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Atila C, Mekkattu S, Murugesu R, Gaisl O, Varghese N, Eckert A, Christ-Crain M. Plasma oxytocin levels in response to glucagon in patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus) and healthy controls. Endocrine 2024:10.1007/s12020-024-03920-2. [PMID: 38935296 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03920-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE We recently demonstrated an additional oxytocin (OT) deficiency in patients with arginine vasopressin (AVP) deficiency (central diabetes insipidus) by using 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) as a novel provocation test. However, the implication of the MDMA provocation test in clinical practice might be challenging. Glucagon effectively stimulates vasopressinergic neurons with a strong increase in plasma copeptin. We therefore hypothesized that this provocation test might also stimulate OT. METHODS This is a predefined secondary analysis of a prospective double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled cross-over trial involving ten patients with AVP deficiency and ten sex- and body-mass index-matched healthy participants at the University Hospital Basel, Switzerland. Each participant underwent the glucagon test (s.c. injection of 1 mg glucagon) and placebo test (s.c. injection of 0.9% normal saline). Plasma OT levels were measured at baseline, 60, 120 and 180 min after injection. The primary objective was to determine whether glucagon stimulates OT and whether OT levels differ between patients with AVP deficiency and healthy participants. The primary outcome (maximum change in OT within 180 min) was compared between groups and conditions using a linear mixed effects model. RESULTS In healthy participants, the median OT at baseline was 82.7 pg/ml [62.3-94.3] and slightly increased to a maximum of 93.3 pg/ml [87.2-121.1] after injection of glucagon, resulting in a change increase of 24.9 pg/ml [5.1-27.8]. Similarly, in patients with AVP deficiency, the median OT at baseline was 73.9 pg/ml [65.3-81.6] and slightly increased after glucagon injection to 114.9 pg/ml [70.9-140.9], resulting in a change increase of 36.8 pg/ml [-2.2 to 51.2]. The results from the mixed model showed no effect between glucagon compared to placebo on OT (difference: -0.5 pg/ml; 95%-CI [-25, 24]; p = 0.97) and no significant treatment-by-group interaction effect between patients compared to healthy participants (interaction: 28 pg/ml; 95%-CI [-7, 62]; p = 0.13). CONCLUSION We found no effect of glucagon on plasma OT levels and no difference between patients with AVP deficiency and healthy participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Atila
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shalini Mekkattu
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rakithan Murugesu
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Odile Gaisl
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nimmy Varghese
- Psychiatric University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Research Cluster, Molecular & Cognitive Neuroscience, Division of Neurobiology, University of Basel, 4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anne Eckert
- Psychiatric University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Research Cluster, Molecular & Cognitive Neuroscience, Division of Neurobiology, University of Basel, 4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Refardt J, Atila C, Christ-Crain M. New insights on diagnosis and treatment of AVP deficiency. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024; 25:639-649. [PMID: 38087160 PMCID: PMC11162367 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-023-09862-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Arginine vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D) is one of the main entities of the polyuria-polydipsia syndrome. Its correct diagnosis and differentiation from the other two causes - AVP resistance and primary polydipsia - is crucial as this determines the further management of these patients.Over the last years, several new diagnostic tests using copeptin, the stable surrogate marker of AVP, have been introduced. Among them, hypertonic saline stimulated copeptin was confirmed to reliably and safely improve the diagnostic accuracy to diagnose AVP-D. Due to its simplicity, arginine stimulated copeptin was put forward as alternative test procedure. Glucagon-stimulated copeptin also showed promising results, while the oral growth hormone secretagogue Macimorelin failed to provide a sufficient stimulus. Interestingly, an approach using machine learning techniques also showed promising results concerning diagnostic accuracy.Once AVP-D is diagnosed, further workup is needed to evaluate its etiology. This will partly define the further treatment and management. In general, treatment of AVP-D focuses on desmopressin substitution, with oral formulations currently showing the best tolerance and safety profile. However, in addition to desmopressin substitution, recent data also showed that psychopathological factors play an important role in managing AVP-D patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Refardt
- Departments of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Cihan Atila
- Departments of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Departments of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Atila C, Beck J, Refardt J, Erlic Z, Drummond JB, Sailer CO, Liechti ME, Rocha BSS, Beuschlein F, Winzeler B, Christ-Crain M. Psychopathological characteristics in patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus) and primary polydipsia compared to healthy controls. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 190:354-362. [PMID: 38551325 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvae040] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Distinguishing arginine vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D; central diabetes insipidus) from primary polydipsia (PP), commonly referred to as psychogenic polydipsia, is challenging. Psychopathologic findings, commonly used for PP diagnosis in clinical practice, are rarely evaluated in AVP-D patients, and no comparative data between the two conditions currently exist. DESIGN Data from two studies involving 82 participants [39 AVP-D, 28 PP, and 15 healthy controls (HC)]. METHODS Psychological evaluations were conducted using standardized questionnaires measuring anxiety [State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)], alexithymia [Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20)], depressive symptoms (Beck's Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and overall mental health [Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36)]. Higher STAI, TAS-20, and BDI-II scores suggest elevated anxiety, alexithymia, and depression, while higher SF-36 scores signify better overall mental health. RESULTS Compared to HC, patients with AVP-D and PP showed higher levels of anxiety (HC 28 points [24-31] vs AVP-D 36 points [31-45]; vs PP 38 points [33-46], P < .01), alexithymia (HC 30 points [29-37] vs AVP-D 43 points [35-54]; vs PP 46 points [37-55], P < .01), and depression (HC 1 point [0-2] vs AVP-D 7 points [4-14]; vs PP 7 points [3-13], P < .01). Levels of anxiety, alexithymia, and depression showed no difference between both patient groups (P = .58, P = .90, P = .50, respectively). Compared to HC, patients with AVP-D and PP reported similarly reduced self-reported overall mental health scores (HC 84 [68-88] vs AVP-D 60 [52-80], P = .05; vs PP 60 [47-74], P < .01). CONCLUSION This study reveals heightened anxiety, alexithymia, depression, and diminished overall mental health in patients with AVP-D and PP. The results emphasize the need for careful interpretation of psychopathological characteristics to differentiate between AVP-D and PP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Atila
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julia Beck
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julie Refardt
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Zoran Erlic
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Juliana B Drummond
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School of the Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Clara O Sailer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Beatriz Santana Soares Rocha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School of the Federal University of Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Felix Beuschlein
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 80336 Munich, Germany
- The LOOP Zurich Medical Research Center, LOOBesity, 8044 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Winzeler
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
