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Tsingotjidou AS. Oxytocin: A Multi-Functional Biomolecule with Potential Actions in Dysfunctional Conditions; From Animal Studies and Beyond. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1603. [PMID: 36358953 PMCID: PMC9687803 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a hormone secreted from definite neuroendocrine neurons located in specific nuclei in the hypothalamus (mainly from paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei), and its main known function is the contraction of uterine and/or mammary gland cells responsible for parturition and breastfeeding. Among the actions of the peripherally secreted oxytocin is the prevention of different degenerative disorders. These actions have been proven in cell culture and in animal models or have been tested in humans based on hypotheses from previous studies. This review presents the knowledge gained from the previous studies, displays the results from oxytocin intervention and/or treatment and proposes that the well described actions of oxytocin might be connected to other numerous, diverse actions of the biomolecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia S Tsingotjidou
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54 124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Wsol A, Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska A, Żera T. Complementary Role of Oxytocin and Vasopressin in Cardiovascular Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11465. [PMID: 34768894 PMCID: PMC8584236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurons secreting oxytocin (OXY) and vasopressin (AVP) are located mainly in the supraoptic, paraventricular, and suprachiasmatic nucleus of the brain. Oxytocinergic and vasopressinergic projections reach several regions of the brain and the spinal cord. Both peptides are released from axons, soma, and dendrites and modulate the excitability of other neuroregulatory pathways. The synthesis and action of OXY and AVP in the peripheral organs (eye, heart, gastrointestinal system) is being investigated. The secretion of OXY and AVP is influenced by changes in body fluid osmolality, blood volume, blood pressure, hypoxia, and stress. Vasopressin interacts with three subtypes of receptors: V1aR, V1bR, and V2R whereas oxytocin activates its own OXTR and V1aR receptors. AVP and OXY receptors are present in several regions of the brain (cortex, hypothalamus, pons, medulla, and cerebellum) and in the peripheral organs (heart, lungs, carotid bodies, kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, ovaries, uterus, thymus). Hypertension, myocardial infarction, and coexisting factors, such as pain and stress, have a significant impact on the secretion of oxytocin and vasopressin and on the expression of their receptors. The inappropriate regulation of oxytocin and vasopressin secretion during ischemia, hypoxia/hypercapnia, inflammation, pain, and stress may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Szczepanska-Sadowska
- Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.); (A.C.-J.); (T.Ż.)
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Wsol A, Wojno O, Puchalska L, Wrzesien R, Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska A. Impaired hypotensive effects of centrally acting oxytocin in SHR and WKY rats exposed to chronic mild stress. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 318:R160-R172. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00050.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The present study was designed to determine the role of centrally acting oxytocin (OT) in the regulation of blood pressure during chronic mild stress (CMS) in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR; n = 36) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY; n = 38) rats. The rats were implanted with osmotic minipumps for intracerebroventricular infusions of 0.9% NaCl, OT, and oxytocin receptor antagonist (OTANT) and divided into two groups: SHR and WKY 1) exposed to 4-wk CMS and 2) not exposed to stress (controls). After 4 wk, hemodynamic parameters were recorded at rest and after an application of acute stressor [air-jet stress (AJS)]. Resting mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was significantly lower in CMS-exposed SHR and WKY infused with OT than in the corresponding groups receiving saline. Exposure to CMS exaggerated the AJS-dependent pressor response in WKY receiving saline but not in the corresponding group of SHR. OT infusion reduced the AJS-dependent pressor response in both CMS-exposed and not exposed SHR and in CMS-exposed WKY. Intracerebroventricular infusion of OTANT potentiated the AJS-dependent pressor response in both stressed and not stressed WKY rats but not in SHR. The results show that centrally delivered OT decreases resting MAP during CMS in both SHR and WKY rats and that in SHR it reduces pressor responses to AJS under control and CMS conditions, whereas in WKY this effect is significant only after CMS exposure. The study indicates that endogenous centrally acting OT may play an essential role in buffering pressor responses to AJS in CMS-exposed and not exposed WKY rats and that this function is significantly impaired in SHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Wsol
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - O. Wojno
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - L. Puchalska
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - R. Wrzesien
- Department of Animal Breeding, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E. Szczepanska-Sadowska
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A. Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Oxytocin maintains lung histological and functional integrity to confer protection in heat stroke. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18390. [PMID: 31804535 PMCID: PMC6895074 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54739-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) has been reported to have a protective effect in lipopolysaccharide-induced experimental acute lung injury (ALI). However, its role in heat stroke-related ALI has never been investigated. Herein, we aimed to explore the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism of action of OT on heat-induced ALI. Rats were treated with OT 60 min before the start of heat stress (42 °C for 80 min). Twenty minutes after the termination of heat stress, the effects of OT on lung histopathological changes, edema, acute pleurisy and the bronchoalveolar fluid levels of inflammatory cytokines and indicators of ischemia, cellular damage, and oxidative damage were assessed. We also evaluated the influence of OT pretreatment on heat-induced hypotension, hyperthermia, ALI score, and death in a rat model of heat stroke. The results showed that OT significantly reduced heat-induced lung edema, neutrophil infiltration, hemorrhage score, myeloperoxidase activity, ischemia, and the levels of inflammatory and oxidative damage markers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The survival assessment confirmed the pathophysiological and biochemical results. An OT receptor antagonist (L-368,899) was administered 10 min before the OT injection to further demonstrate the role of OT in heat-induced ALI. The results showed that OT could not protect against the aforementioned heat stroke responses in rats treated with L-368,899. Interestingly, OT treatment 80 min after the start of heat shock did not affect survival. In conclusion, our data indicate that OT pretreatment can reduce the ischemic, inflammatory and oxidative responses related to heat-induced ALI in rats.
