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Dey AD, Mannan A, Dhiman S, Singh TG. Unlocking new avenues for neuropsychiatric disease therapy: the emerging potential of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors as promising therapeutic targets. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06617-6. [PMID: 38801530 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06617-6] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are transcription factors that regulate various physiological processes such as inflammation, lipid metabolism, and glucose homeostasis. Recent studies suggest that targeting PPARs could be beneficial in treating neuropsychiatric disorders by modulating neuronal function and signaling pathways in the brain. PPAR-α, PPAR-δ, and PPAR-γ have been found to play important roles in cognitive function, neuroinflammation, and neuroprotection. Dysregulation of PPARs has been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depression disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. The limitations and side effects of current treatments have prompted research to target PPARs as a promising novel therapeutic strategy. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown the potential of PPAR agonists and antagonists to improve symptoms associated with these disorders. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of PPARs in neuropsychiatric disorders, their potential as therapeutic targets, and the challenges and future directions for developing PPAR-based therapies. METHODS An extensive literature review of various search engines like PubMed, Medline, Bentham, Scopus, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was carried out with the keywords "PPAR, Neuropsychiatric disorders, Oxidative stress, Inflammation, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Major depression disorder, Autism spectrum disorder, molecular pathway". RESULT & CONCLUSION Although PPARs present a hopeful direction for innovative therapeutic approaches in neuropsychiatric conditions, additional research is required to address obstacles and convert this potential into clinically viable and individualized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Deka Dey
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
| | - Ashi Mannan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
| | - Sonia Dhiman
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
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He B, Wang Y, Li H, Huang Y. The role of integrin beta in schizophrenia: a preliminary exploration. CNS Spectr 2023; 28:561-570. [PMID: 36274632 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852922001080] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Integrins are transmembrane heterodimeric (αβ) receptors that transduce mechanical signals between the extracellular milieu and the cell in a bidirectional manner. Extensive research has shown that the integrin beta (β) family is widely expressed in the brain and that they control various aspects of brain development and function. Schizophrenia is a relatively common neurological disorder of unknown etiology and has been found to be closely related to neurodevelopment and neurochemicals in neuropathological studies of schizophrenia. Here, we review literature from recent years that shows that schizophrenia involves multiple signaling pathways related to neuronal migration, axon guidance, cell adhesion, and actin cytoskeleton dynamics, and that dysregulation of these processes affects the normal function of neurons and synapses. In fact, alterations in integrin β structure, expression and signaling for neural circuits, cortex, and synapses are likely to be associated with schizophrenia. We explored several aspects of the possible association between integrin β and schizophrenia in an attempt to demonstrate the role of integrin β in schizophrenia, which may help to provide new insights into the study of the pathogenesis and treatment of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binshan He
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yuhan Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Ya'an People's Hospital, Ya'an, China
| | - Huang Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yuanshuai Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Yelmo-Cruz S, Morera-Fumero AL, Lakhwani S, Abreu-González P. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and First-Episode Psychosis. A longitudinal one-year prognosis study. ACTAS ESPANOLAS DE PSIQUIATRIA 2023; 51:130-140. [PMID: 37489557 PMCID: PMC10803868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that has been linked to the schizophrenia neurodevelopmental hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Yelmo-Cruz
- Servicio de Psiquiatría. Hospital Universitario de Canarias. La Laguna. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. España
| | - Armando L. Morera-Fumero
- Departamento de Medicina Interna, Dermatología y Psiquiatría. Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Universidad de la Laguna (ULL). La Laguna. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. España
- Consultoría Psiquiátrica SC. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. España
| | - Sunil Lakhwani
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia. Hospital Universitario de Canarias. La Laguna. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. España
| | - Pedro Abreu-González
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas: Unidad de Fisiología. Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud. Universidad de la Laguna (ULL). La Laguna. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. España
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Mawson ER, Morris BJ. A consideration of the increased risk of schizophrenia due to prenatal maternal stress, and the possible role of microglia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 125:110773. [PMID: 37116354 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110773] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is caused by interaction of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Of the latter, prenatal exposure to maternal stress is reportedly associated with elevated disease risk. The main orchestrators of inflammatory processes within the brain are microglia, and aberrant microglial activation/function has been proposed to contribute to the aetiology of schizophrenia. Here, we evaluate the epidemiological and preclinical evidence connecting prenatal stress to schizophrenia risk, and consider the possible mediating role of microglia in the prenatal stress-schizophrenia relationship. Epidemiological findings are rather consistent in supporting the association, albeit they are mitigated by effects of sex and gestational timing, while the evidence for microglial activation is more variable. Rodent models of prenatal stress generally report lasting effects on offspring neurobiology. However, many uncertainties remain as to the mechanisms underlying the influence of maternal stress on the developing foetal brain. Future studies should aim to characterise the exact processes mediating this aspect of schizophrenia risk, as well as focussing on how prenatal stress may interact with other risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor R Mawson
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Brian J Morris
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.
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Aliyari H, Golabi S, Sahraei H, Sahraei M, Minaei-Bidgoli B, Daliri MR, Hazrati R, Tadayyoni H, Kazemi M. Perceived Stress and Cfognition Function Quantification in a Scary Video Game: An Electroencephalogram Features and Biochemical Measures. Basic Clin Neurosci 2023; 14:297-309. [PMID: 38107533 PMCID: PMC10719968 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.2022.3811.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Video games affect the stress system and cognitive abilities in different ways. Here, we evaluated electrophysiological and biochemical indicators of stress and assessed their effects on cognition and behavioral indexes after playing a scary video game. Methods Thirty volunteers were recruited into two groups as control and experimental. The saliva and blood samples were collected before and after intervention (watching/playing the scary game for control and experimental groups respectively). To measure cortisol and salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) levels, oxytocin (OT), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plasma levels, dedicated ELISA kits were used. Electroencephalography recording was done before and after interventions for electroencephalogram (EEG)-based emotion and stress recognition. Then, the feature extraction (for mental stress, arousal, and valence) was done. Matrix laboratory (MATLAB) software, version 7.0.1 was used for processing EEG-acquired data. The repeated measures were applied to determine the intragroup significance level of difference. Results Scary gameplay increases mental stress (P<0.001) and arousal (P<0.001) features and decreases the valence (P<0.001) one. The salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase levels were significantly higher after the gameplay (P<0.001 for both). OT and BDNF plasma levels decreased after playing the scary game (P<0.05 for both). Conclusion We conclude that perceived stress considerably elevates among players of scary video games, which adversely affects the emotional and cognitive capabilities, possibly via the strength of synaptic connections, and dendritic thorn construction of the brain neurons among players. Highlights The mental stress level increases in players of scary video games.The salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase levels are significantly higher after the scary gameplay.Plasma levels of oxytocin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor decrease after the scary gameplay.The arousal and valence features increase in players of scary video game.Cognitive capabilities are adversely affected by the scary gameplay. Plain Language Summary Nowadays, video games have become an important part of human life at different ages. Therefore, assessing their effects (improving and/or damaging) on cognition and behavior is important for understanding how they affect the nervous system. The results of such studies can be used to design a variety of games in the future in a way that minimizes the harmful side effects of video games on human cognitive functions and maximizes their beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Aliyari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre at Dallas, Dallas, United States
| | - Sahar Golabi
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sahraei
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Iran
| | - Behrouz Minaei-Bidgoli
- Department of Computer Engineering, School of Computer Engineering, University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Daliri
- Department of Electrical Engineering, School of Electrical Engineering, University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Hazrati
- CERVO Brain Research Center, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hamed Tadayyoni
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Masoomeh Kazemi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Converging Evidence Points to BDNF as Biomarker of Depressive Symptoms in Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121666. [PMID: 36552127 PMCID: PMC9775399 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key modulator of neuroplasticity and has an important role in determining the susceptibility to severe psychiatric disorder with a significant neurodevelopmental component such as major psychoses. Indeed, a potential association between BDNF serum levels and schizophrenia (SCZ) and schizoaffective disorder (SAD) has been tested in diverse studies and a considerable amount of them found reduced BDNF levels in these disorders. Here, we aimed at testing the association of BDNF serum levels with several demographic, clinical, and psychometric measures in 105 patients with SCZ and SAD, assessing the moderating effect of genetic variants within the BDNF gene. We also verified whether peripheral BDNF levels differed between patients with SCZ and SAD. Our findings revealed that BDNF serum levels are significantly lower in patients affected by SCZ and SAD presenting more severe depressive symptomatology. This finding awaits replication in future independent studies and points to BDNF as a possible prognostic indicator in major psychoses.
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4'-Iodo-α-Pyrrolidinononanophenone Provokes Differentiated SH-SY5Y Cell Apoptosis Through Downregulating Nitric Oxide Production and Bcl-2 Expression. Neurotox Res 2022; 40:1322-1336. [PMID: 35834058 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00546-y] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Abuse of pyrrolidinophenone derivatives (PPs) is known to cause severe damage to the central nervous system due to their high lipophilicity. In this study, we compared sensitivity to toxicity elicited by 4'-iodo-α-pyrrolidinononanophenone (I-α-PNP), one of the most potent cytotoxic derivatives among PPs synthesized previously, between SH-SY5Y cells differentiated by all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) and the undifferentiated cells, and found that the differentiated cells are more sensitive to I-α-PNP toxicity than the undifferentiated cells. Treatment with I-α-PNP elicited some apoptotic alterations (Bax expression, loss of mitrochondrial membrane potential, and activation of caspases) in the differentiated cells, whose patterns were similar to those in the undifferentiated cells. I-α-PNP treatment resulted in no significant alteration in Bcl-2 expression in the undifferentiated cells, whereas it considerably downregulated the protein expression in the differentiated cells, suggesting that the high I-α-PNP sensitivity of the differentiated cells is mainly due to downregulation of Bcl-2 expression. I-α-PNP treatment decreased nitric oxide (NO) production and neuronal NOS (nNOS) expression in the differentiated cells, and the patterns of I-α-PNP-evoked alterations in phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression were almost the same as that in nNOS expression. Additionally, the addition of an NO donor restored the I-α-PNP-evoked alterations in expressions of Bcl-2, BDNF, and nNOS in the differentiated cells. These findings suggest that the downregulation of Bcl-2 expression by I-α-PNP in differentiated cells is attributed to the acceleration of two negative feedback loops (nNOS/NO/CREB loop and CREB/BDNF loop) triggered by decreased NO production.