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Atila C, Refardt J, Christ-Crain M. Arginine vasopressin deficiency: diagnosis, management and the relevance of oxytocin deficiency. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024:10.1038/s41574-024-00985-x. [PMID: 38693275 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-00985-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Polyuria-polydipsia syndrome can be caused by central diabetes insipidus, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus or primary polydipsia. To avoid confusion with diabetes mellitus, the name 'central diabetes insipidus' was changed in 2022 to arginine vasopressin (AVP) deficiency and 'nephrogenic diabetes insipidus' was renamed as AVP resistance. To differentiate the three entities, various osmotic and non-osmotic copeptin-based stimulation tests have been introduced in the past decade. The hypertonic saline test plus plasma copeptin measurement emerged as the test with highest diagnostic accuracy, replacing the water deprivation test as the gold standard in differential diagnosis of the polyuria-polydipsia syndrome. The mainstay of treatment for AVP deficiency is AVP replacement with desmopressin, a synthetic analogue of AVP specific for AVP receptor 2 (AVPR2), which usually leads to rapid improvements in polyuria and polydipsia. The main adverse effect of desmopressin is dilutional hyponatraemia, which can be reduced by regularly performing the so-called desmopressin escape method. Evidence from the past few years suggests an additional oxytocin deficiency in patients with AVP deficiency. This potential deficiency should be further evaluated in future studies, including feasible provocation tests for clinical practice and interventional trials with oxytocin substitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Atila
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julie Refardt
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Research University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Iovino M, Messana T, Marucci S, Triggiani D, Giagulli VA, Guastamacchia E, Piazzolla G, De Pergola G, Lisco G, Triggiani V. The neurohypophyseal hormone oxytocin and eating behaviors: a narrative review. Hormones (Athens) 2024; 23:15-23. [PMID: 37979096 PMCID: PMC10847364 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-023-00505-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) is crucial in several conditions, such as lactation, parturition, mother-infant interaction, and psychosocial function. Moreover, OT may be involved in the regulation of eating behaviors. METHODS This review briefly summarizes data concerning the role of OT in eating behaviors. Appropriate keywords and medical subject headings were identified and searched for in PubMed/MEDLINE. References of original articles and reviews were screened, examined, and selected. RESULTS Hypothalamic OT-secreting neurons project to different cerebral areas controlling eating behaviors, such as the amygdala, area postrema, nucleus of the solitary tract, and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve. Intracerebral/ventricular OT administration decreases food intake and body weight in wild and genetically obese rats. OT may alter food intake and the quality of meals, especially carbohydrates and sweets, in humans. DISCUSSION OT may play a role in the pathophysiology of eating disorders with potential therapeutic perspectives. In obese patients and those with certain eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa or binge/compulsive eating, OT may reduce appetite and caloric consumption. Conversely, OT administered to patients with anorexia nervosa may paradoxically stimulate appetite, possibly by lowering anxiety which usually complicates the management of these patients. Nevertheless, OT administration (e.g., intranasal route) is not always associated with clinical benefit, probably because intranasally administered OT fails to achieve therapeutic intracerebral levels of the hormone. CONCLUSION OT administration could play a therapeutic role in managing eating disorders and disordered eating. However, specific studies are needed to clarify this issue with regard to dose-finding and route and administration time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Iovino
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
| | - Tullio Messana
- Infantile Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS - Institute of Neurological Sciences, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simonetta Marucci
- Università Campus Biomedico, Dip. "Scienze e Tecnologie per l'Uomo e l'ambiente", Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, Roma, Italy
| | - Domenico Triggiani
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
| | - Vito Angelo Giagulli
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
| | - Edoardo Guastamacchia
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Piazzolla
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
| | - Giovanni De Pergola
- National Institute of Gastroenterology IRCCS "Saverio de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, Bari, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari, School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lisco
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Triggiani
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", School of Medicine, Bari, Apulia, Italy
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Chasseloup F, Tabarin A, Chanson P. Diabetes insipidus: Vasopressin deficiency…. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2024:S0003-4266(24)00011-8. [PMID: 38316255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2023.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes insipidus is a disorder characterized by hypo-osmotic polyuria secondary to abnormal synthesis, regulation, or renal action of antidiuretic hormone. Recently, an expert group, with the support of patient associations, proposed that diabetes insipidus be renamed to avoid confusion with diabetes mellitus. The most common form of diabetes insipidus is secondary to a dysfunction of the neurohypophysis (central diabetes insipidus) and would be therefore named â€̃vasopressin deficiency’. The rarer form, which is linked to renal vasopressin resistance (nephrogenic diabetes insipidus), would then be named â€̃vasopressin resistance’. The etiology of diabetes insipidus is sometimes clear, in the case of a neurohypophyseal cause (tumoral or infiltrative damage) or a renal origin, but in some cases diabetes insipidus can be difficult to distinguish from primary polydipsia, which is characterized by consumption of excessive quantities of water without any abnormality in regulation or action of antidiuretic hormone. Apart from patients’ medical history, physical examination, and imaging of the hypothalamic-pituitary region, functional tests such as water deprivation or stimulation of copeptin by hyperosmolarity (induced by infusion of hypertonic saline) can be proposed in order to distinguish between these different etiologies. The treatment of diabetes insipidus depends on the underlying etiology, and in the case of a central etiology, is based on the administration of desmopressin which improves patient symptoms but does not always result in an optimal quality of life. The cause of this altered quality of life may be oxytocin deficiency, oxytocin being also secreted from the neurohypophysis, though this has not been fully established. The possibility of a new test using stimulation of oxytocin to identify alterations in oxytocin synthesis is of interest and would allow confirmation of a deficiency in those patients presenting with diabetes insipidus linked to neurohypophyseal dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Chasseloup
- Service d’endocrinologie et des maladies de la reproduction, centre de référence des maladies rares de l’hypophyse, université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, physiologie et physiopathologie endocriniennes, APâ€"HP, hÃ́pital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Service d’endocrinologie, diabÃ̈te et nutrition, hÃ́pital Haut Lévêque, centre hospitalier universitaire de Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Philippe Chanson
- Service d’endocrinologie et des maladies de la reproduction, centre de référence des maladies rares de l’hypophyse, université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, physiologie et physiopathologie endocriniennes, APâ€"HP, hÃ́pital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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Haaf R, Brandi ML, Albantakis L, Lahnakoski JM, Henco L, Schilbach L. Peripheral oxytocin levels are linked to hypothalamic gray matter volume in autistic adults: a cross-sectional secondary data analysis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1380. [PMID: 38228703 PMCID: PMC10791615 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is known to modulate social behavior and cognition and has been discussed as pathophysiological and therapeutic factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). An accumulating body of evidence indicates the hypothalamus to be of particular importance with regard to the underlying neurobiology. Here we used a region of interest voxel-based morphometry (VBM) approach to investigate hypothalamic gray matter volume (GMV) in autistic (n = 29, age 36.03 ± 11.0) and non-autistic adults (n = 27, age 30.96 ± 11.2). Peripheral plasma OXT levels and the autism spectrum quotient (AQ) were used for correlation analyses. Results showed no differences in hypothalamic GMV in autistic compared to non-autistic adults but suggested a differential association between hypothalamic GMV and OXT levels, such that a positive association was found for the ASD group. In addition, hypothalamic GMV showed a positive association with autistic traits in the ASD group. Bearing in mind the limitations such as a relatively small sample size, a wide age range and a high rate of psychopharmacological treatment in the ASD sample, these results provide new preliminary evidence for a potentially important role of the HTH in ASD and its relationship to the OXT system, but also point towards the importance of interindividual differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Haaf
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany.