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Ito E, Shima R, Yoshioka T. A novel role of oxytocin: Oxytocin-induced well-being in humans. Biophys Physicobiol 2019; 16:132-139. [PMID: 31608203 PMCID: PMC6784812 DOI: 10.2142/biophysico.16.0_132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We review the involvement of a small molecule, oxytocin, in various effects of physical stimulation of somatosensory organs, mindfulness meditation, emotion and fragrance on humans, and then propose a hypothesis that complex human states and behaviors, such as well-being, social bonding, and emotional behavior, are explained by oxytocin. We previously reported that oxytocin can induce pain relief and described the possibility how oxytocin in the dorsal horn and/or the dorsal root ganglion relieves joint and muscle pain. In the present article, we expand our research target from the physical analgesic effects of oxytocin to its psychologic effects to upregulate well-being and downregulate stress and anxiety. For this purpose, we propose a “hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis-oxytocin model” to explain why mindfulness meditation, placebo, and fragrance can reduce stress and anxiety, resulting in contentment. This new proposed model of HPA axis-oxytocin in the brain also provides a target to address other questions regarding emotional behaviors, learning and memory, and excess food intake leading to obesity, aimed at promoting a healthy life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etsuro Ito
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan.,Graduate Institute of Medicine, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Rei Shima
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan
| | - Tohru Yoshioka
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
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Chow LH, Chen YH, Lai CF, Lin TY, Chen YJ, Kao JH, Huang EYK. Sex Difference of Angiotensin IV-, LVV-Hemorphin 7-, and Oxytocin-Induced Antiallodynia at the Spinal Level in Mice With Neuropathic Pain. Anesth Analg 2019; 126:2093-2101. [PMID: 29381512 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000002795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We demonstrated previously that angiotensin IV (Ang IV) and LVV-hemorphin 7 (LVV-H7) act through the blockade of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase to decrease oxytocin degradation, thereby causing antihyperalgesia at the spinal level in rats. We determined that intrathecal oxytocin can induce significant antihyperalgesia in male rats with inflammation but not in female rats. Thus, we speculate that Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin can induce antiallodynia, which could be of great therapeutic potential. Because the antihyperalgesia by using these peptides was with sex difference, their possible antiallodynia was examined in male and female mice for comparison. We investigated whether Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin produce antiallodynia at the spinal level in mice and whether this antiallodynia differs between the sexes. METHODS Partial sciatic nerve ligation surgery was performed on adult male and female C57BL/6 mice from the same litter (25-30 g). The effects of intrathecal injections of Ang IV (25.8 nmol), LVV-H7 (27.2 nmol), and oxytocin (0.125 or 1.25 nmol) were assessed through the von Frey test 3 days after partial sciatic nerve ligation. RESULTS Intrathecal injection of Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin all produced a potent antiallodynia in male mice. However, these antiallodynia effects were either extremely weak or absent in female mice at the same dose. CONCLUSIONS Intrathecal Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin can all cause significant antiallodynia in male mice. The Ang IV-, LVV-H7-, and oxytocin-induced antiallodynia effects differed between the sexes at the spinal level in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lok-Hi Chow
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,National Yang-Ming University, School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Departments of Anesthesiology
| | - Yuan-Hao Chen
- Neurological Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Fu Lai
- Department of Family Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Songshan Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsu-You Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Songshan Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jie Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jen-Hsin Kao
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Eagle Yi-Kung Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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Eerola T, Vuoskoski JK, Peltola HR, Putkinen V, Schäfer K. An integrative review of the enjoyment of sadness associated with music. Phys Life Rev 2018; 25:100-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2017.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Increased Activity of the Intracardiac Oxytocinergic System in the Development of Postinfarction Heart Failure. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:3652068. [PMID: 27957495 PMCID: PMC5121437 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3652068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Aim. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that the development of postinfarction heart failure is associated with a change of activity of the intracardiac oxytocinergic system. Methods. Experiments were performed on male Sprague-Dawley rats subjected to myocardial infarction or sham surgery. Four weeks after the surgery, blood samples were collected and the samples of the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) were harvested for evaluation of the mRNA expression (RT-PCR) of oxytocin (OT), oxytocin receptor (OTR), natriuretic peptides, and the level of OT and OTR protein (ELISA). The concentration of N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide was measured to determine the presence of heart failure. Results. Plasma NT-proBNP concentration was higher in the infarcted rats. In the infarcted rats, the expression of OT mRNA and the OT protein level were higher in the RV. There were no significant differences between infarcted and noninfarcted rats in the expression of OT mRNA and in the OT protein level in the fragments of the LV. In both the left and the right ventricles, OTR mRNA expression was lower but the level of OTR protein was higher in the infarcted rats. Conclusions. In the present study, we indicate that postinfarction heart failure is associated with an increased activity of the intracardiac oxytocinergic system.
