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Hejnova L, Hronova A, Drastichova Z, Novotny J. Long-term administration of morphine specifically alters the level of protein expression in different brain regions and affects the redox state. Open Life Sci 2024; 19:20220858. [PMID: 38681734 PMCID: PMC11049758 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the changes in redox state and protein expression in selected parts of the rat brain induced by a 4 week administration of morphine (10 mg/kg/day). We found a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation that mostly persisted for 1 week after morphine withdrawal. Morphine treatment led to a significant increase in complex II in the cerebral cortex (Crt), which was accompanied by increased protein carbonylation, in contrast to the other brain regions studied. Glutathione levels were altered differently in the different brain regions after morphine treatment. Using label-free quantitative proteomic analysis, we found some specific changes in protein expression profiles in the Crt, hippocampus, striatum, and cerebellum on the day after morphine withdrawal and 1 week later. A common feature was the upregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins and dysregulation of the extracellular matrix. Our results indicate that the tested protocol of morphine administration has no significant toxic effect on the rat brain. On the contrary, it led to a decrease in lipid peroxidation and activation of anti-apoptotic proteins. Furthermore, our data suggest that long-term treatment with morphine acts specifically on different brain regions and that a 1 week drug withdrawal is not sufficient to normalize cellular redox state and protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Hejnova
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Hronova
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenka Drastichova
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Novotny
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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2
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Henderson BJ, Tetteh-Quarshie S, Olszewski NA. Modulators of nicotine reward and reinforcement. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2024; 99:355-386. [PMID: 38467487 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Nicotine has been well-characterized for its ability to alter neurophysiology to promote rewarding and reinforcing properties. However, several exogenous chemicals possess properties that modulate or enhance nicotine's ability to alter neurophysiology. This chapter focuses on nicotine's impact on behavior through changes in neurophysiology and several chemical entities that in-turn modulate nicotine's ability to act as a neuromodulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon J Henderson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States.
| | - Samuel Tetteh-Quarshie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
| | - Nathan A Olszewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
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3
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Lamanna-Rama N, MacDowell KS, López G, Leza JC, Desco M, Ambrosio E, Soto-Montenegro ML. Neuroimaging revealed long-lasting glucose metabolism changes to morphine withdrawal in rats pretreated with the cannabinoid agonist CP-55,940 during periadolescence. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 69:60-76. [PMID: 36780817 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluates the long-term effects of a six and 14-week morphine withdrawal in rats pretreated with a cannabinoid agonist (CP-55,940, CP) during periadolescence. Wistar rats (33 males; 32 females) were treated with CP or its vehicle (VH) from postnatal day (PND) 28-38. At PND100, rats performed morphine self-administration (MSA, 15d/12 h/session). Eight groups were defined according to pretreatment (CP), treatment (morphine), and sex. Three [18F]FDG-PET brain images were acquired: after MSA, and after six and 14 weeks of withdrawal. PET data were analyzed with SPM12. Endocannabinoid (EC) markers were evaluated in frozen brain tissue at endpoint. Females showed a higher mean number of self-injections than males. A main Sex effect on global brain metabolism was found. FDG uptake in males was discrete, whereas females showed greater brain metabolism changes mainly in areas of the limbic system after morphine treatment. Moreover, the morphine-induced metabolic pattern in females was exacerbated when CP was previously present. In addition, the CP-Saline male group showed reduced CB1R, MAGL expression, and NAPE/FAAH ratio compared to the control group, and morphine was able to reverse CB1R and MAGL expression almost to control levels. In conclusion, females showed greater and longer-lasting metabolic changes after morphine withdrawal than males, indicating a higher vulnerability and a different sensitivity to morphine in subjects pre-exposed to CP. In contrast, males primarily showed changes in EC markers. Together, our results suggest that CP pre-exposure contributes to the modulation of brain metabolism and EC systems in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lamanna-Rama
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Bioingeniería e Ingeniería Aeroespacial, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain
| | - K S MacDowell
- CIBER de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Farmacología & Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Imas12, IUIN, Spain
| | - G López
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain; Faculty of Health Science, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja (UNIR), Spain
| | - J C Leza
- CIBER de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Farmacología & Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Imas12, IUIN, Spain
| | - M Desco
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Bioingeniería e Ingeniería Aeroespacial, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain; CIBER de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain; Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - E Ambrosio
- Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain.
| | - M L Soto-Montenegro
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain; Grupo de Fisiopatología y Farmacología del Sistema Digestivo de la Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (NEUGUT), Madrid, España.
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4
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Wei J, Lai M, Li F, Chen Y, Li X, Qiu Y, Shen H, Xu P, Di B. Assessment of abuse potential of carfentanil. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13265. [PMID: 36692872 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13265] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Carfentanil, as a fentanyl analogue, is a potent synthetic opioid. It has been controlled in many countries, and its emergence has been highlighted by many recent reports. However, although discriminative stimulus effects of carfentanil in rats had been reported, its abuse potential has not been fully evaluated. In this study, we evaluated the abuse potential of carfentanil via the tests of conditioned place preference (CPP), drug self-administration and naloxone-precipitated opioid withdrawal assay, compared with fentanyl and heroin. Carfentanil exhibited significant place preference at a minimum dose of 1 μg/kg in mice, whereas fentanyl and heroin induced significant place preference at the minimum doses of 100 μg/kg and 1000 μg/kg, respectively. In the drug-substitution test in heroin self-administered rats (50 μg/kg/infusion), carfentanil and fentanyl acquired significant self-administrations above saline levels from 0.05-0.1 and 0.1-10.0 μg/kg/infusion, respectively. Carfentanil induced the maximum number of infusions at 0.1 μg/kg, whereas fentanyl and heroin at 1 and 25 μg/kg, respectively. In short, carfentanil showed the highest potency to induce CPP and self-administration. Furthermore, repeated treatment with escalating doses of carfentanil, fentanyl or heroin induced typical withdrawal symptoms in mice, including a greater number of jumping and weight loss than saline group. This indicated that carfentanil could produce physical dependence similar to fentanyl and heroin. Taken together, the present study demonstrated the higher abuse potential of carfentanil compared with fentanyl and heroin. The rank order of abuse potential for these compounds is carfentanil > fentanyl > heroin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayun Wei
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing, China.,Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miaojun Lai
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Addiction Research of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Li
- Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Qiu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Haowei Shen
- Faculty of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Peng Xu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Di
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing, China
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5
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Mineur YS, Mose TN, Vanopdenbosch L, Etherington IM, Ogbejesi C, Islam A, Pineda CM, Crouse RB, Zhou W, Thompson DC, Bentham MP, Picciotto MR. Hippocampal acetylcholine modulates stress-related behaviors independent of specific cholinergic inputs. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:1829-1838. [PMID: 34997190 PMCID: PMC9106825 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01404-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Acetylcholine (ACh) levels are elevated in actively depressed subjects. Conversely, antagonism of either nicotinic or muscarinic ACh receptors can have antidepressant effects in humans and decrease stress-relevant behaviors in rodents. Consistent with a role for ACh in mediating maladaptive responses to stress, brain ACh levels increase in response to stressful challenges, whereas systemically blocking acetylcholinesterase (AChE, the primary ACh degradative enzyme) elicits depression-like symptoms in human subjects, and selectively blocking AChE in the hippocampus increases relevant behaviors in rodents. We used an ACh sensor to characterize stress-evoked ACh release, then used chemogenetic, optogenetic and pharmacological approaches to determine whether cholinergic inputs from the medial septum/diagonal bands of Broca (MSDBB) or ChAT-positive neurons intrinsic to the hippocampus mediate stress-relevant behaviors in mice. Chemogenetic inhibition or activation of MSDBB cholinergic neurons did not result in significant behavioral effects, while inhibition attenuated the behavioral effects of physostigmine. In contrast, optogenetic stimulation of septohippocampal terminals or selective chemogenetic activation of ChAT-positive inputs to hippocampus increased stress-related behaviors. Finally, stimulation of sparse ChAT-positive hippocampal neurons increased stress-related behaviors in one ChAT-Cre line, which were attenuated by local infusion of cholinergic antagonists. These studies suggest that ACh signaling results in maladaptive behavioral responses to stress if the balance of signaling is shifted toward increased hippocampal engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann S Mineur
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Tenna N Mose
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Laura Vanopdenbosch
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Ian M Etherington
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Chika Ogbejesi
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Ashraful Islam
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Cristiana M Pineda
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Richard B Crouse
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Wenliang Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - David C Thompson
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Matthew P Bentham
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Marina R Picciotto
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA.
