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Huang Y, Qing R, Yang Y, Li M, Gao J. Sex and Age Differences in Ontogeny of Alloparenting: A Relation to Forebrain DRD1, DRD2, and HTR2A mRNA Expression? Dev Psychobiol 2024; 66:e22524. [PMID: 38973227 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22524] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Alloparenting refers to the practice of caring for the young by individuals other than their biological parents. The relationship between the dynamic changes in psychological functions underlying alloparenting and the development of specific neuroreceptors remains unclear. Using a classic 10-day pup sensitization procedure, together with a pup preference and pup retrieval test on the EPM (elevated plus maze), we showed that both male and female adolescent rats (24 days old) had significantly shorter latency than adult rats (65 days old) to be alloparental, and their motivation levels for pups and objects were also significantly higher. In contrast, adult rats retrieved more pups than adolescent rats even though they appeared to be more anxious on the EPM. Analysis of mRNA expression using real-time-PCR revealed a higher dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) receptor expression in adult hippocampus, amygdala, and ventral striatum, along with higher dopamine D1 receptor (DRD1) receptor expression in ventral striatum compared to adolescent rats. Adult rats also showed significantly higher levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (HTR2A) receptor expression in the medial prefrontal cortex, amygdala, ventral striatum, and hypothalamus. These results suggest that the faster onset of alloparenting in adolescent rats compared to adult rats, along with the psychological functions involved, may be mediated by varying levels of dopamine DRD1, DRD2, and HTR2A in different forebrain regions.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Receptors, Dopamine D2/metabolism
- Receptors, Dopamine D2/genetics
- Male
- Rats
- Female
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/metabolism
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/metabolism
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/genetics
- Prosencephalon/metabolism
- Empathy/physiology
- Age Factors
- Sex Characteristics
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Amygdala/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Huang
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruoting Qing
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Psychology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
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Zhang K, He L, Li Z, Ding R, Han X, Chen B, Cao G, Ye JH, Li T, Fu R. Bridging Neurobiological Insights and Clinical Biomarkers in Postpartum Depression: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8835. [PMID: 39201521 PMCID: PMC11354679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 174 million women worldwide and is characterized by profound sadness, anxiety, irritability, and debilitating fatigue, which disrupt maternal caregiving and the mother-infant relationship. Limited pharmacological interventions are currently available. Our understanding of the neurobiological pathophysiology of PPD remains incomplete, potentially hindering the development of novel treatment strategies. Recent hypotheses suggest that PPD is driven by a complex interplay of hormonal changes, neurotransmitter imbalances, inflammation, genetic factors, psychosocial stressors, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation. This narrative review examines recent clinical studies on PPD within the past 15 years, emphasizing advancements in neuroimaging findings and blood biomarker detection. Additionally, we summarize recent laboratory work using animal models to mimic PPD, focusing on hormone withdrawal, HPA axis dysfunction, and perinatal stress theories. We also revisit neurobiological results from several brain regions associated with negative emotions, such as the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum. These insights aim to improve our understanding of PPD's neurobiological mechanisms, guiding future research for better early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment strategies for women affected by PPD and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Lingxuan He
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Zhuoen Li
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Ruxuan Ding
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Xiaojiao Han
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Bingqing Chen
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Guoxin Cao
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Jiang-Hong Ye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA;
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Rao Fu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (K.Z.); (L.H.); (Z.L.); (R.D.); (X.H.); (B.C.); (G.C.)
