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Conklin QA, Zanesco AP, King BG, Epel ES, Saron CD. Changes in peripheral oxytocin and vasopressin during a silent month-long Insight meditation retreat. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1345527. [PMID: 38863930 PMCID: PMC11165068 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1345527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Given its putative roles in mediating prosocial behavior, attachment bonds, and stress physiology, oxytocin modulation has been hypothesized to be a biological correlate of the salubrious effects of meditation practice. Here we investigated the effects of a month-long silent meditation retreat on changes in oxytocin, and the related hormone and vasopressin, in relation to psychosocial changes in attachment style, anxiety, personality measures, and feelings of social connectedness with fellow meditators. Methods Plasma oxytocin and vasopressin and self-report questionnaires were measured in retreat participants (n = 28) at the beginning of, and 3 weeks into, a residential meditation retreat. Control participants (n = 34), who were similar in age, gender, and meditation experience, were also assessed across a 3-week interval. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess outcomes. Results The retreat group showed a small but significant decrease in oxytocin compared to controls who showed no change. In the retreat group, higher openness to experience at Time 1 predicted greater reductions in oxytocin during the retreat, and lower oxytocin at Time 2 was related to stronger feelings of personal connection with fellow meditators. The changes in oxytocin were not related to attachment style or anxiety. Vasopressin decreased over time across both groups, suggesting no specific effect of retreat. Conclusion These preliminary findings suggest that meditation training in the context of a silent residential retreat may reduce circulating levels of oxytocin. We interpret this finding from multiple theoretical perspectives, discussing key measurement limitations and proposing future study designs that may help to differentiate the effects of different meditation practices and contexts on oxytocin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quinn A. Conklin
- Center for Health and Community, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Anthony P. Zanesco
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Brandon G. King
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Elissa S. Epel
- Center for Health and Community, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Clifford D. Saron
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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López-Arjona M, Cerón JJ, Mateo SV, Contreras-Aguilar MD, Martínez-Subiela S. Validation of two immunoassays for oxytocin measurements in human saliva. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297539. [PMID: 38635553 PMCID: PMC11025789 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this research was to develop and validate two immunoassays for oxytocin measurement in human saliva, one using a monoclonal and the other a polyclonal antibody against oxytocin, whose affinity for oxytocin was tested by an antibody mapping epitope analysis. These assays were analytically validated and used to compare oxytocin concentrations with those obtained with a commercial kit before and after the extraction or reduction/alkylation (R/A) treatments to saliva samples. The assays were also used to evaluate changes in salivary oxytocin concentrations following a physical effort and an induced psychological stress, which have previously been described as situations that cause an increase in salivary oxytocin. Both assays showed to be precise and accurate in the validation studies, and the antibodies used showed a defined binding region in case of the monoclonal antibody, whereas the polyclonal antibody showed binding events through all the oxytocin sequence. Although the monoclonal and polyclonal assays showed a positive correlation, they give results in a different range of magnitude. Both assays showed significant increases in oxytocin concentrations when applied after the physical effort and the psychological stress. This study shows that a variability in the reported values of oxytocin can occur depending on the assay and indicates that the use of different types of antibodies can give a different range of values when measuring oxytocin in saliva.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina López-Arjona
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Joaquín Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence ‘Campus Mare Nostrum’, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Sandra V. Mateo
- Molecular Inflammation Group, University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), Murcia, Spain
| | - María Dolores Contreras-Aguilar
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence ‘Campus Mare Nostrum’, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Silvia Martínez-Subiela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence ‘Campus Mare Nostrum’, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Chen Y, Sun J, Tao J, Sun T. Treatments and regulatory mechanisms of acoustic stimuli on mood disorders and neurological diseases. Front Neurosci 2024; 17:1322486. [PMID: 38249579 PMCID: PMC10796816 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1322486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Acoustic stimuli such as music or ambient noise can significantly affect physiological and psychological health in humans. We here summarize positive effects of music therapy in premature infant distress regulation, performance enhancement, sleep quality control, and treatment of mental disorders. Specifically, music therapy exhibits promising effects on treatment of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). We also highlight regulatory mechanisms by which auditory intervention affects an organism, encompassing modulation of immune responses, gene expression, neurotransmitter regulation and neural circuitry. As a safe, cost-effective and non-invasive intervention, music therapy offers substantial potential in treating a variety of neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikai Chen
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, China
| | - Julianne Sun
- Xiamen Institute of Technology Attached School, Xiamen, China
| | - Junxian Tao
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, China
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Nagasawa T, Kimura Y, Masuda K, Uchiyama H. Effects of Interactions with Cats in Domestic Environment on the Psychological and Physiological State of Their Owners: Associations among Cortisol, Oxytocin, Heart Rate Variability, and Emotions. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2116. [PMID: 37443915 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Interactions with animals, including cats, is believed to influence human health. However, studies that investigate the psychological and physiological effects of interacting with cats in their household environment are limited. In this remote study, 32 cat owners in Japan participated from June to October 2021. They completed two tasks, each on separate days in their homes: one simulating daily cat communication (Interaction condition) and another with no interactions (Rest condition). We quantified emotions (arousal level and pleasure level) before and after each condition using the Two-Dimensional Mood Scale Short-term as well as salivary cortisol and oxytocin levels of owners using enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay. Autonomic nervous activity (sympathetic and parasympathetic) was also quantified by heart rate variability analysis. The free interaction with cats decreased emotional arousal and parasympathetic activity, and lead to increased heart rates in owners. There was a positive correlation between heart rate and cortisol concentration, and between cortisol and oxytocin concentration. Furthermore, the frequency of petting the cats was negatively correlated with the rate of change in the parasympathetic activity. In contrast, the parasympathetic nerves in the owners were activated under the Rest condition. Hence, the mechanism of health-enhancing effects of cat ownership includes an arousing effect, in contrast to the previously proposed stress-reduction effect. This result can aid in future developments in cat-human relationship studies. However, a detailed study with a larger sample size is needed to draw definite conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Nagasawa
