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Faillace MP, Ortiz J, Rocco L, Bernabeu R. Histone Methyltransferase G9a Plays an Essential Role on Nicotine Preference in Zebrafish. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:6245-6263. [PMID: 38289455 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03961-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Psychostimulants regulate behavioral responses in zebrafish via epigenetic mechanisms. We have previously shown that DNA methylation and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition abolish nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) but little is known about the role of histone methylation in addictive-like behaviors. To assess the influence of histone methylation on nicotine-CPP, zebrafish were treated with a histone (H3) lysine-9 (K9) dimethyltransferase G9a/GLP inhibitor, BIX-01294 (BIX), which was administered before conditioning sessions. We observed a dual effect of the inhibitor BIX: at high doses inhibited while at low doses potentiated nicotine reward. Transcriptional expression of α6 and α7 subunits of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and of G9a, DNA methyl transferase-3, and HDAC-1 was upregulated in zebrafish with positive scores for nicotine-CPP. Changes in relative levels of these mRNA molecules reflected the effects of BIX on nicotine reward. BIX treatment per sé did not affect transcriptional levels of epigenetic enzymes that regulate trimethylation or demethylation of H3. BIX reduced H3K9me2 protein levels in a dose-dependent manner in key structures of the reward pathway. Thus, our findings indicated that different doses of BIX differentially affect nicotine CPP via strong or weak inhibition of G9a/GLP activity. Additionally, we found that the lysine demethylase inhibitor daminozide abolished nicotine-CPP and drug seeking. Our data demonstrate that H3 methylation catalyzed by G9a/GLP is involved in nicotine-CPP induction. Dimethylation of K9 at H3 is an important epigenetic modification that should be considered as a potential therapeutic target to treat nicotine reward and perhaps other drug addictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paula Faillace
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 7th floor (C1121ABG), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Joaquin Ortiz
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 7th floor (C1121ABG), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Rocco
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 7th floor (C1121ABG), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ramon Bernabeu
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 7th floor (C1121ABG), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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2
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Firdous SM, Pal S, Khanam S, Zakir F. Behavioral neuroscience in zebrafish: unravelling the complexity of brain-behavior relationships. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03275-5. [PMID: 38970686 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03275-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
This paper reviews the utility of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model system for exploring neurobehavioral phenomena in preclinical research, focusing on physiological processes, disorders, and neurotoxicity biomarkers. A comprehensive review of the current literature was conducted to summarize the various behavioral characteristics of zebrafish. The study examined the etiological agents used to induce neurotoxicity and the biomarkers involved, including Aβ42, tau, MMP-13, MAO, NF-Кβ, and GFAP. Additionally, the different zebrafish study models and their responses to neurobehavioral analysis were discussed. The review identified several key biomarkers of neurotoxicity in zebrafish, each impacting different aspects of neurogenesis, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. Aβ42 was found to alter neuronal growth and stem cell function. Tau's interaction with tubulin affected microtubule stability and led to tauopathies under pathological conditions. MMP-13 was linked to oxidative assault and sensory neuron degeneration. MAO plays a role in neurotransmitter metabolism and neurotoxicity conversion. NF-Кβ was involved in pro-inflammatory pathways, and GFAP was indicative of neuroinflammation and astroglial activation. Zebrafish provide a valuable model for neurobehavioral research, adhering to the "3Rs" philosophy. Their neurotoxicity biomarkers offer insights into the mechanisms of neurogenesis, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. This model system aids in evaluating physiological and pathological conditions, enhancing our understanding of neurobehavioral phenomena and potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayed Mohammed Firdous
- Department of Pharmacology, Calcutta Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology & AHS, Uluberia, Howrah, 711316, West Bengal, India.