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Peripheral Blood Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients with First Episode Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040414. [PMID: 35447946 PMCID: PMC9027267 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Peripheral blood level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be used as a diagnostic and/or prognostic marker for schizophrenia. Previous studies were inconsistent. A systematic review was conducted to examine whether BDNF level is different in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP) compared to health controls (HC) and whether it changes after treatment. Methods: Literature search was done in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar following standard procedures. Hedges’ g was used as the measure of effect size (ES), which was pooled with random effects model. Publication bias and moderator effects were examined. Results: Search yielded 29 studies with a total sample size of 2912. First meta-analysis included 27 studies with FEP vs. HC comparison. Pooled ES was −0.63, p < 0.001, indicating that BDNF level was lower in FEP than in HC. Studies were heterogeneous, and moderator analysis showed that studies of younger patient, higher symptom severity, and more drug naïve had larger ES. Second meta-analysis examined change in BDNF levels before and after antipsychotic treatment in eight studies. A pooled ES of −0.003 (p = 0.96) showed no change in peripheral BDNF level after treatment. Conclusion: Peripheral BDNF level was decreased in FEP compared to HC, but it did not change after treatment.
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9
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Zhuo C, Tian H, Zhou C, Sun Y, Chen X, Li R, Chen J, Yang L, Li Q, Zhang Q, Xu Y, Song X. Transcranial direct current stimulation of the occipital lobes with adjunct lithium attenuates the progression of cognitive impairment in patients with first episode schizophrenia. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:962918. [PMID: 36177219 PMCID: PMC9513041 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.962918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no standard effective treatment for schizophrenia-associated cognitive impairment. Efforts to use non-invasive brain stimulation for this purpose have been focused mostly on the frontal cortex, with little attention being given to the occipital lobe. MATERIALS AND METHODS We compared the effects of nine intervention strategies on cognitive performance in psychometric measures and brain connectivity measured obtained from functional magnetic resonance imaging analyses. The strategies consisted of transcranial direct current stimulation (t-DCS) or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (r-TMS) of the frontal lobe or of the occipital alone or with adjunct lithium, or lithium monotherapy. We measured global functional connectivity density (gFCD) voxel-wise. RESULTS Although all nine patient groups showed significant improvements in global disability scores (GDSs) following the intervention period (vs. before), the greatest improvement in GDS was observed for the group that received occipital lobe-targeted t-DCS with adjunct lithium therapy. tDCS of the occipital lobe improved gFCD throughout the brain, including in the frontal lobes, whereas stimulation of the frontal lobes had less far-reaching benefits on gFCD in the brain. Adverse secondary effects (ASEs) such as heading, dizziness, and nausea, were commonly experienced by patients treated with t-DCS and r-TMS, with or without lithium, whereas ASEs were rare with lithium alone. CONCLUSION The most effective treatment strategy for impacting cognitive impairment and brain communication was t-DCS stimulation of the occipital lobe with adjunct lithium therapy, though patients often experienced headache with dizziness and nausea after treatment sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanjun Zhuo
- Key Laboratory of Real Time Brain Circuit Tracing in Neurology and Psychiatry (RTBNP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Multiple Organ Damages of Major Psychoses (MODMP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Medical Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Henan Psychiatric Transformation Research Key Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Biological Psychiatry International Joint Laboratory of Henan, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,t-DCS and r-TMS Center of Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hongjun Tian
- Key Laboratory of Multiple Organ Damages of Major Psychoses (MODMP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Medical Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunhua Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yun Sun
- t-DCS and r-TMS Center of Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinying Chen
- t-DCS and r-TMS Center of Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ranli Li
- t-DCS and r-TMS Center of Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiayue Chen
- Key Laboratory of Real Time Brain Circuit Tracing in Neurology and Psychiatry (RTBNP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Real Time Brain Circuit Tracing in Neurology and Psychiatry (RTBNP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qianchen Li
- Key Laboratory of Real Time Brain Circuit Tracing in Neurology and Psychiatry (RTBNP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiuyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Real Time Brain Circuit Tracing in Neurology and Psychiatry (RTBNP_Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xueqin Song
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Abdelkhalek K, Rhein M, Deest M, Buchholz V, Bleich S, Lichtinghagen R, Vyssoki B, Frieling H, Muschler M, Proskynitopoulos PJ, Glahn A. Dysregulated Methylation Patterns in Exon IV of the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Gene in Nicotine Dependence and Changes in BDNF Plasma Levels During Smoking Cessation. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:897801. [PMID: 35836661 PMCID: PMC9273814 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.897801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several studies reported dysregulated protein levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in smokers and during cessation. However, the epigenetic regulation of the BDNF gene has not yet been investigated. We measured the plasma levels of BDNF and the epigenetic regulation of exon IV of the BDNF gene in smokers compared to healthy controls over a cessation period of 14 days. METHOD We measured BDNF plasma levels and BDNF promoter methylation in 49 smokers and 51 non-smokers at baseline, day 7, and day 14 of smoking cessation. Mean methylation levels of 11 Cytosine Guanosine dinucleotides of exon IV of the BDNF gene were determined via bisulfite sequencing. RESULTS BDNF plasma and methylation levels were significantly lower in healthy controls when compared with smokers across all time points. BDNF levels for smokers decreased significantly during the cessation period. Comparing the sexes, female smokers showed significantly lower plasma BDNF levels than healthy controls at baseline and over 14 days of cessation. Male and female smokers showed significantly higher mean methylation rates than non-smokers at baseline. In male smokers, mean methylation levels decreased significantly during the cessation period. CONCLUSION Our findings replicate the findings of previous studies that BDNF plasma levels are altered in smokers. Furthermore, BDNF expression and gene methylation are altered during the first 14 days of cessation. Our novel findings of dysregulated methylation patterns in exon IV of the BDNF gene further support the thesis that BDNF plays a role in nicotine dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerim Abdelkhalek
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mathias Rhein
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maximilian Deest
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Vanessa Buchholz
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stefan Bleich
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Lichtinghagen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Vyssoki
- Board of Trustees for Psychosocial Services in Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Helge Frieling
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marc Muschler
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Alexander Glahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Shoshina II, Hovis JK, Felisberti FM, Santos NA, Adreeva A, Butler PD, Fernandes TP. Visual processing and BDNF levels in first-episode schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2021; 305:114200. [PMID: 34653830 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (SCZ) have deficits in early visual processing, namely contrast processing. The brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) is an important measure to investigate neuroplasticity in some visual functions like visual perception. In this study, we investigated the relationship between visual processing and BDNF levels in first-episode SCZ patients. Thirty-nine healthy controls and 43 first-episode SCZ patients were enrolled. Contrast sensitivity measurements were conducted using low, mid- and high spatial frequencies. First-episode SCZ patients had higher contrast sensitivity than healthy controls for all frequencies, except for the middle spatial frequency. Negative correlations were found between BDNF, contrast sensitivity and clinical variables, mostly for middle and high spatial frequencies among females. Our results provide support for (i) the association of SCZ with alterations of magno- and parvocellular pathway functioning and (ii) decreased BDNF levels in first-episode SCZ patients. This study highlights the importance of using biomarkers along with other measures to investigate visual processing in SCZ and other disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina I Shoshina
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Science, Department of Visual Physiology, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation; St. Petersburg State University, Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Jeffery K Hovis
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Fatima M Felisberti
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Anna Adreeva
- St. Petersburg State University, Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Pamela D Butler
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, United States; Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, NY, USA
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil.
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Maes M, Plaimas K, Suratanee A, Noto C, Kanchanatawan B. First Episode Psychosis and Schizophrenia Are Systemic Neuro-Immune Disorders Triggered by a Biotic Stimulus in Individuals with Reduced Immune Regulation and Neuroprotection. Cells 2021; 10:cells10112929. [PMID: 34831151 PMCID: PMC8616258 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that schizophrenia is characterized by activation of the immune-inflammatory response (IRS) and compensatory immune-regulatory systems (CIRS) and lowered neuroprotection. Studies performed on antipsychotic-naïve first episode psychosis (AN-FEP) and schizophrenia (FES) patients are important as they may disclose the pathogenesis of FES. However, the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of FEP/FES is not established. The aim of the current study was to delineate a) the characteristics of the PPI network of AN-FEP and its transition to FES; and b) the biological functions, pathways, and molecular patterns, which are over-represented in FEP/FES. Toward this end, we used PPI network, enrichment, and annotation analyses. FEP and FEP/FES are strongly associated with a response to a bacterium, alterations in Toll-Like Receptor-4 and nuclear factor-κB signaling, and the Janus kinases/signal transducer and activator of the transcription proteins pathway. Specific molecular complexes of the peripheral immune response are associated with microglial activation, neuroinflammation, and gliogenesis. FEP/FES is accompanied by lowered protection against inflammation, in part attributable to dysfunctional miRNA maturation, deficits in neurotrophin and Wnt/catenin signaling, and adherens junction organization. Multiple interactions between reduced brain derived neurotrophic factor, E-cadherin, and β-catenin and disrupted schizophrenia-1 (DISC1) expression increase the vulnerability to the neurotoxic effects of immune molecules, including cytokines and complement factors. In summary: FEP and FES are systemic neuro-immune disorders that are probably triggered by a bacterial stimulus which induces neuro-immune toxicity cascades that are overexpressed in people with reduced anti-inflammatory and miRNA protections, cell–cell junction organization, and neurotrophin and Wnt/catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- IMPACT Strategic Research Center, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Kitiporn Plaimas
- Advanced Virtual and Intelligent Computing (AVIC) Center, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Apichat Suratanee
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Applied Science, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok 10800, Thailand;
| | - Cristiano Noto
- GAPi (Early Psychosis Group), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04021-001, Brazil;
- Schizophrenia Program (PROESQ), Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04021-001, Brazil
| | - Buranee Kanchanatawan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
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13
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Markouli M, Strepkos D, Piperi C. Structure, Activity and Function of the SETDB1 Protein Methyltransferase. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11080817. [PMID: 34440561 PMCID: PMC8397983 DOI: 10.3390/life11080817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The SET Domain Bifurcated Histone Lysine Methyltransferase 1 (SETDB1) is a prominent member of the Suppressor of Variegation 3–9 (SUV39)-related protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs), comprising three isoforms that differ in length and domain composition. SETDB1 is widely expressed in human tissues, methylating Histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9) residues, promoting chromatin compaction and exerting negative regulation on gene expression. SETDB1 has a central role in normal physiology and nervous system development, having been implicated in the regulation of cell cycle progression, inactivation of the X chromosome, immune cells function, expression of retroelements and formation of promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies (NB). SETDB1 has been frequently deregulated in carcinogenesis, being implicated in the pathogenesis of gliomas, melanomas, as well as in lung, breast, gastrointestinal and ovarian tumors, where it mainly exerts an oncogenic role. Aberrant activity of SETDB1 has also been implicated in several neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases, including schizophrenia, Huntington’s disease, congenital heart defects and inflammatory bowel disease. Herein, we provide an update on the unique structural and biochemical features of SETDB1 that contribute to its regulation, as well as its molecular and cellular impact in normal physiology and disease with potential therapeutic options.