- Department of Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Yuichi Kimura
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Koji Masuda
- Department of Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Hidehiko Uchiyama
- Department of Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
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5
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Cosme G, Arriaga P, Rosa PJ, Mehta MA, Prata D. Temporal profile of intranasal oxytocin in the human autonomic nervous system at rest: An electrocardiography and pupillometry study. J Psychopharmacol 2023:2698811231158233. [PMID: 36891949 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231158233] [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] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human social behavior is modulated by oxytocin (OT). Intranasal administration of OT (IN-OT) is a noninvasive route shown to elicit changes in the autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity; however, IN-OT's effect on the temporal profile of ANS activity at rest is yet to be described. AIMS We aimed to describe the temporal profile of IN-OT at six 10-min time windows from 15- to 100-min post-administration in 20 male participants at rest while continuously recording their pupillary in an eyes-open condition and cardiac activity in eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. METHODS We used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subjects design study where we extracted two proxies of parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity: high-frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV) and pupillary unrest index (PUI); and a proxy of sympathetic nervous system activity: sample entropy of the pupillary unrest. RESULTS In the eyes-open condition, we found an effect of IN-OT on the proxies of PNS activity: decreased PUI in the three-time windows post-administration spanning 65-100 min, and as an exploratory finding, an increased HF-HRV in the 80-85 min time window. CONCLUSIONS We suggest there is a role of OT in PNS regulation that may be consistent with OT's currently theorized role in the facilitation of alertness and approach behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonçalo Cosme
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Arriaga
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), CIS-IUL, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pedro J Rosa
- HEI-LAB: Human-Environment Interaction Lab/Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Lisboa, Portugal.,ISMAT, Transdisciplinary Research Center (ISHIP), Portimão, Portugal
| | - Mitul A Mehta
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Diana Prata
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Slavich GM, Roos LG, Mengelkoch S, Webb CA, Shattuck EC, Moriarity DP, Alley JC. Social Safety Theory: Conceptual foundation, underlying mechanisms, and future directions. Health Psychol Rev 2023; 17:5-59. [PMID: 36718584 PMCID: PMC10161928 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2023.2171900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Classic theories of stress and health are largely based on assumptions regarding how different psychosocial stressors influence biological processes that, in turn, affect human health and behavior. Although theoretically rich, this work has yielded little consensus and led to numerous conceptual, measurement, and reproducibility issues. Social Safety Theory aims to address these issues by using the primary goal and regulatory logic of the human brain and immune system as the basis for specifying the social-environmental situations to which these systems should respond most strongly to maximize reproductive success and survival. This analysis gave rise to the integrated, multi-level formulation described herein, which transforms thinking about stress biology and provides a biologically based, evolutionary account for how and why experiences of social safety and social threat are strongly related to health, well-being, aging, and longevity. In doing so, the theory advances a testable framework for investigating the biopsychosocial roots of health disparities as well as how health-relevant biopsychosocial processes crystalize over time and how perceptions of the social environment interact with childhood microbial environment, birth cohort, culture, air pollution, genetics, sleep, diet, personality, and self-harm to affect health. The theory also highlights several interventions for reducing social threat and promoting resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- George M. Slavich
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lydia G. Roos
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Summer Mengelkoch
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christian A. Webb
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric C. Shattuck
- Institute for Health Disparities Research and Department of Public Health, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Daniel P. Moriarity
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jenna C. Alley
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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7
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Serum Oxytocin, Cortisol and Social Behavior in Calves: A Study in the Impossible Task Paradigm. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040646. [PMID: 36830435 PMCID: PMC9951757 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we explored the correlations between circulating levels of oxytocin, cortisol, and different social behaviors toward humans in 26 Italian Red Pied calves (all females, with an average age of 174 ± 24 days) using the impossible task paradigm. This paradigm has proved fruitful in highlighting the effect of socialization on the willingness to interact with humans in several domesticated species. The test consists of the violation of an expectation (recovering food from an experimental apparatus) while a caregiver and a stranger are present. Immediately after the end of the test (less than one minute), blood was collected from the coccygeal vein. Statistics were performed by the Spearman's rank correlation; significant differences were adjusted according to Bonferroni's correction. Cortisol correlates positively (ρ = 0.565; p < 0.05) with the latency of behaviors directed at the caregiver, and the duration of behaviors directed at the apparatus correlates negatively with both the caregiver (ρ = -0.654; p < 0.05) and a stranger (ρ = -0.644; p < 0.05). Contrary to what is reported in the literature on cows, no correlations were found between oxytocin levels and direct behaviors toward the caregiver. This highlights a different behavioral strategy between calves and cows when placed in front of an impossible task.