| | - Sourav Pal
- P.G. Institute of Medical Sciences, Dhurabila, Dhamkuria, Paschim Medinipur: 72:1201, Chandrakona Town, West Bengal, India
| | - Sofia Khanam
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Foziyah Zakir
- Department of B.Pharm (Ayurveda), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, 110017, India
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3
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Schenk S, Horsfield JA, Dwoskin L, Johnson SL. Methamphetamine effects in zebrafish (Danio rerio) depend on behavioral endpoint, dose and test session duration. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 240:173777. [PMID: 38670467 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Research using zebrafish (Danio rerio) has begun to provide novel information in many fields, including the behavioral pharmacology of drug use and misuse. There have been limited studies on the effects of methamphetamine in adult zebrafish and the parameters of exposure (dose, test session length) have not been well-documented. Behavior following drug exposure is generally measured during relatively short sessions (6-10 min is common) in a novel tank environment. Many procedural variables (isolation, netting, novel tank) elicit anxiety-like behavior that is most apparent during the initial portion of a test session. This anxiety-like behavior might mask the initial effects of methamphetamine. During longer test sessions, these anxiety-like responses would be expected to habituate and drug effects should become more apparent. To test this idea, we measured several locomotor activity responses for 50-min following a range of methamphetamine doses (0.1-3.0 mg/L via immersion in methamphetamine solution). Methamphetamine failed to alter swimming velocity, distance travelled, or freezing time. In contrast, methamphetamine produced a dose-dependent decrease in time spent in the bottom of the tank, an increase in the number of visits to the top of the tank, and an increase in the number of transitions along the sides of the tank. The effects of methamphetamine were apparent 10-20 min following exposure and generally persisted throughout the session. These findings indicate that longer test sessions are required to measure methamphetamine-induced changes in behavior in zebrafish, as has been shown in other laboratory animals. The results also suggest that anxiety-like responses associated with various procedural aspects (netting, isolation, novel test apparatus) likely interfere with the ability to observe many behavioral effects of methamphetamine in zebrafish. Based on the current results, habituation to testing procedures to reduce anxiety-like behaviors is recommended in determining the effects of methamphetamine in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Schenk
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Linda Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Sheri L Johnson
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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de Farias Araujo G, Medeiros RJ, Maciel-Magalhães M, Correia FV, Saggioro EM. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model to assess the effects of cocaine as a drug of abuse and its environmental implications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:28459-28479. [PMID: 36689115 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25402-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine (COC) use concerns are on the increase for both authorities and civil society. Despite this, it is important to investigate COC effects or those of its main metabolite, belzoylecgonine (BE), in consolidated aquatic model organisms, such as the zebrafish (Danio rerio). This (mini) review consists in an assessment regarding toxicological studies carried out employing zebrafish (embryos, larvae or adults) exposed to COC and/or BE indexed at the SCOPUS and Web of Science databases. Ten different endpoints were analyzed in both embryos and larvae, whereas only four were analyzed in adults. Of the 23 studies, only five investigated COC and/or BE effects following an environmental approach when exposing zebrafish, while most (18 studies) analyzed COC effects under a drug of abuse approach. Cocaine exposure was noted as altering the expression of several genes, such as those linked to COC transport proteins, dopamine receptors, SP substance production, the tachykinin system, and the tyrosine hydroxylase enzyme. BE exposure resulted in more oxidative and proteomic effects than COC in embryos. Cocaine abstinence resulted in hyperactivity associated with stereotypy in adult fish, in addition to reduced responses to visual stimuli to red light and neuronal development pattern alterations. Cocaine was noted as accumulating in zebrafish eyes, possibly due to melanin binding, and causing dose-response cardiac effects in both embryos and adults. Despite the different effects addressed by our survey, we emphasize the lack of COC and BE exposure assessments in zebrafish employing an environmental point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel de Farias Araujo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Saúde Pública E Meio Ambiente, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Renata Jurema Medeiros
- Instituto Nacional de Controle de Qualidade Em Saúde, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, 21040-900, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Magno Maciel-Magalhães
- Instituto Nacional de Controle de Qualidade Em Saúde, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, 21040-900, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Fábio Veríssimo Correia
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Saúde Pública E Meio Ambiente, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
- Departamento de Ciências Naturais, Universidade Federal Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Pasteur, 458, Urca, 22290-250, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Enrico Mendes Saggioro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Saúde Pública E Meio Ambiente, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
- Laboratório de Avaliação E Promoção da Saúde Ambiental, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil.
