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Fiore M, Petrella C, Coriale G, Rosso P, Fico E, Ralli M, Greco A, De Vincentiis M, Minni A, Polimeni A, Vitali M, Messina MP, Ferraguti G, Tarani F, de Persis S, Ceccanti M, Tarani L. Markers of Neuroinflammation in the Serum of Prepubertal Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2022; 21:854-868. [PMID: 34852752 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666211201154839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are the manifestation of the damage caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), the extreme FASD manifestation, show both facial dysmorphology and mental retardation. Alcohol consumed during gestational age prejudices brain development by reducing, among others, the synthesis and release of neurotrophic factors and neuroinflammatory markers. Alcohol drinking also induces oxidative stress. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to investigate the potential association between neurotrophins, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress in 12 prepubertal male and female FASD children diagnosed as FAS or partial FAS (pFAS). METHODS Accordingly, we analyzed, in the serum, the level of BDNF and NGF and the oxidative stress, as Free Oxygen Radicals Test (FORT) and Free Oxygen Radicals Defense (FORD). Moreover, serum levels of inflammatory mediators (IL-1α, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, MCP-1, TGF-β, and TNF-α) involved in neuroinflammatory and oxidative processes have been investigated. RESULTS We demonstrated low serum levels of NGF and BDNF in pre-pubertal FASD children with respect to healthy controls. These changes were associated with higher serum presence of TNF- α and IL-1α. Quite interestingly, an elevation in the FORD was also found despite normal FORT levels. Moreover, we found a potentiation of IL-1α, IL-2, IL-10, and IL-1α1 in the analyzed female compared to male children. CONCLUSION The present investigation shows an imbalance in the peripheral neuroimmune pathways that could be used in children as early biomarkers of the deficits observed in FASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Fiore
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC-CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Petrella
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC-CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Coriale
- Centro Riferimento Alcologico Regione Lazio, ASL Roma 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Pamela Rosso
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC-CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Fico
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC-CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Ralli
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Greco
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Minni
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Polimeni
- Department of Odontostomatological and Maxillofacial Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Francesca Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University Hospital of Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Ceccanti
- SITAC, Societa' Italiana per il Trattamento dell'Alcolismo, Roma Italy SIFASD, Società Italiana Sindrome Feto-Alcolica, Roma, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University Hospital of Rome, Italy
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Strawn JR, Levine A. Treatment Response Biomarkers in Anxiety Disorders: From Neuroimaging to Neuronally-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Beyond. Biomark Neuropsychiatry 2020; 3:100024. [PMID: 32974615 PMCID: PMC7508464 DOI: 10.1016/j.bionps.2020.100024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple and diverse psychotherapeutic or psychopharmacologic treatments effectively reduce symptoms for many patients with anxiety disorders, but the trajectory and magnitude of response vary considerably. This heterogeneity of treatment response has invigorated the search for biomarkers of treatment response in anxiety disorders, across the lifespan. In this review, we summarize evidence for biomarkers of treatment response in children, adolescents and adults with generalized, separation and social anxiety disorders as well as panic disorder. We then discuss the relationship between these biomarkers of treatment response and the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders. Finally, we provide context for treatment response biomarkers of the future, including neuronally-derived extracellular vesicles in anxiety disorders and discuss challenges that must be overcome prior to the debut of treatment response biomarkers in the clinic. A number of promising treatment response biomarkers have been identified, although there is an urgent need to replicate findings and to identify which biomarkers might guide clinicians in selecting from available treatments rather than just simply identifying patients who may be less likely to respond to a given intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey R. Strawn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience; Anxiety Disorders Research Program, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Amir Levine
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY
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3
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Vismara M, Girone N, Cirnigliaro G, Fasciana F, Vanzetto S, Ferrara L, Priori A, D’Addario C, Viganò C, Dell’Osso B. Peripheral Biomarkers in DSM-5 Anxiety Disorders: An Updated Overview. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E564. [PMID: 32824625 PMCID: PMC7464377 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10080564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are prevalent and highly disabling mental disorders. In recent years, intensive efforts focused on the search for potential neuroimaging, genetic, and peripheral biomarkers in order to better understand the pathophysiology of these disorders, support their diagnosis, and characterize the treatment response. Of note, peripheral blood biomarkers, as surrogates for the central nervous system, represent a promising instrument to characterize psychiatric disorders, although their role has not been extensively applied to clinical practice. In this report, the state of the art on peripheral biomarkers of DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition) Anxiety Disorders is presented, in order to examine their role in the pathogenesis of these conditions and their potential application for diagnosis and treatment. Available data on the cerebrospinal fluid and blood-based biomarkers related to neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, neurotrophic factors, and the inflammation and immune system are reviewed. Despite the wide scientific literature and the promising results in the field, only a few of the proposed peripheral biomarkers have been defined as a specific diagnostic instrument or have been identified as a guide in the treatment response to DSM-5 Anxiety Disorders. Therefore, further investigations are needed to provide new biological insights into the pathogenesis of anxiety disorders, to help in their diagnosis, and to tailor a treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Vismara
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Nicolaja Girone