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6
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Calarco CA, Fox ME, Van Terheyden S, Turner MD, Alipio JB, Chandra R, Lobo MK. Mitochondria-Related Nuclear Gene Expression in the Nucleus Accumbens and Blood Mitochondrial Copy Number After Developmental Fentanyl Exposure in Adolescent Male and Female C57BL/6 Mice. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:737389. [PMID: 34867530 PMCID: PMC8637046 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.737389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The potency of the synthetic opioid fentanyl and its increased clinical availability has led to the rapid escalation of use in the general population, increased recreational exposure, and subsequently opioid-related overdoses. The wide-spread use of fentanyl has, consequently, increased the incidence of in utero exposure to the drug, but the long-term effects of this type of developmental exposure are not yet understood. Opioid use has also been linked to reduced mitochondrial copy number in blood in clinical populations, but the link between this peripheral biomarker and genetic or functional changes in reward-related brain circuitry is still unclear. Additionally, mitochondrial-related gene expression in reward-related brain regions has not been examined in the context of fentanyl exposure, despite the growing literature demonstrating drugs of abuse impact mitochondrial function, which subsequently impacts neuronal signaling. The current study uses exposure to fentanyl via dam access to fentanyl drinking water during gestation and lactation as a model for developmental drug exposure. This perinatal drug-exposure is sufficient to impact mitochondrial copy number in circulating blood leukocytes, as well as mitochondrial-related gene expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a reward-related brain structure, in a sex-dependent manner in adolescent offspring. Specific NAc gene expression is correlated with both blood mitochondrial copy number and with anxiety related behaviors dependent on developmental exposure to fentanyl and sex. These data indicate that developmental fentanyl exposure impacts mitochondrial function in both the brain and body in ways that can impact neuronal signaling and may prime the brain for altered reward-related behavior in adolescence and later into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mary Kay Lobo
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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7
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Aramjoo H, Riahi-Zanjani B, Farkhondeh T, Forouzanfar F, Sadeghi M. Modulatory effect of opioid administration on the activity of cholinesterase enzyme: a systematic review of mice/rat models. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:52675-52688. [PMID: 34453251 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16044-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to review the literature to find the specific effect of opioids on the activity of cholinesterase (ChE) enzyme which plays a substantial role in the functioning of cholinergic system. Literature search was performed by two independent reviewers in order to find relevant articles about the changes in the activity of ChE in mice or rat following opioid administration. Based on findings from literature review, opioid administration is able to induce cholinergic modulation via decreasing or increasing the activity of ChE enzyme. However, the degree of variation of ChE in various brain regions is different. No gender differences was reported in the effect of opioids on ChE activity. Although chronic opioid administration may decrease enzyme function, ChE activity might be unchanged following opioid withdrawal using naloxone or the development of tolerance. Opioid type affects whether or not naloxone can reverse the changes of ChE. Direct inhibitory action of morphine and the other opioid ligands believed responsible for the decrease in the ChE activity. Moreover, the potency of codeine to induce allosteric enhancement of acetylcholine receptor signaling might be involved in the cholinergic modulation of codeine and other opioids. Animal studies on rat and mice showed that opioids may change the activity of ChE. These changes can pertain an increase or decrease in enzyme activity; as there might be no change. The type of opioid used may have an effect on the cholinergic modulation. It is beneficial to conduct cross-sectional and cohort studies on addicted individuals, especially opium abusers, to find the precise association of opioids with alterations in human acetyl cholinesterase or butyrylcholinesterase. Simulation studies can also examine the structure-function relationships and provide important details to better understand the mechanism of action of opioid compounds on ChE activity. In addition, understanding how opioids impact ChE activity may help perform proper interventions for drug abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Aramjoo
- Student Research Committee, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Bamdad Riahi-Zanjani
- Medical Toxicology Research Center (MTRC), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center (MTDRC), Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Forouzanfar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmood Sadeghi
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center (MTDRC), Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
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8
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Palandri J, Smith SL, Heal DJ, Wonnacott S, Bailey CP. Contrasting effects of the α7 nicotinic receptor antagonist methyllycaconitine in different rat models of heroin reinstatement. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:1204-1215. [PMID: 33691518 PMCID: PMC8521373 DOI: 10.1177/0269881121991570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND α7 Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are implicated in the reinstatement of drug-seeking, an important component of relapse. We showed previously that the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist, methyllycaconitine, specifically attenuated morphine-primed reinstatement of conditioned place preference in rodents and this effect was mediated in the ventral hippocampus. AIMS The purpose of this study was to evaluate α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonism in reinstatement of the conditioned place preference for the more widely abused opioid, heroin, and to compare the effect of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor blockade on reinstatement of heroin-seeking and heroin self-administration in an intravenous self-administration model of addictive behaviour. METHODS Rats were trained to acquire heroin conditioned place preference or heroin self-administration; both followed by extinction of responding. Methyllycaconitine or saline was given prior to reinstatement of drug-primed conditioned place preference, or drug-prime plus cue-induced reinstatement of intravenous self-administration, using two protocols: without delivery of heroin in response to lever pressing to model heroin-seeking, or with heroin self-administration, using fixed and progressive ratio reward schedules, to model relapse. RESULTS Methyllycaconitine had no effect on acquisition of heroin conditioned place preference or lever-pressing for food rewards. Methyllycaconitine blocked reinstatement of heroin-primed conditioned place preference. Methyllycaconitine did not prevent drug-prime plus cue-induced reinstatement of heroin-seeking, reinstatement of heroin self-administration, or diminish the reinforcing effect of heroin. CONCLUSIONS The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist, methyllycaconitine, prevented reinstatement of the opioid conditioned place preference, consistent with a role for α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the retrieval of associative memories of drug liking. The lack of effect of methyllycaconitine in heroin-dependent rats in two intravenous self-administration models suggests that α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors do not play a role in later stages of heroin abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sharon L Smith
- RenaSci Ltd, BioCity, Nottingham, UK,DevelRx Ltd, BioCity, Nottingham, UK
| | - David J Heal
