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Fang YT, Lin YT, Tseng WL, Tseng P, Hua GL, Chao YJ, Wu YJ. Neuroimmunomodulation of vagus nerve stimulation and the therapeutic implications. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1173987. [PMID: 37484689 PMCID: PMC10358778 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1173987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a technology that provides electrical stimulation to the cervical vagus nerve and can be applied in the treatment of a wide variety of neuropsychiatric and systemic diseases. VNS exerts its effect by stimulating vagal afferent and efferent fibers, which project upward to the brainstem nuclei and the relayed circuits and downward to the internal organs to influence the autonomic, neuroendocrine, and neuroimmunology systems. The neuroimmunomodulation effect of VNS is mediated through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that regulates immune cells and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Traditional and non-invasive VNS have Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications for patients with drug-refractory epilepsy, treatment-refractory major depressive disorders, and headaches. The number of clinical trials and translational studies that explore the therapeutic potentials and mechanisms of VNS is increasing. In this review, we first introduced the anatomical and physiological bases of the vagus nerve and the immunomodulating functions of VNS. We covered studies that investigated the mechanisms of VNS and its therapeutic implications for a spectrum of brain disorders and systemic diseases in the context of neuroimmunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Fang
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ye-Ting Lin
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Lung Tseng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Philip Tseng
- Cross College Elite Program, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain and Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gia-Linh Hua
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jui Chao
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Wu
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Thrivikraman KV, Kinkead B, Owens MJ, Rapaport MH, Plotsky PM. Locus Coeruleus Noradrenergic Modulation of Diurnal Corticosterone, Stress Reactivity, and Cardiovascular Homeostasis in Male Rats. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 112:763-776. [PMID: 34649254 PMCID: PMC9037608 DOI: 10.1159/000520192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Activation of the locus coeruleus-noradrenergic (LC-NA) system during awakening is associated with an increase in plasma corticosterone and cardiovascular tone. These studies evaluate the role of the LC in this corticosterone and cardiovascular response. METHODS Male rats, on day 0, were treated intraperitoneally with either DSP4 (50 mg/kg body weight) (DSP), an LC-NA specific neurotoxin, or normal saline (SAL). On day 10, animals were surgically prepared with jugular vein (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal [HPA] axis) or carotid artery (hemodynamics) catheters and experiments performed on day 14. HPA axis activity, diurnally (circadian) and after stress (transient hemorrhage [14 mL/kg body weight] or air puff-startle), and basal and post-hemorrhage hemodynamics were evaluated. On day 16, brain regions from a subset of rats were dissected for norepinephrine and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) assay. RESULTS In DSP rats compared to SAL rats, (1) regional brain norepinephrine was decreased, but there was no change in median eminence or olfactory bulb CRF content; (2) during HPA axis acrophase, the plasma corticosterone response was blunted; (3) after hemorrhage and air puff-startle, the plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone response was attenuated, whereas the corticosterone response was dependent on stressor category; (4) under basal conditions, hemodynamic measures exhibited altered blood flow dynamics and systemic vasodilation; and (5) after hemorrhage, hemodynamics exhibited asynchronous responses. CONCLUSION LC-NA modulation of diurnal and stress-induced HPA axis reactivity occurs via distinct neurocircuits. The integrity of the LC-NA system is important to maintain blood flow dynamics. The importance of increases in plasma corticosterone at acrophase to maintain short- and long-term cardiovascular homeostasis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. V. Thrivikraman
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Becky Kinkead
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Michael J. Owens
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Mark H. Rapaport
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Paul M. Plotsky