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Giovanna Cirnigliaro
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Federica Fasciana
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Simone Vanzetto
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Luca Ferrara
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Alberto Priori
- Department of Health Sciences, Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Brain Therapeutic, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy;
| | - Claudio D’Addario
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Caterina Viganò
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
| | - Bernardo Dell’Osso
- Department of Mental Health, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (N.G.); (G.C.); (F.F.); (S.V.); (L.F.); (C.V.); (B.D.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Brain Therapeutic, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Bipolar Disorders Clinic, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- “Centro per lo studio dei meccanismi molecolari alla base delle patologie neuro-psico-geriatriche”, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy
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4
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Serum GDNF levels and anxiety disorders in a population-based study of young adults. Clin Chim Acta 2018; 485:21-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Kwon CY, Choi EJ, Suh HW, Chung SY, Kim JW. Oriental herbal medicine for generalized anxiety disorder: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Eur J Integr Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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6
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Tural Ü, Aker AT, Önder E, Sodan HT, Ünver H, Akansel G. Neurotrophic factors and hippocampal activity in PTSD. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197889. [PMID: 29799860 PMCID: PMC5969740 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although numerous studies have investigated the neurotrophic factors and hippocampal activity in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) separately each other, it is unclear whether an association between neurotrophic factors and hippocampal activity is present. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional changes in hippocampus before and after treatment with escitalopram and to associate these changes with peptides related to neuronal growth in patients with chronic PTSD and trauma survivors without PTSD. Fifteen earthquake survivors with chronic PTSD and thirteen drug naïve trauma exposed individuals without PTSD underwent fMRI scans in a block design. Serum levels of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) were measured before and after 12 weeks treatment with escitalopram. Baseline median serum level of NGF was significantly lower in patients with chronic PTSD than trauma survivors; however, 12 weeks of treatment with escitalopram significantly increased it. Higher activation was found both in left and right hippocampus for chronic PTSD group than trauma survivors. Treatment with escitalopram was significantly associated with suppression of the hyperactivation in left hippocampus in patients with chronic PTSD. Bilateral hyperactivation in hippocampus and lowered NGF may associate with neurobiological disarrangements in chronic PTSD. Treatment with escitalopram was significantly associated with both improvement in the severity of PTSD symptoms and biological alterations. Patients diagnosed with PTSD may have further and complicated deteriorations in hippocampal networks and neurotransmitter systems than individuals who had not been diagnosed with PTSD following the same traumatic experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ümit Tural
- The Nathan S. Kline Psychiatric Research Institute, Orangeburg, New York, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty of Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
- * E-mail:
| | - Ahmet Tamer Aker
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty of Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Emin Önder
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty of Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Hatice Turan Sodan
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty of Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Hatice Ünver
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical Faculty of Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gür Akansel
- Department of Radiology, Medical Faculty of Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Abstract
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a prevalent and highly disabling mental health condition; however, there is still much to learn with regard to pertinent biomarkers, as well as diagnosis, made more difficult by the marked and common overlap of GAD with affective and anxiety disorders. Recently, intensive research efforts have focused on GAD, applying neuroimaging, genetic, and blood-based approaches toward discovery of pathogenetic and treatment-related biomarkers. In this paper, we review the large amount of available data, and we focus in particular on evidence from neuroimaging, genetic, and neurochemical measurements in GAD in order to better understand potential biomarkers involved in its etiology and treatment. Overall, the majority of these studies have produced results that are solitary findings, sometimes inconsistent and not clearly replicable. For these reasons, they have not yet been translated into clinical practice. Therefore, further research efforts are needed to distinguish GAD from other mental disorders and to provide new biological insights into its pathogenesis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard Maron
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Center for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK ; Department of Psychiatry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia ; North Estonia Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - David Nutt
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Center for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Da Cunha Teixeira Lopes R, Santos de Oliveira F, De Carvalho MR. A neurobiologia da psicopatologia e psicoterapia e as implicações práticas de uma perspectiva materialista na definição de mente. UNIVERSITAS PSYCHOLOGICA 2017. [DOI: 10.11144/javeriana.upsy15-5.nppi] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
La Psicología pasa en la actualidad por un cambio importante de paradigma teórico y conceptual. Este cambio fue bastante marcado en los años 90, considerada como la "década del cerebro", cuando aumentó significativamente el número de estudios de comportamiento que se basan en el funcionamiento del cerebro. La corriente principal de las ciencias de la conducta devueltos a la noción monista materialista que el cerebro y el comportamiento están intrínsecamente entrelazados. Esta idea salió de los laboratorios de investigación básica y llegó con fuerza en la investigación aplicada a la psicopatología y la psicoterapia. Esta revisión narrativa se pretende elaborar una visión actual de esta empresa científica, con énfasis en los esfuerzos dentro de las áreas de la psicología clínica y psicopatología. Al final, se analiza en qué medida este cambio de paradigma puede llegar a la práctica profesional de la psicología.