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Jacobs JT, Maior RS, Waguespack HF, Campos-Rodriguez C, Malkova L, Forcelli PA. Focal pharmacological manipulation of serotonin signaling in the amygdala does not alter social behavior. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06651-4. [PMID: 39019996 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06651-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Serotonin signaling plays critical roles in social and emotional behaviors. Likewise, decades of research demonstrate that the amygdala is a prime modulator of social behavior. Permanent excitotoxic lesions and transient amygdala inactivation consistently increase social behaviors in non-human primates. In rodents, acute systemic administration of drugs that increase serotonin signaling is associated with decreased social interactions. However, in primates, the direct involvement of serotonin signaling in the amygdala, particularly in affiliative social interaction, remains unexplored. Here, we examined the effects of serotonin manipulations within the amygdala on social behavior in eight pairs of familiar male macaques. We microinfused drugs targeting the serotonin system into either the basolateral (BLA) or central (CeA) amygdala and measured changes in social behavior. Surprisingly, the results demonstrated no significant differences in social behavior following the infusion of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, 5-HT1A agonist or antagonist, 5-HT2A agonist or antagonist, or 5-HT3 agonist or antagonist into either the BLA or CeA. These findings suggest that serotonin signaling in the amygdala does not directly contribute to the regulation of social behavior between familiar conspecifics. Future research should explore alternative mechanisms and potential interactions with other brain regions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex neural circuitry governing social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica T Jacobs
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rafael S Maior
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Laboratory of Neurosciences and Behavior, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Hannah F Waguespack
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Ludise Malkova
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Patrick A Forcelli
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
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Tejeda-Martínez AR, Ramos-Molina AR, Brand-Rubalcava PA, Flores-Soto ME. Involvement of serotonergic receptors in depressive processes and their modulation by β-arrestins: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38943. [PMID: 38996114 PMCID: PMC11245247 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Over time, several studies have been conducted to demonstrate the functions of the neurotransmitter 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), better known as serotonin. This neurotransmitter is associated with the modulation of various social and physiological behaviors, and its dysregulation has consequences at the behavioral level, leading to various neurophysiological disorders. Disorders such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, epilepsy, sexual disorders, and eating disorders, have been closely linked to variations in 5-HT concentrations and modifications in brain structures, including the raphe nuclei (RN), prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, among others. The involvement of β-arrestin proteins has been implicated in the modulation of the serotonergic receptor response, as well as the activation of different signaling pathways related to the serotonergic system, this is particularly relevant in depressive disorders. This review will cover the implications of alterations in 5-HT receptor expression in depressive disorders in one hand and how β-arrestin proteins modulate the response mediated by these receptors in the other hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo R Tejeda-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente (CIBO), Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, México
| | - Ana R Ramos-Molina
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente (CIBO), Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, México
| | - Patricia A Brand-Rubalcava
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente (CIBO), Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, México
| | - Mario E Flores-Soto
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente (CIBO), Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, México
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Melo LM, de Barros WA, de Fátima Â, Giusti FCV, Giusti-Paiva A. Exposure to the psychedelic substance 25 H-NBOMe disrupts maternal care in lactating rats and subsequently impairs the social play behavior of the offspring. Behav Brain Res 2024; 465:114924. [PMID: 38423256 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114924] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Given the critical role of maternal care in the neurodevelopment of offspring, this study aimed to investigate the effects of the psychedelic substance 25 H-NBOMe on maternal behavior in lactating rats and its subsequent impact on the social and neurodevelopmental behavior of the offspring. We administered two different dosages of 25 H-NBOMe (0.3 mg/kg and 1.0 mg/kg; i,p,) to lactating rats and observed changes in maternal behaviors, such as nest-building and pup retrieval, and in offspring behaviors, including social play. Behavioral assessments were complemented by physiological measurements to rule out general health or nutritional decline. 25 H-NBOMe significantly disrupted maternal behaviors, including nest-building and pup retrieval, without affecting the weight of dams or offspring. Offspring of exposed dams exhibited reduced social play behavior. Higher doses led to more pronounced disruptions, while lower doses, despite not visibly affecting maternal behavior, still impacted offspring behavior, suggesting potential direct effects of 25 H-NBOMe. The study highlights the potential risks associated with the use of 25 H-NBOMe during lactation, emphasizing its detrimental impact on maternal care and offspring development. These findings contribute to understanding the neurobiological effects of psychedelic substances during critical developmental periods and underscore the importance of avoiding their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia M Melo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Wellington A de Barros
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ângelo de Fátima
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandre Giusti-Paiva
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
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Xie H, Xie Z, Luan F, Zeng J, Zhang X, Chen L, Zeng N, Liu R. Potential therapeutic effects of Chinese herbal medicine in postpartum depression: Mechanisms and future directions. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 324:117785. [PMID: 38262525 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common psychiatric disorder in women after childbirth. Per data from epidemiologic studies, PPD affects about 5%-26.32% of postpartum mothers worldwide. Biological factors underlying this condition are multiple and complex and have received extensive inquiries for the roles they play in PPD. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM), which is widely used as a complementary and alternative therapy for neurological disorders, possesses multi-component, multi-target, multi-access, and low side effect therapeutic characteristics. CHM has already shown efficacy in the treatment of PPD, and a lot more research exploring the mechanisms of its potential therapeutic effects is being conducted. AIM OF THE REVIEW This review provides an in-depth and comprehensive overview of the underlying mechanisms of PPD, as well as samples the progress made in researching the potential role of CHM in treating the disorder. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature was searched comprehensively in scholarly electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CNKI and WanFang DATA, using the search terms "postpartum depression", "genetic", "hormone", "immune", "neuroinflammation", "inflammation", "neurotransmitter", "neurogenesis", "brain-gut axis", "traditional Chinese medicine", "Chinese herbal medicine", "herb", and an assorted combination of these terms. RESULTS PPD is closely associated with genetics, as well as with the hormones, immune inflammatory, and neurotransmitter systems, neurogenesis, and gut microbes, and these biological factors often interact and work together to cause PPD. For example, inflammatory factors could suppress the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin by inducing the regulation of tryptophan-kynurenine in the direction of neurotoxicity. Many CHM constituents improve anxiety- and depression-like behaviors by interfering with the above-mentioned mechanisms and have shown decent efficacy clinically against PPD. For example, Shen-Qi-Jie-Yu-Fang invigorates the neuroendocrine system by boosting the hormone levels of hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic pituitary gonadal (HPG) axes, regulating the imbalance of Treg/T-helper cells (Th) 17 and Th1/Th2, and modulating neurotransmitter system to play antidepressant roles. The Shenguiren Mixture interferes with the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway to enhance the number, morphology and apoptosis of neurons in the hippocampus of PPD rats. Other herbal extracts and active ingredients of CHM, such as Paeoniflorin, hypericin, timosaponin B-III and more, also manage depression by remedying the neuroendocrine system and reducing neuroinflammation. CONCLUSIONS The pathogenesis of PPD is complex and diverse, with the main pathogenesis not clear. Still, CHM constituents, like Shen-Qi-Jie-Yu-Fang, the Shenguiren Mixture, Paeoniflorin, hypericin and other Chinese Medicinal Formulae, active monomers and Crude extracts, treats PPD through multifaceted interventions. Therefore, developing more CHM components for the treatment of PPD is an essential step forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxiao Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China.