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Jakubiak BK, Feeney BC. Affectionate Touch to Promote Relational, Psychological, and Physical Well-Being in Adulthood: A Theoretical Model and Review of the Research. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2016; 21:228-252. [DOI: 10.1177/1088868316650307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the life span, individuals engage in affectionate touch with close others. Touch receipt promotes well-being in infancy, but the impacts of touch in adult close relationships have been largely unexplored. In this article, we propose that affectionate touch receipt promotes relational, psychological, and physical well-being in adulthood, and we present a theoretical mechanistic model to explain why affectionate touch may promote these outcomes. The model includes pathways through which touch could affect well-being by reducing stress and by promoting well-being independent of stress. Specifically, two immediate outcomes of affectionate touch receipt—relational-cognitive changes and neurobiological changes—are described as important mechanisms underlying the effects of affectionate touch on well-being. We also review and evaluate the existing research linking affectionate touch to well-being in adulthood and propose an agenda to advance research in this area. This theoretical perspective provides a foundation for future work on touch in adult close relationships.
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Lozić M, Greenwood M, Šarenac O, Martin A, Hindmarch C, Tasić T, Paton J, Murphy D, Japundžić-Žigon N. Overexpression of oxytocin receptors in the hypothalamic PVN increases baroreceptor reflex sensitivity and buffers BP variability in conscious rats. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:4385-98. [PMID: 24834854 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus is an important integrative site for neuroendocrine control of the circulation. We investigated the role of oxytocin receptors (OT receptors) in PVN in cardiovascular homeostasis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Experiments were performed in conscious male Wistar rats equipped with a radiotelemetric device. The PVN was unilaterally co-transfected with an adenoviral vector (Ad), engineered to overexpress OT receptors, and an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) tag. Control groups: PVN was transfected with an Ad expressing eGFP alone or untransfected, sham rats (Wt). Recordings were obtained without and with selective blockade of OT receptors (OTX), during both baseline and stressful conditions. Baroreceptor reflex sensitivity (BRS) and cardiovascular short-term variability were evaluated using the sequence method and spectral methodology respectively. KEY RESULTS Under baseline conditions, rats overexpressing OT receptors (OTR) exhibited enhanced BRS and reduced BP variability compared to control groups. Exposure to stress increased BP, BP variability and HR in all rats. In control groups, but not in OTR rats, BRS decreased during stress. Pretreatment of OTR rats with OTX reduced BRS and enhanced BP and HR variability under baseline and stressful conditions. Pretreatment of Wt rats with OTX, reduced BRS and increased BP variability under baseline and stressful conditions, but only increased HR variability during stress. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OT receptors in PVN are involved in tonic neural control of BRS and cardiovascular short-term variability. The failure of this mechanism could critically contribute to the loss of autonomic control in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Lozić
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Granjeiro ÉM, Marroni SS, Martins Dias DP, Heck Bonagamba LG, Costa KM, dos Santos JC, Oliveira JAC, Machado BH, Garcia-Cairasco N. Behavioral and cardiorespiratory responses to bilateral microinjections of oxytocin into the central nucleus of amygdala of Wistar rats, an experimental model of compulsion. PLoS One 2014; 9:e99284. [PMID: 25036025 PMCID: PMC4103777 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0099284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The central nucleus of amygdala plays an important role mediating fear and anxiety responses. It is known that oxytocin microinjections into the central nucleus of amygdala induce hypergrooming, an experimental model of compulsive behavior. We evaluated the behavioral and cardiorespiratory responses of conscious rats microinjected with oxytocin into the central nucleus of amygdala. Methods Male Wistar rats were implanted with guide cannulae into the central nucleus of amygdala and microinjected with oxytocin (0.5 µg, 1 µg) or saline. After 24 h, rats had a catheter implanted into the femoral artery for pulsatile arterial pressure measurement. The pulsatile arterial pressure was recorded at baseline conditions and data used for cardiovascular variability and baroreflex sensitivity analysis. Respiratory and behavioral parameters were assessed during this data collection session. Results Microinjections of oxytocin (0.5 µg) into the central nucleus of amygdala produced hypergrooming behavior but did not change cardiorespiratory parameters. However, hypergrooming evoked by microinjections of oxytocin (1 µg) into the central nucleus of amygdala was accompanied by increase in arterial pressure, heart rate and ventilation and augmented the power of low and high (respiratory-related) frequency bands of the systolic arterial pressure spectrum. No changes were observed in power of the low and high frequency bands of the pulse interval spectrum. Baroreflex sensitivity was found lower after oxytocin microinjections, demonstrating that the oxytocin-induced pressor response may involve an inhibition of baroreflex pathways and a consequent facilitation of sympathetic outflow to the cardiovascular system. Conclusions The microinjection of oxytocin (1 µg) into the central nucleus of amygdala not only induces hypergrooming but also changes cardiorespiratory parameters. Moreover, specific oxytocin receptor antagonism attenuated hypergrooming but did not affect pressor, tachycardic and ventilatory responses to oxytocin, suggesting the involvement of distinct neural pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Érica Maria Granjeiro
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Simone Saldanha Marroni