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8
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Tabak BA, Leng G, Szeto A, Parker KJ, Verbalis JG, Ziegler TE, Lee MR, Neumann ID, Mendez AJ. Advances in human oxytocin measurement: challenges and proposed solutions. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:127-140. [PMID: 35999276 PMCID: PMC9812775 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01719-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin, a neuropeptide known for its role in reproduction and socioemotional processes, may hold promise as a therapeutic agent in treating social impairments in patient populations. However, research has yet to uncover precisely how to manipulate this system for clinical benefit. Moreover, inconsistent use of standardized and validated oxytocin measurement methodologies-including the design and study of hormone secretion and biochemical assays-present unresolved challenges. Human studies measuring peripheral (i.e., in plasma, saliva, or urine) or central (i.e., in cerebrospinal fluid) oxytocin concentrations have involved very diverse methods, including the use of different assay techniques, further compounding this problem. In the present review, we describe the scientific value in measuring human endogenous oxytocin concentrations, common issues in biochemical analysis and study design that researchers face when doing so, and our recommendations for improving studies using valid and reliable methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A Tabak
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Gareth Leng
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Angela Szeto
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Karen J Parker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Joseph G Verbalis
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Toni E Ziegler
- Assay Services Unit and Institute for Clinical and Translational Research Core Laboratory, National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mary R Lee
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behaviour and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Armando J Mendez
- Diabetes Research Institute, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Valros A, Lopez-Martinez MJ, Munsterhjelm C, Lopez-Arjona M, Ceron JJ. Novel saliva biomarkers for stress and infection in pigs: Changes in oxytocin and procalcitonin in pigs with tail-biting lesions. Res Vet Sci 2022; 153:49-56. [PMID: 36308791 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
There is a need for feasible and reliable measures to improve and evaluate production animal health and welfare. Oxytocin is a promising novel stress-related biomarker and procalcitonin may be a measure of sepsis. Both have potential for use in pigs and can be measured from saliva, which allows on-farm sampling with minimal impact on the animals. The current study sought to further validate these measures using a spontaneous situation that causes both stress and an increased risk for infections in pigs, namely a tail-biting outbreak. Grower pigs on a commercial farm belonging to three different phenotype groups were selected: control pigs from control pens (CC, N = 30), control pigs (CTB, N = 10), and pigs with tail lesions from pens with a tail-biting outbreak (LTB, N = 27). A single sample of saliva was collected from each pig and analysed for a range of biomarkers related to stress, infection, inflammation, and immune activation. Oxytocin tended to be higher in CC pigs than in LTB pigs, while cortisol was higher in CTB than CC pigs. Procalcitonin tended to be higher, and haptoglobin was higher in LTB than in CC pigs. Adenosine-deaminase levels were similar between phenotypes. These results provide further evidence for the link between stress and tail biting, and indicate that tail-biting lesions are potential routes for systemic spread of bacteria. Further research into saliva oxytocin as a stress biomarker and saliva procalcitonin as a sepsis biomarker in pigs is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Valros
- Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 57, 00014, Finland.
