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Friedel EBN, Tebartz van Elst L, Beringer M, Endres D, Runge K, Maier S, Kornmeier J, Bach M, Domschke K, Heinrich SP, Nickel K. Reduced contrast sensitivity, pattern electroretinogram ratio, and diminished a-wave amplitude in patients with major depressive disorder. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024:10.1007/s00406-024-01826-8. [PMID: 38805071 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-024-01826-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The electroretinogram (ERG), a non-invasive electrophysiological tool used in ophthalmology, is increasingly applied to investigate neural correlates of depression. The present study aimed to reconsider previous findings in major depressive disorder (MDD) reporting (1) a diminished contrast sensitivity and (2) a reduced patten ERG (PERG) amplitude ratio, and additionally, to assess (3) the photopic negative response (PhNR) from the flash ERG (fERG), with the RETeval® device, a more practical option for clinical routine use. We examined 30 patients with a MDD and 42 healthy controls (HC), assessing individual contrast sensitivity thresholds with an optotype-based contrast test. Moreover, we compared the PERG ratio, an established method for early glaucoma detection, between both groups. The handheld ERG device was used to measure amplitudes and peak times of the fERG components including a-wave, b-wave and PhNR in both MDD patients and HCs. MDD patients exhibited diminished contrast sensitivity together with a reduced PERG ratio, compared to HC. With the handheld ERG device, we found reduced a-wave amplitudes in MDD, whereas no significant differences were observed in the fERG b-wave or PhNR between patients and controls. The reduced contrast sensitivity and PERG ratio in MDD patients supports the hypothesis that depression is associated with altered visual processing. The findings underscore the PERG's potential as a possible objective marker for depression. The reduced a-wave amplitude recorded with the RETeval® system in MDD patients might open new avenues for using handheld ERG devices as simplified approaches for advancing depression research compared to the PERG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn B N Friedel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ludger Tebartz van Elst
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Malina Beringer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominique Endres
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kimon Runge
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon Maier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Kornmeier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Institute for Frontier Areas of Psychology and Mental Health, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Bach
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Domschke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven P Heinrich
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Nickel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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Saad A, Turgut F, Sommer C, Becker M, DeBuc D, Barboni M, Somfai GM. The Use of the RETeval Portable Electroretinography Device for Low-Cost Screening: A Mini-Review. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2024; 241:533-537. [PMID: 38653305 DOI: 10.1055/a-2237-3814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Electroretinography (ERG) provides crucial insights into retinal function and the integrity of the visual pathways. However, ERG assessments classically require a complicated technical background with costly equipment. In addition, the placement of corneal or conjunctival electrodes is not always tolerated by the patients, which restricts the measurement for pediatric evaluations. In this short review, we give an overview of the use of the RETeval portable ERG device (LKC Technologies, Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, USA), a modern portable ERG device that can facilitate screening for diseases involving the retina and the optic nerve. We also review its potential to provide ocular biomarkers in systemic pathologies, such as Alzheimer's disease and central nervous system alterations, within the framework of oculomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr Saad
- Ophthalmology, Stadtspital Zürich Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ferhat Turgut
- Ophthalmology, Stadtspital Zürich Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
- Ophthalmology, Gutblick, Pfäffikon, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Sommer
- Ophthalmology, Stadtspital Zürich Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Becker
- Ophthalmology, Stadtspital Zürich Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Delia DeBuc
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Mirella Barboni
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabor Mark Somfai
- Ophthalmology, Stadtspital Zürich Triemli, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Komatsu H, Onoguchi G, Silverstein SM, Jerotic S, Sakuma A, Kanahara N, Kakuto Y, Ono T, Yabana T, Nakazawa T, Tomita H. Retina as a potential biomarker in schizophrenia spectrum disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of optical coherence tomography and electroretinography. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:464-482. [PMID: 38081943 PMCID: PMC11116118 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02340-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abnormal findings on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electroretinography (ERG) have been reported in participants with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs). This study aims to reveal the pooled standard mean difference (SMD) in retinal parameters on OCT and ERG among participants with SSDs and healthy controls and their association with demographic characteristics, clinical symptoms, smoking, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension. METHODS Using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PSYNDEX, we searched the literature from inception to March 31, 2023, using specific search terms. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD4202235795) and conducted according to PRISMA 2020. RESULTS We included 65 studies in the systematic review and 44 in the meta-analysis. Participants with SSDs showed thinning of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL), macular ganglion cell layer- inner plexiform cell layer, and retinal thickness in all other segments of the macula. A meta-analysis of studies that excluded SSD participants with diabetes and hypertension showed no change in results, except for pRNFL inferior and nasal thickness. Furthermore, a significant difference was found in the pooled SMD of pRNFL temporal thickness between the left and right eyes. Meta-regression analysis revealed an association between retinal thinning and duration of illness, positive and negative symptoms. In OCT angiography, no differences were found in the foveal avascular zone and superficial layer foveal vessel density between SSD participants and controls. In flash ERG, the meta-analysis showed reduced amplitude of both a- and b-waves under photopic and scotopic conditions in SSD participants. Furthermore, the latency of photopic a-wave was significantly shorter in SSD participants in comparison with HCs. DISCUSSION Considering the prior report of retinal thinning in unaffected first-degree relatives and the results of the meta-analysis, the findings suggest that retinal changes in SSDs have both trait and state aspects. Future longitudinal multimodal retinal imaging studies are needed to clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms of these changes and to clarify their utility in individual patient monitoring efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Komatsu
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.