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, UK,DevelRx Ltd, BioCity, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sue Wonnacott
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Chris P Bailey
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, UK,Chris P Bailey, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
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9
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Shokri-Kojori E, Wang GJ, Volkow ND. Naloxone precipitated withdrawal increases dopamine release in the dorsal striatum of opioid dependent men. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:445. [PMID: 34471102 PMCID: PMC8410787 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01548-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) neurotransmission is critical in the neurobiology of reward and aversion, but its contribution to the aversive state of opioid withdrawal remains unknown in humans. To address this, we used updated voxelwise methods and retrospectively analyzed a [11C]raclopride-PET dataset to measure D2/3 receptor availability and relative cerebral blood flow (R1) in male opioid use disorder (OUD) participants (n = 10) during placebo and acute opioid withdrawal conditions. We found that acute withdrawal precipitated by the opioid antagonist naloxone significantly increased dorsal striatal DA release in OUD participants (pFWE < 0.05). Net changes in striatal DA were significantly correlated with a subjective index of withdrawal aversion such that greater DA increases were associated with more aversive responses (r(8) = 0.82, p < 0.005). Withdrawal also affected brain function, as indexed by increases in relative cerebral blood flow in the insula and putamen (pFWE < 0.05). Our findings are different from preclinical studies that have primarily reported decreases in ventral striatal DA during naloxone precipitated withdrawal, whereas this effect was not significant in OUD participants (p = 0.79). In sum, we provide evidence for the contribution of increases in dorsal striatal DA to the aversive state of naloxone precipitated withdrawal in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Shokri-Kojori
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Gene-Jack Wang
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Laboratory of Neuroimaging, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Nora D. Volkow
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Laboratory of Neuroimaging, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
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10
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Li X, Song GF, Yu JN, Ai SH, Ji Q, Peng Y, Zhu XF, Liu JG. Effectiveness and safety of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of morphine dependence: A retrospective study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e25208. [PMID: 33832081 PMCID: PMC8036083 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000025208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Morphine dependence (MD) is a very common complication because of the chronic morphine consumption. Studies suggest that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can be used for the treatment of MD. However, there is still lacking evidence to support rTMS for MD. Thus, this retrospective study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of rTMS for patients with MD.In this retrosepctive study, a total of 100 patients with MD were included, and they were divided into a rTMS group (n = 50), and a control group (n = 50). All patients in both groups received occupational therapy. In addition, patients in the rTMS group received rTMS. All patients in both groups received a total of 8 weeks treatment. The outcomes comprised of morphine craving intensity, depression, anxiety, and sleep quality, which were appraised by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), respectively. In addition, treatment-related adverse events were also considered for assessment.After 8 weeks treatment, patients in the rTMS group exerted better benefits in improving VAS (P < .01), SDS (P < .01), SAS (P < .01), and PSQI (P < .01), than patients in the control group. In addition, this study did not identify treatment-related adverse events in both groups.The findings of this study showed that rTMS treatment showed promising effectiveness on patients with MD. However, future studies should focus on warranting the present findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guang-fu Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Jiamusi University
| | | | - Si-hui Ai
- Department of Neurology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi
| | - Qing Ji
- Department of Neurology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi
| | - Ying Peng
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
| | | | - Ji-guang Liu
- Jiamusi University School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi, China
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11
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Brynildsen JK, Blendy JA. Linking the CHRNA5 SNP to drug abuse liability: From circuitry to cellular mechanisms. Neuropharmacology 2021; 186:108480. [PMID: 33539855 PMCID: PMC7958463 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Genetics are known to be a significant risk factor for drug abuse. In human populations, the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) D398N in the gene CHRNA5 has been associated with addiction to nicotine, opioids, cocaine, and alcohol. In this paper, we review findings from studies in humans, rodent models, and cell lines and provide evidence that collectively suggests that the Chrna5 SNP broadly influences the response to drugs of abuse in a manner that is not substance-specific. This finding has important implications for our understanding of the role of the cholinergic system in reward and addiction vulnerability. This article is part of the special issue on 'Vulnerabilities to Substance Abuse.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Brynildsen
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Julie A Blendy
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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12
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Jiang WN, Jing X, Li M, Deng H, Jiang T, Xiong KZ, Chen Y, Wang XF, Wang QJ. Corydaline and l-tetrahydropalmatine attenuate morphine-induced conditioned place preference and the changes in dopamine D2 and GluA1 AMPA receptor expression in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 884:173397. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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13
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Restoration of Cyclo-Gly-Pro-induced salivary hyposecretion and submandibular composition by naloxone in mice. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229761. [PMID: 32155179 PMCID: PMC7064257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclo-Gly-Pro (CGP) attenuates nociception, however its effects on salivary glands remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the acute effects of CGP on salivary flow and composition, and on the submandibular gland composition, compared with morphine. Besides, we characterized the effects of naloxone (a non-selective opioid receptor antagonist) on CGP- and morphine-induced salivary and glandular alterations in mice. After that, in silico analyses were performed to predict the interaction between CGP and opioid receptors. Morphine and CGP significantly reduced salivary flow and total protein concentration of saliva and naloxone restored them to the physiological levels. Morphine and CGP also reduced several infrared vibrational modes (Amide I, 1687-1594cm-1; Amide II, 1594-1494cm-1; CH2/CH3, 1488-1433cm-1; C = O, 1432-1365cm-1; PO2 asymmetric, 1290-1185cm-1; PO2 symmetric, 1135-999cm-1) and naloxone reverted these alterations. The in silico docking analysis demonstrated the interaction of polar contacts between the CGP and opioid receptor Cys219 residue. Altogether, we showed that salivary hypofunction and glandular changes elicited by CGP may occur through opioid receptor suggesting that the blockage of opioid receptors in superior cervical and submandibular ganglions may be a possible strategy to restore salivary secretion while maintaining antinociceptive action due its effects on the central nervous system.