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9
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Bandelow B, Baldwin D, Abelli M, Bolea-Alamanac B, Bourin M, Chamberlain SR, Cinosi E, Davies S, Domschke K, Fineberg N, Grünblatt E, Jarema M, Kim YK, Maron E, Masdrakis V, Mikova O, Nutt D, Pallanti S, Pini S, Ströhle A, Thibaut F, Vaghix MM, Won E, Wedekind D, Wichniak A, Woolley J, Zwanzger P, Riederer P. Biological markers for anxiety disorders, OCD and PTSD: A consensus statement. Part II: Neurochemistry, neurophysiology and neurocognition. World J Biol Psychiatry 2017; 18:162-214. [PMID: 27419272 PMCID: PMC5341771 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2016.1190867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Biomarkers are defined as anatomical, biochemical or physiological traits that are specific to certain disorders or syndromes. The objective of this paper is to summarise the current knowledge of biomarkers for anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS Findings in biomarker research were reviewed by a task force of international experts in the field, consisting of members of the World Federation of Societies for Biological Psychiatry Task Force on Biological Markers and of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology Anxiety Disorders Research Network. RESULTS The present article (Part II) summarises findings on potential biomarkers in neurochemistry (neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine or GABA, neuropeptides such as cholecystokinin, neurokinins, atrial natriuretic peptide, or oxytocin, the HPA axis, neurotrophic factors such as NGF and BDNF, immunology and CO2 hypersensitivity), neurophysiology (EEG, heart rate variability) and neurocognition. The accompanying paper (Part I) focuses on neuroimaging and genetics. CONCLUSIONS Although at present, none of the putative biomarkers is sufficient and specific as a diagnostic tool, an abundance of high quality research has accumulated that should improve our understanding of the neurobiological causes of anxiety disorders, OCD and PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borwin Bandelow
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Göttingen, Germany
| | - David Baldwin
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Marianna Abelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Blanca Bolea-Alamanac
- School of Social and Community Medicine, Academic Unit of Psychiatry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Michel Bourin
- Neurobiology of Anxiety and Mood Disorders, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Samuel R. Chamberlain
- Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust and University of Hertfordshire, Parkway, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eduardo Cinosi
- Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele D’Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Simon Davies
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Geriatric Psychiatry Division, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- School of Social and Community Medicine, Academic Unit of Psychiatry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Katharina Domschke
- Department of Psychiatry Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Naomi Fineberg
- Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust and University of Hertfordshire, Parkway, UK
| | - Edna Grünblatt
- Department of Psychiatry Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and the ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marek Jarema
- Third Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Yong-Ku Kim
- Department of Psychiatry College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eduard Maron
- Department of Psychiatry, North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Tartu, Estonia
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Medicine, Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Vasileios Masdrakis
- Athens University Medical School, First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Olya Mikova
- Foundation Biological Psychiatry, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - David Nutt
- Faculty of Medicine Department of Medicine, Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Stefano Pallanti
- UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Stefano Pini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andreas Ströhle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité – University Medica Center Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Florence Thibaut
- Faculty of Medicine Paris Descartes, University Hospital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Matilde M. Vaghix
- Department of Psychology and Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Eunsoo Won
- Department of Psychiatry College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dirk Wedekind
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Göttingen, Germany
| | - Adam Wichniak
- Third Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Jade Woolley
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Peter Zwanzger
- kbo-Inn-Salzach-Klinikum Wasserburg am Inn, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Riederer
- Department of Psychiatry Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