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14
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Kalejahi P, Kheirouri S, Noorazar SG, Sanayei M. The relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor and metabolic syndrome in patients with chronic schizophrenia: A systematic review. Neuropeptides 2021; 87:102135. [PMID: 33812160 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102135] [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: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Schizophrenia is a serious long-term disorder in which the metabolic complications and abnormalities of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can be found. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of the relationship between BDNF, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in schizophrenic patients. METHODS Data were collected mainly from PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and ProQuest databases. The keywords related to the BDNF, MetS, schizophrenia were searched. Two reviewers independently screened 1061 abstracts. And eventually, a total of 7 studies (6 observational and 1 interventional) was included in the systematic reviews. RESULTS Four of the 7 study ascertained statistically significant inverse relationship between serum BDNF levels and MetS in schizophrenic patients. While in the other two studies, there was no inverse relationship. In the last selected study, the researchers found a weak association between the Val66Met polymorphism in BDNF Gene and clozapine-induced MetS. CONCLUSION Although this relationship could not be determined but BDNF levels appear to be reduced in schizophrenic patients with MetS and factors such as sex and antipsychotic class differentiation, sampling and methodology and episodes of illness could play a role in the results and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinaz Kalejahi
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sorayya Kheirouri
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Seyyed Gholamreza Noorazar
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahzad Sanayei
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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15
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Chan MMY, Yau SSY, Han YMY. The neurobiology of prefrontal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in promoting brain plasticity: A systematic review and meta-analyses of human and rodent studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 125:392-416. [PMID: 33662444 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The neurobiological mechanisms underlying prefrontal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) remain elusive. Randomized, sham-controlled trials in humans and rodents applying in vivo prefrontal tDCS were included to explore whether prefrontal tDCS modulates resting-state and event-related functional connectivity, neural oscillation and synaptic plasticity. Fifty studies were included in the systematic review and 32 in the meta-analyses. Neuroimaging meta-analysis indicated anodal prefrontal tDCS significantly enhanced bilateral median cingulate activity [familywise error (FWE)-corrected p < .005]; meta-regression revealed a positive relationship between changes in median cingulate activity after tDCS and current density (FWE-corrected p < .005) as well as electric current strength (FWE-corrected p < .05). Meta-analyses of electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography data revealed nonsignificant changes (ps > .1) in both resting-state and event-related oscillatory power across all frequency bands. Applying anodal tDCS over the rodent hippocampus/prefrontal cortex enhanced long-term potentiation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the stimulated brain regions (ps <.005). Evidence supporting prefrontal tDCS administration is preliminary; more methodologically consistent studies evaluating its effects on cognitive function that include brain activity measurements are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody M Y Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sonata S Y Yau
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yvonne M Y Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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16
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Markouli M, Strepkos D, Chlamydas S, Piperi C. Histone lysine methyltransferase SETDB1 as a novel target for central nervous system diseases. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 200:101968. [PMID: 33279625 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic changes that regulate chromatin structure have a major impact in genome stabilization and maintenance of cellular homeostasis, been recently implicated in the pathophysiology of central nervous system (CNS). Aberrant expression and dysregulation of histone modification enzymes has been associated with the development of several CNS disorders, revealing these enzymes as putative targets for drug development and novel therapeutic approaches. SETDB1 is a histone lysine methyltransferase responsible for the di- and tri-methylation of histone 3 (H3) at lysine (K) 9 in euchromatic regions further promoting gene silencing through heterochromatin formation. By this way, SETDB1 has been shown to regulate gene expression and influence normal cellular homeostasis required for nervous system function while it is also implicated in the pathogenesis of CNS disorders. Among them, brain tumors, schizophrenia, Huntington's disease, autism spectrum disorders along with alcohol-induced fetal neurobehavioral deficits and Prader-Willi syndrome are representative examples, indicating the aberrant expression and function of SETDB1 as a common pathogenic factor. In this review, we focus on SETDB1-associated molecular mechanisms implicated in CNS physiology and disease while we further discuss current pharmacological approaches targeting SETDB1 enzymatic activity with beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Markouli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Strepkos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Sarantis Chlamydas
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
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17
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Aydın MS, Bolu A, Kılınçkaya MF, Öznur T, Çelik C, Uzun Ö, Özmenler KN. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and psychopathology scores in drug-naïve first-episode psychosis. Asia Pac Psychiatry 2020; 12:e12415. [PMID: 32827247 DOI: 10.1111/appy.12415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in the regulation of many neuronal processes, including neurogenesis. Therefore, it is thought to be closely associated with many psychopathologies with a neurodevelopmental basis, for example, schizophrenia. METHODS The patients admitted to the Psychiatry Department of the Faculty of Medicine with a diagnosis of non-affective drug-naïve first-episode psychosis (FEP) were included in the study. The relationship between laboratory and clinical findings and psychometric data (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale) was examined. RESULTS The study population consisted of 34 FEP and 34 healthy control (HC) volunteers. Mean BNDF levels of FEP and HC groups were 14.95 ± 6.13 and 17.89 ± 4.84 pg/ml, respectively. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (t = 2.197; p = .032). There was a negative correlation between mean BDNF levels and PANSS general psychopathology subscale scores (r = .358; p = .038), and total PANSS scores (r = .356; p = .039). DISCUSSION There is a consensus on low serum BDNF levels both in FEP and in schizophrenia. However, it is still not clear which clinical findings are associated with lower serum BDNF levels. The relationship between BDNF levels and psychopathologies in schizophrenia has to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Sinan Aydın
- Atatürk Education and Research Hospital of Chest Diseases and Pulmonary Surgery, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Bolu
- Gülhane Education and Research Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Taner Öznur
- Atatürk Education and Research Hospital of Chest Diseases and Pulmonary Surgery, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cemil Çelik
- Atatürk Education and Research Hospital of Chest Diseases and Pulmonary Surgery, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Özcan Uzun
- Atatürk Education and Research Hospital of Chest Diseases and Pulmonary Surgery, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kamil Nahit Özmenler
- Atatürk Education and Research Hospital of Chest Diseases and Pulmonary Surgery, Ankara, Turkey
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18
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Kumar PK, Mitra P, Ghosh R, Sharma S, Nebhinani N, Sharma P. Association of circulating BDNF levels with BDNF rs6265 polymorphism in schizophrenia. Behav Brain Res 2020; 394:112832. [PMID: 32726665 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a severe neuropsychiatric disorder affecting 1% of the world population. Disturbances in neuronal development and synaptic connections are important factors in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of the neurotrophin family, plays a critical role in the development of neurons. Among several polymorphisms reported in BDNF, the rs6265 polymorphism is known to be associated with many neuropsychiatric diseases. This study was aimed to determine the effect of BDNF rs6265 functional polymorphism on serum BDNF concentration in patients with schizophrenia. In total, 50 schizophrenia patients and 50 controls were recruited after obtaining written informed consent. Serum BDNF levels were estimated using the ELISA method and BDNF rs6265 polymorphism was genotyped using T-ARMS PCR. Serum BDNF levels were decreased significantly in schizophrenia patients when compared to the healthy controls (p < 0.0001). Further, the rs6265 polymorphism was also not associated with the schizophrenia (p = 0.41). Intragroup analysis between different genotypes revealed no association between the serum BDNF levels and rs6265 polymorphism. Our results suggest that the functional polymorphism rs6265 is not associated with serum BDNF levels, which is in line with previous findings, which indicates that serum BDNF levels depend more on diagnostic effect than genetic effect. Replication studies on a larger study population are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pvsn Kiran Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Prasenjit Mitra
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Raghumoy Ghosh
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Shailja Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Naresh Nebhinani
- Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Praveen Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India.
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19
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Huang Z, Wu D, Qu X, Li M, Zou J, Tan S. BDNF and nicotine dependence: associations and potential mechanisms. Rev Neurosci 2020; 32:/j/revneuro.ahead-of-print/revneuro-2020-0044/revneuro-2020-0044.xml. [PMID: 32887210 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2020-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death worldwide and tobacco addiction has become a serious public health problem. Nicotine is the main addictive component of tobacco, and the majority of people that smoke regularly develop nicotine dependence. Nicotine addiction is deemed to be a chronic mental disorder. Although it is well known that nicotine binds to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and activates the mesolimbic dopaminergic system (MDS) to generate the pleasant and rewarding effects, the molecular mechanisms of nicotine addiction are not fully understood. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is the most prevalent growth factor in the brain, which regulates neuron survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity, mainly through binding to the high affinity receptor tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB). BDNF gene polymorphisms are associated with nicotine dependence and blood BDNF levels are altered in smokers. In this review, we discussed the effects of nicotine on BDNF expression in the brain and summarized the underlying signaling pathways, which further indicated BDNF as a key regulator in nicotine dependence. Further studies that aim to understand the neurobiological mechanism of BDNF in nicotine addcition would provide a valuable reference for quitting smoking and developing the treatment of other addictive substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyi Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Institute of Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 W. Changsheng Road, Hengyang421001,Hunan, China
| | - Daichao Wu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Institute of Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 W. Changsheng Road, Hengyang421001,Hunan, China
| | - Xilin Qu
- Grade 2017 of Clinical Medicine, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang421001,Hunan, China
| | - Meixiang Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Institute of Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 W. Changsheng Road, Hengyang421001,Hunan, China
| | - Ju Zou
- Department of Parasitology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang421001,Hunan, China
| | - Sijie Tan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Institute of Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 W. Changsheng Road, Hengyang421001,Hunan, China
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20
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Inner Engineering Practices and Advanced 4-day Isha Yoga Retreat Are Associated with Cannabimimetic Effects with Increased Endocannabinoids and Short-Term and Sustained Improvement in Mental Health: A Prospective Observational Study of Meditators. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:8438272. [PMID: 32595741 PMCID: PMC7293737 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8438272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Anxiety and depression are common in the modern world, and there is growing demand for alternative therapies such as meditation. Meditation can decrease perceived stress and increase general well-being, although the physiological mechanism is not well-characterized. Endocannabinoids (eCBs), lipid mediators associated with enhanced mood and reduced anxiety/depression, have not been previously studied as biomarkers of meditation effects. Our aim was to assess biomarkers (eCBs and brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF]) and psychological parameters after a meditation retreat. Methods This was an observational pilot study of adults before and after the 4-day Isha Yoga Bhava Spandana Program retreat. Participants completed online surveys (before and after retreat, and 1 month later) to assess anxiety, depression, focus, well-being, and happiness through validated psychological scales. Voluntary blood sampling for biomarker studies was done before and within a day after the retreat. The biomarkers anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), 1-arachidonoylglycerol (1-AG), docosatetraenoylethanolamide (DEA), oleoylethanolamide (OLA), and BDNF were evaluated. Primary outcomes were changes in psychological scales, as well as changes in eCBs and BDNF. Results Depression and anxiety scores decreased while focus, happiness, and positive well-being scores increased immediately after retreat from their baseline values (P < 0.001). All improvements were sustained 1 month after BSP. All major eCBs including anandamide, 2-AG, 1-AG, DEA, and BDNF increased after meditation by > 70% (P < 0.001). Increases of ≥20% in anandamide, 2-AG, 1-AG, and total AG levels after meditation from the baseline had weak correlations with changes in happiness and well-being. Conclusions A short meditation experience improved focus, happiness, and positive well-being and reduced depression and anxiety in participants for at least 1 month. Participants had increased blood eCBs and BDNF, suggesting a role for these biomarkers in the underlying mechanism of meditation. Meditation is a simple, organic, and effective way to improve well-being and reduce depression and anxiety.