| | - Maria Jose Lopez-Martinez
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary School, Regional Campus of International Excellence Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Camilla Munsterhjelm
- Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 57, 00014, Finland
| | - Marina Lopez-Arjona
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary School, Regional Campus of International Excellence Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Jose Joaquin Ceron
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary School, Regional Campus of International Excellence Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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10
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Sunahara CS, Wilson SJ, Rosenfield D, Alvi T, Szeto A, Mendez AJ, Tabak BA. Oxytocin reactivity to a lab-based stressor predicts support seeking after stress in daily life: Implications for the Tend-and-Befriend theory. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 145:105897. [PMID: 36095915 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105897] [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: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Social relationships play an important role in mental and physical health, particularly during times of stress. However, little is known about the biological mechanisms underlying the tendency to seek support following stress. The Tend-and-Befriend theory suggests that oxytocin (OT) may enhance the desire for social contact in response to stress. Yet, no studies in humans have provided empirical support for the connection between stress-induced changes in endogenous OT and increased support seeking after stress. In the present study, 94 participants performed a standardized laboratory stressor and then completed two weeks of daily assessments of support seeking after stress. In line with preregistered hypotheses, stress-induced plasma OT reactivity to the laboratory stressor was associated with more frequent support seeking behaviors following stress in daily life (i.e., outside of the laboratory). Additional results suggested that attachment anxiety (but not avoidance) strengthened this association. Our findings implicate the OT system in affiliative behaviors following stress, providing empirical support for the Tend-and-Befriend theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecile S Sunahara
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Stephanie J Wilson
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - David Rosenfield
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Talha Alvi
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Angela Szeto
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Armando J Mendez
- Diabetes Research Institute, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Benjamin A Tabak
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, United States.
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11
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Sartin-Tarm A, Lorenz T. Sexual Trauma Moderates Hormonal Mediators of Women’s Sexual Function. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-022-00337-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Klusmann H, Schulze L, Engel S, Bücklein E, Daehn D, Lozza-Fiacco S, Geiling A, Meyer C, Andersen E, Knaevelsrud C, Schumacher S. HPA axis activity across the menstrual cycle - a systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:100998. [PMID: 35597328 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.100998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Differential HPA axis function has been proposed to underlie sex-differences in mental disorders; however, the impact of fluctuating sex hormones across the menstrual cycle on HPA axis activity is still unclear. This meta-analysis investigated basal cortisol concentrations as a marker for HPA axis activity across the menstrual cycle. Through a systematic literature search of five databases, 121 longitudinal studies were included, summarizing data of 2641 healthy, cycling participants between the ages of 18 and 45. The meta-analysis showed higher cortisol concentrations in the follicular vs. luteal phase (dSMC = 0.12, p =.004, [0.04 - 0.20]). Comparisons between more precise cycle phases were mostly insignificant, aside from higher concentrations in the menstrual vs. premenstrual phase (dSMC = 0.17, [0.02 - 0.33], p =.03). In all included studies, nine samples used established cortisol parameters to indicate HPA axis function, specifically diurnal profiles (k = 4) and the cortisol awakening response (CAR) (k = 5). Therefore, the meta-analysis highlights the need for more rigorous investigation of HPA axis activity and menstrual cycle phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Klusmann
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Schwendenerstraße 27, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Lars Schulze
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Habelschwerdter Allee 45, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sinha Engel
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Schwendenerstraße 27, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Elise Bücklein
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Universität Ulm, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081 Ulm, Germany.
| | - Daria Daehn
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Habelschwerdter Allee 45, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Serena Lozza-Fiacco
- School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Crossings Building B, 2218 Nelson Highway, 27517 Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Angelika Geiling
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Schwendenerstraße 27, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Caroline Meyer
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Schwendenerstraße 27, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Elizabeth Andersen
- School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Crossings Building B, 2218 Nelson Highway, 27517 Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Schwendenerstraße 27, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sarah Schumacher
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Schwendenerstraße 27, 14195 Berlin, Germany; Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health, HMU Health and Medical University, Olympischer Weg 1, 14471 Potsdam, Germany.
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Social anxiety is associated with greater peripheral oxytocin reactivity to psychosocial stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 140:105712. [PMID: 35306471 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
To date, it has been difficult to establish reliable biomarkers associated with specific forms of psychopathology. Social anxiety, for example, is associated with inconsistent biological responses to psychosocial stress on markers including cortisol and salivary alpha-amylase. Thus, it is critical that studies identify more reliable biomarkers that index patterns associated with social anxiety. Two potential candidates are the neuropeptides oxytocin and vasopressin, which have been implicated in stress responsivity across species. Studies have demonstrated a reliable increase in oxytocin, and a surrogate marker for vasopressin, following engagement in the most widely used lab-based psychosocial stress paradigm: the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). However, no study has examined whether social anxiety moderates peripheral oxytocin or vasopressin reactivity to psychosocial stress. In 101 young adult participants, dimensionally assessed social anxiety was associated with greater plasma oxytocin, but not vasopressin, reactivity to the TSST. Results were maintained following the inclusion of depression as a covariate. Findings suggest that studying changes in peripheral oxytocin concentrations may be a method of differentiating individuals with higher levels of social anxiety.