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Salles FHM, Soares PSM, Wiener CD, Mondin TC, da Silva PM, Jansen K, de Mattos Souza LD, da Silva RA, Oses JP. Mental disorders, functional impairment, and nerve growth factor. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2016; 10:9-15. [PMID: 28053561 PMCID: PMC5189700 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s104814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is an important member of the neurotrophin family and its alteration has been associated with psychiatric disorders. Functionality consists of the activities that an individual can perform, as well as their social participation, which is an important factor in analyzing the carrier living conditions of subjects with psychiatric suffering. Several studies have evaluated functionality in bipolar disorder; however, no studies have evaluated the functionality in other mental disorders. There are also few studies investigating the association between functionality and the biological bases of mental disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the serum NGF levels in psychiatric patients and to verify a possible association between the serum neurotrophic levels and functionality. This was a cross-sectional study with a convenient sample obtained from the Public Mental Health Service from the south of Brazil. The final sample was composed of 286 patients enrolled from July 2013 to October 2014. Data was collected using a sociodemographic questionnaire, and the diagnosis was confirmed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I) and a Functioning Assessment Short Test. The serum NGF levels were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistic 21.0 software. NGF serum levels were increased significantly in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder compared with patients with no obsessive-compulsive disorder (P=0.015). An increase in serum NGF levels in generalized anxiety disorder patients was observed compared with patients with no generalized anxiety disorder (P=0.047). NGF was negatively associated with autonomy (P=0.024, r=-0.136), work (P=0.040, r=-0.124), and cognition (P=0.024, r=-0.137), thereby showing that changes in serum levels of NGF are associated with functionality in mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Helena Martins Salles
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Pedro San Martin Soares
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Carolina David Wiener
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Thaise Campos Mondin
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Paula Moraes da Silva
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Karen Jansen
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Translational Psychiatry Program; Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Luciano Dias de Mattos Souza
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Azevedo da Silva
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jean Pierre Oses
- Translational Science on Brain Disorders, Department of Health and Behavior, Catholic University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Translational Psychiatry Program; Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
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Growth factors as clinical biomarkers of prognosis and diagnosis in psychiatric disorders. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2016; 32:85-96. [PMID: 27618303 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The psychiatric disorders are one of the most disabling illnesses in the world and represent a major problem for public health. These disorders are characterized by neuroanatomical or biochemical changes and it has been suggested that such changes may be due to inadequate neurodevelopment. Diverse alterations in the gene expression and/or serum level of specific growth factors have been implicated in the etiology, symptoms and progression of some psychiatric disorders. Herein, we summarize the latest information regarding the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), neuroregulin-1 (NGR-1), erythropoietin (EPO), vascular growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), nerve growth factor (NGF) and others cytokines in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders. Focusing on the role of these growth factors and their relationship with the main impairments (cognitive, emotional and social) of these pathologies. Some of these signaling molecules may be suitable biological markers for diagnosis and prognosis in cognitive, mood and social disabilities across different mental disorders.
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12
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Fernandez GM, Stewart WN, Savage LM. Chronic Drinking During Adolescence Predisposes the Adult Rat for Continued Heavy Drinking: Neurotrophin and Behavioral Adaptation after Long-Term, Continuous Ethanol Exposure. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149987. [PMID: 26930631 PMCID: PMC4773001 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has found that adolescent ethanol (EtOH) exposure alters drug seeking behaviors, cognition and neuroplasticity. Using male Sprague Dawley rats, differences in spatial working memory, non-spatial discrimination learning and behavioral flexibility were explored as a function of age at the onset (mid-adolescent vs. adult) of chronic EtOH exposure (CET). Concentrations of mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (mBDNF) and beta-nerve growth factor (β-NGF) in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were also assessed at different time-points: during CET, following acute abstinence (48-hrs), and after protracted abstinence (6-8 wks). Our results revealed that an adolescent onset of CET leads to increased EtOH consumption that persisted into adulthood. In both adult and adolescent onset CET groups, there were significant long-term reductions in prefrontal cortical mBDNF and β-NGF levels. However, only adult onset CET rats displayed decreased hippocampal BDNF levels. Spatial memory, assessed by spontaneous alternation and delayed alternation, was not significantly affected by CET as a function of age of drinking onset, but higher blood-EtOH levels were correlated with lower spontaneous alternation scores. Regardless of the age of onset, EtOH exposed rats were impaired on non-spatial discrimination learning and displayed inflexible behavioral patterns upon reversal learning. Our results indicate that adolescent EtOH exposure changes long-term consumption patterns producing behavioral and neural dysfunctions that persist across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina M. Fernandez