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5
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Rocco L, Pisera-Fuster A, Faillace MP, Bernabeu R. Evaluation of drug seeking behavior on nicotine conditioned place preference in zebrafish. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 119:110593. [PMID: 35777525 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Seeking of drugs is commonly evaluated in a specific environment for assessing drug preference. However, cognitive strategies involved in drug seeking are mostly unknown. To assess the strength of environmental cues that can be associated with nicotine in the zebrafish brain reward circuitry, we have designed herein a modified conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. This task was devised to identify salient environmental cues relevant for strong nicotine-environment association and drug seeking induction. During test sessions, background colors of the CPP tank chambers were shifted and preference for colors associated to nicotine was assessed. We have compared several tank designs and different compartment colors. Our findings indicated that zebrafish seeking behavior was strongly dependent on compartment color shades. Combination of red and yellow environments, which were preferred and avoided compartments, respectively, was the most effective design presenting the highest CPP-score. Interestingly, animals that stayed for longer periods in the environment conditioned to nicotine during a first testing interval were also able to follow the background color shade conditioned to nicotine to the other compartment immediately after background colors were relocated between compartments. During a second testing period, zebrafish also stayed for longer periods in the colored compartment paired to nicotine during conditioning. These findings suggest that under salient environmental conditions, zebrafish voluntarily followed a shifting visual cue previously associated with nicotine delivery. Furthermore, our findings indicate that zebrafish exhibit spatial associative learning and memory, which generates a repertoire of conspicuous locomotor behaviors induced by nicotine preference in the CPP task.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rocco
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Pisera-Fuster
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M P Faillace
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - R Bernabeu
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics (IFIBIO-Houssay, UBA-CONICET), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Wang B, Chen J, Sheng Z, Lian W, Wu Y, Liu M. Embryonic exposure to fentanyl induces behavioral changes and neurotoxicity in zebrafish larvae. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14524. [PMID: 36540796 PMCID: PMC9760023 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of fentanyl during pregnancy, whether by prescription or illicit use, may result in high blood levels that pose an early risk to fetal development. However, little is known regarding the neurotoxicity that might arise from excessive fentanyl exposure in growing organisms, particularly drug-related withdrawal symptoms. In this study, zebrafish embryos were exposed to fentanyl solutions (0.1, 1, and 5 mg/L) for 5 days post fertilization (dpf), followed by a 5-day recovery period, and then the larvae were evaluated for photomotor response, anxiety behavior, shoaling behavior, aggression, social preference, and sensitization behavior. Fentanyl solutions at 1 and 5 mg/L induced elevated anxiety, decreased social preference and aggressiveness, and behavioral sensitization in zebrafish larvae. The expression of genes revealed that embryonic exposure to fentanyl caused substantial alterations in neural activity (bdnf, c-fos) and neuronal development and plasticity (npas4a, egr1, btg2, ier2a, vgf). These results suggest that fentanyl exposure during embryonic development is neurotoxic, highlighting the importance of zebrafish as an aquatic species in research on the neurobehavioral effects of opioids in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binjie Wang
- The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiale Chen
- The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhong Sheng
- The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wanting Lian
- The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuanzhao Wu
- The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Meng Liu
- The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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7
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Tan JK, Nazar FH, Makpol S, Teoh SL. Zebrafish: A Pharmacological Model for Learning and Memory Research. Molecules 2022; 27:7374. [PMID: 36364200 PMCID: PMC9657833 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Learning and memory are essential to organism survival and are conserved across various species, especially vertebrates. Cognitive studies involving learning and memory require using appropriate model organisms to translate relevant findings to humans. Zebrafish are becoming increasingly popular as one of the animal models for neurodegenerative diseases due to their low maintenance cost, prolific nature and amenability to genetic manipulation. More importantly, zebrafish exhibit a repertoire of neurobehaviors comparable to humans. In this review, we discuss the forms of learning and memory abilities in zebrafish and the tests used to evaluate the neurobehaviors in this species. In addition, the pharmacological studies that used zebrafish as models to screen for the effects of neuroprotective and neurotoxic compounds on cognitive performance will be summarized here. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and perspectives in establishing zebrafish as a robust model for cognitive research involving learning and memory. Zebrafish are becoming an indispensable model in learning and memory research for screening neuroprotective agents against cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen Kit Tan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), UKM Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Faris Hazwan Nazar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), UKM Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Suzana Makpol