- Graduate School, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Marie-Luise Brandi
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Albantakis
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Outpatient and Day Clinic for Disorders of Social Interaction, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Juha M Lahnakoski
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Neurosciences and Medicine, Brain and Behaviour (INM-7), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lara Henco
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Leonhard Schilbach
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Outpatient and Day Clinic for Disorders of Social Interaction, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Munich, Germany
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Roth CL, Zenno A. Treatment of hypothalamic obesity in people with hypothalamic injury: new drugs are on the horizon. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1256514. [PMID: 37780616 PMCID: PMC10533996 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1256514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic obesity (HO) is a complex and rare disorder affecting multiple regulatory pathways of energy intake and expenditure in the brain as well as the regulation of the autonomic nervous system and peripheral hormonal signaling. It can be related to monogenic obesity syndromes which often affect the central leptin-melanocortin pathways or due to injury of the hypothalamus from pituitary and hypothalamic tumors, such as craniopharyngioma, surgery, trauma, or radiation to the hypothalamus. Traditional treatments of obesity, such as lifestyle intervention and specific diets, are still a therapeutic cornerstone, but often fail to result in meaningful and sustained reduction of body mass index. This review will give an update on pharmacotherapies of HO related to hypothalamic injury. Recent obesity drug developments are promising for successful obesity intervention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian L. Roth
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Anna Zenno
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Balestrino R, Losa M, Albano L, Barzaghi LR, Mortini P. Intranasal oxytocin as a treatment for obesity: safety and efficacy. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:295-306. [PMID: 37232186 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2216794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Known for its effect on labor and lactation and on emotional and social functions, oxytocin has recently emerged as a key modulator of feeding behavior and indeed suggested as a potential treatment for obesity. The potential positive effect of oxytocin on both metabolic and psychological-behavioral complications of hypothalamic lesions makes it a promising tool in the management of these conditions. AREAS COVERED The aim of the present review article is to provide an overview of the mechanism of action and clinical experience of the use of oxytocin in different forms of obesity. EXPERT OPINION Current evidence suggests a potential role of oxytocin in the treatment of obesity with different causes. Several challenges remain: an improved understanding of the physiological regulation, mechanisms of action of oxytocin, and interplay with other endocrine axes is fundamental to clarify its role. Further clinical trials are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of oxytocin for the treatment of different forms of obesity. Understanding the mechanism(s) of action of oxytocin on body weight regulation might also improve our understanding of obesity and reveal possible new therapeutic targets - as well as promoting advances in other fields in which oxytocin might be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Balestrino
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Losa
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Luigi Albano
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Lina R Barzaghi
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Pietro Mortini
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
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Atila C, Holze F, Murugesu R, Rommers N, Hutter N, Varghese N, Sailer CO, Eckert A, Heinrichs M, Liechti ME, Christ-Crain M. Oxytocin in response to MDMA provocation test in patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus): a single-centre, case-control study with nested, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2023; 11:454-464. [PMID: 37192642 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(23)00120-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disruptions of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis can cause an arginine vasopressin deficiency, also known as central diabetes insipidus. Patients with this condition are at high risk of additional oxytocin deficiency owing to the close anatomical proximity of oxytocin-producing neurons; however, no conclusive evidence for such a deficiency has been reported. We aimed to use 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, also known as ecstasy), a strong activator of the central oxytocinergic system, as a biochemical and psychoactive provocation test to investigate oxytocin deficiency in patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus). METHODS This single-centre, case-control study with nested, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial included patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus) and healthy controls (matched 1:1 by age, sex, and BMI) and was conducted at the University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland. We used block randomisation to assign participants to receive either a single oral dose of MDMA (100 mg) or placebo in the first experimental session; patients received the opposite treatment at the next session, with a wash-out period of at least 2 weeks between the two sessions. Participants and investigators assessing the outcomes were masked to assignment. Oxytocin concentrations were measured at 0, 90, 120, 150, 180, and 300 min after MDMA or placebo. The primary outcome was the area under the plasma oxytocin concentration curve (AUC) after drug intake. The AUC was compared between groups and conditions using a linear mixed-effects model. Subjective drug effects were assessed throughout the study using ten-point visual analogue scales. Acute adverse effects were assessed before and 360 min after drug intake using a 66-item list of complaints. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04648137. FINDINGS Between Feb 1, 2021, and May 1, 2022, we recruited 15 patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus) and 15 healthy controls. All participants completed the study and were included in the analyses. In healthy controls, median plasma oxytocin concentration was 77 pg/mL (IQR 59-94) at baseline and increased by 659 pg/mL (355-914) in response to MDMA, resulting in an AUC of 102 095 pg/mL (41 782-129 565); in patients, baseline oxytocin concentration was 60 pg/mL (51-74) and only slightly increased by 66 pg/mL (16-94) in response to MDMA, resulting in an AUC of 6446 pg/mL (1291-11 577). The effect of MDMA on oxytocin was significantly different between groups: the AUC for oxytocin was 82% (95% CI 70-186) higher in healthy controls than in patients (difference 85 678 pg/mL [95% CI 63 356-108 000], p<0·0001). The increase in oxytocin in healthy controls was associated with typical strong subjective prosocial, empathic, and anxiolytic effects, whereas only minimal subjective effects were observed in patients, in agreement with the lack of increase in oxytocin concentrations. The most frequently reported adverse effects were fatigue (eight [53%] healthy controls and eight [53%] patients), lack of appetite (ten [67%] healthy controls and eight [53%] patients), lack of concentration (eight [53%] healthy controls and seven [47%] patients), and dry mouth (eight [53%] healthy controls and eight [53%] patients). In addition, two (13%) healthy controls and four (27%) patients developed transient mild hypokalaemia. INTERPRETATION These findings are highly suggestive of clinically meaningful oxytocin deficiency in patients with arginine vasopressin deficiency (central diabetes insipidus), laying the groundwork for a new hypothalamic-pituitary disease entity. FUNDING Swiss National Science Foundation, Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences, and the G&J Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Atila
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Friederike Holze
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rakithan Murugesu
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nikki Rommers
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nina Hutter
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nimmy Varghese
- Psychiatric University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Transfaculty Research Platform Molecular and Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Clara O Sailer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anne Eckert
- Psychiatric University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Transfaculty Research Platform Molecular and Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus Heinrichs
- Department of Psychology, Laboratory for Biological Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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11
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Apps JR, Muller HL, Hankinson TC, Yock TI, Martinez-Barbera JP. Contemporary Biological Insights and Clinical Management of Craniopharyngioma. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:518-538. [PMID: 36574377 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) are clinically aggressive tumors because of their invasive behavior and recalcitrant tendency to recur after therapy. There are 2 types based on their distinct histology and molecular features: the papillary craniopharyngioma (PCP), which is associated with BRAF-V600E mutations and the adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP), characterized by mutations in CTNNB1 (encoding β-catenin). Patients with craniopharyngioma show symptoms linked to the location of the tumor close to the optic pathways, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland, such as increased intracranial pressure, endocrine deficiencies, and visual defects. Treatment is not specific and mostly noncurative, and frequently includes surgery, which may achieve gross total or partial resection, followed by radiotherapy. In cystic tumors, frequent drainage is often required and intracystic instillation of drugs has been used to help manage cyst refilling. More recently targeted therapies have been used, particularly in PCP, but also now in ACP and clinical trials are underway or in development. Although patient survival is high, the consequences of the tumor and its treatment can lead to severe comorbidities resulting in poor quality of life, in particular for those patients who bear tumors with hypothalamic involvement. Accordingly, in these patients at risk for the development of a hypothalamic syndrome, hypothalamus-sparing treatment strategies such as limited resection followed by irradiation are recommended. In this review, we provide an update on various aspects of CP, with emphasis on recent advances in the understanding of tumor pathogenesis, clinical consequences, management, and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Richard Apps
- Institute of Cancer and Genomics Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, Birth Defects Research Centre, GOS Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Oncology Department, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B4 6NH, UK
| | - Hermann Lothar Muller
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Carl von Ossietzky University, Klinikum Oldenburg AöR, 26133 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Todd Cameron Hankinson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Program, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Torunn Ingrid Yock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Juan Pedro Martinez-Barbera
- Developmental Biology and Cancer, Birth Defects Research Centre, GOS Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
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12