| | - Zhiqiang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China.
| | - Fei Luan
- Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Pharmacy College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712046, PR China.
| | - Jiuseng Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China.
| | - Xiumeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China.
| | - Li Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, Clinical Medical College and the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, PR China.
| | - Nan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China.
| | - Rong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, PR China.
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Mykins M, Bridges B, Jo A, Krishnan K. Multidimensional Analysis of a Social Behavior Identifies Regression and Phenotypic Heterogeneity in a Female Mouse Model for Rett Syndrome. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1078232023. [PMID: 38199865 PMCID: PMC10957218 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1078-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Regression is a key feature of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, Fragile X syndrome, and Rett syndrome (RTT). RTT is caused by mutations in the X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). It is characterized by an early period of typical development with subsequent regression of previously acquired motor and speech skills in girls. The syndromic phenotypes are individualistic and dynamic over time. Thus far, it has been difficult to capture these dynamics and syndromic heterogeneity in the preclinical Mecp2-heterozygous female mouse model (Het). The emergence of computational neuroethology tools allows for robust analysis of complex and dynamic behaviors to model endophenotypes in preclinical models. Toward this first step, we utilized DeepLabCut, a marker-less pose estimation software to quantify trajectory kinematics and multidimensional analysis to characterize behavioral heterogeneity in Het in the previously benchmarked, ethologically relevant social cognition task of pup retrieval. We report the identification of two distinct phenotypes of adult Het: Het that display a delay in efficiency in early days and then improve over days like wild-type mice and Het that regress and perform worse in later days. Furthermore, regression is dependent on age and behavioral context and can be detected in the initial days of retrieval. Together, the novel identification of two populations of Het suggests differential effects on neural circuitry, opens new avenues to investigate the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of heterogeneity, and designs better studies for stratifying therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Mykins
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
| | - Benjamin Bridges
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
| | - Angela Jo
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
| | - Keerthi Krishnan
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
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Lv Z, Li L, Li Y, Zhang L, Guo X, Huang C, Hou W, Qu Y, Liu L, Li Y, He Z, Tai F. Involvement of Serotonergic Projections from the Dorsal Raphe to the Medial Preoptic Area in the Regulation of the Pup-Directed Paternal Response of Male Mandarin Voles. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11605. [PMID: 37511364 PMCID: PMC10380723 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Male mammals display different paternal responses to pups, either attacking or killing the young offspring, or contrastingly, caring for them. The neural circuit mechanism underlying the between-individual variation in the pup-directed responsiveness of male mammals remains unclear. Monogamous mandarin voles were used to complete the present study. The male individuals were identified as paternal and infanticidal voles, according their behavioral responses to pups. It was found that the serotonin release in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), as well as the serotonergic neuron activity, significantly increased upon licking the pups, but showed no changes after attacking the pups, as revealed by the in vivo fiber photometry of the fluorescence signal from the 5-HT 1.0 sensor and the calcium imaging indicator, respectively. It was verified that the 5-HTergic neural projections to the MPOA originated mainly from the ventral part of the dorsal raphe (vDR). Furthermore, the chemogenetic inhibition of serotonergic projections from the vDR to the MPOA decreased the paternal behaviors and shortened the latency to attack the pups. In contrast, the activation of serotonergic neurons via optogenetics extended the licking duration and inhibited infanticide. Collectively, these results elucidate that the serotonergic projections from the vDR to the MPOA, a previously unrecognized pathway, regulate the paternal responses of virgin male mandarin voles to pups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Lv
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Lu Li
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Yin Li
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Lizi Zhang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Xing Guo
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Caihong Huang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Wenjuan Hou
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Yishan Qu
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Limin Liu
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Yitong Li
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Zhixiong He
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Fadao Tai
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
