M, Zarrindast MR. Morphine exposure before conception affects anxiety-like behavior and CRF level (in the CSF and plasma) in the adult male offspring. Brain Res Bull 2018; 144:122-131. [PMID: 30503221 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
It has been proven that exposure to some drugs even before gestation had transgenerational effects. To investigate the changes which induced by parental morphine exposure before gestation; mainly the anxiety-like behavior, Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF) level in the CSF and plasma, CRF Receptor 1 (CRFR1), and the level of protein kinase C (PKC-α) were evaluated in the male offspring. Male and female Wistar rats were exposed to morphine for 21 following days. Ten days after last drug exposure, animals were prepared for mating in 4 distinct groups as follow: drug-naïve female and male (used as control), drug-naïve female and morphine-abstinent male, drug-naïve male and morphine-abstinent female, and morphine abstinent male and female. Offspring were subjected to assess anxiety-like behavior (using elevated plus maze test). CSF and plasma were gathered, and the CRF level was evaluated by ELISA. Using real-time PCR, the CRFR1 level in the brain was evaluated. Results showed that anxiety-like behavior increased in the offspring of morphine-abstinent parent(s) compared with the control group. CRF level in the plasma and CSF also increased in the litter of morphine-abstinent parent(s). CRFR1 mRNA level was upregulated in the brain of offspring with one and/or two morphine-abstinent parent(s). Furthermore, the level of PKC-α was decreased in the brain of offspring which had one and/or two morphine-abstinent parent(s). Taken together, our findings indicated that morphine exposure even before gestation induced transgenerational effects via dysregulation of HPA axis which results in anxiety in the adult male offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saba Sabzevari
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiyana Rohbani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mitra-Sadat Sadat-Shirazi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Babhadi-Ashar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atena Shakeri
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghorbangol Ashabi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Solmaz Khalifeh
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Ale-Ebrahim
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Byrnes EM, Vassoler FM. Modeling prenatal opioid exposure in animals: Current findings and future directions. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 51:1-13. [PMID: 28965857 PMCID: PMC5649358 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The past decade has seen a drastic rise in the number of infants exposed to opioids in utero. It is unclear what lasting effect this exposure may have on these children. Animal models of prenatal opioid exposure may provide insight into potential areas of vulnerability. The present review summarizes the findings across animal models of prenatal opioid exposure, including exposure to morphine, methadone, buprenorphine, and oxycodone. Details regarding the drug, doses, and duration of treatment, as well as key findings, are summarized in tables with associated references. Finally, significant gaps in the current preclinical literature and future directions are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Byrnes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States.
| | - Fair M Vassoler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
De Sa Nogueira D, Merienne K, Befort K. Neuroepigenetics and addictive behaviors: Where do we stand? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 106:58-72. [PMID: 30205119 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Substance use disorders involve long-term changes in the brain that lead to compulsive drug seeking, craving, and a high probability of relapse. Recent findings have highlighted the role of epigenetic regulations in controlling chromatin access and regulation of gene expression following exposure to drugs of abuse. In the present review, we focus on data investigating genome-wide epigenetic modifications in the brain of addicted patients or in rodent models exposed to drugs of abuse, with a particular focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications associated with transcriptional studies. We highlight critical factors for epigenomic studies in addiction. We discuss new findings related to psychostimulants, alcohol, opiate, nicotine and cannabinoids. We examine the possible transmission of these changes across generations. We highlight developing tools, specifically those that allow investigation of structural reorganization of the chromatin. These have the potential to increase our understanding of alteration of chromatin architecture at gene regulatory regions. Neuroepigenetic mechanisms involved in addictive behaviors could explain persistent phenotypic effects of drugs and, in particular, vulnerability to relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David De Sa Nogueira
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), UMR 7364, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Team 3 « Abuse of Drugs and Neuroadaptations », Faculté de Psychologie, 12 rue Goethe, F-67000, France
| | - Karine Merienne
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), UMR 7364, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Team 1 « Dynamics of Memory and Epigenetics », Faculté de Psychologie, 12 rue Goethe, F-67000, France