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Moscovice LR, Gimsa U, Otten W, Eggert A. Salivary Cortisol, but Not Oxytocin, Varies With Social Challenges in Domestic Pigs: Implications for Measuring Emotions. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:899397. [PMID: 35677575 PMCID: PMC9169876 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.899397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Animals respond to inherently rewarding or punishing stimuli with changes in core affective states, which can be investigated with the aid of appropriate biomarkers. In this study we evaluate salivary cortisol (sCORT) and salivary oxytocin (sOXT) concentrations under baseline conditions and in response to two negatively- and two positively-valenced social challenges in 75 young pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus), housed and tested in eight social groups. We predicted that: (1) Relative to baseline, weaning and brief social isolation would be associated with increases in sCORT, due to psychosocial stress, and reductions in sOXT, due to a lack of opportunities for social support; and (2) Opportunities for social play, and reunions with group members after a separation would be associated with weaker sCORT responses, and increases in sOXT concentrations compared to baseline and to negative social challenges. Testing and sample collection occurred between 28 and 65 days of age and involved a within-subject design, in which every subject was sampled multiple times in neutral (baseline), negative and positive social contexts. We also recorded behavioral data and measured rates of agonism, play and affiliative interactions in the different contexts, prior to saliva sampling. As expected, negative social challenges were associated with robust cortisol responses. Relative to baseline, pigs also had higher sCORT responses to positive social challenges, although these differences were only significant during reunions. Salivary oxytocin concentrations did not differ between the different social conditions, although sOXT was lowest during the brief social isolation. Behavioral analyses confirmed predictions about the expected changes in social interactions in different social contexts, with increases in agonism following weaning, increases in coordinated locomotor play in the play context and high rates of affiliative interactions during reunions. Relative sCORT reactivity to different contexts may reflect the intensity of emotional responses, with greater increases occurring in response to challenges that involve more psychosocial stress. Our results suggest that sOXT is not a reliable indicator of emotional valence in pigs, although more research is needed to characterize sOXT responses to various challenges with and without access to social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza R. Moscovice
- Psychophysiology Unit, Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
- *Correspondence: Liza R. Moscovice
| | - Ulrike Gimsa
- Psychophysiology Unit, Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Winfried Otten
- Psychophysiology Unit, Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Anja Eggert
- Service Group Statistical Consulting, Institute of Genetics and Biometry, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
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Ågmo A, Laan E. Sexual incentive motivation, sexual behavior, and general arousal: Do rats and humans tell the same story? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104595. [PMID: 35231490 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sexual incentive stimuli activate sexual motivation and heighten the level of general arousal. The sexual motive may induce the individual to approach the incentive, and eventually to initiate sexual acts. Both approach and the ensuing copulatory interaction further enhance general arousal. We present data from rodents and humans in support of these assertions. We then suggest that orgasm is experienced when the combined level of excitation surpasses a threshold. In order to analyze the neurobiological bases of sexual motivation, we employ the concept of a central motive state. We then discuss the mechanisms involved in the long- and short-term control of that state as well as those mediating the momentaneous actions of sexual incentive stimuli. This leads to an analysis of the neurobiology behind the interindividual differences in responsivity of the sexual central motive state. Knowledge is still fragmentary, and many contradictory observations have been made. Nevertheless, we conclude that the basic mechanisms of sexual motivation and the role of general arousal are similar in rodents and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Ellen Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Ohshiro K, Sasaki Y, Zhou Q, Lyu X, Yamanashi Y, Nakahara K, Nagaoka H, Minami T. Oxytocin detection at ppt level in human saliva by an extended-gate-type organic field-effect transistor. Analyst 2022; 147:1055-1059. [PMID: 35191913 DOI: 10.1039/d1an02188e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we report an extended-gate-type organic field-effect transistor (OFET) sensor for oxytocin. The fabricated OFET-based immunosensor has successfully detected oxytocin at a ppt level in human saliva with high recovery rates (96-102%). We believe our sensor would pave the way for the realization of portable sensors for healthcare monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Ohshiro
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Yui Sasaki
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Qi Zhou
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Xiaojun Lyu
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Yusuke Yamanashi
- JNC Petrochemical Corp., 5-1, Goikaigan, Ichihara, Chiba, 290-8551, Japan
| | - Katsumasa Nakahara
- JNC Petrochemical Corp., 5-1, Goikaigan, Ichihara, Chiba, 290-8551, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Nagaoka
- JNC Petrochemical Corp., 5-1, Goikaigan, Ichihara, Chiba, 290-8551, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Minami
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
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Calibration and recalibration of stress response systems across development: Implications for mental and physical health. ADVANCES IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 63:35-69. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.acdb.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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18