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Wang C, Zhang H, Fan J, Li Q, Guo R, Pan J, Liu Y, Peng J, Zhu Q, Feng Y, Wu C, Luo P, Qiu X, Shi J, Deng Y, Qi S, Liu Y. Inhibition of integrated stress response protects against lipid-induced senescence in hypothalamic neural stem cells in adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma. Neuro Oncol 2023; 25:720-732. [PMID: 36454228 PMCID: PMC10076952 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) is a benign tumor with malignant clinical manifestations. ACP adjacent to the hypothalamus often presents with more severe symptoms and higher incidence of hypothalamic dysfunction. However, the mechanism underlying hypothalamic dysfunction remains unclear. METHODS Immunostaining was performed to determine the nerve damage to the floor of the third ventricle (3VF) adjacent to ACP and to examine the recruitment and senescence of hypothalamic neural stem cells (htNSCs). The accumulation of lipid droplets (LDs) in htNSCs was evaluated via BODIPY staining, oil red O staining, and transmission electron microscopy. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to evaluate the effect of cystic fluid or oxidized low-density lipoprotein and that of oxytocin (OXT) on htNSC senescence and the hypothalamic function. The protein expression levels were analyzed using western blotting. RESULTS htNSCs with massive LD accumulation were recruited to the damaged 3VF adjacent to ACP. The LDs in htNSCs induced senescence and reduced neuronal differentiation; however, htNSC senescence was effectively prevented by inhibiting either CD36 or integrated stress response (ISR) signaling. Furthermore, OXT pretreatment reduced lipotoxicity via the inhibition of ISR signaling and the repair of the blood-brain barrier. CONCLUSIONS Reduced LD aggregation or ISR signaling inhibition prevented senescence in htNSCs and identified molecular pathways and potential therapeutic targets that may improve hypothalamic dysfunction in ACP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Huarong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Fan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Dietetics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Rongrong Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Yawei Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Junxiang Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianchao Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Yiwen Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengdong Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Qiu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jin Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Yingying Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Songtao Qi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
- Central Laboratory, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528300, Guangdong, China
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13
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Atila C, Loughrey PB, Garrahy A, Winzeler B, Refardt J, Gildroy P, Hamza M, Pal A, Verbalis JG, Thompson CJ, Hemkens LG, Hunter SJ, Sherlock M, Levy MJ, Karavitaki N, Newell-Price J, Wass JAH, Christ-Crain M. Central diabetes insipidus from a patient's perspective: management, psychological co-morbidities, and renaming of the condition: results from an international web-based survey. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2022; 10:700-709. [PMID: 36007536 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(22)00219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Central diabetes insipidus is a rare neuroendocrine condition. Data on treatment-associated side-effects, psychological comorbidities, and incorrect management are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate patients' perspectives on their disease. METHODS This study used a cross-sectional, web-based, anonymous survey, developed by endocrinologists and patient representatives, to collect the opinions of patients with central diabetes insipidus on management and complications of their disease, psychological comorbidities, degree of knowledge and awareness of the condition among health-care professionals, and renaming the disease to avoid confusion with diabetes mellitus (diabetes). FINDINGS Between Aug 23, 2021, and Feb 7, 2022, 1034 patients with central diabetes insipidus participated in the survey. 91 (9%) participants were children and adolescents (37 [41%] girls and 54 [59%] boys; median age 10 years [IQR 6-15]) and 943 (91%) were adults (757 [80%] women and 186 [20%] men]; median age 44 years [34-54]). 488 (47%) participants had isolated posterior pituitary dysfunction and 546 (53%) had combined anterior and posterior pituitary dysfunction. Main aetiologies were idiopathic (315 [30%] of 1034 participants) and tumours and cysts (pre-surgical 217 [21%]; post-surgical 254 [25%]). 260 (26%; 95% CI [0·23-0·29]) of 994 patients on desmopressin therapy had hyponatraemia leading to hospitalisation. Patients who routinely omitted or delayed desmopressin to allow intermittent aquaresis had a significantly lower prevalence of hyponatraemia compared with those not aware of this approach (odds ratio 0·55 [95% CI 0·39-0·77]; p=0·0006). Of patients who had to be hospitalised for any medical reason, 71 (13%; 95% CI 0·10-0·16) of 535 patients did not receive desmopressin while in a fasting state (nil by mouth) without intravenous fluid replacement and reported symptoms of dehydration. 660 (64%; 0·61-0·67) participants reported lower quality of life, and 369 (36%; 0·33-0·39) had psychological changes subjectively associated with their central diabetes insipidus. 823 (80%; 0·77-0·82) participants encountered a situation where central diabetes insipidus was confused with diabetes mellitus (diabetes) by health-care professionals. 884 (85%; 0·83-0·88) participants supported renaming the disease; the most favoured alternative names were vasopressin deficiency and arginine vasopressin deficiency. INTERPRETATION This is the largest survey of patients with central diabetes insipidus, reporting a high prevalence of treatment-associated side-effects, mismanagement during hospitalisation, psychological comorbidities, and a clear support for renaming the disease. Our data are the first to indicate the value of routinely omitting or delaying desmopressin. FUNDING Swiss National Science Foundation, Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences, and G&J Bangerter-Rhyner-Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Atila
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Paul Benjamin Loughrey
- Regional Centre for Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, UK; Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, UK
| | - Aoife Garrahy
- Department of Endocrinology, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Bettina Winzeler
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julie Refardt
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Malak Hamza
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Aparna Pal
- Department of Endocrinology, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Christopher J Thompson
- Department of Endocrinology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland; Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lars G Hemkens
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Meta-Research Innovation Center at Stanford, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Meta-Research Innovation Center Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steven J Hunter
- Regional Centre for Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | - Mark Sherlock
- Department of Endocrinology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland; Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Miles J Levy
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Niki Karavitaki
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK; University Hospitals Birmingham, NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - John Newell-Price
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - John A H Wass
- Department of Endocrinology, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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14
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Clarke L, Zyga O, Pineo-Cavanaugh PL, Jeng M, Fischbein NJ, Partap S, Katznelson L, Parker KJ. Socio-behavioral dysfunction in disorders of hypothalamic-pituitary involvement: The potential role of disease-induced oxytocin and vasopressin signaling deficits. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 140:104770. [PMID: 35803395 PMCID: PMC10999113 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Disorders involving hypothalamic and pituitary (HPIT) structures-including craniopharyngioma, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, and intracranial germ cell tumors-can disrupt brain and endocrine function. An area of emerging clinical concern in patients with these disorders is the co-occurring socio-behavioral dysfunction that persists after standard hormone replacement therapy. Although the two neuropeptides most implicated in mammalian social functioning (oxytocin and arginine vasopressin) are of hypothalamic origin, little is known about how disease-induced damage to HPIT structures may disrupt neuropeptide signaling and, in turn, impact patients' socio-behavioral functioning. Here we provide a clinical primer on disorders of HPIT involvement and a review of neuropeptide signaling and socio-behavioral functioning in relevant animal models and patient populations. This collective evidence suggests that neuropeptide signaling disruptions contribute to socio-behavioral deficits experienced by patients with disorders of HPIT involvement. A better understanding of the biological underpinnings of patients' socio-behavioral symptoms is now needed to enable the development of the first targeted pharmacological strategies by which to manage patients' socio-behavioral dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Clarke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 1201 Welch Road, MSLS P-104, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Olena Zyga
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 1201 Welch Road, MSLS P-104, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Psalm L Pineo-Cavanaugh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 1201 Welch Road, MSLS P-104, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael Jeng
- Department of Pediatrics (Hematology/Oncology Division), Stanford University, 1000 Welch Road, Suite 300, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Nancy J Fischbein
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, 450 Quarry Rd, Suite 5659, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Sonia Partap
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Child Neurology Division), Stanford University, 750 Welch Road, Suite 317, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Laurence Katznelson
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Medicine (Endocrinology Division), Stanford University, 875 Blake Wilbur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karen J Parker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 1201 Welch Road, MSLS P-104, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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15
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Kupcova I, Danisovic L, Grgac I, Harsanyi S. Anxiety and Depression: What Do We Know of Neuropeptides? Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12080262. [PMID: 36004833 PMCID: PMC9405013 DOI: 10.3390/bs12080262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In modern society, there has been a rising trend of depression and anxiety. This trend heavily impacts the population’s mental health and thus contributes significantly to morbidity and, in the worst case, to suicides. Modern medicine, with many antidepressants and anxiolytics at hand, is still unable to achieve remission in many patients. The pathophysiology of depression and anxiety is still only marginally understood, which encouraged researchers to focus on neuropeptides, as they are a vast group of signaling molecules in the nervous system. Neuropeptides are involved in the regulation of many physiological functions. Some act as neuromodulators and are often co-released with neurotransmitters that allow for reciprocal communication between the brain and the body. Most studied in the past were the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of oxytocin, vasopressin or neuropeptide Y and S, or Substance P. However, in recent years, more and more novel neuropeptides have been added to the list, with implications for the research and development of new targets, diagnostic elements, and even therapies to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. In this review, we take a close look at all currently studied neuropeptides, their related pathways, their roles in stress adaptation, and the etiology of anxiety and depression in humans and animal models. We will focus on the latest research and information regarding these associated neuropeptides and thus picture their potential uses in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Kupcova
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinkova 4, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (I.K.); (L.D.)