- Miyagi Psychiatric Center, Natori, Japan.
| | - Goh Onoguchi
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Steven M Silverstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Stefan Jerotic
- Clinic for Psychiatry, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Atsushi Sakuma
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Kanahara
- Department of Psychiatry, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
- Division of Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Kakuto
- Miyagi Psychiatric Center, Natori, Japan
- Department of Community Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Takeshi Yabana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Toru Nakazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tomita
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Xu XJ, Liu TL, He L, Pu B. Changes in neurotransmitter levels, brain structural characteristics, and their correlation with PANSS scores in patients with first-episode schizophrenia. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:5215-5223. [PMID: 37621579 PMCID: PMC10445057 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i22.5215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with schizophrenia, the brain structure and neurotransmitter levels change, which may be related to the occurrence and progression of this disease. AIM To explore the relationships between changes in neurotransmitters, brain structural characteristics, and the scores of the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) in patients with first-episode schizophrenia. METHODS The case group comprised 97 patients with schizophrenia, who were evaluated using the Canadian Neurological Scale and confirmed by laboratory tests at Ningbo Mental Hospital from January 2020 to July 2022. The control group comprised 100 healthy participants. For all participants, brain structural characteristics were explored by measuring brain dopamine (DA), glutamic acid (Glu), and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, with magnetic resonance imaging. The case group was divided into negative and positive symptom subgroups using PANSS scores for hierarchical analysis. Linear correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlations between neurotransmitters, brain structural characteristics, and PANSS scores. RESULTS Patients in the case group had higher levels of DA and lower levels of Glu and GABA, greater vertical and horizontal distances between the corpus callosum and the inferior part of the fornix and larger ventricle area than patients in the control group (P < 0.05). Patients with positive schizophrenia symptoms had significantly higher levels of DA, Glu, and GABA than those with negative symptoms (P < 0.05). In patients with positive schizophrenia symptoms, PANSS score was significantly positively correlated with DA, vertical and horizontal distances between the corpus callosum and the infrafornix, and ventricular area, and was significantly negatively correlated with Glu and GABA (P < 0.05). In patients with negative schizophrenia symptoms, PANSS score was significantly positively correlated with DA, vertical distance between the corpus callosum and the infrafornix, horizontal distance between the corpus callosum and the infrafornix, and ventricular area, and was significantly negatively correlated with Glu and GABA (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION In patients with first-episode schizophrenia, DA levels increased, Glu and GABA levels decreased, the thickness of the corpus callosum increased, and these variables were correlated with PANSS scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Jia Xu
- The Fifth Ward, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tang-Long Liu
- Department of Science and Education, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Liang He
- The Sixteenth Ward, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ben Pu
- The Twelfth Ward, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
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Xu XJ, Liu TL, He L, Pu B. Changes in neurotransmitter levels, brain structural characteristics, and their correlation with PANSS scores in patients with first-episode schizophrenia. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:5209-5217. [DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i22.5209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with schizophrenia, the brain structure and neurotransmitter levels change, which may be related to the occurrence and progression of this disease.
AIM To explore the relationships between changes in neurotransmitters, brain structural characteristics, and the scores of the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) in patients with first-episode schizophrenia.
METHODS The case group comprised 97 patients with schizophrenia, who were evaluated using the Canadian Neurological Scale and confirmed by laboratory tests at Ningbo Mental Hospital from January 2020 to July 2022. The control group comprised 100 healthy participants. For all participants, brain structural characteristics were explored by measuring brain dopamine (DA), glutamic acid (Glu), and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, with magnetic resonance imaging. The case group was divided into negative and positive symptom subgroups using PANSS scores for hierarchical analysis. Linear correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlations between neurotransmitters, brain structural characteristics, and PANSS scores.