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Allimuthu P, Nandeesha H, Chinniyappan R, Bhardwaz B, Blessed Raj J. Relationship of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor with Interleukin-23, Testosterone and Disease Severity in Schizophrenia. Indian J Clin Biochem 2020; 36:365-369. [PMID: 34220013 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-020-00880-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal imbalance, inflammation and alteration in synaptic plasticity are reported to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. The objective of the study was to assess the serum levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its association with interleukin-23 (IL-23), testosterone and disease severity in schizophrenia. 40 cases and 40 controls were included in the study. Serum levels of BDNF, IL-23 and testosterone were estimated in all the subjects. Disease severity was assessed using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). The study was designed in Tertiary care hospital, South India. The results were compared between two groups using Mann-Whitney U test. Spearman Correlation analysis was used to assess the association between biochemical parameters and PANSS. Interleukin-23 and testosterone were significantly increased and BDNF was significantly reduced in schizophrenia cases when compared with controls. BDNF was negatively correlated with IL-23 (r = - 400, p = 0.011), positive symptom subscale (r = - 0.393, p = 0.012), general psychopathology score subscale (r = - 407, p = 0.009) and total symptom subscale (r = - 404, p = 0.010). There was no significant association of IL-23 and testosterone with disease severity in schizophrenia cases. BDNF was reduced in schizophrenia cases and negatively associated with interleukin-23 and disease severity scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Allimuthu
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Hanumanthappa Nandeesha
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Raghavi Chinniyappan
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Balaji Bhardwaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India.,Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Jesudas Blessed Raj
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
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Jameel HT, Panatik SA, Nabeel T, Sarwar F, Yaseen M, Jokerst T, Faiz Z. Observed Social Support and Willingness for the Treatment of Patients with Schizophrenia. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2020; 13:193-201. [PMID: 32158288 PMCID: PMC7049275 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s243722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that causes the social breakdown of relationships with others. Patients with schizophrenia interpret reality and verbal communication in an abnormal way. They experience great difficulty in building and maintaining of social relationships within society. They also experience barriers in communication and motivation that hinder their readiness for treatment. The willingness of patients with schizophrenia to be treated improves mental illness, social support and other health-related issues. The main purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between social support and willingness for treatment in patients with Schizophrenia. Methods The qualitative research approach was used to solicit and capture more in-depth information from participants. The research design was phenomenological in nature. A cross-sectional survey method was employed. The sample consisted of twenty female patients diagnosed with schizophrenia, seven psychiatrists, and seven psychologists. A semi-structured interview guide was developed to collect the data. The interview guide covered three themes. The first theme included four questions for patients with schizophrenia. The second theme consisted of six questions for the psychiatrists and the third theme included two questions for the psychologists. Interview data were analysed through frame workanalysis. Results The results of the study showed that social support plays an essential role in the improvement of patients with schizophrenia. Psychiatrists with the help of medication and therapies reduce the negativity and anxiety level of patients and motivate patients to accept treatment. Through counseling, psychologists help patients with schizophrenia build social skills such as the ability to engage in eye contact. Conclusion It is revealed that the social support is closely related to the willingness for treatment in patients with schizophrenia. Therefore, social support is recommended in the course of treatment of patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Tahir Jameel
- Department of Special Education, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Siti Aisyah Panatik
- School of Human Resource Development and Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Tanzila Nabeel
- Department of Special Education, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Farhan Sarwar
- Department of Business Administration and Economics, University of Education, Township Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Yaseen
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Tricia Jokerst
- Special Education, Huston-Tillotson University, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Zikra Faiz
- School of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
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23
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Li N, Cao T, Wu X, Tang M, Xiang D, Cai H. Progress in Genetic Polymorphisms Related to Lipid Disturbances Induced by Atypical Antipsychotic Drugs. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1669. [PMID: 32116676 PMCID: PMC7011106 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic side effects such as weight gain and disturbed lipid metabolism are often observed in the treatment of atypical antipsychotic drugs (AAPDs), which contribute to an excessive prevalence of metabolic syndrome among schizophrenic patients. Great individual differences are observed but the underlying mechanisms are still uncertain. Research on pharmacogenomics indicates that gene polymorphisms involved in the pathways controlling food intake and lipid metabolism may play a significant role. In this review, relevant genes (HTR2C, DRD2, LEP, NPY, MC4R, BDNF, MC4R, CNR1, INSIG2, ADRA2A) and genetic polymorphisms related to metabolic side effects of AAPDs especially dyslipidemia were summarized. Apart from clinical studies, in vitro and in vivo evidence is also analyzed to support related theories. The association of central and peripheral mechanisms is emphasized, enabling the possibility of using peripheral gene expression to predict the central status. Novel methodological development of pharmacogenomics is in urgent need, so as to provide references for individualized medication and further to shed some light on the mechanisms underlying AAPD-induced lipid disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ting Cao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangxin Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mimi Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Hospital Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Daxiong Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hualin Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Hammans C, Neugebauer K, Kumar V, Mevissen L, Sternkopf MA, Novakovic A, Wensing T, Habel U, Abel T, Nickl-Jockschat T. BDNF Serum Levels are Associated With White Matter Microstructure in Schizophrenia - A Pilot Study. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:31. [PMID: 32153434 PMCID: PMC7046752 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. As BDNF regulates axonal and dendritic growth, altered BDNF levels in schizophrenia patients might underlie changes in structural connectivity that have been identified by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We investigated a possible correlation between BDNF serum levels, fiber tract architecture, and regional grey matter volumes in 19 schizophrenia patients and a gender- and age-matched control group. Two patients had to be excluded due to abnormalities in their MRI scans. Serum samples were obtained to determine BDNF levels, and T1- as well as diffusion-weighted sequences were acquired. We, then, investigated correlations between BDNF serum levels with neuroimaging parameters, using Voxel-based Morphometry (VBM) and Tract-based Spatial Statistics (TBSS). We found a significant negative correlation between BDNF serum levels and FA values in the right inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus and the right superior longitudinal fasciculus. These regions also showed a decrease in AD values in schizophrenia patients. Grey matter volumes were reduced in patients but there was no correlation between regional grey matter volumes and BDNF. The right superior longitudinal fasciculus has been repeatedly identified to exhibit microstructural changes in schizophrenia patients. Our findings of a negative correlation between BDNF and FA values in patients might indicate that BDNF is upregulated to compensate decreased structural connectivity as it induces neural plasticity and shows increased levels in damaged tissue. These findings of our pilot study are encouraging leads for future research in larger samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Hammans
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany
| | - Kristina Neugebauer
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany.,Department of High-field Magnetic Resonance, Max-Planck-Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lea Mevissen
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany
| | - Melanie A Sternkopf
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany
| | - Ana Novakovic
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany
| | - Tobias Wensing
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany
| | - Ute Habel
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM 10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Ted Abel
- Carver College of Medicine, Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Thomas Nickl-Jockschat
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany.,Carver College of Medicine, Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
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25
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Increased plasma Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels in females with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2019; 209:212-217. [PMID: 31088701 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) acts as a critical regulator of synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Sex differences have been demonstrated in many aspects of schizophrenia. This study tested for sex-specific differences in peripheral BDNF levels in people with schizophrenia and healthy controls. We measured circulating plasma BDNF levels in 95 people with schizophrenia and 80 healthy controls. Plasma BDNF levels were significantly elevated in females with schizophrenia compared to males with schizophrenia and to female healthy controls. These results suggest that sex differences in peripheral BDNF levels may contribute to other sex related differences in schizophrenia.