| | - Katia Befort
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), UMR 7364, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Team 3 « Abuse of Drugs and Neuroadaptations », Faculté de Psychologie, 12 rue Goethe, F-67000, France.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Goldberg LR, Gould TJ. Multigenerational and transgenerational effects of paternal exposure to drugs of abuse on behavioral and neural function. Eur J Neurosci 2018; 50:2453-2466. [PMID: 29949212 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Addictions are highly heritable disorders, with heritability estimates ranging from 39% to 72%. Multiple studies suggest a link between paternal drug abuse and addiction in their children. However, patterns of inheritance cannot be explained purely by Mendelian genetic mechanisms. Exposure to drugs of abuse results in epigenetic changes that may be passed on through the germline. This mechanism of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance may provide a link between paternal drug exposure and addiction susceptibility in the offspring. Recent studies have begun to investigate the effect of paternal drug exposure on behavioral and neurobiological phenotypes in offspring of drug-exposed fathers in rodent models. This review aims to discuss behavioral and neural effects of paternal exposure to alcohol, cocaine, opioids, and nicotine. Although a special focus will be on addiction-relevant behaviors, additional behavioral effects including cognition, anxiety, and depressive-like behaviors will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R Goldberg
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, 219 Biobehavioral Health Building, University Park, PA, 16801, USA
| | - Thomas J Gould
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, 219 Biobehavioral Health Building, University Park, PA, 16801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Gilardi F, Augsburger M, Thomas A. Will Widespread Synthetic Opioid Consumption Induce Epigenetic Consequences in Future Generations? Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:702. [PMID: 30018553 PMCID: PMC6037745 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing number of evidence demonstrates that ancestral exposure to xenobiotics (pollutants, drugs of abuse, etc.) can perturb the physiology and behavior of descendants. Both maternal and paternal transmission of phenotype across generations has been proved, demonstrating that parental drug history may have significant implications for subsequent generations. In the last years, the burden of novel synthetic opioid (NSO) consumption, due to increased medical prescription of pain medications and to easier accessibility of these substances on illegal market, is raising new questions first in term of public health, but also about the consequences of the parental use of these drugs on future generations. Besides being associated to the neonatal abstinence syndrome, in utero exposure to opioids has an impact on neuronal development with long-term repercussions that are potentially transmitted to subsequent generations. In addition, recent reports suggest that opioid use even before conception influences the reactivity to opioids of the progeny and the following generations, likely through epigenetic mechanisms. This review describes the current knowledge about the transgenerational effects of opioid consumption. We summarize the preclinical and clinical findings showing the implications for the subsequent generations of parental exposure to opioids earlier in life. Limitations of the existing data on NSOs and new perspectives of the research are also discussed, as well as clinical and forensic consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Gilardi
- Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital - Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marc Augsburger
- Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital - Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aurelien Thomas
- Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital - Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
A Novel Role for Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells (OPCs) and Sox10 in Mediating Cellular and Behavioral Responses to Heroin. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:1385-1394. [PMID: 29260792 PMCID: PMC5916371 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Opiate abuse and addiction have become a worldwide epidemic with great societal and financial burdens, highlighting a critical need to understand the neurobiology of opiate addiction. Although several studies have focused on drug-dependent changes in neurons, the role of glia in opiate addiction remains largely unstudied. RNA sequencing pathway analysis from the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of male rats revealed changes in several genes associated with oligodendrocyte differentiation and maturation following heroin self-administration. Among these genes changed was Sox10, which is regulated, in part, by the chromatin remodeler BRG1/SMARCA4. To directly test the functional role of Sox10 in mediating heroin-induced behavioral plasticity, we selectively overexpressed Sox10 and BRG1 in the PFC. Overexpression of either Sox10 or BRG1 decreased the motivation to obtain heroin infusions in a progressive ratio test without altering the acquisition or maintenance of heroin self-administration. These data demonstrate a critical, and perhaps compensatory, role of Sox10 and BRG1 in oligodendrocytes in regulating the motivation for heroin.