RESULTS Patients in the case group had higher levels of DA and lower levels of Glu and GABA, greater vertical and horizontal distances between the corpus callosum and the inferior part of the fornix and larger ventricle area than patients in the control group (P < 0.05). Patients with positive schizophrenia symptoms had significantly higher levels of DA, Glu, and GABA than those with negative symptoms (P < 0.05). In patients with positive schizophrenia symptoms, PANSS score was significantly positively correlated with DA, vertical and horizontal distances between the corpus callosum and the infrafornix, and ventricular area, and was significantly negatively correlated with Glu and GABA (P < 0.05). In patients with negative schizophrenia symptoms, PANSS score was significantly positively correlated with DA, vertical distance between the corpus callosum and the infrafornix, horizontal distance between the corpus callosum and the infrafornix, and ventricular area, and was significantly negatively correlated with Glu and GABA (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION In patients with first-episode schizophrenia, DA levels increased, Glu and GABA levels decreased, the thickness of the corpus callosum increased, and these variables were correlated with PANSS scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Jia Xu
- The Fifth Ward, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tang-Long Liu
- Department of Science and Education, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Liang He
- The Sixteenth Ward, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ben Pu
- The Twelfth Ward, Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
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Bao B, Liu J, Li T, Yang Z, Wang G, Xin J, Bi H, Guo D. Elevated retinal fibrosis in experimental myopia is involved in the activation of the PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 743:109663. [PMID: 37290701 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of the PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway in retinal fibrosis in -6.0 diopter (D) lens-induced myopic (LIM) guinea pigs. METHODS Biological measurements of eye tissues were performed on guinea pigs to obtain their refraction, axial length, retinal thickness, physiological function, and fundus retinal status. In addition, Masson staining and immunohistochemical (IHC) assay were further done to explore the changes in retinal morphology after myopic induction. Meanwhile, hydroxyproline (HYP) content was measured to evaluate the degree of retinal fibrosis. Moreover, the levels of the PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway and fibrosis-related molecules in retinal tissues including matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP2), collagen type I (Collagen I), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot. RESULTS The LIM guinea pigs showed a significant myopic shift in refractive error and an increase in axial length compared with those of the normal control (NC) group. Masson staining, hydroxyproline content determination, and IHC showed an increase in retinal fibrosis. After myopic induction, qPCR and western blot analyses showed that phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA), protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), MMP2, Collagen I, and α-SMA were consistently elevated in the LIM group than those in the NC group. CONCLUSION The PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway was activated in the retinal tissues of myopic guinea pigs, which exaggerated fibrotic lesions and reduced retinal thickness, ultimately leading to retinal physiological dysfunctions in myopic guinea pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Bao
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Tuling Li
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Zhaohui Yang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Guimin Wang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Jizhao Xin
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Hongsheng Bi
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China.
| | - Dadong Guo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Therapy of Ocular Diseases, Shandong Academy of Eye Disease Prevention and Therapy, Medical College of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 250002, China.
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7
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Giersch A, Laprévote V. Perceptual Functioning. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023; 63:79-113. [PMID: 36306053 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Perceptual disorders are not part of the diagnosis criteria for schizophrenia. Yet, a considerable amount of work has been conducted, especially on visual perception abnormalities, and there is little doubt that visual perception is altered in patients. There are several reasons why such perturbations are of interest in this pathology. They are observed during the prodromal phase of psychosis, they are related to the pathophysiology (clinical disorganization, disorders of the sense of self), and they are associated with neuronal connectivity disorders. Perturbations occur at different levels of processing and likely affect how patients interact and adapt to their surroundings. The literature has become very large, and here we try to summarize different models that have guided the exploration of perception in patients. We also illustrate several lines of research by showing how perception has been investigated and by discussing the interpretation of the results. In addition to discussing domains such as contrast sensitivity, masking, and visual grouping, we develop more recent fields like processing at the level of the retina, and the timing of perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Giersch
- University of Strasbourg, INSERM U1114, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Vincent Laprévote
- University of Strasbourg, INSERM U1114, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- CLIP Centre de Liaison et d'Intervention Précoce, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
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8