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Penteado Martins Dias
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Leni Gomes Heck Bonagamba
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Kauê Machado Costa
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Cristina dos Santos
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - José Antônio Cortes Oliveira
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Benedito H. Machado
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Wsol A, Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Kowalewski S, Puchalska L, Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska A. Oxytocin differently regulates pressor responses to stress in WKY and SHR rats: the role of central oxytocin and V1a receptors. Stress 2014; 17:117-25. [PMID: 24308490 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2013.872620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of central oxytocin in the regulation of cardiovascular parameters under resting conditions and during acute stress was investigated in male normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY; n = 40) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR; n = 28). In Experiment 1, mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded in WKY and SHR rats at rest and after an air-jet stressor during intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusions of vehicle, oxytocin or oxytocin receptor (OTR) antagonist. In Experiment 2, the effects of vehicle, oxytocin and OTR antagonist were determined in WKY rats after prior administration of a V1a vasopressin receptor (V1aR) antagonist. Resting MABP and HR were not affected by any of the ICV infusions either in WKY or in SHR rats. In control experiments (vehicle), the pressor response to stress was significantly higher in SHR. Oxytocin enhanced the pressor response to stress in the WKY rats but reduced it in SHR. During V1aR blockade, oxytocin infusion entirely abolished the pressor response to stress in WKY rats. Combined blockade of V1aR and OTR elicited a significantly greater MABP response to stress than infusion of V1a antagonist and vehicle. This study reveals significant differences in the regulation of blood pressure in WKY and SHR rats during alarming stress. Specifically, the augmentation of the pressor response to stress by exogenous oxytocin in WKY rats is caused by its interaction with V1aR, and endogenous oxytocin regulates the magnitude of the pressor response to stress in WKY rats by simultaneous interaction with OTR and V1aR.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Wsol
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
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Ludwig M, Tobin VA, Callahan MF, Papadaki E, Becker A, Engelmann M, Leng G. Intranasal application of vasopressin fails to elicit changes in brain immediate early gene expression, neural activity and behavioural performance of rats. J Neuroendocrinol 2013; 25:655-67. [PMID: 23656518 PMCID: PMC3697072 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Intranasal administration has been widely used to investigate the effects of the neuropeptides vasopressin and oxytocin on human behaviour and neurological disorders, although exactly what happens when these neuropeptides are administered intranasally is far from clear. In particular, it is not clear whether a physiological significant amount of peptide enters the brain to account for the observed effects. In the present study, we investigated whether the intranasal administration of vasopressin and oxytocin to rats induces the expression of the immediate-early gene product Fos in brain areas that are sensitive to centrally-administered peptide, whether it alters neuronal activity in the way that centrally-administered peptide does, and whether it affects behaviour in the ways that are expected from studies of centrally-administered peptide. We found that, whereas i.c.v. injection of very low doses of vasopressin or oxytocin increased Fos expression in several distinct brain regions, intranasal administration of large doses of the peptides had no significant effect. By contrast to the effects of vasopressin applied topically to the main olfactory bulb, we saw no changes in the electrical activity of olfactory bulb mitral cells after intranasal vasopressin administration. In addition, vasopressin given intranasally had no significant effects on social recognition or short-term recognition memory. Finally, intranasal infusions of vasopressin had no significant effects on the parameters monitored on the elevated plus maze, a rodent model of anxiety. Our data obtained in rats suggest that, after intranasal administration, significant amounts of vasopressin and oxytocin do not reach areas in the brain at levels sufficient to change immediate early gene expression, neural activity or behaviour in the ways described for central administration of the peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ludwig
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
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Moghimian M, Faghihi M, Karimian SM, Imani A, Houshmand F, Azizi Y. Role of central oxytocin in stress-induced cardioprotection in ischemic-reperfused heart model. J Cardiol 2012; 61:79-86. [PMID: 23159205 DOI: 10.1016/j.jjcc.2012.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Revised: 06/23/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE There is growing evidence that stress contributes to cardiovascular disease and triggers the release of oxytocin. Moreover previous studies confirmed oxytocin mimics the protection associated with ischemic preconditioning. The present study was aimed to assess the possible cardioprotective effects of the centrally released oxytocin in response to stress and intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of exogenous oxytocin in ischemic-reperfused isolated rat heart. METHODS AND SUBJECTS Rats were divided in two main groups and all of them were subjected to i.c.v. infusion of vehicle or drugs: unstressed rats [control: vehicle, oxytocin (OT; 100 ng/5 μl), atosiban (ATO; 4.3 μg/5 μl) as oxytocin antagonist, ATO+OT] and stressed rats [St: stress, OT+St, ATO+St]. After anesthesia, hearts were isolated and subjected to 30 min regional ischemia and 60 min reperfusion (IR). Acute stress protocol included swimming for 10 min before anesthesia. Myocardial function, infarct size, coronary flow, ventricular arrhythmia, and biochemical parameters such as creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase were measured. Ischemia-induced ventricular arrhythmias were counted during the occlusion period. RESULTS The plasma levels of oxytocin and corticosterone were significantly elevated by stress. Unexpectedly hearts of stressed rats showed a marked depression of IR injury compared to control group. I.c.v. infusion of oxytocin mimicked the cardioprotective effects of stress, yet did not elevate plasma oxytocin level. The protective effects of both stress and i.c.v. oxytocin were blocked by i.c.v. oxytocin antagonist. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that i.c.v. infusion of exogenous oxytocin and centrally released endogenous oxytocin in response to stress could play a role in induction of a preconditioning effect in ischemic-reperfused rat heart via brain receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Moghimian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Islamic Republic of Iran
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15
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Onaka T, Takayanagi Y, Yoshida M. Roles of oxytocin neurones in the control of stress, energy metabolism, and social behaviour. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:587-98. [PMID: 22353547 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2012.02300.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin neurones are activated by stressful stimuli, food intake and social attachment. Activation of oxytocin neurones in response to stressful stimuli or food intake is mediated, at least in part, by noradrenaline/prolactin-releasing peptide (PrRP) neurones in the nucleus tractus solitarius, whereas oxytocin neurones are activated after social stimuli via medial amygdala neurones. Activation of oxytocin neurones induces the release of oxytocin not only from their axon terminals, but also from their dendrites. Oxytocin acts locally where released or diffuses and acts on remote oxytocin receptors widely distributed within the brain, resulting in anxiolytic, anorexic and pro-social actions. The action sites of oxytocin appear to be multiple. Oxytocin shows anxiolytic actions, at least in part, via serotoninergic neurones in the median raphe nucleus, has anorexic actions via pro-opiomelanocortin neurones in the nucleus tractus solitarius and facilitates social recognition via the medial amygdala. Stress, obesity and social isolation are major risk factors for mortality in humans. Thus, the oxytocin-oxytocin receptor system is a therapeutic target for the promotion of human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Onaka
- Division of Brain and Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology, Jichi Medical University, Shinotsuke-shi, Tochigi-ken, Japan.
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16
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Yoshimoto S, Cerjak D, Babygirija R, Bulbul M, Ludwig K, Takahashi T. Hypothalamic circuit regulating colonic transit following chronic stress in rats. Stress 2012; 15:227-36. [PMID: 21936687 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2011.614297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although acute stress accelerates colonic transit, the effect of chronic stress on colonic transit remains unclear. In this study, rats received repeated restraint stress (chronic homotypic stress) or various types of stress (chronic heterotypic stress) for 5 and 7 days, respectively. Vehicle saline, oxytocin (OXT), OXT receptor antagonist or corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor antagonists were administered by intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection prior to restraint stress for 90 min. Immediately after the stress exposure, the entire colon was removed and the geometric center (GC) of Na51CrO4 (a nonabsorbable radioactive marker; 0.5 μCi) distribution was calculated to measure the transit. Gene expression of OXT and CRF in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) was evaluated by in situ hybridization. Accelerated colonic transit with the acute stressor was no longer observed following chronic homotypic stress. This restored colonic transit was reversed by ICV injection of an OXT antagonist. In contrast, chronic heterotypic stress significantly accelerated colonic transit, which was attenuated by ICV injection of OXT and by a CRF receptor 1 antagonist. OXT mRNA expression in the PVN was significantly increased following chronic homotypic stress, but not chronic heterotypic stress. However, CRF mRNA expression in the PVN was significantly increased following acute and chronic heterotypic stress, but not chronic homotypic stress. These results indicate that central OXT and CRF play a pivotal role in mediating the colonic dysmotility following chronic stress in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sazu Yoshimoto
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI 53295, USA
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17
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Kubzansky LD, Mendes WB, Appleton AA, Block J, Adler GK. A heartfelt response: Oxytocin effects on response to social stress in men and women. Biol Psychol 2012; 90:1-9. [PMID: 22387929 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2012.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Revised: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal research indicates that oxytocin is involved in social behavior, stress regulation, and positive physiologic adaptation. This study examines whether oxytocin enhances adaptive responses to social stress and compares effects between men and women. METHODS Hypotheses were tested with a placebo-controlled, double-blind experiment. Social stress was induced. Changes in cardiovascular reactivity, affect, and behavior were assessed. RESULTS Participants given oxytocin, relative to placebo, responded to social stress with a challenge orientation characterized by a benign pattern of cardiovascular reactivity. Gender differences emerged. Men given oxytocin reported less negative affect and had greater vagal rebound, while women given oxytocin reported more anger and had better math performance following social stress. DISCUSSION Findings indicate oxytocin stimulates an approach-oriented cardiovascular profile during social stress, suggesting mechanisms by which oxytocin might improve physical health. However, before considering oxytocin as therapeutic or uniformly enhancing health, greater understanding of possible gender differences in effects is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D Kubzansky