Collapse
|
43
|
Vassoler FM, Toorie AM, Byrnes EM. Transgenerational blunting of morphine-induced corticosterone secretion is associated with dysregulated gene expression in male offspring. Brain Res 2017; 1679:19-25. [PMID: 29129606 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A number of parental experiences, even when occurring prior to conception, have been shown to induce transgenerational effects beyond the first generation. In the case of exposure to drugs of abuse, studies in rodents suggest that offspring demonstrate significant differences in how they respond to the drug to which their parent was exposed. We have previously observed significant alterations in morphine analgesia, conditioned place preference and self-administration in the offspring of females exposed to morphine during adolescent development. In addition to effects on pain perception and reward, morphine also modulates the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis. The purpose of the current study was to determine whether female adolescent morphine exposure results in transgenerational effects on regulation of the HPA axis by morphine in future generations. Adolescent morphine was administered to female Sprague Dawley rats using a 10 day, escalating dose regimen of morphine (5-25 mg/kg; from 30 to 39 days of age). Control animals received saline. Both saline and morphine exposed females (SAL-F0 and MOR-F0, respectively) were mated with drug naïve males beginning at least 3 weeks after the final injection. Plasma corticosterone levels were measured in male and female offspring (F1) during adulthood following 0, 0.1, or 10 mg/kg morphine. In addition, expression of corticotropin releasing hormone (Crh) and mu opioid receptor (Oprm1) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were measured using quantitative PCR. MOR-F1 males, but not females, had blunted morphine-induced corticosterone secretion. This effect was specific to offspring from females exposed to morphine during adolescence as those exposed during adulthood produced offspring in which the effect was absent. In addition, MOR-F1 males had significantly lower levels of PVN Crh following saline. These effects were not driven by PVN oprm1 in the F1 males as there were no differences based on maternal adolescent exposure. To determine the persistence of the blunted morphine-induced corticosterone effect, SAL-F2 and MOR-F2 males were examined. Blunted morphine-induced corticosterone secretion extended into the MOR-F2 generation, as well as effects on Crh. In addition, there was additional dysregulation ofOprm1 expression in the PVN in MOR-F2 compared with SAL-F2 males. These findings suggest that sex-specific alterations in opioid-mediated regulation of the HPA axis are transgenerationally transmitted for at least two generations following female adolescent morphine exposure. These effects may play a role in the previously observed changes in morphine analgesia and reward-related behaviors observed in this phenotype. In addition, alterations in HPA functioning such as these may play a broad role in transgenerational epigenetic transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fair M Vassoler
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, USA.
| | - Anika M Toorie
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Pitsilis G, Spyridakos D, Nomikos GG, Panagis G. Adolescent Female Cannabinoid Exposure Diminishes the Reward-Facilitating Effects of Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and d-Amphetamine in the Adult Male Offspring. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:225. [PMID: 28487656 PMCID: PMC5404657 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Marijuana is currently the most commonly abused illicit drug. According to recent studies, cannabinoid use occurring prior to pregnancy can impact brain plasticity and behavior in future generations. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether adolescent exposure of female rats to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) induces transgenerational effects on the reward-facilitating effects of Δ9-THC and d-amphetamine in their adult male offspring. Female Sprague-Dawley rats received Δ9-THC (0.1 or 1 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle during postnatal days 28–50. As adults, females were mated with drug-naïve males. We then assessed potential alterations of the Δ9-THC’s (0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg, i.p.) and d-amphetamine’s (0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg, i.p.) reward-modifying effects using the curve-shift variant of the intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) procedure in their adult male F1 offspring. The reward-facilitating effect of the 0.1 mg dose of Δ9-THC was abolished in the F1 offspring of females that were exposed to Δ9-THC (0.1 or 1 mg/kg), whereas the reward-attenuating effect of the 1 mg dose of Δ9-THC remained unaltered. The reward-facilitating effects of 0.5 and 1 mg of d-amphetamine were significantly decreased in the F1 offspring of females that were exposed to Δ9-THC (1 mg/kg and 0.1 or 1 mg, respectively). The present results reveal that female Δ9-THC exposure during adolescence can diminish the reward-facilitating effects of Δ9-THC and d-amphetamine in the adult male offspring. These transgenerational effects occur in the absence of in utero exposure. It is speculated that Δ9-THC exposure during female adolescence may affect neural mechanisms that are shaping reward-related behavioral responses in a subsequent generation, as indicated by the shifts in the reward-facilitating effects of commonly used and abused drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Pitsilis
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, School of Social Science, University of CreteRethymno, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Spyridakos
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, School of Social Science, University of CreteRethymno, Greece
| | | | - George Panagis
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, School of Social Science, University of CreteRethymno, Greece
| |
Collapse
|