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26
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Shah P, Iwata Y, Caravaggio F, Plitman E, Brown EE, Kim J, Chan N, Hahn M, Remington G, Gerretsen P, Graff-Guerrero A. Alterations in body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio in never and minimally treated patients with psychosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Schizophr Res 2019; 208:420-429. [PMID: 30685395 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is up to 4 times higher in patients with schizophrenia than in the general population. However, the link between obesity and schizophrenia in the absence of antipsychotic use is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to examine differences in obesity measures (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) in antipsychotic-naive and minimally treated (up to 2 weeks of lifetime antipsychotic exposure) patients with psychosis compared to healthy controls (HCs). METHODS A systematic search was conducted using Ovid Medline®, PsycINFO, and Embase. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) in obesity measures between groups were calculated. Separate sensitivity analyses were performed to examine the effects of age, sex, and ethnicity; antipsychotic exposure; and schizophrenia-related psychosis on SMDs. RESULTS A total of 23 studies were included in the meta-analysis (BMI = 23, WC = 9, WHR = 5). BMI was lower (SMD = -0.19, 95% CI = -0.34 to -0.05, P = 0.009) and WHR was elevated (SMD = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.55, P = 0.001) in patients. These differences remained after analyses were restricted to patients matched with HCs for age, sex, and ethnicity; to antipsychotic-naive patients; and to patients with schizophrenia-related diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS Differences in BMI and WHR were observed in never and minimally treated patients with psychosis compared to HCs. Future research is warranted to understand these alterations in the context of body fat biomarkers and neuropathology of psychiatric disorders, independent of the effects of antipsychotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parita Shah
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yusuke Iwata
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fernando Caravaggio
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric Plitman
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric E Brown
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Geriatric Mental Health Division, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia Kim
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nathan Chan
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret Hahn
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gary Remington
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Geriatric Mental Health Division, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip Gerretsen
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Geriatric Mental Health Division, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ariel Graff-Guerrero
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Geriatric Mental Health Division, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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27
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Du X, McCarthny CR, Notaras M, van den Buuse M, Hill RA. Effect of adolescent androgen manipulation on psychosis-like behaviour in adulthood in BDNF heterozygous and control mice. Horm Behav 2019; 112:32-41. [PMID: 30928609 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.03.005] [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: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Males are more prone to psychosis, schizophrenia and substance abuse and addiction in adolescence and early adulthood than females. However, the role of androgens during this developmental period is poorly understood. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine how androgens in adolescence influence psychosis-like behaviour in adulthood and whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a mediator of these developmental effects. METHODS Wild-type and BDNF heterozygous male mice were castrated at pre-pubescence and implanted with testosterone or dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In adulthood, we assessed amphetamine- and MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion as a model of psychosis-like behaviour. Western blot analysis was used to quantify levels of the dopamine transporter (DAT) and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits. RESULTS While castration itself had little effect on behaviour, adolescent testosterone, but not DHT, significantly reduced amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion, whereas both testosterone and DHT reduced the effect of MK-801. These effects were similar in mice of either genotype. In wildtype mice, both testosterone and DHT treatment reduced DAT expression in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) but these effects were absent in BDNF heterozygous mice. There were no effects on NMDA receptor subunit levels. CONCLUSIONS The differential effect of adolescent testosterone and DHT on amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion in adulthood suggests involvement of conversion of testosterone to estrogen and subsequent modulation of dopaminergic signalling. In contrast, the similar effect of testosterone and DHT treatment on NMDA receptor-mediated hyperlocomotion indicates it is mediated by androgen receptors. The involvement of BDNF in these hormone effects remains to be elucidated. These results demonstrate that, during adolescence, androgens significantly influence key pathways related to various mental illnesses prevalent in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Du
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - C R McCarthny
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - M Notaras
- Center for Neurogenetics, Brain & Mind Research Institute, Cornell University, NY, USA
| | - M van den Buuse
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Australia; The College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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28
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Rodrigues-Amorim D, Rivera-Baltanás T, Bessa J, Sousa N, Vallejo-Curto MDC, Rodríguez-Jamardo C, de Las Heras ME, Díaz R, Agís-Balboa RC, Olivares JM, Spuch C. The neurobiological hypothesis of neurotrophins in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia: A meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2018; 106:43-53. [PMID: 30269004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is associated with patterns of aberrant neurobiological circuitry. The disease complexity is mirrored by multiple biological interactions known to contribute to the disease pathology. One potential contributor is the family of neurotrophins which are proteins involved in multiple functional processes in the nervous system, with crucial roles in neurodevelopment, synaptogenesis and neuroplasticity. With these roles in mind, abnormal neurotrophin profiles have been hypothesized to contribute to the pathology of schizophrenia. METHODS We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis to scrutinize the neurobiological hypothesis of neurotrophins in schizophrenia, examining the correlation between peripheral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and neurotrophin 4/5 (NT-4/5) associated with schizophrenia. RESULTS Fifty-two studies were reviewed and twenty-two studies were included in this meta-analysis. Using a random effects model, we confirmed that decreased levels of neurotrophins (BDNF, NGF and NT-4/5) were associated with schizophrenia (Hedges's g = -0.846; SE = 0.058; 95% confidence interval: -0.960 to -0.733; Z-value = -14.632; p-value = 0.000). Subgroup analysis indicated that neurotrophin levels are significantly decreased in both medicated and drug-näive patients. Meta-regression of continuous variables such as mean age, duration of illness and PANSS total score did not show significant effects (p > 0.05) in relation to neurotrophins levels. DISCUSSION We confirm that decreased peripheral neurotrophin levels are significantly associated with schizophrenia, thereby confirming the neurobiological hypothesis of neurotrophins in schizophrenia. Low levels of neurotrophins in peripheral blood of patients with schizophrenia may explain, in part, the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Rodrigues-Amorim
- Neuroscience Translational Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, SERGAS-UVIGO, CIBERSAM, Spain
| | - Tania Rivera-Baltanás
- Neuroscience Translational Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, SERGAS-UVIGO, CIBERSAM, Spain
| | - João Bessa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | | | - Cynthia Rodríguez-Jamardo
- Neuroscience Translational Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, SERGAS-UVIGO, CIBERSAM, Spain
| | - María Elena de Las Heras
- Neuroscience Translational Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, SERGAS-UVIGO, CIBERSAM, Spain
| | - Roberto Díaz
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata, IISPV, URV, CIBERSAM, Reus, Spain; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | | | - J M Olivares
- Neuroscience Translational Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, SERGAS-UVIGO, CIBERSAM, Spain.
| | - Carlos Spuch
- Neuroscience Translational Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, SERGAS-UVIGO, CIBERSAM, Spain.
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29
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Boschen KE, Keller SM, Roth TL, Klintsova AY. Epigenetic mechanisms in alcohol- and adversity-induced developmental origins of neurobehavioral functioning. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2018; 66:63-79. [PMID: 29305195 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The long-term effects of developmental alcohol and stress exposure are well documented in both humans and non-human animal models. Damage to the brain and attendant life-long impairments in cognition and increased risk for psychiatric disorders are debilitating consequences of developmental exposure to alcohol and/or psychological stress. Here we discuss evidence for a role of epigenetic mechanisms in mediating these consequences. While we highlight some of the common ways in which stress or alcohol impact the epigenome, we point out that little is understood of the epigenome's response to experiencing both stress and alcohol exposure, though stress is a contributing factor as to why women drink during pregnancy. Advancing our understanding of this relationship is of critical concern not just for the health and well-being of individuals directly exposed to these teratogens, but for generations to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Boschen
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - S M Keller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, United States
| | - T L Roth
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, United States.
| | - A Y Klintsova
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, United States.
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30
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Bakirhan A, Yalcin Sahiner S, Sahiner IV, Safak Y, Goka E. Association of serum brain derived neurotropic factor with duration of drug-naive period and positive-negative symptom scores in drug naive schizophrenia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189373. [PMID: 29287075 PMCID: PMC5747443 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this study was to compare the serum brain derived neurotropic factor (BNDF) levels of patients with schizophrenia who had never received an antipsychotic treatment with those of a control group. Also, to analyze the relationship between the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) scores and BDNF levels of the patients during the period they were drug-naive. Materials and methods The sample of the study comprised patients who presentedto the Psychiatry Clinic and were admitted after a distinctive schizophrenia diagnosis was made in accordance with the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) diagnosis classification and who were not using and never had any antipsychotic medicine. A total of 160 participants were included in the study, 80 of whom had schizophrenia patients and 80 constituted the age- and sex-matched healthy control group. Before the start of the treatment, the serum samples to be checked for the BDNF levels were collected from the patients. Results The difference between the average BDNF levels of the groups were statistically significant (t = -5.25; p˂.001). An analysis as to whether there was a relation between the BDNF levels and the drug-naïve duration indicated no correlations. An examination of the relationship between PANSS scores and BDNF levels of the patients yielded no correlations. Discussion Serum BDNF levels seem to be one of the indicators of schizophrenia and its progress; nevertheless, we still do not have sufficient information about this neurotropic factor. In light of our study, the neurodevelopmental changes that occur at disease onset of the illness prominently affect the progress of the illness, which highlights the importance of the treatment in the early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdurrahim Bakirhan
- Department of Psychiatry, Elbistan State Hospital, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Yasir Safak
- Department of Psychiatry, Diskapi Yildirim Beyazit Research and Training Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erol Goka
- Department of Psychiatry, Numune Research and Training Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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31
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McGregor C, Riordan A, Thornton J. Estrogens and the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia: Possible neuroprotective mechanisms. Front Neuroendocrinol 2017; 47:19-33. [PMID: 28673758 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric illness with marked sex differences. Women have later onset and lesser symptoms, which has led to the hypothesis that estrogens are protective in schizophrenia. Cognitive dysfunction is a hallmark of the disease and the symptom most correlated with functional outcome. Here we describe a number of mechanisms by which estrogens may be therapeutic in schizophrenia, with a focus on cognitive symptoms. We review the relationship between estrogens and brain derived neurotrophic factor, neuroinflammation, NMDA receptors, GABA receptors, and luteinizing hormone. Exploring these pathways may enable novel treatments for schizophrenia and a greater understanding of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire McGregor
- Department of Neuroscience, Oberlin College, 119 Woodland St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA.