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Gianotten WL, Alley JC, Diamond LM. The Health Benefits of Sexual Expression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:478-493. [PMID: 38595776 PMCID: PMC10903655 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1966564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective Sexual activity is a fundamental human function with short-term and long-term emotional, social, and physical benefits. Yet within healthcare, sexuality has been marginalized and many HCPs are unaware of its beneficial implications for immediate and long-term health. Methods To challenge this assumption we combined the data that already had been collected by the authors with an extensive search of articles on the various health benefits of sexual activity. The results of this process are displayed according to short-term, intermediate-term, and long-term benefits with some explanation about potential causal relationships. Results For the time being, it cannot yet be proved that "good sex promotes good health" since good health also favors good sex. Conclusions Despite lacking such convincing evidence, the article concludes with recommendations for the relevant professions. The balance of research supports that sexuality anyhow deserves greater attention among HCPs and that sexuality research needs better integration within health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woet L. Gianotten
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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19
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How Relevant is the Systemic Oxytocin Concentration for Human Sexual Behavior? A Systematic Review. Sex Med 2021; 9:100370. [PMID: 34118520 PMCID: PMC8360917 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite its role in social cognition and affiliative behavior, less is known about the role played by oxytocin in human sexual behavior. Aim In the present systematic review, we aimed to find the levels of oxytocin related to human sexual arousal and orgasm. Methods We conducted the study according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We performed a systematic search in the principal databases for studies that reported collection of salivary or plasmatic samples, with dosage of oxytocin in relation to sexual activity during induction of sexual arousal and orgasm. Results 414 articles were obtained. After duplicates removal and the application of pre exclusion criteria, 16 articles were considered eligible and 13 articles were included with a Cohen's k of 0.827. Most of the studies used sexual self-stimulation and collected plasmatic or salivary samples to measure oxytocin. The sexual arousal and orgasm were assessed based on subjective reports. Main Outcome Measure The primary outcomes were the oxytocin levels collected during the induction of sexual arousal and orgasm. Conclusions Several studies collected only subjective reports about the sexual arousal and the orgasm. Most of the studies found higher levels of oxytocin during the orgasm or ejaculation. Given the sexual arousal evoked by self-stimulation in which sexual fantasies play an important role, it should be possible to postulate for a role of the oxytocin in sexual desire. In particular, we hypothesize a complex role of the oxytocin in the modulation of sexual fantasies and thoughts that are relevant in the sexual desire and help to trigger genital and sexual arousal. Cera N, Vargas-Cáceres S, Oliveira C, et al. How Relevant is the Systemic Oxytocin Concentration for Human Sexual Behavior? A Systematic Review. Sex Med 2021;9:100370.
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20
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Hernández-Avalos I, Flores-Gasca E, Mota-Rojas D, Casas-Alvarado A, Miranda-Cortés AE, Domínguez-Oliva A. Neurobiology of anesthetic-surgical stress and induced behavioral changes in dogs and cats: A review. Vet World 2021; 14:393-404. [PMID: 33776304 PMCID: PMC7994130 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.393-404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The anesthetic-surgical stress response consists of metabolic, neuroendocrine, hemodynamic, immunological, and behavioral adaptations through chemical mediators such as the adrenocorticotropic hormone, growth hormone, antidiuretic hormone, cortisol, aldosterone, angiotensin II, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, catecholamines, insulin, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and prostaglandin E-2. Behavioral changes include adopting the so-called prayer posture, altered facial expressions, hyporexia or anorexia, drowsiness, sleep disorders, restriction of movement, licking or biting the injured area, and vocalizations. Overall, these changes are essential mechanisms to counteract harmful stimuli. However, if uncontrolled surgical stress persists, recovery time may be prolonged, along with increased susceptibility to infections in the post-operative period. This review discusses the neurobiology and most relevant organic responses to pain and anesthetic-surgical stress in dogs and cats. It highlights the role of stress biomarkers and their influence on autonomous and demeanor aspects and emphasizes the importance of understanding and correlating all factors to provide a more accurate assessment of pain and animal welfare in dogs and cats throughout the surgical process.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Hernández-Avalos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Veterinary Anesthesia, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, State of Mexico 54714, Mexico
| | - E Flores-Gasca
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, State of Mexico 54714, Mexico
| | - D Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Assessment of Welfare in Domestic Animals, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - A Casas-Alvarado
- Master in Agricultural Sciences. Animal Welfare, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - A E Miranda-Cortés
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Veterinary Anesthesia, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, State of Mexico 54714, Mexico