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Lin X, Huang L, Huang H, Ke Z, Chen Y. Disturbed relationship between glucocorticoid receptor and 5-HT1AR/5-HT2AR in ADHD rats: A correlation study. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1064369. [PMID: 36699537 PMCID: PMC9869156 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1064369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This work is to investigate the alterations of the central 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) system in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and the correlation with the behaviors of SHR, and to explore the effects of glucocorticoid intervention on the central 5-HT system and SHR behaviors. Materials and methods Three weeks old SHR were chosen as the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) model and treated with glucocorticoid receptor (GR) agonist or inhibitor, whereas Wista Kyoto rats (WKY) were chosen as the normal control group. Open-field test and Làt maze test were used to evaluate the spontaneous activities and non-selective attention. The levels of 5-HT in the extracellular fluid specimens of the prefrontal cortex of rats were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The expressions of GR, 5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1AR), and 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) in the prefrontal cortex were analyzed through immunohistochemistry. Results Our study demonstrated that the 5-HT level was lower in the prefrontal cortex of SHR compared to that of WKY. The Open-field test and Làt maze test showed that GR agonist (dexamethasone, DEX) intervention ameliorated attention deficit and hyperactive behavior, whereas GR inhibitor (RU486) aggravated the disorders. With DEX, the expression levels of 5-HT and 5-HT2AR in the prefrontal cortex of SHR were significantly higher than those in the control group, whereas the expression level of 5-HT1AR was lower. However, the expression levels of 5-HT and 5-HT2AR were significantly decreased after the intervention with RU486, while the expression level of 5-HT1AR increased. Results showed that glucocorticoid was negatively correlated with 5-HT1AR and positively correlated with 5-HT2AR. Conclusion In the prefrontal cortex of ADHD rats, the down-regulation of 5-HT and 5-HT2AR expressions and the up-regulation of 5-HT1AR, compared with WYK rats, suggested a dysfunctional central 5-HT system in ADHD rats. The GR agonist can upregulate the expression of 5-HT and 5-HT2AR and downregulate the expression of 5-HT1AR in the prefrontal cortex of SHR as well as reduce the hyperactivity and attention deficit behavior in SHR, while the opposite was true for the GR inhibitor. It is suggested that the dysfunction of the 5-HT system in ADHD rats is closely related to glucocorticoid receptor activity.
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10
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Unroe KA, Maltman JL, Shupe EA, Clinton SM. Disrupted serotonin system development via early life antidepressant exposure impairs maternal care and increases serotonin receptor expression in adult female offspring. Dev Psychobiol 2022; 64:e22292. [PMID: 35748633 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22292] [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: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Manipulating serotonin (5-HT) levels in the developing brain elicits a range of effects on brain function and behavior. For example, early-life exposure to selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants disrupts dorsal raphe function and triggers aberrant adult behaviors such as increased passive stress coping and anhedonia. However, much less is understood about how alterations in 5-HT signaling in early life impact outcomes in female offspring, including critical social functions such as maternal care. The present study shows that early-life SSRI exposure disrupts adult female offspring's maternal behavior. Pregnant/postpartum female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with the SSRI citalopram in drinking water or provided regular tap water as control. Female offspring were raised to adulthood and mated with treatment-naïve males. Following parturition, we observed maternal behavior during portions of the light and dark phases of postnatal days (P)1-14. Relative to controls, dams with a history of early-life SSRI exposure exhibited decreased maternal care, including diminished arched-back nursing, reduced licking and grooming of pups, and increased behavioral inconsistency. Brains were collected from dams with and without a history of early-life SSRI exposure to measure relative mRNA expression of select 5-HT receptor transcripts (5HTR1A, -1B, -2A, -2C) in regions involved in maternal care. Early-life SSRI exposure augmented expression of 5-HTR1A in the medial preoptic area and 5-HTR1B, 5-HTR2A, and 5-HTR2C in the prefrontal cortex. These results demonstrate that early alterations to 5-HT signaling through SSRI exposure may disrupt nurturing parental behaviors and 5-HT receptor expression in affected female rat offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keaton A Unroe
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA.,Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Jessica L Maltman
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Shupe
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Sarah M Clinton
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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11
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Grieb ZA, Lonstein JS. Oxytocin interactions with central dopamine and serotonin systems regulate different components of motherhood. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210062. [PMID: 35858105 PMCID: PMC9272149 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of oxytocin in maternal caregiving and other postpartum behaviours has been studied for more than five decades. How oxytocin interacts with other neurochemical systems to enact these behavioural changes, however, is only slowly being elucidated. The best-studied oxytocin-neurotransmitter interaction is with the mesolimbic dopamine system, and this interaction is essential for maternal motivation and active caregiving behaviours such as retrieval of pups. Considerably less attention has been dedicated to investigating how oxytocin interacts with central serotonin to influence postpartum behaviour. Recently, it has become clear that while oxytocin-dopamine interactions regulate the motivational and pup-approach aspects of maternal caregiving behaviours, oxytocin-serotonin interactions appear to regulate nearly all other aspects including postpartum nursing, aggression, anxiety-like behaviour and stress coping strategy. Collectively, oxytocin's interactions with central dopamine and serotonin systems are thus critical for the entire suite of behavioural adaptations exhibited in the postpartum period, and these sites of interaction are potential pharmacological targets for where oxytocin could help to ameliorate deficits in maternal caregiving and poor postpartum mental health. This article is part of the theme issue 'Interplays between oxytocin and other neuromodulators in shaping complex social behaviours'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A. Grieb