| | - Lubos Danisovic
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinkova 4, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (I.K.); (L.D.)
| | - Ivan Grgac
- Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinkova 4, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Stefan Harsanyi
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinkova 4, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (I.K.); (L.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +421-2-59357-299
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16
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Possible oxytocin-related biomarkers in anxiety and mood disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 116:110531. [PMID: 35150782 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and mood disorders are prevalent, disabling, and frequently difficult to treat. Such disorders are often comorbid and share similar characteristics. For more accurate diagnosis and improved treatment, a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of anxiety and mood disorders is important. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus, affects human psychology and behaviors such as social and affiliative behaviors, fear and emotion processing, and stress regulation. Thus, oxytocin is believed to exert anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. This review article provides an overview of clinical studies on relationships between the oxytocin system and anxiety and mood disorders, focusing on oxytocin-related biomarker findings. Biomarkers used in such studies include central and peripheral oxytocin levels, analysis of oxytocin-related genes, and expression levels of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor genes in postmortem brains. Although a growing number of studies support the presence of oxytocinergic effects on anxiety and mood disorders, study results are heterogeneous and inconclusive. Moderating factors such as the characteristics of study populations, including sex, age, context, early life adversity, and attachment styles in patient cohorts, might affect the heterogeneity of the study results. Limitations in existing research such as small sample sizes, large dependence on peripheral sources of oxytocin, and inconsistent results between immunoassay methods complicate the interpretation of existing findings.
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17
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Müller HL, Tauber M, Lawson EA, Özyurt J, Bison B, Martinez-Barbera JP, Puget S, Merchant TE, van Santen HM. Hypothalamic syndrome. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2022; 8:24. [PMID: 35449162 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-022-00351-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic syndrome (HS) is a rare disorder caused by disease-related and/or treatment-related injury to the hypothalamus, most commonly associated with rare, non-cancerous parasellar masses, such as craniopharyngiomas, germ cell tumours, gliomas, cysts of Rathke's pouch and Langerhans cell histiocytosis, as well as with genetic neurodevelopmental syndromes, such as Prader-Willi syndrome and septo-optic dysplasia. HS is characterized by intractable weight gain associated with severe morbid obesity, multiple endocrine abnormalities and memory impairment, attention deficit and reduced impulse control as well as increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Currently, there is no cure for this condition but treatments for general obesity are often used in patients with HS, including surgery, medication and counselling. However, these are mostly ineffective and no medications that are specifically approved for the treatment of HS are available. Specific challenges in HS are because the syndrome represents an adverse effect of different diseases, and that diagnostic criteria, aetiology, pathogenesis and management of HS are not completely defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann L Müller
- Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Klinikum Oldenburg AöR, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Maithé Tauber
- Centre de Référence du Syndrome de Prader-Willi et autres syndromes avec troubles du comportement alimentaire, Hôpital des Enfants, CHU-Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity) INSERM UMR1291 - CNRS UMR5051 - Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jale Özyurt
- Biological Psychology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Brigitte Bison
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Juan-Pedro Martinez-Barbera
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Puget
- Service de Neurochirurgie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Service de Neurochirurgie, Hopital Pierre Zobda Quitman, Martinique, France
| | - Thomas E Merchant
- Department of Radiation Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
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18
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Zhou Z, Zhang S, Hu F. Endocrine Disorder in Patients With Craniopharyngioma. Front Neurol 2021; 12:737743. [PMID: 34925209 PMCID: PMC8675636 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.737743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Craniopharyngioma is an intracranial congenital epithelial tumor growing along the pathway of the embryonic craniopharyngeal tube. The main clinical symptoms of patients with craniopharyngioma include high intracranial pressure, visual field defect, endocrine dysfunction, and hypothalamic dysfunction. At present, the preferred treatment remains the surgical treatment, but the recovery of endocrine and hypothalamic function following surgery is limited. In addition, endocrine disorders often emerge following surgery, which seriously reduces the quality of life of patients after operation. So far, research on craniopharyngioma focuses on ways to ameliorate endocrine dysfunction. This article reviews the latest research progress on pathogenesis, manifestation, significance, and treatment of endocrine disorders in patients with craniopharyngioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Fangqi Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital, Nanjing, China
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19
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Elfers CT, Blevins JE, Lawson EA, Pittner R, Silva D, Kiselyov A, Roth CL. Robust Reductions of Body Weight and Food Intake by an Oxytocin Analog in Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:726411. [PMID: 34646154 PMCID: PMC8502973 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.726411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Oxytocin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that participates in the network of appetite regulation. Recently the oxytocin signaling pathway has emerged as an attractive target for treating obesity. However, the short half-life limits its development as a clinical therapeutic. Here we provide results from testing a long-lasting, potent and selective oxytocin analog ASK1476 on its efficacy to reduce food intake and body weight in comparison to the native oxytocin peptide. Methods: ASK1476 features two specific amino acid substitutions in positions 7 and 8 combined with a short polyethylene glycol spacer. Short time dose escalation experiments testing increasing doses of 3 days each were performed in diet-induced overweight (DIO) male rats assessing effects on body weight as well as changes in food intake. Furthermore, DIO rats were tested for changes in body weight, food intake, temperature, and locomotor activity over 28 days of treatment (oxytocin, ASK1476, or vehicle). Results: In dose escalation experiments, significant reductions in food intake relative to baseline were detected beginning with doses of 15 nmol/kg ASK1476 (−15.2 ± 2.3 kcal/d, p = 0.0017) and 20 nmol/kg oxytocin (−11.2.9 ± 2.4 kcal/d, p = 0.0106) with corresponding significant changes in body weight (ASK1476: −5.2 ± 0.8 g, p = 0.0016; oxytocin: −2.6 ± 0.7 g, p = 0.0326). In long-term experiments, there was no difference on body weight change between 120 nmol/kg/d ASK1476 (−71.4 ± 34.2 g, p = 0.039) and 600 nmol/kg/d oxytocin (−91.8 ± 32.2 g, p = 0.035) relative to vehicle (706.9 ± 28.3 g), indicating a stronger dose response for ASK1476. Likewise, both ASK1476 and oxytocin at these doses resulted in similar reductions in 28-day cumulative food intake (ASK1476: −562.7 ± 115.0 kcal, p = 0.0001; oxytocin: −557.1 ± 101.3 kcal, p = 0.0001) relative to vehicle treatment (2716 ± 75.4 kcal), while no effects were detected on locomotor activity or body temperature. Conclusion: This study provides proof-of-concept data demonstrating an oxytocin analog with extended in vivo stability and improved potency to reduce food intake and body weight in DIO animals which could mark a new avenue in anti-obesity drug interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clinton T Elfers
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - James E Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - David Silva
- OXT Therapeutics, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | | | - Christian L Roth
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States.,Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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20