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University, State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, United States of America
| | - William N. Stewart
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University, State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, United States of America
| | - Lisa M. Savage
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University, State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, United States of America
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Carlino D, Francavilla R, Baj G, Kulak K, d'Adamo P, Ulivi S, Cappellani S, Gasparini P, Tongiorgi E. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor serum levels in genetically isolated populations: gender-specific association with anxiety disorder subtypes but not with anxiety levels or Val66Met polymorphism. PeerJ 2015; 3:e1252. [PMID: 26539329 PMCID: PMC4631459 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.1252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders (ADs) are disabling chronic disorders with exaggerated behavioral response to threats. This study was aimed at testing the hypothesis that ADs may be associated with reduced neurotrophic activity, particularly of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and determining possible effects of genetics on serum BDNF concentrations. In 672 adult subjects from six isolated villages in North-Eastern Italy with high inbreeding, we determined serum BDNF levels and identified subjects with different ADs subtypes such as Social and Specific Phobias (PHSOC, PHSP), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and Panic Disorder (PAD). Analysis of the population as a whole or individual village showed no significant correlation between serum BDNF levels and Val66Met polymorphism and no association with anxiety levels. Stratification of subjects highlighted a significant decrease in serum BDNF in females with GAD and males with PHSP. This study indicates low heritability and absence of any impact of the Val66Met polymorphism on circulating concentrations of BDNF. Our results show that BDNF is not a general biomarker of anxiety but serum BDNF levels correlate in a gender-specific manner with ADs subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Carlino
- Psychiatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste , Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Baj
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste , Italy
| | - Karolina Kulak
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste , Italy
| | - Pio d'Adamo
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste , Italy
| | - Sheila Ulivi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo" , Trieste , Italy
| | - Stefania Cappellani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo" , Trieste , Italy
| | - Paolo Gasparini
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste , Italy ; Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo" , Trieste , Italy
| | - Enrico Tongiorgi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste , Italy
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Substantial research has shown that anxiety disorders are associated with decreased cardiac vagal tone, which is a known risk factor for cardiac vulnerability. A functional nerve growth factor (NGF) polymorphism (rs6330, c.104C > T, p.Ala35Val) has been associated with anxiety such that in males but not females, T-allele carriers exhibit higher levels of trait anxiety. Here we investigate whether the nonsynonymous NGF variant has an effect on cardiac autonomic control. METHODS From 705 adults initially screened for medical and psychiatric illnesses, a final cohort of 580 healthy Han Chinese (352 men, 228 women; mean [standard deviation] age = 34.46 [8.45] years) was included in the NGF genotyping (C/C: 428% [73.8%] and T-allele carriers: 152% [26.2%]). Short-term heart rate variability was used to assess cardiac autonomic function. RESULTS There were significant genotype-by-sex interaction effects (p < .05) on high-frequency power (HF) and root mean square of successive heartbeat interval differences (RMSSD), both indices of cardiac vagal control. Even after adjusting for possible confounders, men with any T allele showed lower HF and RMSSD compared with men with the C/C genotype. Women, however, showed an opposite but nonsignificant pattern. CONCLUSIONS The studied NGF polymorphism modulates autonomic outflow to the heart in a sex-dependent manner. The findings support the view that male T-allele carriers are at increased susceptibility for anxiety by association with low vagal activity and suggest a potential sex-specific genetic link between the highly comorbid anxiety disorders and cardiovascular diseases.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavior modification, as the core of clinical behavioral medicine, is often used in clinical settings. PURPOSE We seek to summarize behavior modification techniques that are commonly used in clinical practice of behavioral medicine in China and discuss possible biobehavioral mechanisms. METHODS We reviewed common behavior modification techniques in clinical settings in China, and we reviewed studies that explored possible biobehavioral mechanisms. RESULTS Commonly used clinical approaches of behavior modification in China include behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, health education, behavior management, behavioral relaxation training, stress management intervention, desensitization therapy, biofeedback therapy, and music therapy. These techniques have been applied in the clinical treatment of a variety of diseases, such as chronic diseases, psychosomatic diseases, and psychological disorders. The biobehavioral mechanisms of these techniques involve the autonomic nervous system, neuroendocrine system, neurobiochemistry, and neuroplasticity. CONCLUSION Behavior modification techniques are commonly used in the treatment of a variety of somatic and psychological disorders in China. Multiple biobehavioral mechanisms are involved in successful behavior modification.