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), UKM Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Seong Lin Teoh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), UKM Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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Wu Y, Wang A, Fu L, Liu M, Li K, Chian S, Yao W, Wang B, Wang J. Fentanyl Induces Novel Conditioned Place Preference in Adult Zebrafish, Disrupts Neurotransmitter Homeostasis, and Triggers Behavioral Changes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13533. [PMID: 36294112 PMCID: PMC9603063 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Abuse of new psychoactive substances increases risk of addiction, which can lead to serious brain disorders. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid commonly used in clinical practice, and behavioral changes resulting from fentanyl addiction have rarely been studied with zebrafish models. In this study, we evaluated the rewarding effects of intraperitoneal injections of fentanyl at concentrations of 10, 100, and 1000 mg/L on the group shoaling behavior in adult zebrafish. Additional behavioral tests on individual zebrafish, including novel tank, novel object exploration, mirror attack, social preference, and T-maze memory, were utilized to evaluate fentanyl-induced neuro-behavioral toxicity. The high doses of 1000 mg/L fentanyl produced significant reward effects in zebrafish and altered the neuro-behavioral profiles: reduced cohesion in shoaling behavior, decreased anxiety levels, reduced exploratory behavior, increased aggression behavior, affected social preference, and suppressed memory in an appetitive associative learning task. Behavioral changes in zebrafish were shown to be associated with altered neurotransmitters, such as elevated glutamine (Gln), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine hydrochloride (DA), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). This study identified potential fentanyl-induced neurotoxicity through multiple neurobehavioral assessments, which provided a method for assessing risk of addiction to new psychoactive substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzhao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Anli Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Intelligent Food Technology and Equipment, Zhejiang Key Laboratory for Agro-Food Processing, Fuli Institute of Food Science, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lixiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Office of Criminal Science and Technology, Xiaoshan District Branch of Hangzhou Public Security Bureau, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Meng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Kang Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Song Chian
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Weixuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Binjie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jiye Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Prevention and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, The Department of Criminal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Police College, Hangzhou 310053, China
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Sheardown E, Mech AM, Petrazzini MEM, Leggieri A, Gidziela A, Hosseinian S, Sealy IM, Torres-Perez JV, Busch-Nentwich EM, Malanchini M, Brennan CH. Translational relevance of forward genetic screens in animal models for the study of psychiatric disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104559. [PMID: 35124155 PMCID: PMC9016269 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders represent a significant burden in our societies. Despite the convincing evidence pointing at gene and gene-environment interaction contributions, the role of genetics in the etiology of psychiatric disease is still poorly understood. Forward genetic screens in animal models have helped elucidate causal links. Here we discuss the application of mutagenesis-based forward genetic approaches in common animal model species: two invertebrates, nematodes (Caenorhabditis elegans) and fruit flies (Drosophila sp.); and two vertebrates, zebrafish (Danio rerio) and mice (Mus musculus), in relation to psychiatric disease. We also discuss the use of large scale genomic studies in human populations. Despite the advances using data from human populations, animal models coupled with next-generation sequencing strategies are still needed. Although with its own limitations, zebrafish possess characteristics that make them especially well-suited to forward genetic studies exploring the etiology of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Sheardown
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Aleksandra M Mech
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | | | - Adele Leggieri
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Agnieszka Gidziela
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Saeedeh Hosseinian
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Ian M Sealy
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jose V Torres-Perez
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London and Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, 86 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Elisabeth M Busch-Nentwich
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Margherita Malanchini
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Caroline H Brennan
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK.