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Kerem L, Lawson EA. The Effects of Oxytocin on Appetite Regulation, Food Intake and Metabolism in Humans. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7737. [PMID: 34299356 PMCID: PMC8306733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic peptide oxytocin and its receptor are involved in a range of physiological processes, including parturition, lactation, cell growth, wound healing, and social behavior. More recently, increasing evidence has established the effects of oxytocin on food intake, energy expenditure, and peripheral metabolism. In this review, we provide a comprehensive description of the central oxytocinergic system in which oxytocin acts to shape eating behavior and metabolism. Next, we discuss the peripheral beneficial effects oxytocin exerts on key metabolic organs, including suppression of visceral adipose tissue inflammation, skeletal muscle regeneration, and bone tissue mineralization. A brief summary of oxytocin actions learned from animal models is presented, showing that weight loss induced by chronic oxytocin treatment is related not only to its anorexigenic effects, but also to the resulting increase in energy expenditure and lipolysis. Following an in-depth discussion on the technical challenges related to endogenous oxytocin measurements in humans, we synthesize data related to the association between endogenous oxytocin levels, weight status, metabolic syndrome, and bone health. We then review clinical trials showing that in humans, acute oxytocin administration reduces food intake, attenuates fMRI activation of food motivation brain areas, and increases activation of self-control brain regions. Further strengthening the role of oxytocin in appetite regulation, we review conditions of hypothalamic insult and certain genetic pathologies associated with oxytocin depletion that present with hyperphagia, extreme weight gain, and poor metabolic profile. Intranasal oxytocin is currently being evaluated in human clinical trials to learn whether oxytocin-based therapeutics can be used to treat obesity and its associated sequela. At the end of this review, we address the fundamental challenges that remain in translating this line of research to clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Kerem
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
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21
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Associations between oxytocin and empathy in humans: A systematic literature review. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 129:105268. [PMID: 34023733 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This is a systematic review about the association between empathic behavior and oxytocin (OXT). Searches were conducted in the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, SciELO, and LILACS using the search terms "oxytocin", "empathy", and "empathic". Forty-four studies were reviewed. Scarce findings point to a lack of association between baseline endogenous OXT levels and empathy traits, and for a trend towards a direct relationship between oxytocinergic reactivity and empathic functioning. The results showed that variations in empathy were related to polymorphisms in the OXT receptor gene, especially in rs53576, and that this relationship seems to mediated by individual, ethnic, and cultural characteristics. Most studies on the exogenous administration of OXT tested a single dose (24 IU) with positive effects mainly on the affective domain of empathy. At the neural level, findings were inconsistent. Taken together, the results of the studies reviewed support the existence of a relationship between OXT and empathy that is complex and multifaceted. Robust evidence is still needed to elucidate existing links. Future investigations could benefit from methodological improvements aimed at increasing the reproducibility and applicability of findings, as well as the systematic assessment of the effects of exogenous OXT considering dose and frequency of administration, genotyping, and hormonal availability at the peripheral and central levels. This should lead to significant progress in the understanding of the therapeutic possibilities of OXT in the domain of empathic behavior.
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22
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Xie S, Hu Y, Fang L, Chen S, Botchway BOA, Tan X, Fang M, Hu Z. The association of oxytocin with major depressive disorder: role of confounding effects of antidepressants. Rev Neurosci 2021; 33:59-77. [PMID: 33989469 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2020-0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a genetic susceptible disease, and a psychiatric syndrome with a high rate of incidence and recurrence. Because of its complexity concerning etiology and pathogenesis, the cure rate of first-line antidepressants is low. In recent years, accumulative evidences revealed that oxytocin act as a physiological or pathological participant in a variety of complex neuropsychological activities, including major depressive disorder. Six electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, CNKI, and Wanfang) were employed for researching relevant publications. At last, 226 articles were extracted. The current review addresses the correlation of the oxytocin system and major depressive disorder. Besides, we summarize the mechanisms by which the oxytocin system exerts potential antidepressant effects, including regulating neuronal activity, influencing neuroplasticity and regeneration, altering neurotransmitter release, down regulating hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, and genetic effects. Increasing evidence shows that oxytocin and its receptor gene may play a potential role in major depressive disorder. Future research should focus on the predictive ability of the oxytocin system as a biomarker, as well as its role in targeted prevention and early intervention of major depressive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Xie
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Integrated Chinese and West Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 208 Huanchendong Road, 310003Hangzhou, China.,Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Fang
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Integrated Chinese and West Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 208 Huanchendong Road, 310003Hangzhou, China
| | - Shijia Chen
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058Hangzhou, China
| | - Benson O A Botchway
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoning Tan
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058Hangzhou, China
| | - Marong Fang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiying Hu
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Integrated Chinese and West Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 208 Huanchendong Road, 310003Hangzhou, China
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23
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Albantakis L, Brandi ML, Brückl T, Gebert D, Auer M, Kopczak A, Stalla G, Neumann I, Schilbach L. Oxytocin and cortisol concentrations in adults with and without autism spectrum disorder in response to physical exercise. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 5:100027. [PMID: 35754449 PMCID: PMC9216704 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, whose core symptoms consist of deficits in social interaction and communication as well as restricted and repetitive behavior. Brain oxytocin (OXT) has been associated with various prosocial behaviors, and might, therefore, be involved in the pathogenesis of disorders associated with socio-emotional dysfunctions such as ASD. However, significant associations between central and peripheral OXT levels may only be present in response to physiological or stressful stimuli but were not shown under baseline conditions. In this study, we, therefore, investigated salivary and plasma OXT in response to physical exercise in adults with ASD (n = 33, mean age: 36.8 ± 10.7 years) without intellectual impairment (IQ > 70) and neurotypical controls (n = 31, mean age: 31.0 ± 11.7 years). To stimulate the OXT system, we used rapid cycling and measured cortisol (CORT) concentrations to monitor the physiological stress response. When controlling for age, neither salivary OXT (p = .469), plasma OXT (p = .297) nor CORT (p = .667) concentrations significantly differed between groups at baseline. In addition, neither OXT nor CORT concentrations significantly differed between groups after physical exercise. Social anxiety traits were negatively correlated with plasma, but not saliva OXT concentrations in neurotypicals at baseline, while empathetic traits were positively correlated with saliva, but not plasma concentrations in autistic patients at baseline. No significant correlations between salivary and plasma OXT concentrations were found at any time point. Future studies including adult participants should investigate the effect of age on CORT and OXT concentrations in response to stress. Basal levels of cortisol and oxytocin did not differ in adults with ASD from controls. After physical exercise plasma oxytocin increased in ASD with low cortisol-response. Cortisol and oxytocin levels post-task did not significantly differ between groups. Social phobic traits predicted lower plasma oxytocin concentrations in controls. Empathetic traits predicted higher salivary oxytocin levels in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Albantakis
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry – Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany
- Corresponding author. Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany.