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Poppa T, Benschop L, Horczak P, Vanderhasselt MA, Carrette E, Bechara A, Baeken C, Vonck K. Auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation modulates the heart-evoked potential. Brain Stimul 2021; 15:260-269. [PMID: 34933143 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is active interest in biomarker discovery for transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). However, greater understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms is needed to identify candidate markers. Accumulating evidence suggests that taVNS influences activity in solitary and parabrachial nuclei, the primary brainstem relays for the transmission of visceral sensory afferents to the insula. The insula mediates interoception, which concerns the representation and regulation of homeostatic bodily states. Consequently, interoceptive pathways may be relevant to taVNS mechanisms of action. HYPOTHESES We hypothesized that taVNS would modulate an EEG-derived marker of interoceptive processing known as the heart-evoked potential (HEP). We also hypothesized that taVNS-induced HEP effects would be localizable to the insula. METHODS Using a within-subject, sham-controlled design in 43 healthy adults, we recorded EEG and ECG concurrent to taVNS. Using ECG and EEG data, we extracted HEPs. Estimation of the cortical sources of the taVNS-dependent HEP responses observed at the scalp were computed using the Boundary Element Method and weighted Minimum Norm Estimation. Statistics were calculated using cluster-based permutation methods. RESULTS taVNS altered HEP amplitudes at frontocentral and centroparietal electrode sites at various latencies. The taVNS-dependent HEP effect was localized to the insula, operculum, somatosensory cortex, and orbital and ventromedial prefrontal regions. CONCLUSION The results support the hypothesis that taVNS can access the insula as well as functionally and anatomically connected ventral prefrontal regions. HEPs may serve as an objective, non-invasive outcome parameter for the cortical effects of taVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha Poppa
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium; Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Lars Benschop
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Paula Horczak
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Evelien Carrette
- 4Brain, Neurology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Antoine Bechara
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chris Baeken
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium; Department of Psychiatry, Brussels University Hospital, Belgium; Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, the Netherlands
| | - Kristl Vonck
- 4Brain, Neurology, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
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Vagus nerve stimulation suppresses corticotropin-releasing factor-induced adrenocorticotropic hormone release in rats. Neuroreport 2021; 32:792-796. [PMID: 33994530 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent Cushing's syndrome is characterized by hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction. As the neuroendocrinological axis has been shown to react under the regulation of the central nerve system through the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) releasing from the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus. Whether one of the neuromodulation therapies, vagus nerve stimulation, is able to treat this neuroendocrinological disorder remains unknown. In this study, we explored the effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on CRF-induced serum ACTH level change in normal rats. After the vagus nerve electrode placement, the ACTH and corticosterone levels were measured multiple times before and after the administration of CRF (2 μg/kg) in switched-ON and -OFF groups, respectively, compared to the control group. Our results showed that 2 h continuous stimulation on the vagus nerve inhibited CRF-induced ACTH release up to 1 h compared with the control group, while the corticosterone level was not influenced. The vagus nerve might be a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome disorders involving hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction.
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Bremner JD, Gurel NZ, Wittbrodt MT, Shandhi MH, Rapaport MH, Nye JA, Pearce BD, Vaccarino V, Shah AJ, Park J, Bikson M, Inan OT. Application of Noninvasive Vagal Nerve Stimulation to Stress-Related Psychiatric Disorders. J Pers Med 2020; 10:E119. [PMID: 32916852 PMCID: PMC7563188 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10030119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS) has been shown to be efficacious for the treatment of depression, but to date, VNS devices have required surgical implantation, which has limited widespread implementation. METHODS New noninvasive VNS (nVNS) devices have been developed which allow external stimulation of the vagus nerve, and their effects on physiology in patients with stress-related psychiatric disorders can be measured with brain imaging, blood biomarkers, and wearable sensing devices. Advantages in terms of cost and convenience may lead to more widespread implementation in psychiatry, as well as facilitate research of the physiology of the vagus nerve in humans. nVNS has effects on autonomic tone, cardiovascular function, inflammatory responses, and central brain areas involved in modulation of emotion, all of which make it particularly applicable to patients with stress-related psychiatric disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, since dysregulation of these circuits and systems underlies the symptomatology of these disorders. RESULTS This paper reviewed the physiology of the vagus nerve and its relevance to modulating the stress response in the context of application of nVNS to stress-related psychiatric disorders. CONCLUSIONS nVNS has a favorable effect on stress physiology that is measurable using brain imaging, blood biomarkers of inflammation, and wearable sensing devices, and shows promise in the prevention and treatment of stress-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Douglas Bremner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (M.T.W.); (M.H.R.)
- Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA 30033, USA; (A.J.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Nil Z. Gurel
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA; (N.Z.G.); (M.H.S.); (O.T.I.)
| | - Matthew T. Wittbrodt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (M.T.W.); (M.H.R.)
| | - Mobashir H. Shandhi
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA; (N.Z.G.); (M.H.S.); (O.T.I.)
| | - Mark H. Rapaport
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (M.T.W.); (M.H.R.)
| | - Jonathon A. Nye
- Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Bradley D. Pearce
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (B.D.P.); (V.V.)
| | - Viola Vaccarino
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (B.D.P.); (V.V.)
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Amit J. Shah
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA 30033, USA; (A.J.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (B.D.P.); (V.V.)
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jeanie Park
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA 30033, USA; (A.J.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medicine, Renal Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Marom Bikson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of New York, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Omer T. Inan
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA; (N.Z.G.); (M.H.S.); (O.T.I.)
- Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
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Targeting the gut microbiota to influence brain development and function in early life. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 95:191-201. [PMID: 30195933 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In the first 2-3 years of life, the gut microbiota of infants quickly becomes diverse and rich. Disruptions in the evolving gut microbiota during this critical developmental period can impact brain development. Communication between the microbiota, gut and brain is driven by hormonal and neural regulation, as well as immune and metabolic pathways, however, our understanding of how the parallel developments that may underlie this communication are limited. In this paper, we review the known associations between the gut microbiota and brain development and brain function in early life, speculate on the potential mechanisms involved in this complex relationship and describe how nutritional intervention can further modulate the microbiota and, ultimately, brain development and function.
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Tang MW, van Nierop FS, Koopman FA, Eggink HM, Gerlag DM, Chan MW, Zitnik R, Vaz FM, Romijn JA, Tak PP, Soeters MR. Single vagus nerve stimulation reduces early postprandial C-peptide levels but not other hormones or postprandial metabolism. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 37:505-514. [PMID: 28389989 PMCID: PMC5775981 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3618-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A recent study in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients using electrical vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to activate the inflammatory reflex has shown promising effects on disease activity. Innervation by the autonomic nerve system might be involved in the regulation of many endocrine and metabolic processes and could therefore theoretically lead to unwanted side effects. Possible effects of VNS on secretion of hormones are currently unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of a single VNS on plasma levels of pituitary hormones and parameters of postprandial metabolism. Six female patients with RA were studied twice in balanced assignment (crossover design) to either VNS or no stimulation. The patients selected for this substudy had been on VNS therapy daily for at least 3 months and at maximum of 24 months. We compared 10-, 20-, and 30-min poststimulus levels to baseline levels, and a 4-h mixed meal test was performed 30 min after VNS. We also determined energy expenditure (EE) by indirect calorimetry before and after VNS. VNS did not affect pituitary hormones (growth hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone), postprandial metabolism, or EE. Of note, VNS reduced early postprandial insulin secretion, but not AUC of postprandial plasma insulin levels. Cortisol and catecholamine levels in serum did not change significantly. Short stimulation of vagal activity by VNS reduces early postprandial insulin secretion, but not other hormone levels and postprandial response. This suggests VNS as a safe treatment for RA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M W Tang
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Room F4-105, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - F S van Nierop
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - F A Koopman
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Room F4-105, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H M Eggink
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - D M Gerlag
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Room F4-105, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Currently also Clinical Unit Cambridge, GlaxoSmithKline, Cambridge, UK
| | - M W Chan
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Room F4-105, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Zitnik
- SetPoint Medical Corporation, Valencia, CA, USA
| | - F M Vaz
- Laboratory of Genetic Metabolic Disease, Department of clinical chemistry, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J A Romijn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - P P Tak
- Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Room F4-105, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Currently also GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, UK.