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14
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Charles SJ, Farias M, Dunbar RI. The aetiology of social deficits within mental health disorders: The role of the immune system and endogenous opioids. Brain Behav Immun Health 2020; 1:100003. [PMID: 38377411 PMCID: PMC8474498 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2019.100003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The American National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) has put out a set of research goals that include a long-term plan to identify more reliable endogenous explanations for a wide variety of mental health disorders (Insel, 2013). In response to this, we have identified a major symptom that underlies multiple mental health disorders - social bonding dysfunction. We suggest that endogenous opioid abnormalities can lead to altered social bonding, which is a symptom of various mental health disorders, including depression, schizophrenia and ASD. This article first outlines how endogenous opioids play a role in social bonding. Then we show their association with the body's inflammation immune function, and review recent literature linking inflammation to mental health 'immunophenotypes'. We finish by explaining how these immunophenotypes may be caused by alterations in the endogenous opioid system. This is the first overview of the role of inflammation across multiple disorders where we provide a biochemical explanation for why immunophenotypes might exist across diagnoses. We propose a novel mechanism of how the immune system may be causing 'sickness-type' behaviours (fatigue, appetite change, social withdrawal and inhibited motivation) in those who have these immunophenotypes. We hope that this novel aetiology can be used as a basis for future research in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Charles
- Brain, Belief and Behaviour Research Lab, Centre for Trust Peace and Social Relations, Coventry University, United Kingdom
| | - Miguel Farias
- Brain, Belief and Behaviour Research Lab, Centre for Trust Peace and Social Relations, Coventry University, United Kingdom
| | - Robin I.M. Dunbar
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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15
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Boulos LJ, Ben Hamida S, Bailly J, Maitra M, Ehrlich AT, Gavériaux-Ruff C, Darcq E, Kieffer BL. Mu opioid receptors in the medial habenula contribute to naloxone aversion. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:247-255. [PMID: 31005059 PMCID: PMC6901535 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0395-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The medial habenula (MHb) is considered a brain center regulating aversive states. The mu opioid receptor (MOR) has been traditionally studied at the level of nociceptive and mesolimbic circuits, for key roles in pain relief and reward processing. MOR is also densely expressed in MHb, however, MOR function at this brain site is virtually unknown. Here we tested the hypothesis that MOR in the MHb (MHb-MOR) also regulates aversion processing. We used chnrb4-Cre driver mice to delete the Oprm1 gene in chnrb4-neurons, predominantly expressed in the MHb. Conditional mutant (B4MOR) mice showed habenula-specific reduction of MOR expression, restricted to chnrb4-neurons (50% MHb-MORs). We tested B4MOR mice in behavioral assays to evaluate effects of MOR activation by morphine, and MOR blockade by naloxone. Locomotor, analgesic, rewarding, and motivational effects of morphine were preserved in conditional mutants. In contrast, conditioned place aversion (CPA) elicited by naloxone was reduced in both naïve (high dose) and morphine-dependent (low dose) B4MOR mice. Further, physical signs of withdrawal precipitated by either MOR (naloxone) or nicotinic receptor (mecamylamine) blockade were attenuated. These data suggest that MORs expressed in MHb B4-neurons contribute to aversive effects of naloxone, including negative effect and aversive effects of opioid withdrawal. MORs are inhibitory receptors, therefore we propose that endogenous MOR signaling normally inhibits chnrb4-neurons of the MHb and moderates their known aversive activity, which is unmasked upon receptor blockade. Thus, in addition to facilitating reward at several brain sites, tonic MOR activity may also limit aversion within the MHb circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. J. Boulos
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - S. Ben Hamida
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - J. Bailly
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - M. Maitra
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - A. T. Ehrlich
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - C. Gavériaux-Ruff
- 0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - E. Darcq
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - B. L. Kieffer
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
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16
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Arvin MC, Jin XT, Yan Y, Wang Y, Ramsey MD, Kim VJ, Beckley NA, Henry BA, Drenan RM. Chronic Nicotine Exposure Alters the Neurophysiology of Habenulo-Interpeduncular Circuitry. J Neurosci 2019; 39:4268-4281. [PMID: 30867261 PMCID: PMC6538858 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2816-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Antagonism of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the medial habenula (MHb) or interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) triggers withdrawal-like behaviors in mice chronically exposed to nicotine, implying that nicotine dependence involves the sensitization of nicotinic signaling. Identification of receptor and/or neurophysiological mechanisms underlying this sensitization is important, as it could promote novel therapeutic strategies to reduce tobacco use. Using an approach involving photoactivatable nicotine, we previously demonstrated that chronic nicotine (cNIC) potently enhances nAChR function in dendrites of MHb neurons. However, whether cNIC modulates downstream components of the habenulo-interpeduncular (Hb-IP) circuit is unknown. In this study, cNIC-mediated changes to Hb-IP nAChR function were examined in mouse (male and female) brain slices using molecular, electrophysiological, and optical techniques. cNIC enhanced action potential firing and modified spike waveform characteristics in MHb neurons. Nicotine uncaging revealed nAChR functional enhancement by cNIC on proximal axonal membranes. Similarly, nAChR-driven glutamate release from MHb axons was enhanced by cNIC. In IPN, the target structure of MHb axons, neuronal morphology, and nAChR expression is complex, with stronger nAChR function in the rostral subnucleus [rostral IPN (IPR)]. As in MHb, cNIC induced strong upregulation of nAChR function in IPN neurons. This, coupled with cNIC-enhanced nicotine-stimulated glutamate release, was associated with stronger depolarization responses to brief (1 ms) nicotine uncaging adjacent to IPR neurons. Together, these results indicate that chronic exposure to nicotine dramatically alters nicotinic cholinergic signaling and cell excitability in Hb-IP circuits, a key pathway involved in nicotine dependence.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT This study uncovers several neuropharmacological alterations following chronic exposure to nicotine in a key brain circuit involved in nicotine dependence. These results suggest that smokers or regular users of electronic nicotine delivery systems (i.e., "e-cigarettes") likely undergo sensitization of cholinergic circuitry in the Hb-IP system. Reducing the activity of Hb-IP nAChRs, either volitionally during smoking cessation or inadvertently via receptor desensitization during nicotine intake, may be a key trigger of withdrawal in nicotine dependence. Escalation of nicotine intake in smokers, or tolerance, may involve stimulation of these sensitized cholinergic pathways. Smoking cessation therapeutics are only marginally effective, and by identifying cellular/receptor mechanisms of nicotine dependence, our results take a step toward improved therapeutic approaches for this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Arvin
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Xiao-Tao Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Yijin Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Matthew D Ramsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Veronica J Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Nicole A Beckley
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Brittany A Henry
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Ryan M Drenan
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
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17