| | - A Domínguez-Oliva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Veterinary Anesthesia, Faculty of Higher Studies Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, State of Mexico 54714, Mexico
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21
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Lisanti AJ, Demianczyk AC, Costarino A, Vogiatzi MG, Hoffman R, Quinn R, Chittams JL, Medoff-Cooper B. Skin-to-Skin Care is Associated with Reduced Stress, Anxiety, and Salivary Cortisol and Improved Attachment for Mothers of Infants With Critical Congenital Heart Disease. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2020; 50:40-54. [PMID: 33181093 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2020.09.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the effect of skin-to-skin care (SSC) on biobehavioral measures of stress (anxiety and salivary cortisol) and attachment (attachment scores and salivary oxytocin) of mothers before and after their infants' neonatal cardiac surgery. DESIGN A prospective interventional, baseline response-paired pilot study. SETTING Cardiac center of a large, metropolitan, freestanding children's hospital. PARTICIPANTS Thirty women whose infants were hospitalized for neonatal cardiac surgery. METHODS Participants acted as their own controls before, during, and after SSC at two time points: once before and once after surgery. We measured the stress response of mothers, as indicated by self-reported scores of anxiety and maternal salivary cortisol, and maternal-infant attachment, as indicated by self-reported scores and maternal salivary oxytocin. RESULTS Significant reductions in self-reported scores of anxiety and salivary cortisol were found as a result of SSC at each time point, as well as increased self-reported attachment. No significant differences were found in oxytocin. CONCLUSION Our findings provide initial evidence of the benefits of SSC as a nurse-led intervention to support maternal attachment and reduce physiologic and psychological stress responses in mothers of infants with critical congenital heart disease before and after neonatal cardiac surgery.
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22
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23
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Engel S, van Zuiden M, Frijling JL, Koch SBJ, Nawijn L, Yildiz RLW, Schumacher S, Knaevelsrud C, Bosch JA, Veltman DJ, Olff M. Early posttraumatic autonomic and endocrine markers to predict posttraumatic stress symptoms after a preventive intervention with oxytocin. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1761622. [PMID: 32922686 PMCID: PMC7448939 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1761622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efficient prevention of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) needs to target individuals with an increased risk for adverse outcome after trauma. Prognostic or prescriptive biological markers assessed early posttrauma may inform personalized treatment recommendations. OBJECTIVE To test prognostic and prescriptive effects of early (posttraumatic) autonomic and endocrine markers on PTSD symptom development. METHOD Autonomic and endocrine markers were assessed within 12 days posttrauma and before treatment initiation within a randomized placebo-controlled trial investigating repeated oxytocin administration as preventive intervention for PTSD. Linear mixed effects models were used to test the effects of heart rate (variability), resting cortisol, morning cortisol and cortisol awakening response (CAR), cortisol suppression by dexamethasone and resting oxytocin on PTSD symptoms 1.5, 3 and 6 months posttrauma in men (n = 54), women using hormonal contraception (n = 27) and cycling women (n = 19). RESULTS We found significant prognostic effects of resting oxytocin and cortisol suppression. In women using hormonal contraception, higher oxytocin was associated with higher PTSD symptoms across follow-up. Stronger cortisol suppression by dexamethasone, reflecting increased glucocorticoid receptor feedback sensitivity, was associated with lower PTSD symptoms across follow-up in men, but with higher symptoms at 1.5 months in women using hormonal contraception. These effects were independent of treatment condition. No further significant prognostic or prescriptive effects were detected. CONCLUSION Our exploratory study indicates that resting oxytocin and glucocorticoid receptor feedback sensitivity early posttrauma are associated with subsequent PTSD symptom severity. Notably, prognostic effects depended on sex and hormonal contraception use, emphasizing the necessity to consider these factors in biomedical PTSD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinha Engel
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mirjam van Zuiden
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jessie L Frijling
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia B J Koch
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Nawijn
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rinde L W Yildiz
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah Schumacher
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jos A Bosch
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick J Veltman
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Miranda Olff
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Arq Psychotrauma Expert Group, Diemen, The Netherlands
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Birze A, LeBlanc V, Regehr C, Paradis E, Einstein G. The "Managed" or Damaged Heart? Emotional Labor, Gender, and Posttraumatic Stressors Predict Workplace Event-Related Acute Changes in Cortisol, Oxytocin, and Heart Rate Variability. Front Psychol 2020; 11:604. [PMID: 32373009 PMCID: PMC7179683 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Vital to the everyday operation of police services, police communicators (911 call-takers and dispatchers) are persistently subject to imminent challenges in the workplace; they must always be prepared to engage and deal with a wide variety of circumstances that provoke various intense emotions and physiological stress responses. Acute changes in cortisol, oxytocin, and heart rate variability are central to adaptive responses in stressful complex social interactions, but they might also be indicative of physiological dysregulation due to long-term psychosocial stress exposures. Thus, we examine acute stress-induced release of peripheral oxytocin and cortisol along with changes in heart rate variability, and how each relates to persistent workplace stressors and symptoms of posttraumatic stress. Findings indicate chronic forms of gendered workplace stress such as emotional labor, gender role stress and, posttraumatic stress each have differential associations with, and predict physiological responses to, acutely stressful events in the workplace. These associations suggest potential mechanisms through which communicators become more vulnerable to developing stress-related disorders such as posttraumatic stress injuries, especially after cumulative traumatic exposures in this context. The results also suggest potential pathways for the biological embedding of stressful gendered workplace experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arija Birze