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - M R Soeters
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Hussain S. Neuromodulation: the attitudes, the evidence and the trends. Australas Psychiatry 2017; 25:5-6. [PMID: 28145144 DOI: 10.1177/1039856216686223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Salam Hussain
- Clinical Senior Lecturer, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, and; Consultant Psychiatrist, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
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Nicholson WC, Kempf MC, Moneyham L, Vance DE. The potential role of vagus-nerve stimulation in the treatment of HIV-associated depression: a review of literature. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2017; 13:1677-1689. [PMID: 28721049 PMCID: PMC5499939 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s136065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is the most common comorbidity and neuropsychiatric complication in HIV. Estimates suggest that the prevalence rate for depression among HIV-infected individuals is three times that of the general population. The association between HIV and clinical depression is complex; however, chronic activation of inflammatory mechanisms, which disrupt central nervous system (CNS) function, may contribute to this association. Disruptions in CNS function can result in cognitive disorders, social withdrawal, fatigue, apathy, psychomotor impairment, and sleep disturbances, which are common manifestations in depression and HIV alike. Interestingly, the parasympathetic system-associated vagus nerve (VN) has primary homeostatic properties that restore CNS function following a stress or inflammatory response. Unfortunately, about 30% of adults with HIV are resistant to standard psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological treatments for depression, thus suggesting the need for alternative treatment approaches. VN stimulation (VNS) and its benefits as a treatment for depression have been well documented, but remain unexplored in the HIV population. Historically, VNS has been delivered using a surgically implanted device; however, transcutanous VNS (tVNS) with nonsurgical auricular technology is now available. Although it currently lacks Food and Drug Administration approval in the US, evidence suggests several advantages of tVNS, including a reduced side-effect profile when compared to standard treatments and comparable results to implantable VNS in treating depression. Therefore, tVNS could offer an alternative for managing depression in HIV via regulating CNS function; moreover, tVNS may be useful for treatment of other symptoms common in HIV. From this, implications for nursing research and practice are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linda Moneyham
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - David E Vance
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Yadav G, Mutha PK. Deep Breathing Practice Facilitates Retention of Newly Learned Motor Skills. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37069. [PMID: 27841345 PMCID: PMC5107920 DOI: 10.1038/srep37069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Paced deep breathing practices, a core component of a number of meditation programs, have been shown to enhance a variety of cognitive functions. However, their effects on complex processes such as memory, and in particular, formation and retention of motor memories, remain unknown. Here we show that a 30-minute session of deep, alternate-nostril breathing remarkably enhances retention of a newly learned motor skill. Healthy humans learned to accurately trace a given path within a fixed time duration. Following learning, one group of subjects (n = 16) underwent the 30-minute breathing practice while another control group (n = 14) rested for the same duration. The breathing-practice group retained the motor skill strikingly better than controls, both immediately after the breathing session and also at 24 hours. These effects were confirmed in another group (n = 10) that rested for 30 minutes post-learning, but practiced breathing after their first retention test; these subjects showed significantly better retention at 24 hours but not 30 minutes. Our results thus uncover for the first time the remarkable facilitatory effects of simple breathing practices on complex functions such as motor memory, and have important implications for sports training and neuromotor rehabilitation in which better retention of learned motor skills is highly desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goldy Yadav
- Centre for Cognitive Science, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Pratik K. Mutha
- Centre for Cognitive Science, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
- Department of Biological Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