| | - M.-L. Brandi
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry – Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany
| | - T. Brückl
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry – Translational Research in Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany
| | - D. Gebert
- Neurological Specialty Hospital for Movement Disorders/Parkinson’s Disease, Straße Nach Fichtenwalde 16, 14547, Beelitz, Germany
| | - M.K. Auer
- Medizinische Klinik and Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - A. Kopczak
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - G.K. Stalla
- Medizinische Klinik and Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336, Munich, Germany
- Medicover Neuroendokrinologie, Orleansplatz 3, 81667, Munich, Germany
| | - I.D. Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - L. Schilbach
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry – Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, Munich, Germany
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, LMU Munich, Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg, Germany
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24
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Abstract
The hypothalamic peptide oxytocin has been increasingly recognized as a hormone and neurotransmitter with important effects on energy intake, metabolism, and body weight and is under investigation as a potential novel therapeutic agent for obesity. The main neurons producing oxytocin and expressing the oxytocin receptor are strategically located in brain areas known to be critically involved in homeostatic energy balance as well as hedonic and motivational aspects of eating behavior. In this chapter, we will review the central and peripheral physiology of oxytocin and the interaction of oxytocin with key hormones and neural circuitries that affect food intake and metabolism. Next, we will synthesize the available data on endogenous oxytocin levels related to caloric intake, body weight, and metabolic status. We will then review the effects of exogenous oxytocin administration on eating behavior, body weight, and metabolism in humans, including in healthy individuals as well as specific populations with suspected perturbations involving oxytocin pathways. Finally, we will address the promise and fundamental challenges of translating this line of research to clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Kerem
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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25
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Abstract
Adipsic diabetes insipidus (ADI) is a rare but devastating disorder of water balance with significant associated morbidity and mortality. Most patients develop the disease as a result of hypothalamic destruction from a variety of underlying etiologies. Damage to osmolar-responsive neuroreceptors, primarily within the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei, results in impaired production and release of arginine vasopressin (AVP). Important regulating circuits of thirst sense and drive are regionally colocalized with AVP centers and therefore are also injured. Patients with central diabetes insipidus with impaired thirst response, defined as ADI, suffer from wide swings of plasma osmolality resulting in repeated hospitalization, numerous associated comorbidities, and significant mortality. Treatment recommendations are based largely on expert advice from case series owing to the rarity of disease prevalence. Acute disease management focuses on fixed dosing of antidiuretic hormone analogues and calculated prescriptions of obligate daily water intake. Long-term care requires patient/family education, frequent reassessment of clinical and biochemical parameters, as well as screening and treatment of comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vallari Kothari
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Zulma Cardona
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Yuval Eisenberg
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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26
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Brandi ML, Gebert D, Kopczak A, Auer MK, Schilbach L. Oxytocin release deficit and social cognition in craniopharyngioma patients. J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12842. [PMID: 32294805 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide known to affect social behaviour and cognition. Craniopharyngioma patients are considered to have an oxytocin-release-deficit caused by a rare tumour affecting the pituitary and/or the hypothalamus relevant for oxytocin production and release. To assess social behaviour and socio-cognitive abilities in this patient group, we tested 13 patients and 23 healthy controls on self-report questionnaires and an eye-tracking paradigm including fast facial emotion recognition. Additionally, saliva oxytocin levels acquired before and after a physical stress induction were available from a previous study, representing the reactivity of the oxytocin system. The data revealed three major results. First, patients with an oxytocin-release-deficit scored higher on self-reported autistic traits and reduced levels of hedonia for social encounters, although they showed no impairments in attributing mental states. Second, patients showed more difficulties in the fast emotion recognition task. Third, although automatic gaze behaviour during emotion recognition did not differ between groups, gaze behaviour was related to the reactivity of the oxytocin system across all participants. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the importance of investigating the reactivity of the oxytocin system and its relationship with social cognition. Our findings suggest that reduced emotional processing abilities may represent a pathological feature in a group of craniopharyngioma patients, indicating that this patient group might benefit from specific treatments within the social domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Luise Brandi
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Dorothea Gebert
- Research Group Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Kopczak
- Research Group Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias K Auer
- Medizinische Klinik and Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Munich, Germany
| | - Leonhard Schilbach
- Independent Max Planck Research Group for Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
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27
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McCormack SE, Blevins JE, Lawson EA. Metabolic Effects of Oxytocin. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5658523. [PMID: 31803919 PMCID: PMC7012298 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnz012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that oxytocin (OXT), a hypothalamic hormone well recognized for its effects in inducing parturition and lactation, has important metabolic effects in both sexes. The purpose of this review is to summarize the physiologic effects of OXT on metabolism and to explore its therapeutic potential for metabolic disorders. In model systems, OXT promotes weight loss by decreasing energy intake. Pair-feeding studies suggest that OXT-induced weight loss may also be partly due to increased energy expenditure and/or lipolysis. In humans, OXT appears to modulate both homeostatic and reward-driven food intake, although the observed response depends on nutrient milieu (eg, obese vs. nonobese), clinical characteristics (eg, sex), and experimental paradigm. In animal models, OXT is anabolic to muscle and bone, which is consistent with OXT-induced weight loss occurring primarily via fat loss. In some human observational studies, circulating OXT concentrations are also positively associated with lean mass and bone mineral density. The impact of exogenous OXT on human obesity is the focus of ongoing investigation. Future randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials in humans should include rigorous, standardized, and detailed assessments of adherence, adverse effects, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and efficacy in the diverse populations that may benefit from OXT, in particular those in whom hypothalamic OXT signaling may be abnormal or impaired (eg, individuals with Sim1 deficiency, Prader-Willi syndrome, or craniopharyngioma). Future studies will also have the opportunity to investigate the characteristics of new OXT mimetic peptides and the obligation to consider long-term effects, especially when OXT is given to children and adolescents. (Endocrine Reviews XX: XX - XX, 2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana E McCormack
- Neuroendocrine Center, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James E Blevins
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, Washington.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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28
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Kagerbauer SM, Martin J, Ulm B, Jungwirth B, Podtschaske AH. Influence of perioperative stress on central and peripheral oxytocin and arginine-vasopressin concentrations. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12797. [PMID: 31538678 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Perioperative stress provides not only physical, but also psychic and emotional aspects, which may influence the hypothalamic neuropeptide system. Studies investigating the perioperative course of central neuropeptide activity are missing. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine perioperative fluctuations in central and concomitant peripheral concentrations of the hypothalamic neuropeptides oxytocin (OXT) and arginine-vasopressin (AVP), as well as their impact on perioperative anxiety and depression. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood and saliva were collected from 12 patients who underwent elective endovascular aortic repair with a routinely inserted spinal catheter. AVP and OXT concentrations were analysed at four timepoints: (i) the evening before the operation; (ii) the operation day immediately before anaesthesia induction; (iii) intraoperatively after the stent was placed; and (iv) on day 1 after the operation. Patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at timepoints 1 and 4. For CSF OXT, the present study showed a significant intraoperative decline, accompanied by a decrease in saliva. OXT blood concentrations before anaesthesia induction were higher than at the evening before the operation. OXT concentrations in CSF and saliva correlated well at timepoints 2-4. AVP concentrations in CSF, blood and saliva did not show any significant changes perioperatively. However, postoperative AVP blood concentrations showed a significant negative correlation with anxiety and depression scores according to the HADS. This pilot study demonstrates perioperative fluctuations in central OXT concentrations, which are better reflected by saliva than by blood. Further studies are required to determine whether OXT and AVP can predict postoperative post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Maria Kagerbauer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan Martin
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Ulm
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina Jungwirth
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Armin Horst Podtschaske
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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29