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Vicki LeBlanc
- Department of Innovation in Medical Education, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Cheryl Regehr
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elise Paradis
- Department of Sociology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gillian Einstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tema Genus, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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25
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Tabak BA, Young KS, Torre JB, Way BM, Burklund LJ, Eisenberger NI, Lieberman MD, Craske MG. Preliminary Evidence That CD38 Moderates the Association of Neuroticism on Amygdala-Subgenual Cingulate Connectivity. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:11. [PMID: 32116489 PMCID: PMC7033443 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CD38 genetic variation has been associated with autism spectrum disorders and social anxiety disorder, which may result from CD38’s regulation of oxytocin secretion. Converging evidence has found that the rs3796863 A-allele contributes to increased social sensitivity compared to the CC genotype. The current study examined the moderating role of CD38 genetic variants (rs3796863 and rs6449182) that have been associated with enhanced (or reduced) social sensitivity on neural activation related to neuroticism, which is commonly elevated in individuals with social anxiety and depression. Adults (n = 72) with varying levels of social anxiety and depression provided biological samples for DNA extraction, completed a measure of neuroticism, and participated in a standardized emotion processing task (affect matching) while undergoing fMRI. A significant interaction effect was found for rs3796863 x neuroticism that predicted right amygdala-subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC) functional connectivity. Simple slopes analyses showed a positive association between neuroticism and right amygdala-sgACC connectivity among rs3796863 A-allele carriers. Findings suggest that the more socially sensitive rs3796863 A-allele may partially explain the relationship between a known risk factor (i.e. neuroticism) and promising biomarker (i.e. amygdala-sgACC connectivity) in the development and maintenance of social anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A Tabak
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Katherine S Young
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jared B Torre
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Baldwin M Way
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Lisa J Burklund
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Naomi I Eisenberger
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Matthew D Lieberman
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Michelle G Craske
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Apilux A, Rengpipat S, Suwanjang W, Chailapakul O. Paper-based immunosensor with competitive assay for cortisol detection. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2020; 178:112925. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2019.112925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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27
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Dickenson JA, Alley J, Diamond LM. Subjective and Oxytocinergic Responses to Mindfulness Are Associated With Subjective and Oxytocinergic Responses to Sexual Arousal. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1101. [PMID: 31178780 PMCID: PMC6538816 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mindfulness – the ability to pay attention, on purpose, without judgment, and in the present moment – has consistently been shown to enhance women’s sexual arousal. As a first step toward understanding potential neuroendocrine underpinnings of mindfulness and sexual arousal, we examined whether individual differences in subjective and neuroendocrine (i.e., oxytocin) responses to mindful breathing were associated with individual differences in subjective and neuroendocrine responses to sexual arousal. To achieve this aim, 61 lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual women completed a questionnaire assessing dispositional mindfulness, underwent an arousal task while continuously rating their sexual arousal and a mindful breathing task, after which participants reported on their ability to detect attentional shifts, and provided salivary samples after each assessment. Results indicated that women who were quicker to detect attentional shifts and women who reported greater sexual arousability reported larger changes (decreases) in oxytocin in response to mindful breathing and were the only women to report increases in oxytocin in response to the sexual arousal induction. Results further indicated that individuals who report greater subjective responsiveness to mindfulness and sexual arousal appear to have an oxytocinergic system that is also more responsive to both arousal and to mindfulness. These results make a significant contribution to our understanding of the role of attentional processes in sexual arousal, and warrant future examination of oxytocin as a potential neuroendocrine mechanism underlying the link between mindfulness and sexual arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna A Dickenson
- Program in Human Sexuality, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jenna Alley
- Diamond Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Lisa M Diamond
- Diamond Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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