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WU Y, ZHANG S, CHEN Z. [The roles of habenula and related neural circuits in neuropsychiatric diseases]. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2019; 48:310-317. [PMID: 31496164 PMCID: PMC8800680 DOI: 10.3785/j.issn.1008-9292.2019.06.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The habenula is a small and bilateral nucleus above dorsal thalamus, which contains several different types of neurons. The habenula has extensive connections with the forebrain, septum and monoaminergic nuclei in the midbrain and brainstem. Habenula is known as an 'anti-reward' nucleus, which can be activated by aversive stimulus and negative reward prediction errors. Accumulating researchs have implicated that the habenula is involved in several behaviors crucial to survival. Meanwhile, the roles of the habenula in neuropsychiatric diseases have received increasing attention. This review summaries the studies regarding the roles of habenula and the related circuits in neuropathic pain, depression, drug addiction and schizophrenia, and discusses the possibility to use the habenula as a treatment target.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhong CHEN
- 陈忠(1968-), 男, 博士, 教授, 博士生导师, 主要从事慢性脑病的分子生物学机制及药物新靶点研究; E-mail:
;
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4755-9357
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18
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Lee HW, Yang SH, Kim JY, Kim H. The Role of the Medial Habenula Cholinergic System in Addiction and Emotion-Associated Behaviors. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:100. [PMID: 30873055 PMCID: PMC6404551 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The habenula is a complex nucleus composed of lateral and medial subnuclei, which connect between the limbic forebrain and midbrain. Over the past few years, the lateral habenula has received considerable attention because of its potential roles in cognition and in the pathogenesis of various psychiatric disorders. Unlike extensively studied lateral habenula, anatomically and histologically distinct medial habenula remains largely understudied. The medial habenula can be further subdivided into a dorsal region containing excitatory neurons that express the tachykinin neuropeptide substance P and a ventral region containing dense cholinergic neurons. Although the medial habenula is the source of one of the major cholinergic pathways in the brain, relatively few studies have been conducted to understand its roles. Recently, however, the medial habenula cholinergic system has attracted more attention because of its potential to provide therapeutic targets for the treatment of nicotine withdrawal symptoms, drug addiction, and various mood disorders. Here, we discuss the role of the medial habenula cholinergic system in brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Woo Lee
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Soo Hyun Yang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin Yong Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyun Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
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19
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Jensen KP, DeVito EE, Yip S, Carroll KM, Sofuoglu M. The Cholinergic System as a Treatment Target for Opioid Use Disorder. CNS Drugs 2018; 32:981-996. [PMID: 30259415 PMCID: PMC6314885 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-018-0572-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Opioid overdoses recently became the leading cause of accidental death in the US, marking an increase in the severity of the opioid use disorder (OUD) epidemic that is impacting global health. Current treatment protocols for OUD are limited to opioid medications, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. While these medications are effective in many cases, new treatments are required to more effectively address the rising societal and interpersonal costs associated with OUD. In this article, we review the opioid and cholinergic systems, and examine the potential of acetylcholine (ACh) as a treatment target for OUD. The cholinergic system includes enzymes that synthesize and degrade ACh and receptors that mediate the effects of ACh. ACh is involved in many central nervous system functions that are critical to the development and maintenance of OUD, such as reward and cognition. Medications that target the cholinergic system have been approved for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, tobacco use disorder, and nausea. Clinical and preclinical studies suggest that medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and scopolamine, which target components of the cholinergic system, show promise for the treatment of OUD and further investigations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin P Jensen
- Department of Psychiatry and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Yale University, School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Ave, Bldg 36/116A4, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Elise E DeVito
- Department of Psychiatry and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Yale University, School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Ave, Bldg 36/116A4, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Sarah Yip
- Department of Psychiatry and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Yale University, School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Ave, Bldg 36/116A4, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Kathleen M Carroll
- Department of Psychiatry and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Yale University, School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Ave, Bldg 36/116A4, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- Department of Psychiatry and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Yale University, School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Ave, Bldg 36/116A4, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
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20
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Fakhoury M. The dorsal diencephalic conduction system in reward processing: Spotlight on the anatomy and functions of the habenular complex. Behav Brain Res 2018; 348:115-126. [PMID: 29684476 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The dorsal diencephalic conduction system (DDC) is a highly conserved pathway in vertebrates that provides a route for the neural information to flow from forebrain to midbrain structures. It contains the bilaterally paired habenular nuclei along with two fiber tracts, the stria medullaris and the fasciculus retroflexus. The habenula is the principal player in mediating the dialogue between forebrain and midbrain regions, and functional abnormalities in this structure have often been attributed to pathologies like mood disorders and substance use disorder. Following Matsumoto and Hikosaka seminal work on the lateral habenula as a source of negative reward signals, the last decade has witnessed a great surge of interest in the role of the DDC in reward-related processes. However, despite significant progress in research, much work remains to unfold the behavioral functions of this intriguing, yet complex, pathway. This review describes the current state of knowledge on the DDC with respect to its anatomy, connectivity, and functions in reward and aversion processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, H3C3J7, Canada.
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21
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Callaghan CK, Rouine J, O'Mara SM. Potential roles for opioid receptors in motivation and major depressive disorder. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2018; 239:89-119. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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22
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Fore S, Palumbo F, Pelgrims R, Yaksi E. Information processing in the vertebrate habenula. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 78:130-139. [PMID: 28797836 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The habenula is a brain region that has gained increasing popularity over the recent years due to its role in processing value-related and experience-dependent information with a strong link to depression, addiction, sleep and social interactions. This small diencephalic nucleus is proposed to act as a multimodal hub or a switchboard, where inputs from different brain regions converge. These diverse inputs to the habenula carry information about the sensory world and the animal's internal state, such as reward expectation or mood. However, it is not clear how these diverse habenular inputs interact with each other and how such interactions contribute to the function of habenular circuits in regulating behavioral responses in various tasks and contexts. In this review, we aim to discuss how information processing in habenular circuits, can contribute to specific behavioral programs that are attributed to the habenula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Fore
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres Gate 9, Norwegian Brain Centre, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Fabrizio Palumbo
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres Gate 9, Norwegian Brain Centre, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Robbrecht Pelgrims
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres Gate 9, Norwegian Brain Centre, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Emre Yaksi
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres Gate 9, Norwegian Brain Centre, 7491 Trondheim, Norway.