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Nerve growth factor and its receptor in schizophrenia. BBA CLINICAL 2014; 1:24-9. [PMID: 26675984 PMCID: PMC4633968 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2014.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Promising studies suggest that defects in synaptic plasticity detected in schizophrenia may be linked to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative abnormalities and contribute to disease-associated cognitive impairment. We aimed to clarify the role of the synaptic plasticity regulatory proteins, nerve growth factor (NGF) and its receptor (NGFR) in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia by comparative analysis of their blood levels and functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding these proteins (NGF and NGFR) in schizophrenia-affected and healthy subjects. Relationships between the selected SNPs' genotypes and NGF and NGFR plasma levels were also assessed. Our results demonstrated a positive association between schizophrenia and the NGF rs6330 as well as the NGFR rs11466155 and rs2072446 SNPs. Also, a negative association between this disorder and NGF rs4839435 as well as NGFR rs734194 was found. In both, haloperidol-treated and antipsychotic-free patients decreased blood levels of the NGF and NGFR were found, and a positive interrelation between rs6330 and rs2072446 carriage and decreased NGF and NGFR levels, respectively, was revealed. In conclusion, our results demonstrate association of schizophrenia with the rs6330, rs4839435 and rs734194, rs11466155, rs2072446 as well as with the decreased blood levels of corresponding proteins. Our findings indicate the implication of alterations in NGFR and NGFR genes in schizophrenia, particularly, in defects of synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, the data obtained suggests that at least in Armenian population the NGF rs6330*T and NGFR rs11466155*T, rs2072446*T alleles might be nominated as risk factors, whereas the NGF rs4839435*A and NGFR rs734194*G alleles might be protective against developing schizophrenia. The NGF and NGFR functional polymorphisms in schizophrenia-affected and healthy subjects were studied. Blood plasma levels of these proteins were also evaluated. Decreased NGF and NGFR levels in schizophrenia patients were detected. The rs6330*T and rs2072446*T carriage was interrelated with low NGF and NGFR levels, respectively. The NGF rs6330*T and NGFR rs11466155*T, rs2072446*T alleles might be nominated as risk factors.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurotrophins such as nerve growth factor (NGF) may represent a stress-responsive system complementing the better known neuroendocrine (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) and autonomic nervous system, but there is little evidence for NGF response to acute stress in humans because noninvasive measures have not been available. We investigated salivary NGF (sNGF) in 40 healthy young adults confronting a romantic conflict stressor. METHODS Five saliva samples-two collected before and three after the conflict-were assayed for sNGF, cortisol (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal marker), and α-amylase (sAA; ANS marker). In addition, a control group (n = 20) gave saliva samples at the same time intervals to determine whether sNGF changes were specific to the conflict stressor. RESULTS sNGF showed significant reactivity from entry to the first poststress sample among study participants (β = .13, p = .001), with nonsignificant change across poststress samples. Control participants showed no change in sNGF across the same period. Within-person changes in sNGF were generally aligned with both cortisol (β = .17, p = .003) and sAA (β = .17, p = .021) responses. Preconflict negative emotion predicted lower sNGF reactivity (β = -.08, p = .009) and less alignment with sAA (β = -.09, p = .040), whereas positive emotion predicted less alignment with cortisol (β = -.10, p = .019). CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to document sNGF as a marker that responds to stress in humans.
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Liu HT, Kuo HC. Increased urine and serum nerve growth factor levels in interstitial cystitis suggest chronic inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of disease. PLoS One 2012; 7:e44687. [PMID: 23028581 PMCID: PMC3444462 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is considered a bladder disorder due to localized chronic inflammation. This study investigated the nerve growth factor (NGF) levels in serum and urine in patients with IC/BPS. Materials and Methods Thirty patients with IC/BPS and 28 normal subjects without lower urinary tract symptoms were recruited from an outpatient clinic. IC/BPS was diagnosed by frequency, bladder pain, and the presence of glomerulations during cystoscopic hydrodistention. Serum and urine were collected before any treatment was given. Serum NGF and urinary NGF/Cr levels were compared between IC/BPS and the controls. Results Urinary NGF levels were significantly higher in patients with IC/PBS (26.3±11.2 pg/ml) than in controls (1.40±0.63 pg) (p = 0.014). After normalization, the urinary NGF/Cr levels were significantly greater in IC/BPS (0.69±0.38 pg/mg) than controls (0.20±0.01, p = 0.011). Relative to the levels in control subjects (1.90±0.38 pg/mL), the mean serum NGF levels were higher in patients IC/BPS patients (3.48±0.55 pg/mL) (p = 0.015). No significant correlation was found between the serum and urinary NGF levels in IC/BPS patients. However, the clinical characteristics and medical co-morbidities did not show significant difference between IC/BPS patients with a higher and lower serum NGF level. Conclusions Increased urinary NGF levels in IC/BPS patients suggest that chronic inflammation is involved in this bladder disorder. Increased circulating serum NGF levels were noted in over half of patients with IC/BPS, however, the urinary and serum NGF were not inter-correlated and elevated serum NGF did not relate with clinical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Tzu Liu
- Department of Urology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital and Tzu Chi University, Hualin, Taiwan
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (HTL); (HCK)
| | - Hann-Chorng Kuo