| | - Alexander Riordan
- Department of Neuroscience, Oberlin College, 119 Woodland St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA
| | - Janice Thornton
- Department of Neuroscience, Oberlin College, 119 Woodland St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA
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32
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Kudlek Mikulic S, Mihaljevic-Peles A, Sagud M, Bajs Janovic M, Ganoci L, Grubisin J, Kuzman Rojnic M, Vuksan Cusa B, Bradaš Z, Božina N. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor serum and plasma levels in the treatment of acute schizophrenia with olanzapine or risperidone: 6-week prospective study. Nord J Psychiatry 2017; 71:513-520. [PMID: 28671000 DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2017.1340518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Antipsychotics have been the mainstay of the treatment of schizophrenia, and their potential role in neuroprotection could be related to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). So far different effects on both serum and plasma levels of BDNF were reported related to the various antipsychotic treatments. Aim of this study was to investigate the influence of olanzapine or risperidone on both plasma and serum levels of BDNF in patients with acute schizophrenia. For 50 participants with acute episode of schizophrenia both plasma and serum BDNF, along with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Clinical Global Impression scale, were assessed pretreatment and post treatment - after 6 weeks of either risperidone or olanzapine. Results show that a weak correlation between pretreatment plasma and serum levels of BNDF was found no longer significant after 6 weeks of treatment. Antipsychotics, olanzapine and risperidone showed no significant effect on post treatment plasma and serum levels of BDNF. Pretreatment plasma level of BDNF and PANSS positive subscale were positively correlated. Post treatment serum level of BDNF and Clinical Global Impression were negatively correlated. In conclusion, plasma and serum BDNF levels could be different markers to some extent with regard to clinical symptoms, response to therapy and outcome. The interrelation between serum and plasma BDNF should be established in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alma Mihaljevic-Peles
- b Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine , Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Marina Sagud
- b Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine , Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Maja Bajs Janovic
- a Department of Psychiatry, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Lana Ganoci
- c Department of Laboratory Diagnostics , Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Jasmina Grubisin
- a Department of Psychiatry, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Martina Kuzman Rojnic
- b Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine , Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Bjanka Vuksan Cusa
- a Department of Psychiatry, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia.,d Faculty of Medicine , Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek , Osijek , Croatia
| | - Zoran Bradaš
- a Department of Psychiatry, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Nada Božina
- e Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, School of Medicine , Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
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33
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A meta-analysis of peripheral blood nerve growth factor levels in patients with schizophrenia. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:1306-1312. [PMID: 28070123 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) are crucial modulators in the neurodevelopment and maintenance of central and peripheral nervous systems. Neurotrophin hypothesis of schizophrenia (SCZ) postulated that the changes in the brains of SCZ patients are the result of disturbances of developing processes involving neurotrophic factors. This hypothesis was mainly supported by the abnormal regulation of BDNF in SCZ, especially the decreased peripheral blood BDNF levels in SCZ patients validated by several meta-analyses. However, the regulation of NGF in SCZ remains unclear because of the inconsistent findings from the clinical studies. Therefore, we undertook, to the best of our knowledge, the first systematic review with a meta-analysis to quantitatively summarize the peripheral blood NGF data in SCZ patients compared with healthy control (HC) subjects. A systematic search of Pubmed, PsycINFO and Web of Science identified 13 articles encompassing a sample of 1693 individuals for the meta-analysis. Random-effects meta-analysis showed that patients with SCZ had significantly decreased peripheral blood levels of NGF when compared with the HC subjects (Hedges's g=-0.633, 95% confidence interval (CI)=-0.948 to -0.318, P<0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed reduced NGF levels both in serum (Hedges's g=-0.671, 95% CI=-1.259 to -0.084, P=0.025) and plasma (Hedges's g=-0.621, 95% CI=-0.980 to -0.261, P<0.001) of the patients, and in drug-free (Hedges's g=-0.670, 95% CI=-1.118 to -0.222, P=0.003) and medicated (Hedges's g=-0.357, 95% CI=-0.592 to -0.123, P=0.003) patients with SCZ. Furthermore, meta-regression analyses showed that age, gender and sample size had no moderating effects on the outcome of the meta-analysis, whereas disease severity might be a confounding factor for the meta-analysis. These results demonstrated that patients with SCZ are accompanied by the decreased peripheral blood NGF levels, strengthening the clinical evidence of an abnormal neurotrophin profile in the patients with SCZ.
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Chiou YJ, Huang TL. Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factors in Taiwanese patients with drug-naïve first-episode schizophrenia: Effects of antipsychotics. World J Biol Psychiatry 2017; 18:382-391. [PMID: 27643618 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2016.1224925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF) are known to be related to the psychopathology of schizophrenia. However, studies focussing on drug-naïve first-episode schizophrenia are still rare. METHODS Over a 5-year period, we investigated the serum BDNF levels in patients with first-episode drug-naïve schizophrenia and compared them to age- and sex-matched healthy controls. We also explored the association between antipsychotic doses, positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS) scores, and serum BDNF levels before and after a 4-week antipsychotic treatment. RESULTS The baseline serum BDNF levels of 34 patients were significantly lower than those of the controls (df = 66, P = .001). Although the PANSS scores of 20 followed-up patients improved significantly after antipsychotic treatment, the elevation of the serum BDNF levels was not statistically significant (P = .386). In addition, Pearson's correlation test showed significant correlations between pre-treatment negative scale scores and percentage changes in BDNF (P = .002). CONCLUSIONS The peripheral BDNF levels in Taiwanese patients with drug-naïve first-episode schizophrenia, compared with healthy controls, did not elevate after antipsychotic treatment, and pre-treatment negative symptoms played a pivotal role in trajectories of serum BDNF levels. Large samples will be needed in future studies to verify these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jie Chiou
- a Department of Psychiatry , Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Tiao-Lai Huang
- a Department of Psychiatry , Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
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Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in Individuals With Schizophrenia and Healthy Aging: Testing the Accelerated Aging Hypothesis of Schizophrenia. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2017; 19:36. [PMID: 28534294 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-017-0794-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Schizophrenia has been hypothesized to be a syndrome of accelerated aging. Brain plasticity is vulnerable to the normal aging process and affected in schizophrenia: brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an important neuroplasticity molecule. The present review explores the accelerated aging hypothesis of schizophrenia by comparing changes in BDNF expression in schizophrenia with aging-associated changes. RECENT FINDINGS Individuals with schizophrenia show patterns of increased overall mortality, metabolic abnormalities, and cognitive decline normally observed later in life in the healthy population. An overall decrease is observed in BDNF expression in schizophrenia compared to healthy controls and in older individuals compared to a younger cohort. There is a marked decrease in BDNF levels in the frontal regions and in the periphery among older individuals and those with schizophrenia; however, data for BDNF expression in the occipital, parietal, and temporal cortices and the hippocampus is inconclusive. Accelerated aging hypothesis is supported based on frontal regions and peripheral studies; however, further studies are needed in other brain regions.
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Xiao W, Ye F, Liu C, Tang X, Li J, Dong H, Sha W, Zhang X. Cognitive impairment in first-episode drug-naïve patients with schizophrenia: Relationships with serum concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 76:163-168. [PMID: 28342945 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evidence suggests that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line -derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) are important in the regulation of synaptic plasticity, which plays a key role in the cognitive processes in psychiatric disorders. Our work aimed at exploring the associations between serum BDNF and GDNF levels and cognitive functions in first-episode drug-naïve (FEDN) patients with schizophrenia. METHODS The BDNF and GDNF levels of 58 FEDN patients and 55 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were measured and test subjects were examined using several neurocognitive tests including the verbal fluency test (VFT), the trail making test (TMT), the digit span test (DST), and the Stroop test. RESULTS Patients performed significantly worse than controls in nearly all neurocognitive performances except the forward subscale part of the DST. BDNF levels were inversely correlated to TMT-part B scores and positively correlated to VFT-action in the FEDN group. GDNF levels showed a positive correlation with VFT-action scores and a negative correlation with TMT-part B scores of these patients. CONCLUSION Current data suggests that cognitive dysfunction widely exists in the early stages of schizophrenia. BDNF and GDNF may be jointly contributed to the pathological mechanisms involved in cognitive impairment in FEDN patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhuan Xiao
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - Fei Ye
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - Chunlai Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Kangren Hospital, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang 835000, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - Weiwei Sha
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - Xiaobin Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China.
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Agrawal R, Kalmady SV, Venkatasubramanian G. In SilicoModel-driven Assessment of the Effects of Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Deficiency on Glutamate and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid: Implications for Understanding Schizophrenia Pathophysiology. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2017; 15:115-125. [PMID: 28449558 PMCID: PMC5426484 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2017.15.2.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Objective Deficient brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is one of the important mechanisms underlying the neuroplasticity abnormalities in schizophrenia. Aberration in BDNF signaling pathways directly or circuitously influences neurotransmitters like glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). For the first time, this study attempts to construct and simulate the BDNF-neurotransmitter network in order to assess the effects of BDNF deficiency on glutamate and GABA. Methods Using CellDesigner, we modeled BDNF interactions with calcium influx via N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)- Calmodulin activation; synthesis of GABA via cell cycle regulators protein kinase B, glycogen synthase kinase and β-catenin; transportation of glutamate and GABA. Steady state stability, perturbation time-course simulation and sensitivity analysis were performed in COPASI after assigning the kinetic functions, optimizing the unknown parameters using random search and genetic algorithm. Results Study observations suggest that increased glutamate in hippocampus, similar to that seen in schizophrenia, could potentially be contributed by indirect pathway originated from BDNF. Deficient BDNF could suppress Glutamate decarboxylase 67-mediated GABA synthesis. Further, deficient BDNF corresponded to impaired transport via vesicular glutamate transporter, thereby further increasing the intracellular glutamate in GABAergic and glutamatergic cells. BDNF also altered calcium dependent neuroplasticity via NMDAR modulation. Sensitivity analysis showed that Calmodulin, cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and CREB regulated transcription coactivator-1 played significant role in this network. Conclusion The study presents in silicoquantitative model of biochemical network constituting the key signaling molecules implicated in schizophrenia pathogenesis. It provides mechanistic insights into putative contribution of deficient BNDF towards alterations in neurotransmitters and neuroplasticity that are consistent with current understanding of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimjhim Agrawal
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Neurobiology Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Sunil Vasu Kalmady
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Neurobiology Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Ganesan Venkatasubramanian
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Neurobiology Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, India
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Einoch R, Weinreb O, Mandiuk N, Youdim MBH, Bilker W, Silver H. The involvement of BDNF-CREB signaling pathways in the pharmacological mechanism of combined SSRI- antipsychotic treatment in schizophrenia. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2017; 27:470-483. [PMID: 28410959 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies into the mechanism of SSRI-antipsychotic synergism in our laboratory identified unique changes in the brain, particularly in the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor and its modulators. This study examined the role of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-cAMP response element binding (CREB) protein signaling pathways, including protein kinase B (AKT), glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β and related molecules in the molecular response to haloperidol, fluvoxamine, combined haloperidol+fluvoxamine and clozapine treatments in rat frontal cortex, hippocampus and primary cortical neuronal cultures. The effect of fluvoxamine augmentation on BDNF-CREB pathways in peripheral mononuclear cells (PMC׳s) of medicated schizophrenia patients was also studied. Chronic haloperidol (1mg/kg) +fluvoxamine (10mg/kg) treatment increased TrkB receptor and BDNF expression levels, and the phosphorylation of AKT/CREB/GSK-3β, compared to the individual drugs in rat brain. In addition, haloperidol+fluvoxamine treatment improved cognitive functions in rats, indicating that the molecular changes may have a role in behavioral improvement. In primary neuronal cell cultures, pretreatment with a selective PI3K inhibitor abolished the haloperidol+fluvoxamine-induced phosphorylation of AKT and GSK-3β, but did not affect the upregulation of CREB phosphorylation. In the clinic, PMC׳s of treated patients showed upregulation of mRNA expression and protein levels of BDNF, CREB and AKT after addition of fluvoxamine. Analyses of PMC genes and proteins showed significant inter-correlations and some gene changes correlated with improvement in negative and cognitive symptoms. Our study provides new knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of symptom amelioration in schizophrenia and may advance development of new drugs for this disease and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reef Einoch
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Unit, Shaar Menashe Brain Behavior Laboratory, Shaar Menashe MHC and Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel; Eve Topf and National Parkinson Foundation Centers of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, Department of Pharmacology, Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Orly Weinreb
- Eve Topf and National Parkinson Foundation Centers of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, Department of Pharmacology, Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nina Mandiuk
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Unit, Shaar Menashe Brain Behavior Laboratory, Shaar Menashe MHC and Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Moussa B H Youdim
- Eve Topf and National Parkinson Foundation Centers of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, Department of Pharmacology, Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Warren Bilker
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Henry Silver
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Unit, Shaar Menashe Brain Behavior Laboratory, Shaar Menashe MHC and Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel; Eve Topf and National Parkinson Foundation Centers of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, Department of Pharmacology, Technion-Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel.