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23
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McLaughlin I, Dani JA, De Biasi M. The medial habenula and interpeduncular nucleus circuitry is critical in addiction, anxiety, and mood regulation. J Neurochem 2017; 142 Suppl 2:130-143. [PMID: 28791703 PMCID: PMC6740332 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstinence from chronic use of addictive drugs triggers an aversive withdrawal syndrome that compels relapse and deters abstinence. Many features of this syndrome are common across multiple drugs, involving both affective and physical symptoms. Some of the network signaling underlying withdrawal symptoms overlaps with activity that is associated with aversive mood states, including anxiety and depression. Given these shared features, it is not surprising that a particular circuit, the dorsal diencephalic conduction system, and the medial habenula (MHb) and interpeduncular nucleus (IPN), in particular, have been identified as critical to the emergence of aversive states that arise both as a result and, independently, of drug addiction. As the features of this circuit continue to be characterized, the MHb-IPN axis is emerging as a viable target for therapeutics to aid in the treatment of addiction to multiple drugs of abuse as well as mood-associated disorders. This is an article for the special issue XVth International Symposium on Cholinergic Mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian McLaughlin
- Department of Psychiatry, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Department Neuroscience Graduate Group, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - John A. Dani
- Department Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Mariella De Biasi
- Department of Psychiatry, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Department Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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24
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Pharmacotherapy for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: Choosing the Right Opioid or No Opioid at All. Neonatal Netw 2017; 35:314-20. [PMID: 27636696 DOI: 10.1891/0730-0832.35.5.314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) from in utero opioid exposure has reached epidemic levels in the United States. Although nonpharmacologic therapies form the foundation of care, many neonates require pharmacotherapy. Morphine represents the most widely used first-line agent and effectively treats the symptoms of withdrawal. However, methadone or buprenorphine may facilitate earlier discharge. Although phenobarbital is traditionally used when opioids fail, clonidine may be a more appropriate adjunctive agent to minimize negative neurodevelopmental impact. Consideration of the available data allows hospitals to generate effective pharmacologic strategies to manage NAS while further research continues.
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25
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Batalla A, Homberg JR, Lipina TV, Sescousse G, Luijten M, Ivanova SA, Schellekens AFA, Loonen AJM. The role of the habenula in the transition from reward to misery in substance use and mood disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 80:276-285. [PMID: 28576510 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The habenula (Hb) is an evolutionary well-conserved structure located in the epithalamus. The Hb receives inputs from the septum, basal ganglia, hypothalamus, anterior cingulate and medial prefrontal cortex, and projects to several midbrain centers, most importantly the inhibitory rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) and the excitatory interpeduncular nucleus (IPN), which regulate the activity of midbrain monoaminergic nuclei. The Hb is postulated to play a key role in reward and aversion processing across species, including humans, and to be implicated in the different stages of transition from recreational drug intake to addiction and co-morbid mood disorders. The Hb is divided into two anatomically and functionally distinct nuclei, the lateral (LHb) and the medial (MHb), which are primarily involved in reward-seeking (LHb) and misery-fleeing (MHb) behavior by controlling the RMTg and IPN, respectively. This review provides a neuroanatomical description of the Hb, discusses preclinical and human findings regarding its role in the development of addiction and co-morbid mood disorders, and addresses future directions in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Batalla
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Reinier Postlaan 10, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Radboud University, Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction, Toernooiveld 5, 6525 ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Judith R Homberg
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Tatiana V Lipina
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Scientific Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Timakova 4, 630117, Novosibirsk, Russia; Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova 2, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Guillaume Sescousse
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Maartje Luijten
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Svetlana A Ivanova
- Mental Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Aleutskaya street 4, 634014, Tomsk, Russian Federation; National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Lenin Avenue, 30, 634050, Tomsk, Russian Federation.
| | - Arnt F A Schellekens
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Reinier Postlaan 10, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Radboud University, Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction, Toernooiveld 5, 6525 ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Anton J M Loonen
- Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713AV, Groningen, The Netherlands; GGZ Westelijk Noord-Brabant, Hoofdlaan 8, 4661AA, Halsteren, The Netherlands.
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Boulos LJ, Darcq E, Kieffer BL. Translating the Habenula-From Rodents to Humans. Biol Psychiatry 2017; 81:296-305. [PMID: 27527822 PMCID: PMC5143215 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The habenula (Hb) is a central structure connecting forebrain to midbrain regions. This microstructure regulates monoaminergic systems, notably dopamine and serotonin, and integrates cognitive with emotional and sensory processing. Early preclinical data have described Hb as a brain nucleus activated in anticipation of aversive outcomes. Evidence has now accumulated to show that the Hb encodes both rewarding and aversive aspects of external stimuli, thus driving motivated behaviors and decision making. Human Hb research is still nascent but develops rapidly, alongside with the growth of neuroimaging and deep brain stimulation techniques. Not surprisingly, Hb dysfunction has been associated with psychiatric disorders, and studies in patients have established evidence for Hb involvement in major depression, addiction, and schizophrenia, as well as in pain and analgesia. Here, we summarize current knowledge from animal research and overview the existing human literature on anatomy and function of the Hb. We also discuss challenges and future directions in targeting this small brain structure in both rodents and humans. By combining animal data and human experimental studies, this review addresses the translational potential of preclinical Hb research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura-Joy Boulos
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emmanuel Darcq
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Brigitte Lina Kieffer
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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The habenula in psychiatric disorders: More than three decades of translational investigation. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 83:721-735. [PMID: 28223096 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The habenula is an epithalamic structure located at the center of the dorsal diencephalic conduction system, a pathway involved in linking forebrain to midbrain regions. Composed of a medial and lateral subdivisions, the habenula receives inputs from the limbic system and basal ganglia mainly through the stria medullaris (SM), and projects to midbrain regions through the fasciculus retroflexus (FR). An increasing number of studies have implicated this structure in psychiatric disorders associated with dysregulated reward circuitry function, notably mood disorders, schizophrenia, and substance use disorder. However, despite significant progress in research, the mechanisms underlying the relationship between the habenula and the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders are far from being fully understood, and still need further investigation. This review provides a closer look at key findings from animal and human studies illustrating the role of the habenula in mood disorders, schizophrenia, and substance use disorder, and discusses the clinical potential of using this structure as a therapeutic target.