- Department of Urology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital and Tzu Chi University, Hualin, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (HTL); (HCK)
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Gelfo F, Tirassa P, De Bartolo P, Croce N, Bernardini S, Caltagirone C, Petrosini L, Angelucci F. NPY intraperitoneal injections produce antidepressant-like effects and downregulate BDNF in the rat hypothalamus. CNS Neurosci Ther 2012; 18:487-92. [PMID: 22672302 PMCID: PMC6493532 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2012.00314.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2011] [Revised: 12/06/2011] [Accepted: 12/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Several studies have documented an involvement of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) in stress-related disorders. Stress-related disorders are also characterized by changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophins implicated in the survival and function of neurons. Thus the aim of this study was to investigate whether an NPY intraperitoneal treatment has antidepressant-like effects in rats subjected to a classical stress paradigm, the Forced Swim Test (FST), in association with changes in local brain neurotrophin production. METHODS Rats were intraperitoneally injected with either NPY (60 μg/kg) or a vehicle for three consecutive days between two FST sessions and then tested for time spent (or delay onset) in immobile posture. Moreover, we measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) neurotrophin levels in the hypothalamus and corticosterone levels in plasma. RESULTS The data showed that NPY induced a significant delay in the onset and a significant reduction in the duration of the immobility posture in FST. We also found that NPY decreased BDNF levels in the hypothalamus and corticosterone levels in plasma. DISCUSSION Immobility posture in FST can be reduced by antidepressant drugs. Thus, our data show an antidepressant-like effect of NPY associated with changes in BDNF levels in the hypothalamus and reduced activity of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. CONCLUSION These findings, while confirming the involvement of the NPY system in stress-related disorders, suggest that a less invasive route of administration, such as an intraperitoneal injection, may be instrumental in coping with stressful events in animal models and perhaps in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gelfo
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Tirassa
- Institute of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola De Bartolo
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Croce
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Bernardini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Caltagirone
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Petrosini
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Angelucci
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
Therapygenetics, the study of genetic determinants of response to psychological therapies, is in its infancy. Here, we investigate whether single-nucleotide polymorphisms in nerve growth factor (NGF) (rs6330) and brain-derived neutrotrophic factor (BDNF) (rs6265) genes predict the response to cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). Neurotrophic genes represent plausible candidate genes: they are implicated in synaptic plasticity, response to stress, and are widely expressed in brain areas involved in mood and cognition. Allelic variation at both loci has shown associations with anxiety-related phenotypes. A sample of 374 anxiety-disordered children with white European ancestry was recruited from clinics in Reading, UK, and in Sydney, Australia. Participants received manualised CBT treatment and DNA was collected from buccal cells using cheek swabs. Treatment response was assessed at post-treatment and follow-up time points. We report first evidence that children with one or more copies of the T allele of NGF rs6330 were significantly more likely to be free of their primary anxiety diagnosis at follow-up (OR = 0.60 (0.42-0.85), P = 0.005). These effects remained even when other clinically relevant covariates were accounted for (OR = 0.62 (0.41-0.92), P = 0.019). No significant associations were observed between BDNF rs6265 and response to psychological therapy. These findings demonstrate that knowledge of genetic markers has the potential to inform clinical treatment decisions for psychotherapeutic interventions.
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Gelfo F, De Bartolo P, Tirassa P, Croce N, Caltagirone C, Petrosini L, Angelucci F. Intraperitoneal injection of neuropeptide Y (NPY) alters neurotrophin rat hypothalamic levels: Implications for NPY potential role in stress-related disorders. Peptides 2011; 32:1320-3. [PMID: 21473895 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2011] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 03/29/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a 36-amino acid peptide which exerts several regulatory actions within peripheral and central nervous systems. Among NPY actions preclinical and clinical data have suggested that the anxiolytic and antidepressant actions of NPY may be related to its antagonist action on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The neurotrophins brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) are proteins involved in the growth, survival and function of neurons. In addition to this, a possible role of neurotrophins, particularly BDNF, in HPA axis hyperactivation has been proposed. To characterize the effect of NPY on the production of neurotrophins in the hypothalamus we exposed young adult rats to NPY intraperitoneal administration for three consecutive days and then evaluated BDNF and NGF synthesis in this brain region. We found that NPY treatment decreased BDNF and increased NGF production in the hypothalamus. Given the role of neurotrophins in the hypothalamus, these findings, although preliminary, provide evidence for a role of NPY as inhibitor of HPA axis and support the idea that NPY might be involved in pathologies characterized by HPA axis dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gelfo
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, 00179 Rome, Italy.