- Department of Society, Human Development, and Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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18
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Bowen MT, Carson DS, Spiro A, Arnold JC, McGregor IS. Adolescent oxytocin exposure causes persistent reductions in anxiety and alcohol consumption and enhances sociability in rats. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27237. [PMID: 22110618 PMCID: PMC3217952 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2011] [Accepted: 10/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that administration of oxytocin (OT) can have modulatory effects on social and anxiety-like behavior in mammals that may endure beyond the time of acute OT administration. The current study examined whether repeated administration of OT to male Wistar rats (n = 48) during a key developmental epoch (early adolescence) altered their physiology and behavior in later-life. Group housed rats were given intraperitoneal injections of either 1 mg/kg OT or vehicle during early adolescence (post natal-days [PND] 33–42). OT treatment caused a transient inhibition of body weight gain that recovered quickly after the cessation of treatment. At PND 50, the rats pre-treated with OT displayed less anxiety-like behavior on the emergence test, while at PND 55 they showed greater levels of social interaction. A subgroup of OT pre-treated rats examined at PND 63 showed a strong trend towards increased plasma OT levels, and also displayed significantly increased OT receptor mRNA in the hypothalamus. Rats pre-treated with OT and their controls showed similar induction of beer intake in daily 70 min test sessions (PND 63 onwards) in which the alcohol concentration of beer was gradually increased across days from 0.44% to 4.44%. However, when given ad libitum access to beer in their home cages from PND 72 onwards (early adulthood), consumption of beer but not water was significantly less in the OT pre-treated rats. A “booster” shot of OT (1 mg/kg) given after 25 days of ad libitum access to beer had a strong acute inhibitory effect on beer intake without affecting water intake. Overall these results suggest that exogenous OT administered during adolescence can have subtle yet enduring effects on anxiety, sociability and the motivation to consume alcohol. Such effects may reflect the inherent neuroplasticity of brain OT systems and a feed-forward effect whereby exogenous OT upregulates endogenous OT systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Bowen
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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19
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Norman GJ, Hawkley LC, Cole SW, Berntson GG, Cacioppo JT. Social neuroscience: the social brain, oxytocin, and health. Soc Neurosci 2011; 7:18-29. [PMID: 21714746 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2011.568702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Complex social behaviors allow various social organisms to create emergent organizations that extend beyond the individual. Social neuroscience is a burgeoning field that strives to understand the genetic, hormonal, and neural mechanisms responsible for these social structures and behaviors. Consequently, social neuroscience is highly interdisciplinary in nature and embraces the application of methods ranging from the molecular to the molar to investigate the reciprocal interactions between biological, cognitive, and social levels of analysis. The broad scope of such an endeavor introduces particular challenges associated with the integration of multiple levels of analysis. In the present mini-review, we highlight some recent findings in the field of social neuroscience and demonstrate the potential benefits of applying multilevel integrative analysis to the study of social behavior and its influence on physiology and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Norman
- Department of Psychology and Center for Cognitive and Social Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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20
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Grewen KM, Light KC. Plasma oxytocin is related to lower cardiovascular and sympathetic reactivity to stress. Biol Psychol 2011; 87:340-9. [PMID: 21540072 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2011.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2010] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 04/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In addition to known reproductive and social affiliation functions, oxytocin (OT) has been identified as a cardiovascular hormone. OT synthesis and receptors are found in cardiac and vascular tissue. Animal studies suggest that OT activates an 'anti-stress' response that reduces cardiovascular and neuroendocrine stress reactivity. We tested 28 early postpartum mothers, obtaining multiple blood samples for OT, the sympathetic marker, norepinephrine (NE), and the lactation hormone, prolactin, while monitoring their cardiovascular responses to two stressors: public speaking and forehead cold pressor. Although plasma OT did not increase reliably from pre-stress levels during stressors, greater overall OT level was related to greater vasodilation and cardiac stroke volume responses to both tasks, to reduction in heart rate to the cold pressor, as well as to lower plasma NE and higher prolactin levels. In contrast, higher NE was linked to increases in heart rate and decreases in stroke volume. These data support a cardioprotective role for OT, which may influence the magnitude and hemodynamic determinants of cardiovascular stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Grewen
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, CB#: 7175, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7175, USA.