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Kohut SJ. Interactions between nicotine and drugs of abuse: a review of preclinical findings. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2016; 43:155-170. [PMID: 27589579 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2016.1209513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Polysubstance abuse is common among substance-use disorder patients, and nicotine is one of the most commonly co-used substances. Epidemiological and clinical laboratory studies suggest that nicotine, when combined with other drugs of abuse, increases intake of one or both substances. This review focuses on the preclinical literature regarding nicotine's interaction with alcohol, stimulants (i.e., cocaine, amphetamines), opioids (i.e., morphine, heroin), and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The current understanding of how these various classes of abused drugs may interact with nicotine on behavioral, physiological, and pharmacological indices that may be important in maintaining co-use of one or both substances in human populations are highlighted. Suggestions as to future areas of research and gaps in knowledge are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Kohut
- a McLean Hospital and Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School , Belmont , MA , USA
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29
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Kim J, Ham S, Hong H, Moon C, Im HI. Brain Reward Circuits in Morphine Addiction. Mol Cells 2016; 39:645-53. [PMID: 27506251 PMCID: PMC5050528 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2016.0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphine is the most potent analgesic for chronic pain, but its clinical use has been limited by the opiate's innate tendency to produce tolerance, severe withdrawal symptoms and rewarding properties with a high risk of relapse. To understand the addictive properties of morphine, past studies have focused on relevant molecular and cellular changes in the brain, highlighting the functional roles of reward-related brain regions. Given the accumulated findings, a recent, emerging trend in morphine research is that of examining the dynamics of neuronal interactions in brain reward circuits under the influence of morphine action. In this review, we highlight recent findings on the roles of several reward circuits involved in morphine addiction based on pharmacological, molecular and physiological evidences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhwan Kim
- Center for Neuroscience, Brain Science Institute, Seoul 02792,
Korea
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792,
Korea
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Medical Institute, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186,
Korea
| | - Suji Ham
- Center for Neuroscience, Brain Science Institute, Seoul 02792,
Korea
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792,
Korea
- Department of Neuroscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113,
Korea
| | - Heeok Hong
- Department of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul 05029,
Korea
| | - Changjong Moon
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Medical Institute, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186,
Korea
| | - Heh-In Im
- Center for Neuroscience, Brain Science Institute, Seoul 02792,
Korea
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment and Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792,
Korea
- Department of Neuroscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113,
Korea
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30
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Margolis EB, Fields HL. Mu Opioid Receptor Actions in the Lateral Habenula. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159097. [PMID: 27427945 PMCID: PMC4948872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased activity of lateral habenula (LHb) neurons is correlated with aversive states including pain, opioid abstinence, rodent models of depression, and failure to receive a predicted reward. Agonists at the mu opioid receptor (MOR) are among the most powerful rewarding and pain relieving drugs. Injection of the MOR agonist morphine directly into the habenula produces analgesia, raising the possibility that MOR acts locally within the LHb. Consequently, we examined the synaptic actions of MOR agonists in the LHb using whole cell patch clamp recording. We found that the MOR selective agonist DAMGO inhibits a subset of LHb neurons both directly and by inhibiting glutamate release onto these cells. Paradoxically, DAMGO also presynaptically inhibited GABA release onto most LHb neurons. The behavioral effect of MOR activation will thus depend upon both the level of intrinsic neuronal activity in the LHb and the balance of activity in glutamate and GABA inputs to different LHb neuronal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elyssa B. Margolis
- Department of Neurology, The Wheeler Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Alcoholism and Addiction Research Group, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Howard L. Fields
- Department of Neurology, The Wheeler Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Alcoholism and Addiction Research Group, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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31
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Gade AR, Kang M, Khan F, Grider JR, Damaj MI, Dewey WL, Akbarali HI. Enhanced Sensitivity of α3β4 Nicotinic Receptors in Enteric Neurons after Long-Term Morphine: Implication for Opioid-Induced Constipation. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2016; 357:520-8. [PMID: 27068812 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.116.233304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid-induced constipation is a major side effect that persists with long-term opioid use. Previous studies demonstrated that nicotine-induced contractions are enhanced after long-term morphine exposure in guinea pig ileum. In the present study, we examined whether the increased sensitivity to nicotine could be observed in single enteric neurons after long-term morphine exposure, determined the subunits in mouse enteric neurons, and examined the effect of nicotine in reversing opioid-induced constipation. Nicotine (0.03-1 mM) dose-dependently induced inward currents from a holding potential of -60 mV in isolated single enteric neurons from the mouse ileum. The amplitude of the currents, but not the potency to nicotine, was significantly increased in neurons receiving long-term (16-24 h) but not short-term (10 min) exposure to morphine. Quantitative mRNA analysis showed that nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunit expression in the mouse ileum was α3 ≥ β2 > β4 > α5 > α4 > β3 > α6. Nicotine-induced currents were obtained in neurons from α7, β2, α5, and α6 knockout mice. The currents were, however, inhibited by mecamylamine (10 μM) and the α3β4 blocker α-conotoxin AuIB (3 μM), suggesting that nicotine-induced currents were mediated by the α3β4 subtype of nAChRs on enteric neurons. Conversely, NS3861, a partial agonist at α3β4 nAChR, enhanced fecal pellet expulsion in a dose-dependent manner in mice that received long-term, but not short-term, morphine treatment. Overall, our findings suggest that the efficacy of nAChR agonists on enteric neurons is enhanced after long-term morphine exposure, and activation of the α3β4 subtype of nAChR reverses chronic, but not acute, morphine-induced constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aravind R Gade
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Minho Kang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Fayez Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - John R Grider
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - M Imad Damaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - William L Dewey
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Hamid I Akbarali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.R.G., M.K., F.K., M.I.D., W.L.D., H.I.A.), and Department of Physiology and Biophysics (J.R.G.), and VCU Program in Enteric Neuromuscular Sciences (J.R.G., H.I.A.), Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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Bajic D, Soiza-Reilly M, Spalding AL, Berde CB, Commons KG. Endogenous cholinergic neurotransmission contributes to behavioral sensitization to morphine. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0117601. [PMID: 25647082 PMCID: PMC4315441 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0117601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity in the mesolimbic dopaminergic system is critical for behavioral adaptations associated with opioid reward and addiction. These processes may be influenced by cholinergic transmission arising from the laterodorsal tegmental nucleus (LDTg), a main source of acetylcholine to mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons. To examine this possibility we asked if chronic systemic morphine administration affects expression of genes in ventral and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray at the level of the LDTg using rtPCR. Specifically, we examined gene expression changes in the area of interest using Neurotransmitters and Receptors PCR array between chronic morphine and saline control groups. Analysis suggested that chronic morphine administration led to changes in expression of genes associated, in part, with cholinergic neurotransmission. Furthermore, using a quantitative immunofluorescent technique, we found that chronic morphine treatment produced a significant increase in immunolabeling of the cholinergic marker (vesicular acetylcholine transporter) in neurons of the LDTg. Finally, systemic administration of the nonselective and noncompetitive neuronal nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine (0.5 or 2 mg/kg) dose-dependently blocked the expression, and to a lesser extent the development, of locomotor sensitization. The same treatment had no effect on acute morphine antinociception, antinociceptive tolerance or dependence to chronic morphine. Taken together, the results suggest that endogenous nicotinic cholinergic neurotransmission selectively contributes to behavioral sensitization to morphine and this process may, in part, involve cholinergic neurons within the LDTg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusica Bajic