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Le Hericium erinaceus: des propriétés essentiellement dépendantes du neuronal growth factor. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10298-010-0601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Pardon MC. Role of neurotrophic factors in behavioral processes: implications for the treatment of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2010; 82:185-200. [PMID: 20472139 DOI: 10.1016/s0083-6729(10)82010-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins are important regulators of neuronal function in the developing and adult brain and thus play a critical role in sustaining normal behavioral function. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been the most widely studied neurotrophin because of its important role as modulator of synaptic plasticity, which is essential to the regulation of experience-dependent behavior. Extensive work implicates BDNF in hippocampus-dependent forms of learning and memory, although it also regulates other cognitive processes. A role for BDNF in anxiety-related disorders and aggressive behavior can also be suspected. More importantly, BDNF signaling has recently emerged as a key player in the development of drug addiction and is well known to be involved in adaptation to stress and stress-related disorders. NGF in the other hand is thought to be involved in aggression and alcohol dependence. Finally, BDNF appears to participate in the therapeutic effects of drugs and interventions capable of reversing or attenuating behavioral disturbances relevant to psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Compounds mimicking BDNF signaling, however, are unlikely to be used in a clinical context, given their adverse side effects and pharmacokinetic limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Christine Pardon
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Neuroscience, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Cirulli F, Alleva E. The NGF saga: from animal models of psychosocial stress to stress-related psychopathology. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:379-95. [PMID: 19442684 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2008] [Revised: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The role of the neurotrophins Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) has been expanding over the last years from trophic factors involved in brain growth and differentiation, to much more complex messengers, involved in psycho-neuro-endocrine adaptations. Much of this research stems from a series of studies inspired by the life-long work of the Nobel laureate Rita Levi-Montalcini. A new field of research started when NGF was found to be released in the bloodstream as a result of psychosocial stressors in male mice. Subsequent studies have shown that, in humans, highly arousing situations also result in increased blood levels of NGF, underlying the unique role of this neurotrophin, compared to other neuroendocrine effectors, and its sensitivity to environmental variables endowed by a social nature. Data are reviewed to support the hypothesis that this neurotrophic factor, together with BDNF, could be involved in the neurobiological changes underlying physiological and pathological reactions to stress that can result in increased vulnerability to disease in humans, including risk for anxiety disorders, or in the complex pathophysiology associated with mood disorders. Indeed, numerous data indicate that neurotrophins are present in brain hypothalamic areas involved in the regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, circadian rhythms and metabolism. In addition, there is now evidence that, in addition to the nervous system, neurotrophins exert their effects in various tissue compartments as they are produced by a variety of non-neuronal cell types such as endocrine and immune cells, adipocytes, endothelial cells, keratinocytes, thus being in a position to coordinate brain and body reactions to external challenges. Aim of this review is to discuss the evidence suggesting a role for neurotrophins as multifunctional signaling molecules activated during allostatic responses to stressful events and their involvement in the complex pathophysiology underlying stress-related psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cirulli
- Section of Behavioural Neurosciences, Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Roma, Italy.
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Jockers-Scherübl MC, Bauer A, Kuhn S, Reischies F, Danker-Hopfe H, Schmidt LG, Rentzsch J, Hellweg R. Nerve growth factor in serum is a marker of the stage of alcohol disease. Neurosci Lett 2007; 419:78-82. [PMID: 17434673 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2007.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2007] [Revised: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 03/27/2007] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Long-term alcohol abuse has deleterious effects on the peripheral and central nervous system. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a pleiotropic neurotrophic protein involved in development, maintenance of function and regeneration of nerve cells. We examined patients in different stages of alcohol disease and measured their NGF serum concentrations based on the hypothesis that these reflect the state of disease. We examined 57 patients suffering from alcohol-dependence for more than 2 years (DSM IV) on day 8 of a qualified withdrawal, 18 patients with Korsakoff's syndrome and 40 healthy controls. In addition to clinical examination, careful history taking and a standard neuropsychological test battery, serum NGF concentrations were measured by a highly sensitive enzyme-immunoassay. Of the 57 patients 9 had suffered from severe withdrawal delirium in the past, other clinical parameters were alike. Cognitive test performance did not differ from the control group. Mean NGF levels of controls amounted to 42.1pg/ml (S.D. 68.0); mean levels of patients with alcohol dependence were raised significantly to 401.5pg/ml (S.D. 932.6) without delirium in the past and even further to 3292.5pg/ml (S.D. 4879.6) with former withdrawal delirium. By contrast, patients with persistent amnestic disorder (Korsakoff's syndrome) showed values identical to the controls. NGF serum levels were significantly elevated in alcohol-dependent patients, more so in those with prior delirium. Their cognitive tests being normal, this possibly reflects the activity of NGF as an endogenous repair mechanism for damaged neurons. In accordance with this hypothesis, NGF values are "normal" in patients with persistent alcohol-related cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Jockers-Scherübl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Eschenallee 3, 14050 Berlin, Germany.
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