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Joseph S. Lonstein
- Psychology Department, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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12
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Astroglial Serotonin Receptors as the Central Target of Classic Antidepressants. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2021; 26:317-347. [PMID: 34888840 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77375-5_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) presents multiple clinical phenotypes and has complex underlying pathological mechanisms. Existing theories cannot completely explain the pathophysiological mechanism(s) of MDD, while the pharmacology of current antidepressants is far from being fully understood. Astrocytes, the homeostatic and defensive cells of the central nervous system, contribute to shaping behaviors, and regulating mood and emotions. A detailed introduction on the role of astrocytes in depressive disorders is thus required, to which this chapter is dedicated. We also focus on the interactions between classic antidepressants and serotonin receptors, overview the role of astrocytes in the pharmacological mechanisms of various antidepressants, and present astrocytes as targets for the treatment of bipolar disorder. We provide a foundation of knowledge on the role of astrocytes in depressive disorders and astroglial 5-HT2B receptors as targets for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in vivo and in vitro.
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13
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Li D, Liu H, Wang H, Jia S, Wang X, Ling S, Chen G, Liu X, Wang YF. Astrocytic Hydrogen Sulfide Regulates Supraoptic Cellular Activity in the Adaptive Response of Lactating Rats to Chronic Social Stress. ASN Neuro 2021; 13:17590914211043087. [PMID: 34579557 PMCID: PMC8642056 DOI: 10.1177/17590914211043087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal social stress among breastfeeding women can be adapted in chronic process.
However, neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying such adaptation remain to be identified.
Here, we report the effects of 2 hr/day unfamiliar male rat invasion (UMI) stress on
maternal behaviors in lactating rats during postpartum day 8 (UMI8) to postpartum day 12
(UMI12). Rat dams at UMI8 presented signs of maternal anxiety, depression, and attacks
toward male intruder. These changes partially reversed at UMI12 except the sign of
anxiety. In the supraoptic nucleus (SON), UMI12 but not UMI8 significantly increased the
expression of c-Fos and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2.
At UMI8 but not UMI12, length of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP, astrocytic
cytoskeletal element) filaments around oxytocin (OT) neurons was significantly longer than
that of their controls; the amount of GFAP fragments at UMI12 was significantly less than
that at UMI8. Expression of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS, enzyme for H2S
synthesis) at UMI12 was significantly higher than that at UMI8. CBS expression did not
change significantly in the somatic zone of the SON but decreased significantly at the
ventral glia lamina at UMI8. In brain slices of the SON, aminooxyacetate (a CBS blocker)
significantly increased the expression of GFAP proteins that were molecularly associated
with CBS. Aminooxyacetate also reduced the firing rate of OT neurons whereas
Na2S, a donor of H2S, increased it. The adaptation during chronic
social stress is possibly attributable to the increased production of H2S by
astrocytes and the subsequent retraction of astrocytic processes around OT neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyang Li
- Department of Physiology, 12455Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Haitao Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuwei Jia
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoran Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuo Ling
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Guichuan Chen
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, 34707Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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14
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5-HT Receptors and the Development of New Antidepressants. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169015. [PMID: 34445721 PMCID: PMC8396477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Serotonin modulates several physiological and cognitive pathways throughout the human body that affect emotions, memory, sleep, and thermal regulation. The complex nature of the serotonergic system and interactions with other neurochemical systems indicate that the development of depression may be mediated by various pathomechanisms, the common denominator of which is undoubtedly the disturbed transmission in central 5-HT synapses. Therefore, the deliberate pharmacological modulation of serotonergic transmission in the brain seems to be one of the most appropriate strategies for the search for new antidepressants. As discussed in this review, the serotonergic system offers great potential for the development of new antidepressant therapies based on the combination of SERT inhibition with different pharmacological activity towards the 5-HT system. The aim of this article is to summarize the search for new antidepressants in recent years, focusing primarily on the possibility of benefiting from interactions with various 5-HT receptors in the pharmacotherapy of depression.