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10
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The development of behavioral sensitization induced by a single morphine exposure in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 113:110456. [PMID: 34662694 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence suggest that behavioral sensitization is involved in the process of drug addiction. Zebrafish are sensitive to a variety of addictive drugs and are thus suitable for the study of behavioral sensitization. However, in contrast to mature rodent models of behavioral sensitization, how this phenomenon manifests in aquatic organisms, especially zebrafish, is largely unknown. In this study, we developed a morphine-induced behavioral sensitization adult zebrafish model and performed a preliminary investigation of the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Behavioral sensitization was established in zebrafish by observing their behavior after treatment and challenge with morphine. The effect of morphine was evaluated by a behavioral locomotor test. Different doses of morphine and withdrawal times were used to evaluate the establishment of the behavioral sensitization model. RESULTS Hyperlocomotion was induced after administration of morphine in adult zebrafish. After withdrawing the drug for a period, challenge with low-dose morphine evoked behavioral sensitization in zebrafish acutely pre-treated with morphine. Low-dose morphine failed to induce behavioral sensitization in zebrafish if the withdrawal time was less than 5 days or more than 7 days. Morphine induced behavioral sensitization in zebrafish may involve dopaminergic, glutamatergic and opioid systems. CONCLUSION A single low-dose of morphine could induce behavioral sensitization in zebrafish acutely pre-treated with morphine, and this phenomenon was highly correlated with drug dose and withdrawal time. These findings suggest that zebrafish is a suitable model for the study of behavioral sensitization.
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11
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Faillace MP, Bernabeu RO. Epigenetic Mechanisms Mediate Nicotine-Induced Reward and Behaviour in Zebrafish. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:510-523. [PMID: 34279203 PMCID: PMC9608226 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210716112351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotine induces long-term changes in the neural activity of the mesocorticolimbic reward pathway structures. The mechanisms involved in this process have not been fully characterized. The hypothesis discussed here proposed that epigenetic regulation participates in the installation of persistent adaptations and long-lasting synaptic plasticity generated by nicotine action on the mesolimbic dopamine neurons of zebrafish. The epigenetic mechanisms induced by nicotine entail histone and DNA chemical modifications, which have been described to lead to changes in gene expression. Among the enzymes that catalyze epigenetic chemical modifications, histone deacetylases (HDACs) remove acetyl groups from histones, thereby facilitating DNA relaxation and making DNA more accessible to gene transcription. DNA methylation, which is dependent on DNA methyltransferase (DNMTs) activity, inhibits gene expression by recruiting several methyl binding proteins that prevent RNA polymerase binding to DNA. In zebrafish, phenylbutyrate (PhB), an HDAC inhibitor, abolishes nicotine rewarding properties together with a series of typical reward-associated behaviors. Furthermore, PhB and nicotine alter long- and short-term object recognition memory in zebrafish, respectively. Regarding DNA methylation effects, a methyl group donor L-methionine (L-met) was found to dramatically reduce nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) in zebrafish. Simultaneous treatment with DNMT inhibitor 5-aza-2’-deoxycytidine (AZA) was found to reverse the L-met effect on nicotine-induced CPP as well as nicotine reward-specific effects on genetic expression in zebrafish. Therefore, pharmacological interventions that modulate epigenetic regulation of gene expression should be considered as a potential therapeutic method to treat nicotine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paula Faillace
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina e Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Profesor Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO-Houssay, CONICET-UBA), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ramón O Bernabeu