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Rassovsky Y, Harwood A, Zagoory-Sharon O, Feldman R. Martial arts increase oxytocin production. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12980. [PMID: 31506582 PMCID: PMC6736948 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49620-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that oxytocin (OT), a peptide hormone, plays an important role in regulating mammalian social behaviors, linking it to social affiliation in parent-infant attachment, romantic and filial relationships, and other prosocial behaviors, such as trust and cooperation. Not surprisingly, research efforts have been made to increase endogenous levels of OT. In the present study, we investigated whether traditional martial arts training, which integrates the natural benefits of physical exercise with dyadic prosocial interaction, would result in OT response. To this end, 68 beginner and advanced participants were recruited from several schools practicing Jujitsu ("soft art"), a form of traditional martial arts originating in Japan. Salivary OT levels were assessed at baseline, immediately following high-intensity training, and following a cool-down period. Analyses revealed a significant increase in OT immediately after a high-intensity training, returning to baseline levels following a cool-down period. Additionally, although no significant difference between beginner and advanced martial artists was found, a significantly higher increase in salivary OT followed ground grappling, as compared to "punch-kick" sparring, indicating an added benefit of close contact tactile interaction. These results suggest that the reportedly socially beneficial effects of traditional martial arts may be in part mediated by OT release and underscore the potentially therapeutic applications of these methods for disorders involving social dysfunction, such as autism, conduct problems, or schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Rassovsky
- Department of Psychology and Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel. .,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Anna Harwood
- Department of Psychology and Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Orna Zagoory-Sharon
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel
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Aulinas A, Plessow F, Asanza E, Silva L, Marengi DA, Fan W, Abedi P, Verbalis J, Tritos NA, Nachtigall L, Faje AT, Miller KK, Lawson EA. Low Plasma Oxytocin Levels and Increased Psychopathology in Hypopituitary Men With Diabetes Insipidus. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:3181-3191. [PMID: 30882859 PMCID: PMC6570634 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-02608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin share anatomical pathways of synthesis and secretion, and patients with central diabetes insipidus (CDI) presumably are at risk for OT deficiency. However, an OT-deficient state in hypopituitary patients has not been established. OBJECTIVES We hypothesized that men with CDI compared to patients with similar anterior pituitary deficiencies (APD) but no CDI and healthy controls (HC) of similar age and body mass index, would have lower plasma OT levels, associated with increased psychopathology. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING Clinical research center. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-two men (20 CDI, 20 APD, 22 HC), age 18 to 60 years. INTERVENTIONS Frequent sampling of blood every 5 minutes for OT over 1 hour and validated questionnaires to assess psychopathology. MAIN OUTCOMES Pooled plasma OT levels; depressive, anxiety, and alexithymia symptoms; and quality of life. RESULTS The mean 1-hour pool of fasting OT levels was lower in CDI compared with APD and HC (P = 0.02 and P = 0.009, respectively), with no differences between APD and HC (P = 0.78). Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and alexithymia were more pronounced in CDI than in HC (P = 0.001, P = 0.004, and P = 0.02, respectively). Although CDI and APD reported worse physical health compared with HC (P = 0.001 and P = 0.005) with no differences between APD and CDI, only CDI reported worse mental health compared with HC (P = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated low plasma OT levels and increased psychopathology in hypopituitary men with CDI, suggestive of a possible OT-deficient state. Larger studies of both sexes are required to confirm these findings and clinically characterize hypopituitary patients with OT deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Aulinas
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Franziska Plessow
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elisa Asanza
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lisseth Silva
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dean A Marengi
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - WuQiang Fan
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Parisa Abedi
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joseph Verbalis
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lisa Nachtigall
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alexander T Faje
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Karen K Miller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Elizabeth A. Lawson, MD, MMSc, Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114. E-mail:
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Fuss J, Claro L, Ising M, Biedermann SV, Wiedemann K, Stalla GK, Briken P, Auer MK. Does sex hormone treatment reverse the sex-dependent stress regulation? A longitudinal study on hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity in transgender individuals. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 104:228-237. [PMID: 30897530 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies in mammals indicate a role for sex hormones in the regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-axis reactivity. However, in humans, experimental paradigms investigating long-term exposure to sex hormones are sparse, limiting the understanding of the influence of sex hormones on HPA-axis activity. Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transgender persons enables to study the physiological role of sex steroids partially uncoupled from the distinct genetic background of men and women. METHODS Ten transwomen (male genotype and female gender identity) and 15 transmen (female genotype and male gender identity) were investigated at baseline and following three months of GAHT by means of the combined dexamethasone (dex)/CRH-test. Linear mixed-effects model analysis was used to assess changes over time and to identify determinants of HPA-axis reactivity. RESULTS In response to CRH, overall ACTH (+18%) as well as cortisol (+15%) output were increased in transwomen after 3-months of estrogen and antiandrogen treatment, while the opposite was the case for transmen after testosterone treatment (-15% and -58%, respectively). The ACTH/Cortisol-ratio indicated that testosterone attenuated sensitivity for ACTH at the adrenal level in transmen. Interestingly, copeptin levels before CRH administration were a strong predictor of overall cortisol secretion. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study demonstrating long-term effects of a complete reversal of the sex-hormonal milieu on HPA-axis activity in humans. Our findings hereby expand the current knowledge of the physiology of HPA-axis regulation. and may be particularly relevant for transgender and cisgender people undergoing hormonal suppression or substitution therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Fuss
- Human Behavior Laboratory, Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Lena Claro
- Human Behavior Laboratory, Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Marcus Ising
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Sarah V Biedermann
- Human Behavior Laboratory, Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Wiedemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Günter K Stalla
- Research Group Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Peer Briken
- Human Behavior Laboratory, Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Matthias K Auer
- Research Group Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Eisenberg Y, Murad S, Casagrande A, McArthur M, Dugas LR, Barengolts E, Layden BT. Oxytocin alterations and neurocognitive domains in patients with hypopituitarism. Pituitary 2019; 22:105-112. [PMID: 30656597 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-019-00936-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Oxytocin is a hypothalamus derived, posterior pituitary stored nonapeptide which has gained recent interest as an important neuropsychiatric and metabolic hormone beyond its classic role in lactation and parturition. Hypopituitarism is a heterogenous disorder of derangement in one or more anterior or posterior pituitary hormones. Diagnosis of deficiency and hormone replacement exists to address all relevant axes except for oxytocin. Our study aims to define derangements in oxytocin in a unique population of patients with hypopituitarism and correlate levels with measures of emotional health and quality of life. METHODS A cross-sectional, single day study was completed to measure plasma oxytocin levels in a diverse population of patients with hypopituitarism compared to controls. Subjects also completed depression, quality of life and stress-related questionnaires, and emotion recognition tasks. RESULTS Thirty-eight subjects completed the study, 18 with hypopituitarism (9 with diabetes insipidus) and 20 controls. After controlling for differences in age, weight and gender, plasma oxytocin levels were highest in subjects with diabetes insipidus compared to control [mean, IQR: 44.3 pg/ml (29.8-78.2) vs. 20.6 (17-31.3), p = 0.032]. Amongst hypopituitary subjects, those with duration of disease greater than 1 year had higher oxytocin levels. No significant differences were observed for psychosocial measures including emotion recognition tasks. CONCLUSIONS Plasma oxytocin levels were found higher in patients with hypopituitarism compared to controls and highest in those with diabetes insipidus. Longer duration of hypopituitarism was also associated with higher plasma levels of oxytocin. Further study is needed to better define oxytocin deficiency and investigate response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Eisenberg
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Shatha Murad
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Alessandra Casagrande
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Mark McArthur
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Lara R Dugas
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Loyola University, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Elena Barengolts
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian T Layden
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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Bhargava R, Daughters KL, Rees A. Oxytocin therapy in hypopituitarism: Challenges and opportunities. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2019; 90:257-264. [PMID: 30506703 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Patients with hypopituitarism display impaired quality of life and excess morbidity and mortality, despite apparently optimal pituitary hormone replacement. Oxytocin is a neuropeptide synthesized in the anterior hypothalamus which plays an important role in controlling social and emotional behaviour, body weight and metabolism. Recent studies have suggested that a deficiency of oxytocin may be evident in patients with hypopituitarism and craniopharyngioma, and that this may be associated with deficits in cognitive empathy. Preliminary data hint at potential benefits of oxytocin therapy in improving these deficits and the accompanying metabolic disturbances that are common in these conditions. However, several challenges remain, including an incomplete understanding of the regulation and mechanisms of action of oxytocin, difficulties in accurately measuring oxytocin levels and in establishing a diagnosis of oxytocin deficiency, and a need to determine both the optimal mode of administration for oxytocin therapy and an acceptable safety profile with long-term use. This review considers the data linking oxytocin to the neuropsychological and metabolic disturbances evident in patients with craniopharyngioma and hypopituitarism, and describes the challenges that need to be overcome before replacement therapy can be considered as a therapeutic option in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghav Bhargava
- Schools of Medicine (RB, DAR) and Psychology (KLD), Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Katie L Daughters
- Schools of Medicine (RB, DAR) and Psychology (KLD), Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Aled Rees
- Schools of Medicine (RB, DAR) and Psychology (KLD), Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Clark A, Houlden RL. Oxytocin Deficiency and Spontaneous onset of Labor and Lactation in Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. AACE Clin Case Rep 2018. [DOI: 10.4158/accr-2018-0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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