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15
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Li T, Jia SW, Hou D, Wang X, Li D, Liu Y, Cui D, Liu X, Hou CM, Wang P, Brown CH, Wang YF. Oxytocin Modulation of Maternal Behavior and Its Association With Immunological Activity in Rats With Cesarean Delivery. ASN Neuro 2021; 13:17590914211014731. [PMID: 34210188 PMCID: PMC8255569 DOI: 10.1177/17590914211014731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT), a neuropeptide produced in the supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei, is not only essential for lactation and maternal behavior but also for normal immunological activity. However, mechanisms underlying OT regulation of maternal behavior and its association with immunity around parturition, particularly under mental and physical stress, remain unclear. Here, we observed effects of OT on maternal behavior in association with immunological activity in rats after cesarean delivery (CD), a model of reproductive stress. CD significantly reduced maternal interests to the pups throughout postpartum day 1-8. On postpartum day 5, CD decreased plasma OT levels and thymic index but increased vasopressin, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 levels. CD had no significant effect on plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone and corticosterone levels. In the hypothalamus, CD decreased corticotropin-releasing hormone contents in the PVN but increased OT contents in the PVN and SON and OT release from hypothalamic implants. CD also increased c-Fos expression, particularly in the cytoplasm of OT neurons. Lastly, CD depolarized resting membrane potential and increased spike width while increasing the variability of the firing rate of OT neurons in brain slices. Thus, CD can increase hypothalamic OT contents and release but reduce pituitary release of OT into the blood, which is associated with depressive-like maternal behavior, increased inflammatory cytokine release and decreased relative weight of the thymus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shu-Wei Jia
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dan Hou
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoran Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dongyang Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dan Cui
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chun-Mei Hou
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Colin H Brown
- Department of Physiology and Center for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otego, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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16
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Bartsch VB, Lord JS, Diering GH, Zylka MJ. Mania- and anxiety-like behavior and impaired maternal care in female diacylglycerol kinase eta and iota double knockout mice. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2020; 19:e12570. [PMID: 30985063 PMCID: PMC6800745 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies linked diacylglycerol kinase eta and iota to mood disorders, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and both genes are expressed throughout the brain. Here, we generated and behaviorally characterized female mice lacking Dgkh alone, Dgki alone, and double Dgkh/Dgki-knockout (dKO) mice. We found that fewer than 30% of newborn pups raised by dKO females survived to weaning, while over 85% of pups survived to weaning when raised by wild-type (WT) females. Poor survival under the care of dKO mothers was unrelated to pup genotype. Moreover, pups from dKO dams survived when fostered by WT dams, suggesting the poor survival rate of dKO-raised litters was related to impaired maternal care by dKO dams. Nest building was similar between WT and dKO dams; however, some dKO females failed to retrieve any pups in a retrieval assay. Pups raised by dKO dams had smaller or absent milk spots and reduced weight, indicative of impaired nursing. Unlike WT females, postpartum dKO females showed erratic, panicked responses to cage disturbances. Virgin dKO females showed behavioral signs of anxiety and mania, which were not seen in mice lacking either Dgkh or Dgki alone. Our research indicates that combined deletion of Dgkh and Dgki impairs maternal behavior in the early postpartum period, and suggests female dKO mice model symptoms of mania and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria B. Bartsch
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Julia S. Lord
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina,UNC Neuroscience Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Graham H. Diering
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina,UNC Neuroscience Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Mark J. Zylka
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina,UNC Neuroscience Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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17
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Gao J, Nie L, Li Y, Li M. Serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors regulate rat maternal behavior through distinct behavioral and neural mechanisms. Neuropharmacology 2020; 162:107848. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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18
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Pawluski JL, Li M, Lonstein JS. Serotonin and motherhood: From molecules to mood. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 53:100742. [PMID: 30878665 PMCID: PMC6541513 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Emerging research points to a valuable role of the monoamine neurotransmitter, serotonin, in the display of maternal behaviors and reproduction-associated plasticity in the maternal brain. Serotonin is also implicated in the pathophysiology of numerous affective disorders and likely plays an important role in the pathophysiology of maternal mental illness. Therefore, the main goals of this review are to detail: (1) how the serotonin system of the female brain changes across pregnancy and postpartum; (2) the role of the central serotonergic system in maternal caregiving and maternal aggression; and (3) how the serotonin system and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications (SSRIs) are involved in the treatment of maternal mental illness. Although there is much work to be done, studying the central serotonin system's multifaceted role in the maternal brain is vital to our understanding of the processes governing matrescence and the maintenance of motherhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi L Pawluski
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France.