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina e Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Profesor Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO-Houssay, CONICET-UBA), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Altenhofen S, Bonan CD. Zebrafish as a tool in the study of sleep and memory-related disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:540-549. [PMID: 34254919 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210712141041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep is an evolutionarily conserved phenomenon, being an essential biological necessity for the learning process and memory consolidation. The brain displays two types of electrical activity during sleep: slow-wave activity or non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and desynchronized brain wave activity or rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. There are many theories about "Why we need to sleep?" among them the synaptic homeostasis. This theory proposes that the role of sleep is the restoration of synaptic homeostasis, which is destabilized by synaptic strengthening triggered by learning during waking and by synaptogenesis during development. Sleep diminishes the plasticity load on neurons and other cells to normalize synaptic strength. In contrast, it re-establishes neuronal selectivity and the ability to learn, leading to the consolidation and integration of memories. The use of zebrafish as a tool to assess sleep and its disorders is growing, although sleep in this animal is not yet divided, for example, into REM and NREM states. However, zebrafish are known to have a regulated daytime circadian rhythm. Their sleep state is characterized by periods of inactivity accompanied by an increase in arousal threshold, preference for resting place, and the "rebound sleep effect" phenomenon, which causes an increased slow-wave activity after a forced waking period. In addition, drugs known to modulate sleep, such as melatonin, nootropics, and nicotine, have been tested in zebrafish. In this review, we discuss the use of zebrafish as a model to investigate sleep mechanisms and their regulation, demonstrating this species as a promising model for sleep research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefani Altenhofen
- Laboratório de Neuroquímica e Psicofarmacologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celulare Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Carla Denise Bonan
- Laboratório de Neuroquímica e Psicofarmacologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celulare Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Pisera-Fuster A, Zwiller J, Bernabeu R. Methionine Supplementation Abolishes Nicotine-Induced Place Preference in Zebrafish: a Behavioral and Molecular Analysis. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:2590-2607. [PMID: 33475949 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02260-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In zebrafish, nicotine is known to regulate sensitivity to psychostimulants via epigenetic mechanisms. Little however is known about the regulation of addictive-like behavior by DNA methylation processes. To evaluate the influence of DNA methylation on nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), zebrafish were exposed to methyl supplementation through oral L-methionine (Met) administration. Met was found to reduce dramatically nicotine-induced CPP as well as behaviors associated with drug reward. The reduction was associated with the upregulation of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1 and 3) as well as with the downregulation of methyl-cytosine dioxygenase-1 (TET1) and of nicotinic receptor subunits. Met also increased the expression of histone methyltransferases in nicotine-induced CPP groups. It reversed the nicotine-induced reduction in the methylation at α7 and NMDAR1 gene promoters. Treatment with the DNMT inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (AZA) was found to reverse the effects of Met in structures of the reward pathway. Interestingly, Met did not modify the amount of the phospho-form of CREB (pCREB), a key factor establishing nicotine conditioning, whereas AZA increased pCREB levels. Our data suggest that nicotine-seeking behavior is partially dependent on DNA methylation occurring probably at specific gene loci, such as α7 and NMDAR1 receptor gene promoters. Overall, they suggest that Met should be considered as a potential therapeutic drug to treat nicotine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Pisera-Fuster
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 7thfloor (C1121ABG), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jean Zwiller
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ramon Bernabeu
- Department of Physiology and Institute of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 7thfloor (C1121ABG), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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14