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Malick M, Gilbert K, Daniel J, Arseneault-Breard J, Tompkins TA, Godbout R, Rousseau G. Vagotomy prevents the effect of probiotics on caspase activity in a model of postmyocardial infarction depression. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2015; 27:663-71. [PMID: 25786501 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial infarction (MI) is associated with apoptosis in the amygdala and, ultimately, with clinical signs of depression. Different treatments have proven to be beneficial in preventing depression, including combination of the probiotics Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum for prophylaxis. We have speculated previously that the benefit of these probiotics is due to their anti-inflammatory properties, and evidence suggests that an intact vagus nerve is important for this effect to occur. This study was designed to ascertain vagus nerve involvement in the beneficial influence of probiotics on caspase activities in our post-MI animal model of depression. METHODS Probiotics and/or vehicle were administered daily to male adult rats, 14 days before MI and until euthanasia. Vagotomy was performed in subgroups of rats 40 min before MI. They were sacrificed after 3 days of reperfusion, and MI size was assessed along with caspase-3 and -8 activities in the amygdala. KEY RESULTS Probiotics had no effect on infarct size but vagotomy increased it. Caspase-3 and caspase-8 activities in the amygdala were higher in MI than in sham-operated rats, and this outcome was reversed by probiotics. The beneficial influence of probiotics was abolished by vagotomy. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Our data indicate that the effect of probiotics on caspase activities in the amygdala after MI depends on an intact vagus nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Malick
- Centre de biomédecine, Hôpital du Sacré-Cœur de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de pharmacologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Chronic deep brain stimulation of the hypothalamic nucleus in wistar rats alters circulatory levels of corticosterone and proinflammatory cytokines. Clin Dev Immunol 2013; 2013:698634. [PMID: 24235973 PMCID: PMC3819891 DOI: 10.1155/2013/698634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a therapeutic option for several diseases, but its effects on HPA axis activity and systemic inflammation are unknown. This study aimed to detect circulatory variations of corticosterone and cytokines levels in Wistar rats, after 21 days of DBS-at the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMHvl), unilateral cervical vagotomy (UCVgX), or UCVgX plus DBS. We included the respective control (C) and sham (S) groups (n = 6 rats per group). DBS treated rats had higher levels of TNF-α (120%; P < 0.01) and IFN-γ (305%; P < 0.001) but lower corticosterone concentration (48%; P < 0.001) than C and S. UCVgX animals showed increased corticosterone levels (154%; P < 0.001) versus C and S. UCVgX plus DBS increased IL-1β (402%; P < 0.001), IL-6 (160%; P < 0.001), and corsticosterone (178%; P < 0.001 versus 48%; P < 0.001) compared with the C and S groups. Chronic DBS at VMHvl induced a systemic inflammatory response accompanied by a decrease of HPA axis function. UCVgX rats experienced HPA axis hyperactivity as result of vagus nerve injury; however, DBS was unable to block the HPA axis hyperactivity induced by unilateral cervical vagotomy. Further studies are necessary to explore these findings and their clinical implication.
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Thrivikraman KV, Kinkead B, Murray KE, Owens MJ. In vivo dialysis setup with a loop injection valve facilitates retrodialysis studies. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2013; 68:217-224. [PMID: 23831608 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2013.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retrodialysis, as used in neuropharmacological research, is a technique for in vivo delivery of neuroactive agents with concurrent monitoring of their effects on cellular activity with a separation between certain degree of spatial and temporal resolution. Typically, this is accomplished either by the use of a liquid-switch requiring multiple pumps, or by exchange of flow tubing requiring stopping and restarting dialysis. In the present study, we describe the use of a medium pressure injection valve for retrodialysis that overcomes these problems. METHODS The valve was configured with a loop to deliver 20μL of solution, and artificial CSF flow from the pump to the probe was established via this device. The application of this setup was evaluated in urethane anesthetized adult male C57BL/6J mice prepared with a CMA 11 probe implanted in the ventral hippocampus. By switching between the load and inject positions, the loop was filled with escitalopram solution (0.3μM) and delivered at a rate of 1μL/min at the probe for retrodialysis. Escitalopram (2mg/kg BW) was administered subcutaneously for microdialysis studies. During these treatments, dialysate fractions were collected for the determination of serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). RESULTS Irrespective of route of escitalopram administration, the pattern of dialysate 5-HT, and 5-HIAA response was comparable to that reported by other investigators. Accordingly, the in-line valve assembly did not compromise retrodialysis or microdialysis sampling. The manipulations to carry out retrodialysis using the valve setup are easy and simple. DISCUSSION An in-line injection valve is a promising adaptation for retrodialysis studies and can be incorporated as a standard part of in vivo dialysis instrumentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K V Thrivikraman
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Becky Kinkead
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Karen E Murray
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Michael J Owens
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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