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Perkovic MN, Erjavec GN, Strac DS, Uzun S, Kozumplik O, Pivac N. Theranostic Biomarkers for Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E733. [PMID: 28358316 PMCID: PMC5412319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18040733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a highly heritable, chronic, severe, disabling neurodevelopmental brain disorder with a heterogeneous genetic and neurobiological background, which is still poorly understood. To allow better diagnostic procedures and therapeutic strategies in schizophrenia patients, use of easy accessible biomarkers is suggested. The most frequently used biomarkers in schizophrenia are those associated with the neuroimmune and neuroendocrine system, metabolism, different neurotransmitter systems and neurotrophic factors. However, there are still no validated and reliable biomarkers in clinical use for schizophrenia. This review will address potential biomarkers in schizophrenia. It will discuss biomarkers in schizophrenia and propose the use of specific blood-based panels that will include a set of markers associated with immune processes, metabolic disorders, and neuroendocrine/neurotrophin/neurotransmitter alterations. The combination of different markers, or complex multi-marker panels, might help in the discrimination of patients with different underlying pathologies and in the better classification of the more homogenous groups. Therefore, the development of the diagnostic, prognostic and theranostic biomarkers is an urgent and an unmet need in psychiatry, with the aim of improving diagnosis, therapy monitoring, prediction of treatment outcome and focus on the personal medicine approach in order to improve the quality of life in patients with schizophrenia and decrease health costs worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dubravka Svob Strac
- Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Division of Molecular Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Suzana Uzun
- Clinic for Psychiatry Vrapce, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | | | - Nela Pivac
- Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Division of Molecular Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Karanth AV, Maniswami RR, Prashanth S, Govindaraj H, Padmavathy R, Jegatheesan SK, Mullangi R, Rajagopal S. Emerging role of SETDB1 as a therapeutic target. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2017; 21:319-331. [PMID: 28076698 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2017.1279604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epigenetic changes lead to aberrant gene expression in cancer. SETDB1, a histone lysine methyltransferase plays an important role in methylation and gene silencing. Aberrant histone methylation at H3K9 by SETDB1 promotes silencing of tumor suppressor genes and thus contributes to carcinogenesis. Recent studies indicate that SETDB1 is abnormally expressed in various human cancer conditions which contributed to enhanced tumor growth and metastasis. Hence, SETDB1 appears to be a promising epigenetic target for therapeutic intervention. Areas covered: In this article, the structural features, localization and functions of SETDB1 are reviewed. Also, an overview of the role of SETDB1 in cancer and other disease mechanisms, the currently studied inhibitors for SETDB1 are mentioned. Expert opinion: Silencing of tumor suppressor genes due to excessive trimethylation at H3K9 by amplified SETDB1 levels is found in various cancerous conditions. Since epigenetic changes are reversible, SETDB1 holds promise as an important therapeutic target for cancer. Therefore, a better understanding of the role of SETDB1 and its interaction with various proteins in cancer-related mechanisms along with therapeutic interventions specific for SETDB1 may improve targeted cancer therapy.
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Shrivastava A, De Sousa A, Rao GP. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Suicide in Schizophrenia: Critical Role of Neuroprotective Mechanisms as an Emerging Hypothesis. Indian J Psychol Med 2016; 38:499-504. [PMID: 28031582 PMCID: PMC5178030 DOI: 10.4103/0253-7176.194913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Suicide is a common occurrence in psychiatric disorders and is a cause of increased healthcare utilization worldwide. Schizophrenia is one of the most common psychiatric disorders worldwide and posited to be seen in 1% of the population worldwide. Suicide is a common occurrence in schizophrenia with 25%-30% patients with schizophrenia attempting suicide and 8%-10% completing it. There is a need for valid biological markers to help clinicians identify patients with schizophrenia that may be at a risk of suicide and thus help in them receiving better care and interventions at the earliest even before a suicide attempt occurring. There are clear neurobiological changes at a genetic, neuroimaging, and neurochemical level that occurs in patients with schizophrenia that attempt suicide. There is a new theory that postulates neuronal plasticity and neuroprotection to have a role in the biological changes that ensue when suicidal thoughts and feelings occur in patients with schizophrenia. Neurotrophic growth factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have been documented to play a role in the protection of neurons and in the prevention of neurobiological changes that may lead to suicide both in schizophrenia and depression. The present paper presents a commentary that looks at the role of BDNF as a protective factor and neurobiological marker for suicide in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amresh Shrivastava
- Department of Psychiatry, Parkwood Institute of Mental Health Care and Associate Scientist, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Avinash De Sousa
- Department of Psychiatry, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - G Prasad Rao
- Department of Psychiatry, Asha Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Błasiak E, Łukasiewicz S, Szafran-Pilch K, Dziedzicka-Wasylewska M. Genetic variants of dopamine D2 receptor impact heterodimerization with dopamine D1 receptor. Pharmacol Rep 2016; 69:235-241. [PMID: 28119185 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2016.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human dopamine D2 receptor gene has three polymorphic variants that alter its amino acid sequence: alanine substitution by valine in position 96 (V96A), proline substitution by serine in position 310 (P310S) and serine substitution by cysteine in position 311 (S311C). Their functional role has never been the object of extensive studies, even though there is some evidence that their occurrence correlates with schizophrenia. METHODS The HEK293 cell line was transfected with dopamine D1 and D2 receptors (or genetic variants of the D2 receptor), coupled to fluorescent proteins which allowed us to measure the extent of dimerization of these receptors, using a highly advanced biophysical approach (FLIM-FRET). Additionally, Fluoro-4 AM was used to examine changes in the level of calcium release after ligand stimulation of cells expressing different combinations of dopamine receptors. RESULTS Using FLIM-FRET experiments we have shown that in HEK 293 expressing dopamine receptors, polymorphic mutations in the D2 receptor play a role in dimmer formation with the dopamine D1 receptor. The association level of dopamine receptors is affected by ligand administration, with variable effects depending on polymorphic variant of the D2 dopamine receptor. We have found that the level of heteromer formation is reflected by calcium ion release after ligand stimulation and have observed variations of this effect dependent on the polymorphic variant and the ligand. CONCLUSION The data presented in this paper support the hypothesis on the role of calcium signaling regulated by the D1-D2 heteromer which may be of relevance for schizophrenia etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Błasiak
- Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Sylwia Łukasiewicz
- Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.
| | | | - Marta Dziedzicka-Wasylewska
- Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland; Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland.
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The Efficacy of Non-Pharmacological Interventions on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101766. [PMID: 27783051 PMCID: PMC5085790 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have investigated the relationship between non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) and peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in schizophrenia patients. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to review the efficacy of NPIs on peripheral serum and plasma BDNF in subjects with schizophrenia (including schizoaffective disorder). Meta-analyses were conducted to examine the effects of NPIs on blood BDNF levels by using the standardized mean differences (SMDs) between the intervention groups and controls. In total, six randomized controlled trials with 289 participants were included. Of them, five studies used exercise, physical training or diet products. One study used cognitive training. Overall, the BDNF levels in the NPI group increased significantly compared with the control groups (SMD = 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.07 to 1.83, p = 0.03). Subgroup analyses indicated beneficial effects of a non-exercise intervention on peripheral BDNF levels (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.74, p = 0.01). Meta-regression analyses showed that the completion rate influenced the variation in SMD (p = 0.01). Despite insufficient evidence to draw a conclusion, our results suggest that use of NPIs as adjunctive treatments, specifically non-exercise interventions, may affect positively serum or plasma BDNF in patients with schizophrenia.
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Li J, Ye F, Xiao W, Tang X, Sha W, Zhang X, Wang J. Increased serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels following electroconvulsive therapy or antipsychotic treatment in patients with schizophrenia. Eur Psychiatry 2016; 36:23-8. [PMID: 27311104 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many schizophrenia patients experience residual symptoms even after treatment. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is often used in medication-resistant schizophrenia patients when pharmacologic interventions have failed; however, the mechanism of action is unclear. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels are reduced in drug-naive, first-episode schizophrenia and are increased by antipsychotic treatment. We tested the hypothesis that ECT increases serum BDNF levels by measuring BDNF concentrations in schizophrenia patients before and after they received ECT. METHODS A total of 160 patients with schizophrenia were examined. The ECT group (n=80) was treated with antipsychotics and ECT (eight to 10 sessions administered every other day). The drug therapy group (n=80) received only antipsychotic treatment. A control group (n=77) was recruited that served as the baseline for comparison. RESULTS Baseline serum BDNF level in ECT group was lower than in controls (9.7±2.1 vs. 12.4±3.2ng/ml; P<0.001), but increased after ECT, such that there was no difference between the two groups (11.9±3.3 vs. 12.4±3.2ng/ml; P=0.362). There was no correlation between patients' Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) score and serum BDNF level before ECT; however, a negative correlation was observed after ECT (total: r=-0.692; P<0.01). From baseline to remission after ECT, serum BDNF level increased (P<0.001) and their PANSS score decreased (P<0.001). Changes in BDNF level (2.21±4.10ng/ml) and PANSS score (28.69±14.96) were positively correlated in the ECT group (r=0.630; P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS BDNF level was lower in schizophrenia patients relative to healthy controls before ECT and medication. BDNF level increased after ECT and medication, and its longitudinal change was associated with changes in patients' psychotic symptoms. These results indicate that BDNF mediates the antipsychotic effects of ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders (No. 13dz2260500), Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China; Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China; Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - F Ye
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - W Xiao
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - X Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - W Sha
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China
| | - X Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated WuTaiShan Hospital of Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225003, PR China.
| | - J Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders (No. 13dz2260500), Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China; Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, PR China.