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The cognitive and behavioral effects of D-amphetamine and nicotine sensitization in adult zebrafish. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:2191-2200. [PMID: 33963883 PMCID: PMC8292302 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05844-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zebrafish are growing in use as a model for understanding drug dependence and addiction. Sensitization paradigms have been a useful tool in identifying mechanisms involved in drug-induced behavioral and neurological changes, but in zebrafish have tended to focus on locomotor, rather than cognitive, endpoints. METHODS Here, we used a novel method, the FMP Y-maze, which measures continuous performance through a series of repeated binary choices (L vs R), to establish a model for assessing parameters associated with psychostimulant-induced behavioral and cognitive sensitization in adult zebrafish. RESULTS Repeat, intermittent exposure to d-amphetamine (AMPH) for 14 days increased alternations (LRLR) in the maze, suggesting improved working memory, which was enhanced further following drug challenge after a short withdrawal period, suggesting behavioral sensitization. However, this cognitive enhancement coincided with a reduction in the use of other exploration strategies, hypolocomotion, and inhibition of cognitive flexibility. Like AMPH, exposure to nicotine (NIC) increased alternations following drug challenge after chronic treatment. Repeat NIC exposure appeared to induce both cognitive and psychomotor sensitization, as evidenced by increased working memory performance (alternations) and locomotor activity, without negatively impacting other search strategies or cognitive flexibility. CONCLUSION Chronic treatment with AMPH or NIC boosts cognitive performance in adult zebrafish. Cognitive sensitization occurred with both drugs, resulting in enhanced working memory; however, repeat AMPH exposure, following a withdrawal period, resulted in inhibited cognitive flexibility, an effect not evident with repeat NIC exposure. Cognitive and behavioral sensitization paradigms in zebrafish could serve as a useful tool for assessing cognitive states which result in cognitive enhancing or impairing effects of drugs.
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Viscarra F, González-Gutierrez J, Esparza E, Figueroa C, Paillali P, Hödar-Salazar M, Cespedes C, Quiroz G, Sotomayor-Zárate R, Reyes-Parada M, Bermúdez I, Iturriaga-Vásquez P. Nicotinic Antagonist UFR2709 Inhibits Nicotine Reward and Decreases Anxiety in Zebrafish. Molecules 2020; 25:E2998. [PMID: 32630020 PMCID: PMC7412259 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25132998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish is becoming a popular animal model in neuropharmacology and drug discovery, mainly due to its ease of handling and low costs involved in maintenance and experimental work. This animal displays a series of complex behaviours that makes it useful for assessing the effects of psychoactive drugs. Here, adult zebrafish were used for assessment of the anxiolytic and anti-addictive properties of UFR2709, a nicotinic receptor (nAChR) antagonist, using two behavioural paradigms to test for addiction, the novel tank diving test to assess anxiety and the conditioned place preference (CPP). Furthermore, the expression of nAChR subunits α4 and α7 was measured in the zebrafish brain. The results show that UFR2709 exhibits an anxiolytic effect on zebrafish and blocks the effect evoked by nicotine on CPP. Moreover, UFR2709 significantly decreased the expression of α4 nicotinic receptor subunit. This indicates that UFR2709 might be a useful drug for the treatment of nicotine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Viscarra
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
| | - Juan González-Gutierrez
- Programa de Doctorado en Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 7800003, Chile;
| | - Erica Esparza
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
| | - Carla Figueroa
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
| | - Pablo Paillali
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
| | - Martin Hödar-Salazar
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
| | - Camilo Cespedes
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
| | - Gabriel Quiroz
- Programa de Doctorado en Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380494, Chile;
| | - Ramón Sotomayor-Zárate
- Laboratorio de Neuroquímica y Neurofarmacología, Centro de Neurobiología y Fisiopatología Integrativa (CENFI), Instituto de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile;
| | - Miguel Reyes-Parada
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica y Aplicada (CIBAP), Escuela de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago 9170022, Chile;
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca 3467987 Chile
| | - Isabel Bermúdez
- Department of Biological & Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
| | - Patricio Iturriaga-Vásquez
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica y Farmacología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile; (F.V.); (E.E.); (C.F.); (P.P.); (M.H.-S.); (C.C.)
- Center of Excellence in Biotechnology Research Applied to the Environment, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
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Pre-Exposure to Nicotine with Nocturnal Abstinence Induces Epigenetic Changes that Potentiate Nicotine Preference. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 57:1828-1846. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-01843-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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