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21
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Bülbül M, Babygirija R, Cerjak D, Yoshimoto S, Ludwig K, Takahashi T. Hypothalamic oxytocin attenuates CRF expression via GABAA receptors in rats. Brain Res 2011; 1387:39-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2011.02.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2010] [Revised: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 02/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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23
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Zheng J, Babygirija R, Bülbül M, Cerjak D, Ludwig K, Takahashi T. Hypothalamic oxytocin mediates adaptation mechanism against chronic stress in rats. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2010; 299:G946-53. [PMID: 20689056 PMCID: PMC2957337 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00483.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Accumulation of continuous life stress (chronic stress) often causes gastric symptoms. Although central oxytocin has antistress effects, the role of central oxytocin in stress-induced gastric dysmotility remains unknown. Solid gastric emptying was measured in rats receiving acute restraint stress, 5 consecutive days of repeated restraint stress (chronic homotypic stress), and 7 consecutive days of varying types of stress (chronic heterotypic stress). Oxytocin and oxytocin receptor antagonist were administered intracerebroventricularly (icv). Expression of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) mRNA and oxytocin mRNA in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus was evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. The changes of oxytocinergic neurons in the PVN were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Acute stress delayed gastric emptying, and the delayed gastric emptying was completely restored after 5 consecutive days of chronic homotypic stress. In contrast, delayed gastric emptying persisted following chronic heterotypic stress. The restored gastric emptying following chronic homotypic stress was antagonized by icv injection of an oxytocin antagonist. Icv injection of oxytocin restored delayed gastric emptying induced by chronic heterotypic stress. CRF mRNA expression, which was significantly increased in response to acute stress and chronic heterotypic stress, returned to the basal levels following chronic homotypic stress. In contrast, oxytocin mRNA expression was significantly increased following chronic homotypic stress. The number of oxytocin-immunoreactive cells was increased following chronic homotypic stress at the magnocellular part of the PVN. Icv injection of oxytocin reduced CRF mRNA expression induced by acute stress and chronic heterotypic stress. It is suggested that the adaptation mechanism to chronic stress may involve the upregulation of oxytocin expression in the hypothalamus, which in turn attenuates CRF expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zheng
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Reji Babygirija
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Mehmet Bülbül
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Diana Cerjak
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Kirk Ludwig
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Toku Takahashi
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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24
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Houshmand F, Faghihi M, Zahediasl S. Biphasic protective effect of oxytocin on cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury in anaesthetized rats. Peptides 2009; 30:2301-8. [PMID: 19761809 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2009.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2009] [Revised: 09/06/2009] [Accepted: 09/08/2009] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is well known for its role in reproduction. However, evidence has emerged suggesting a role in cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective effect of oxytocin on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in an in vivo rat. Myocardial ischemia, was surgically induced by means of left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion for 25 min followed by reperfusion for 120 min. Infarct size was evaluated using the staining agent 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride. Creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in plasma were analyzed to assess the degree of cardiac injury. Intraperitoneal administration of OT 0.001, 0.01 and 0.1 microg significantly reduced infarct size, LDH and CK-MB levels as compared to control (I/R) group and it had a biphasic effect on the reduction of ischemia/reperfusion injury. This biphasic effect was revealed as a U-shaped curve in which efficacy was optimal between very low and very high doses. Furthermore there were no significant differences in mean arterial pressure or heart rate between the OT treatment groups and control group during I/R. Blockade of specific OT receptors by atosiban (10(-6)M) abolished or attenuated the effect of OT preconditioning. The result of this study shows that OT possess a dose-dependent cardioprotective effect against ischemia/reperfusion injury and so study of OT preconditioning may provide a new target site for therapeutic exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Houshmand
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
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25
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Wsół A, Cudnoch-Je drzejewska A, Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Kowalewski S, Dobruch J. Central oxytocin modulation of acute stress-induced cardiovascular responses after myocardial infarction in the rat. Stress 2009; 12:517-25. [PMID: 20102320 DOI: 10.3109/10253890802687688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was aimed at determining the role of centrally released oxytocin in regulation of blood pressure and heart rate (HR) under resting conditions and during an acute air-jet stress in rats with a myocardial infarction and controls infarcted. Four weeks after ligation of a coronary artery or sham surgery, conscious Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to one of the following intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusions: (1) 0.9% NaCl (control), (2) oxytocin, (3) oxytocin receptor antagonist {desGly-NH(2)-d(CH(2))(5)[D-Tyr(2)Thr(4)]OVT}(OXYANT). Resting arterial blood pressure and HR were not affected by any of the ICV infusions either in the infarcted or sham-operated rats. In the control experiments, the pressor and tachycardic responses to the air jet of infarcted rats were significantly greater than in the sham-operated rats. OXYANT significantly enhanced the cardiovascular responses to stress only in the sham-operated rats whereas oxytocin significantly attenuated both responses in the infarcted but not in the sham-operated rats. The results suggest that centrally released endogenous oxytocin significantly reduces the cardiovascular responses to the acute stressor in control rats. This buffering function of the brain-oxytocin system is not efficient during the post-myocardial infarction state, however it may be restored by central administration of exogenous oxytocin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Wsół