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0308, USA.
| | - Joseph S Lonstein
- Neuroscience Program & Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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19
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Gao J, Chen L, Li M. 5-HT 2A receptors modulate dopamine D 2-mediated maternal effects. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2019; 180:32-43. [PMID: 30904543 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin 5-HT2A receptors are expressed throughout the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopamine pathways, and manipulation of this receptor system has a profound impact on dopamine functions and dopamine-mediated behaviors. It is highly likely that 5-HT2A receptors may also modulate the D2-mediated maternal effects. The present study investigated this issue and also explored the possible behavioral mechanisms. We tested the effects of two D2 drugs (an agonist quinpirole: 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg, and a potent D2 antagonist haloperidol: 0.05, 0.10 mg/kg, sc) and their combinations with two 5-HT2A drugs (a selective 5-HT2A agonist TCB-2: 2.5 mg/kg, and 5-HT2A antagonist MDL100907, 1.0 mg/kg, sc) on maternal behavior in Sprague-Dawley postpartum females. Individually, TCB-2 (2.5 mg/kg, sc) and quinpirole (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg, sc) reduced pup preference and disrupted home-cage maternal behavior. In contrast, haloperidol (0.10 mg/kg, sc) only disrupted home-cage maternal behavior, but did not suppress pup preference. MDL100907 (1.0 mg/kg, sc) by itself had no effect on either pup preference or maternal behavior. When administered in combination, pretreatment of TCB-2 did not alter quinpirole's disruption of pup preference and home-cage maternal behavior (possibly due to the floor effect), however, it did enhance haloperidol's disruption of pup retrieval in the home cage. MDL100907 had no effect both quinpirole's and haloperidol's disruption of pup preference and home-cage maternal behavior. Interestingly, haloperidol attenuated TCB-2's disruptive effect on pup preference. These findings suggest that activation of 5-HT2A receptors tends to enhance D2-mediated maternal disruption, whereas blockade of 5-HT2A receptors is less effective. They also suggest that 5-HT2A receptors may have a direct effect on maternal behavior independent of their interaction with D2 receptors. The possible behavioral and neural mechanisms by which 5-HT2A- and D2-mediated maternal effects and their interaction are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Gao
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, China; Chongqing Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Chongqing, China.
| | - Leilei Chen
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Ming Li
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0308, USA; Chongqing Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Chongqing, China.
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20
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Gan L, Sun M, Chen W. 5‑Hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor inverse agonist pimavanserin impairs maternal behavior in postpartum female rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2018; 175:152-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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21
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Afshar S, Shahidi S, Rohani AH, Komaki A, Asl SS. The effect of NAD-299 and TCB-2 on learning and memory, hippocampal BDNF levels and amyloid plaques in Streptozotocin-induced memory deficits in male rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:2809-2822. [PMID: 30027497 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4973-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function. The serotonergic system via the 5-HT1A receptor and 5-HT2A receptor is proposed to affect the cognitive process. OBJECTIVE In the present study, the effects of NAD-299 (5-HT1AR antagonist) and TCB-2 (5-HT2AR agonist) on learning and memory processes, hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, neuronal necrosis, and Aβ plaque production have been investigated on the intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced memory deficits in rats. METHODS Fifty-four adult male Wistar rats (250-300 g) were divided into six groups (n = 9 in each group): control, sham-operated, AD (icv-STZ (3 mg/kg, 10 μl)), AD+NAD-299 (5 μg/1 μl icv for 30 days), AD+TCB-2 (5 μg/1 μl icv for 30 days), and AD+NAD-299 + TCB-2 (NAD-299 (5 μg/0.5 μl icv) and TCB-2 (5 μg/0.5 μl icv) for 30 days). Following the treatment period, rats were subjected to behavioral tests of learning and memory. Then, hippocampal BDNF, amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque, and neuronal loss were determined by ELISA Kit, Congo red staining, and Nissl staining, respectively. RESULTS The results of behavioral tests showed that icv-STZ injection decreased the discrimination index in the novel object recognition (NOR) test. In the passive avoidance learning (PAL) task, icv-STZ injection significantly decreased step-through latency (STLr) and increased time spent in dark compartment (TDC). Treatment with NAD-299, TCB-2, and NAD-299 + TCB-2 attenuated the STZ-induced memory impairment in both NOR and PAL tasks. icv-STZ induced a decrease in hippocampal BDNF levels and increased Aβ plaques production in the brain, whereas treatment with NAD-299, TCB-2, and NAD-299 + TCB-2 reduced Aβ plaques in the brain and increased the hippocampal BDNF level. Results of Nissl staining showed that icv-STZ injection increased neuronal loss in the hippocampus, while treatment with NAD-299, TCB-2, and NAD-299 + TCB-2 reduced hippocampal neurodegeneration. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that 5-HT1AR blockade by NAD-299 and 5-HT2AR activation by TCB-2 improve cognitive dysfunction in icv-STZ-treated rats, and these drugs may potentially prevent the progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Afshar
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Siamak Shahidi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Ali Haeri Rohani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Komaki
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Sara Soleimani Asl
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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22
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Żmudzka E, Sałaciak K, Sapa J, Pytka K. Serotonin receptors in depression and anxiety: Insights from animal studies. Life Sci 2018; 210:106-124. [PMID: 30144453 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.08.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin regulates many physiological processes including sleep, appetite, and mood. Thus, serotonergic system is an important target in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as major depression and anxiety. This natural neurotransmitter interacts with 7 families of its receptors (5-HT1-7), which cause a variety of pharmacological effects. Using genetically modified animals and selective or preferential agonists and antagonist, numerous studies demonstrated the involvement of almost all serotonin receptor subtypes in antidepressant- or anxiolytic-like effects. In this review, based on animal studies, we discuss the possible involvement of serotonin receptor subtypes in depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Żmudzka
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Kinga Sałaciak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jacek Sapa
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Karolina Pytka
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland.