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Çöpoğlu ÜS, Igci M, Bozgeyik E, Kokaçya MH, İğci YZ, Dokuyucu R, Ari M, Savaş HA. DNA Methylation of BDNF Gene in Schizophrenia. Med Sci Monit 2016; 22:397-402. [PMID: 26851233 PMCID: PMC4749043 DOI: 10.12659/msm.895896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although genetic factors are risk factors for schizophrenia, some environmental factors are thought to be required for the manifestation of disease. Epigenetic mechanisms regulate gene functions without causing a change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that regulates synaptic transmission and plasticity. It has been suggested that BDNF may play a role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. It is established that methylation status of the BDNF gene is associated with fear learning, memory, and stressful social interactions. In this study, we aimed to investigate the DNA methylation status of BDNF gene in patients with schizophrenia. Material/Methods The study included 49 patients (33 male and 16 female) with schizophrenia and 65 unrelated healthy controls (46 male and 19 female). Determination of methylation pattern of CpG islands was based on the principle that bisulfite treatment of DNA results in conversion of unmethylated cytosine residues into uracil, whereas methylated cytosine residues remain unmodified. Methylation-specific PCR was performed with primers specific for either methylated or unmethylated DNA. Results There was no significant difference in methylated or un-methylated status for BDNF promoters between schizophrenia patients and controls. The mean duration of illness was significantly lower in the hemi-methylated group compared to the non-methylated group for BDNF gene CpG island-1 in schizophrenia patients. Conclusions Although there were no differences in BDNF gene methylation status between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls, there was an association between duration of illness and DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ümit Sertan Çöpoğlu
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Mehri Igci
- Department Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Esra Bozgeyik
- Department Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - M Hanifi Kokaçya
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Ziya İğci
- Department Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Recep Dokuyucu
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Ari
- Department of Physiology, Mustafa Kemal University, School of Medicine, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Haluk A Savaş
- Department Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
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Zanardini R, Ciani M, Benussi L, Ghidoni R. Molecular Pathways Bridging Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration and Psychiatric Disorders. Front Aging Neurosci 2016; 8:10. [PMID: 26869919 PMCID: PMC4740789 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2016.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The overlap of symptoms between neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases has been reported. Neuropsychiatric alterations are commonly observed in dementia, especially in the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), which is the most common clinical FTD subtype. At the same time, psychiatric disorders, like schizophrenia (SCZ), can display symptoms of dementia, including features of frontal dysfunction with relative sparing of memory. In the present review, we discuss common molecular features in these pathologies with a special focus on FTD. Molecules like Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and progranulin are linked to the pathophysiology of both neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. In these brain-associated illnesses, the presence of disease-associated variants in BDNF and progranulin (GRN) genes cause a reduction of circulating proteins levels, through alterations in proteins expression or secretion. For these reasons, we believe that prevention and therapy of psychiatric and neurological disorders could be achieved enhancing both BDNF and progranulin levels thanks to drug discovery efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Zanardini
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio, Fatebenefratelli Brescia, Italy
| | - Miriam Ciani
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio, Fatebenefratelli Brescia, Italy
| | - Luisa Benussi
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio, Fatebenefratelli Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Ghidoni
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio, Fatebenefratelli Brescia, Italy
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Scott MR, Rubio MD, Haroutunian V, Meador-Woodruff JH. Protein Expression of Proteasome Subunits in Elderly Patients with Schizophrenia. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:896-905. [PMID: 26202105 PMCID: PMC4707836 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is a major regulator of protein processing, trafficking, and degradation. While protein ubiquitination is utilized for many cellular processes, one major function of this system is to target proteins to the proteasome for degradation. In schizophrenia, studies have found UPS transcript abnormalities in both blood and brain, and we have previously reported decreased protein expression of ubiquitin-associated proteins in brain. To test whether the proteasome is similarly dysregulated, we measured the protein expression of proteasome catalytic subunits as well as essential subunits from proteasome regulatory complexes in 14 pair-matched schizophrenia and comparison subjects in superior temporal cortex. We found decreased expression of Rpt1, Rpt3, and Rpt6, subunits of the 19S regulatory particle essential for ubiquitin-dependent degradation by the proteasome. Additionally, the α subunit of the 11S αβ regulatory particle, which enhances proteasomal degradation of small peptides and unfolded proteins, was also decreased. Haloperidol-treated rats did not have altered expression of these subunits, suggesting the changes we observed in schizophrenia are likely not due to chronic antipsychotic treatment. Interestingly, expression of the catalytic subunits of both the standard and immunoproteasome were unchanged, suggesting the abnormalities we observed may be specific to the complexed state of the proteasome. Aging has significant effects on the proteasome, and several subunits (20S β2, Rpn10, Rpn13, 11Sβ, and 11Sγ) were significantly correlated with subject age. These data provide further evidence of dysfunction of the ubiquitin-proteasome system in schizophrenia, and suggest that altered proteasome activity may be associated with the pathophysiology of this illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline R Scott
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Maria D Rubio
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Vahram Haroutunian
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - James H Meador-Woodruff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Wysokiński A. Serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in depressed patients with schizophrenia. Nord J Psychiatry 2016; 70:267-71. [PMID: 26548545 DOI: 10.3109/08039488.2015.1087592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) are neurotrophins-proteins that induce the survival, development, and function of neurons. Their role in the development of schizophrenia and mood disorders is widely studied. This study was aimed to determine whether depression affects levels of BDNF and NT-3 in patients with schizophrenia. METHODS Data for 53 Caucasian adult hospitalized patients with chronic paranoid schizophrenia was compared with 27 healthy subjects. Clinical symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and positive, negative and general sub-scores, the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and the Clinical Global Impressions scale (CGI). Patients were defined as depressed (SHZ-DEP) with scores CDSS > 6 and HDRS > 7, otherwise they were included into the non-depressed group (SHZ-nonDEP). RESULTS In total, 17 patients (32.1%) with schizophrenia met criteria for depression. SHZ-DEP patients had higher scores in HDRS, CDSS, PANSS total, PANSS negative, PANSS general and CGI (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). There were no differences in BDNF or NT-3 levels between patients with schizophrenia and controls. BDNF levels were lower in SHZ-DEP compared to SHZ-nonDEP: 18.82 ± 5.95 versus 22.10 ± 5.31 ng/mL, p = 0.045. NT-3 levels were higher in SHZ-DEP compared to SHZ-nonDEP: 133.31 ± 222.19 versus 56.04 ± 201.28 pg/mL, p = 0.033. CONCLUSION There were no differences in neurotrophin levels between patients with schizophrenia and controls. We found lower BDNF and higher NT-3 serum levels in depressed patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Wysokiński
- a Department of Old Age Psychiatry and Psychotic Disorders , Medical University of Lodz , Lodz , Poland
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Djordjević VV, Lazarević D, Ćosić V, Knežević MZ, Djordjević VB, Stojanović I. Diagnostic Accuracy of Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor and Nitric Oxide in Patients with Schizophrenia: A pilot study. J Med Biochem 2016; 35:7-16. [PMID: 28356859 PMCID: PMC5346796 DOI: 10.1515/jomb-2015-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nitric oxide (NO) play multiple roles in the developing and adult CNS. Since BDNF and NO metabolisms are dysregulated in schizophrenia, we measured these markers simultaneously in the blood of schizophrenics and assessed their diagnostic accuracy. Methods Thirty-eight patients with schizophrenia classified according to demographic characteristics, symptomatologyand therapy and 39 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled. BDNF was determined by the ELISA technique while the concentration of nitrite/nitrate (NO2−/NO3−) was measured by the colorimetric method. Results Serum BDNF levels were significantly lower (20.38±3.73 ng/mL, P = 1.339E-05), whilst plasma NO2−/NO3− concentrations were significantly higher (84.3 (72–121) μmol/L, P=4.357E-08) in patients with schizophrenia than in healthy controls (25.65±4.32 ng/mL; 60.9 (50–76) μmol/L, respectively). The lowest value of BDNF (18.14±3.26 ng/mL) and the highest NO2−/NO3− concentration (115.3 (80–138) μmol/L) were found in patients treated with second-generation antipsychotics (SGA). The patients diseased before the age of 24 and the patients suffering for up to one year had significantly lower serum BDNF levels than those diseased after the age of 24 and the patients who were ill longer than one year. Both BDNF and NO2−/NO3− showed good diagnostic accuracy, but BDNF had better ROC curve characteristics, especially in patients with negative symptomatology. Conclusions BDNF and nitrite/nitrate showed inverse changes in schizophrenic patients. The most pronounced changes were found in patients treated with second-generation antipsychotics. Although BDNF is not specific of schizophrenia, it may be a clinically useful biomarker for the diagnosis of patients expressing predominantly negative symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vladan Ćosić
- Centre for Medical Biochemistry, Clinical Centre Niš, Serbia
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Xu J, Kurup P, Baguley TD, Foscue E, Ellman JA, Nairn AC, Lombroso PJ. Inhibition of the tyrosine phosphatase STEP61 restores BDNF expression and reverses motor and cognitive deficits in phencyclidine-treated mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 73:1503-14. [PMID: 26450419 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-2057-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and STriatal-Enriched protein tyrosine Phosphatase 61 (STEP61) have opposing functions in the brain, with BDNF supporting and STEP61 opposing synaptic strengthening. BDNF and STEP61 also exhibit an inverse pattern of expression in a number of brain disorders, including schizophrenia (SZ). NMDAR antagonists such as phencyclidine (PCP) elicit SZ-like symptoms in rodent models and unaffected individuals, and exacerbate psychotic episodes in SZ. Here we characterize the regulation of BDNF expression by STEP61, utilizing PCP-treated cortical culture and PCP-treated mice. PCP-treated cortical neurons showed both an increase in STEP61 levels and a decrease in BDNF expression. The reduction in BDNF expression was prevented by STEP61 knockdown or use of the STEP inhibitor, TC-2153. The PCP-induced increase in STEP61 expression was associated with the inhibition of CREB-dependent BDNF transcription. Similarly, both genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of STEP prevented the PCP-induced reduction in BDNF expression in vivo and normalized PCP-induced hyperlocomotion and cognitive deficits. These results suggest a mechanism by which STEP61 regulates BDNF expression, with implications for cognitive functioning in CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xu
- Child Study Center, Yale University, 230 S Frontage Rd., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Pradeep Kurup
- Child Study Center, Yale University, 230 S Frontage Rd., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Tyler D Baguley
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, 225 Prospect St., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Ethan Foscue
- Child Study Center, Yale University, 230 S Frontage Rd., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jonathan A Ellman
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, 225 Prospect St., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Angus C Nairn
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, 300 George St., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Paul J Lombroso
- Child Study Center, Yale University, 230 S Frontage Rd., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, 300 George St., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA. .,Department of Neurobiology, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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