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
- Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
| | - Mariano Soiza-Reilly
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
- Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
| | - Allegra L. Spalding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
| | - Charles B. Berde
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
- Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
| | - Kathryn G. Commons
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
- Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
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Qiu S, Feng Y, LeSage G, Zhang Y, Stuart C, He L, Li Y, Caudle Y, Peng Y, Yin D. Chronic morphine-induced microRNA-124 promotes microglial immunosuppression by modulating P65 and TRAF6. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 194:1021-30. [PMID: 25539811 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1400106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Opioids have been widely applied in clinics as one of the most potent pain relievers for centuries, but their abuse has deleterious physiological effects including immunosuppression. However, the mechanisms are unclear. TLRs and acetylcholine are widely expressed in the immune and nervous systems, and play critical roles in immune responses. In this article, we show that morphine suppresses the innate immunity in microglia and bone marrow-derived macrophages through differential regulation of TLRs and acetylcholinesterase. Either morphine or inhibition of acetylcholine significantly promotes upregulation of microRNA-124 (miR-124) in microglia, bone marrow-derived macrophages, and the mouse brain, where miR-124 mediates morphine inhibition of the innate immunity by directly targeting a subunit of NF-κB p65 and TNFR-associated factor 6 (TRAF6). Furthermore, transcription factors AP-1 and CREB inhibited miR-124, whereas p65 bound directly to promoters of miR-124, thereby enhancing miR-124 transcription. Moreover, acute morphine treatment transiently upregulated the expression of p65 and phospho-p65 in both nucleus and cytoplasm priming the expression of miR-124, whereas long exposure of morphine maintained miR-124 expression, which inhibited p65- and TRAF6-dependent TLR signaling. These data suggest that modulation of miRs is capable of preventing opioid-induced damage to microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwei Qiu
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614; and
| | - Yimin Feng
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614; and
| | - Gene LeSage
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614; and
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Charles Stuart
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614; and
| | - Lei He
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Yi Caudle
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614; and
| | - Ying Peng
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China;
| | - Deling Yin
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614; and
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Abstract
This paper is the thirty-sixth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2013 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior, and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia; stress and social status; tolerance and dependence; learning and memory; eating and drinking; alcohol and drugs of abuse; sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology; mental illness and mood; seizures and neurologic disorders; electrical-related activity and neurophysiology; general activity and locomotion; gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions; cardiovascular responses; respiration and thermoregulation; and immunological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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Muldoon PP, Jackson KJ, Perez E, Harenza JL, Molas S, Rais B, Anwar H, Zaveri NT, Maldonado R, Maskos U, McIntosh JM, Dierssen M, Miles MF, Chen X, De Biasi M, Damaj MI. The α3β4* nicotinic ACh receptor subtype mediates physical dependence to morphine: mouse and human studies. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:3845-57. [PMID: 24750073 PMCID: PMC4128047 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Recent data have indicated that α3β4* neuronal nicotinic (n) ACh receptors may play a role in morphine dependence. Here we investigated if nACh receptors modulate morphine physical withdrawal. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES To assess the role of α3β4* nACh receptors in morphine withdrawal, we used a genetic correlation approach using publically available datasets within the GeneNetwork web resource, genetic knockout and pharmacological tools. Male and female European-American (n = 2772) and African-American (n = 1309) subjects from the Study of Addiction: Genetics and Environment dataset were assessed for possible associations of polymorphisms in the 15q25 gene cluster and opioid dependence. KEY RESULTS BXD recombinant mouse lines demonstrated an increased expression of α3, β4 and α5 nACh receptor mRNA in the forebrain and midbrain, which significantly correlated with increased defecation in mice undergoing morphine withdrawal. Mice overexpressing the gene cluster CHRNA5/A3/B4 exhibited increased somatic signs of withdrawal. Furthermore, α5 and β4 nACh receptor knockout mice expressed decreased somatic withdrawal signs compared with their wild-type counterparts. Moreover, selective α3β4* nACh receptor antagonists, α-conotoxin AuIB and AT-1001, attenuated somatic signs of morphine withdrawal in a dose-related manner. In addition, two human datasets revealed a protective role for variants in the CHRNA3 gene, which codes for the α3 nACh receptor subunit, in opioid dependence and withdrawal. In contrast, we found that the α4β2* nACh receptor subtype is not involved in morphine somatic withdrawal signs. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Overall, our findings suggest an important role for the α3β4* nACh receptor subtype in morphine physical dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- P P Muldoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Velasquez KM, Molfese DL, Salas R. The role of the habenula in drug addiction. Front Hum Neurosci 2014; 8:174. [PMID: 24734015 PMCID: PMC3975120 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Interest in the habenula has greatly increased in recent years. The habenula is a small brain structure located posterior to the thalamus and adjacent to the third ventricle. Despite its small size, the habenula can be divided into medial habenula (MHb) and lateral habenula (LHb) nuclei that are anatomically and transcriptionally distinct. The habenula receives inputs from the limbic system and basal ganglia primarily via the stria medullaris. The fasciculus retroflexus is the primary habenular output from the habenula to the midbrain and governs release of glutamate onto gabaergic cells in the rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) and onto the interpeduncular nucleus. The resulting GABA released from RMTg neurons inactivates dopaminergic cells in the ventral tegmental area/substantia nigra compacta. Through this process, the habenula controls dopamine levels in the striatum. Thus, the habenula plays a critical role in reward and reward-associated learning. The LHb also modulates serotonin levels and norepinephrine release, while the MHb modulates acetylcholine. The habenula is a critical crossroad that influences the brain’s response to pain, stress, anxiety, sleep, and reward. Dysfunction of the habenula has been linked to depression, schizophrenia, and the effects of drugs of abuse. This review focuses on the possible relationships between the habenula and drug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenia M Velasquez
- Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA
| | - David L Molfese
- Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ramiro Salas
- Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA
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