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23
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Nie L, Di T, Li Y, Cheng P, Li M, Gao J. Blockade of serotonin 5-HT 2A receptors potentiates dopamine D 2 activation-induced disruption of pup retrieval on an elevated plus maze, but has no effect on D 2 blockade-induced one. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2018; 171:74-84. [PMID: 29944910 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Appetitive aspect of rat maternal behavior, such as pup retrieval, is motivationally driven and sensitive to dopamine disturbances. Activation or blockade of dopamine D2 receptors causes a similar disruption of pup retrieval, which may also reflect an increase in maternal anxiety and/or a disruption of executive function. Recent work indicates that serotonin 5-HT2A receptors also play an important role in rat maternal behavior. Given the well-known modulation of 5-HT2A on the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopamine functions, the present study examined the extent to which blockade of 5-HT2A receptors on dopamine D2-mediated maternal effects using a pup retrieval on the elevated plus maze (EPM) test. Sprague-Dawley postpartum female rats were acutely injected with quinpirole (a D2 agonist, 0.10 and 0.25 mg/kg, sc), or haloperidol (a D2 antagonist, 0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg, sc), in combination of MDL100907 (a 5-HT2A receptor antagonist, 1.0 mg/kg, sc, 30 min before quinpirole or haloperidol injection) or saline and tested at 30, 90 and 240 min after quinpirole or haloperidol injection on postpartum days 3 and 7. Quinpirole and haloperidol decreased the number of pup retrieved (an index of maternal motivation) and sequential retrieval score (an index of executive function), prolonged the pup retrieval latencies, reduced the percentage of time spent on the open arms (an index of maternal anxiety), and decreased the distance travelled on the maze in a dose-dependent and time-dependent fashion. MDL100907 treatment by itself had no effect on pup retrieval, but it exacerbated the quinpirole-induced disruption of pup retrieval, but had no effect on the haloperidol-induced one. These findings suggest a complex interactive effect between 5-HT2A and D2 receptors on one or several maternal processes (maternal motivation, anxiety and executive function), and support the idea that one molecular mechanism by which 5-HT2A receptors mediate maternal behavior is through its modulation of D2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Nie
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Southwest University, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Tianqi Di
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Southwest University, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yu Li
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Southwest University, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Peng Cheng
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Southwest University, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Ming Li
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Chongqing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0308, USA.
| | - Jun Gao
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Southwest University, Ministry of Education, China; Chongqing Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Chongqing, China.
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Behavioral mechanisms underlying the maternal disruptive effect of serotonin 5-HT 2A receptor activation in Sprague-Dawley rats. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2018; 125:1065-1075. [PMID: 29616335 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-018-1878-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence indicates that acute activation of 5-HT2A receptors causes a disruption of maternal behavior in rats. However, the behavioral mechanisms underlying such a disruption are not known. We addressed this issue using two behavioral approaches targeting the maternal motivational and emotional processing systems. First, we used the pup-separation technique to increase maternal motivation to see whether pup separation is capable of reducing the maternal disruptive effect of TCB-2 (a high-affinity 5-HT2A agonist) treatment. On postpartum days 4 and 6, different groups of Sprague-Dawley dams were treated with the TCB-2 (5.0 mg/kg, sc) or vehicle and their maternal behaviors were tested after either a 4-h pup-separation or no-pup-separation condition. Although acute TCB-2 injection disrupted maternal behavior, this disruption was not attenuated by pup separation, even after we optimized the timing of separation to maximize its increase on maternal motivation. Acute TCB-2 also impaired the retrieval of food pellets, suggesting a general effect on motivated behaviors. Next, we used a pup preference test and found that dams treated with TCB-2 exhibited an even stronger preference to pups over a male conspecific than vehicle-treated dams, indicating an enhanced motivational and emotional processing of the rewarding property of pups. These findings suggest that TCB-2 has a disruptive effect on rat maternal behavior, and this disruption is not likely due to the drug's effect on mothers' motivational and emotional processing of the incentive salience of pups, although this motivational suppression account cannot be completely ruled out. Future work could explore other possible behavioral mechanisms, such as the drug's effect on executive function.
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