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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26
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Nilsson U. Soothing music can increase oxytocin levels during bed rest after open-heart surgery: a randomised control trial. J Clin Nurs 2009; 18:2153-61. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2702.2008.02718.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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27
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Matsunaga M, Konagaya T, Nogimori T, Yoneda M, Kasugai K, Ohira H, Kaneko H. Inhibitory effect of oxytocin on accelerated colonic motility induced by water-avoidance stress in rats. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2009; 21:856-e59. [PMID: 19298230 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2009.01286.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have indicated that brain and gut activities are interrelated and exposure to several stressors, such as water-avoidance stress, stimulates the motor function of the gut through corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-signalling pathways in the brain. Central oxytocin is known to attenuate stress responses, including CRF expression in the brain. Here, we examined whether central oxytocin attenuated the acceleration of colonic motility induced by water-avoidance stress. A force transducer was attached to the distal colon of male rat, and the colonic motility and faecal pellet output were recorded while the rats were exposed to water-avoidance stress. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of oxytocin (5, 50 and 500 pmol) and the oxytocin receptor antagonist tocinoic acid (25 microg) were administered before exposure to water-avoidance stress, and the effect of oxytocin on colonic motor function was determined. Centrally administered oxytocin inhibited the accelerated colonic motility induced by water-avoidance stress. The effective dose ranged between 5 and 50 pmol on i.c.v. injection. Oxytocin also decreased the number of CRF-positive cells in the paraventricular nucleus and corticosterone release. The inhibitory effect of oxytocin on accelerated colonic motility was blocked by pretreatment with oxytocin receptor antagonist. Furthermore, centrally administered tocinoic acid enhanced the acceleration of colonic motility. These results suggested that endogenous central oxytocin may contribute to the regulation of colonic function and inhibit the brain CRF-signalling pathways targeting the gut, resulting in the inhibition of stress-induced colonic contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Matsunaga
- Department of Neurology, Ban Buntane Hotokukai Hospital, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan
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28
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Yamada T, Mochiduki A, Sugimoto Y, Suzuki Y, Itoi K, Inoue K. Prolactin-releasing peptide regulates the cardiovascular system via corticotrophin-releasing hormone. J Neuroendocrinol 2009; 21:586-93. [PMID: 19500229 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2009.01875.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Prolactin-releasing peptide (PrRP)-producing neurones are known to be localised mainly in the medulla oblongata and to act as a stress mediator in the central nervous system. In addition, central administration of PrRP elevates the arterial pressure and heart rate. However, the neuronal pathway of the cardiovascular effects of PrRP has not been revealed. In the present study, we demonstrate that PrRP-immunoreactive neurones projected to the locus coeruleus (LC) and the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus. The c-fos positive neurones among the noradrenaline cells in the LC, and the parvo- and magnocellular neurones in the PVN, were increased after central administration of PrRP. The arterial pressure and heart rate were both elevated after i.c.v. administration of PrRP. Previous studies have demonstrated that PrRP stimulated the neurones in the PVN [i.e. oxytocin-, vasopressin- and corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH)-producing neurones], which suggests that PrRP may induce its cardiovascular effect via arginine vasopressin (AVP) or CRH. Although the elevation of blood pressure and heart rate elicited by PrRP administration were not inhibited by an AVP antagonist, they were completely suppressed by treatment with a CRH antagonist. Thus, we conclude that PrRP stimulated CRH neurones in the PVN and that CRH might regulate the cardiovascular system via the sympathetic nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yamada
- Department of Regulatory Biology, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Sakura-ku, Saitama, Japan
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29
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Jonas W, Nissen E, Ransjö-Arvidson AB, Wiklund I, Henriksson P, Uvnäs-Moberg K. Short- and long-term decrease of blood pressure in women during breastfeeding. Breastfeed Med 2008; 3:103-9. [PMID: 18563998 DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2007.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The benefits of breastfeeding for infants are well known. Recently data have started to emerge showing that breastfeeding may also induce positive effects in the mother. This study aimed to investigate the pattern of maternal blood pressure before, during, and after a breastfeed 2 days postpartum. Additionally, blood pressure during the following 25-week breastfeeding period was investigated. METHODS Sixty-six primiparae with normal deliveries were consecutively recruited. Blood pressure was measured at -5, 10, 30, and 60 minutes in connection with a morning breastfeed. Thirty-three women continued to measure blood pressure before and after breastfeeding for 25 weeks. RESULTS Blood pressure fell significantly in response to breastfeeding 2 days after birth. The fall in systolic and diastolic blood pressure amounted to 8.8 (SD = 11.00) and 7.7 (SD = 9.3) mm Hg, respectively. During the 25-week follow-up period a significant fall of basal blood pressure (systolic, df = 3, F = 7.843, p < 0.001; diastolic, df = 3, F = 5.453, p = 0.002) was observed. The total fall in systolic and diastolic blood pressure amounted to a mean of 15 (SD = 10.4) mm Hg and 10 (SD = 9.7) mm Hg, respectively. In addition, blood pressure fell significantly in response to individual breastfeeding sessions during the entire observation period. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, both systolic and diastolic blood pressures fall during a breastfeeding session, and pre-breastfeeding blood pressure decreases during at least the first 6 months of a breastfeeding period in a homelike environment. This study lends further support to the health-promoting effects of breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Jonas
- Division for Reproductive and Perinatal Health Care, Department of Women and Child Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
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