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Diamond A, Silverstein SM, Keane BP. Visual system assessment for predicting a transition to psychosis. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:351. [PMID: 36038544 PMCID: PMC9424317 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02111-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of psychiatry is far from perfect in predicting which individuals will transition to a psychotic disorder. Here, we argue that visual system assessment can help in this regard. Such assessments have generated medium-to-large group differences with individuals prior to or near the first psychotic episode or have shown little influence of illness duration in larger samples of more chronic patients. For example, self-reported visual perceptual distortions-so-called visual basic symptoms-occur in up to 2/3rds of those with non-affective psychosis and have already longitudinally predicted an impending onset of schizophrenia. Possibly predictive psychophysical markers include enhanced contrast sensitivity, prolonged backward masking, muted collinear facilitation, reduced stereoscopic depth perception, impaired contour and shape integration, and spatially restricted exploratory eye movements. Promising brain-based markers include visual thalamo-cortical hyperconnectivity, decreased occipital gamma band power during visual detection (MEG), and reduced visually evoked occipital P1 amplitudes (EEG). Potentially predictive retinal markers include diminished cone a- and b-wave amplitudes and an attenuated photopic flicker response during electroretinography. The foregoing assessments are often well-described mechanistically, implying that their findings could readily shed light on the underlying pathophysiological changes that precede or accompany a transition to psychosis. The retinal and psychophysical assessments in particular are inexpensive, well-tolerated, easy to administer, and brief, with few inclusion/exclusion criteria. Therefore, across all major levels of analysis-from phenomenology to behavior to brain and retinal functioning-visual system assessment could complement and improve upon existing methods for predicting which individuals go on to develop a psychotic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Diamond
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Steven M Silverstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA
- Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Brian P Keane
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA.
- Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, USA.
- Department of Brain & Cognitive Sciences, University of Rochester, 358 Meliora Hall, NY, Rochester, USA.
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9
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Complete evaluation of retinal function in Major Depressive Disorder: From central slowdown to hyperactive periphery. J Affect Disord 2021; 295:453-462. [PMID: 34507226 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.08.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing easy-to-access biomarkers is crucial in Major Depressive Disorder. The retina has already been suggested as relevant. However, there is a need for a global and local assessment of whole retinal function using a reproducible, standardized protocol allowing for comparison across studies. Our aim is to assess whole retinal function in patients with actual unipolar Major Depressive Episode (MDE) using pattern, flash and multifocal electroretinogram (ERG) according to the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision standardized protocols. METHODS We assessed retinal function in 14 males and females with MDE, diagnosed based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, and in age- and sex-matched healthy controls. RESULTS Comparing the patients with the controls, we observed the following using multifocal ERG: a significant increase in N1 peak time in ring 3 and a decrease in P1 amplitude in ring 2; using pattern ERG: a significant increase in P50 peak time; using flash ERG: a decrease in a- and b-wave peak time and an increase in the b-wave amplitude in dark-adapted 3.0, a decrease in a- and b-wave peak time and an increase in both wave amplitudes in light-adapted 3.0, and a decrease in the b-wave peak time in light-adapted flicker. LIMITATIONS Sample size. Contribution of pharmacological treatments to the outcomes cannot be formally excluded. CONCLUSIONS Patients with MDE exhibit delayed signaling in the central retina and hyperreactivity to light in the periphery. Central retinal function may be a marker of psychomotor retardation and cognitive impairment in MDE.
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Arsenault E, Lavigne AA, Mansouri S, Gagné AM, Francis K, Bittar TP, Quessy F, Abdallah K, Barbeau A, Hébert M, Labonté B. Sex-Specific Retinal Anomalies Induced by Chronic Social Defeat Stress in Mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:714810. [PMID: 34483859 PMCID: PMC8415161 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.714810] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common consequences of chronic stress. Still, there is currently no reliable biomarker to detect individuals at risk to develop the disease. Recently, the retina emerged as an effective way to investigate psychiatric disorders using the electroretinogram (ERG). In this study, cone and rod ERGs were performed in male and female C57BL/6 mice before and after chronic social defeat stress (CSDS). Mice were then divided as susceptible or resilient to stress. Our results suggest that CSDS reduces the amplitude of both oscillatory potentials and a-waves in the rods of resilient but not susceptible males. Similar effects were revealed following the analysis of the cone b-waves, which were faster after CSDS in resilient mice specifically. In females, rod ERGs revealed age-related changes with no change in cone ERGs. Finally, our analysis suggests that baseline ERG can predict with an efficacy up to 71% the expression of susceptibility and resilience before stress exposition in males and females. Overall, our findings suggest that retinal activity is a valid biomarker of stress response that could potentially serve as a tool to predict whether males and females will become susceptible or resilient when facing CSDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Arsenault
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Andrée-Anne Lavigne
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Samaneh Mansouri
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Gagné
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Kimberley Francis
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Thibault P Bittar
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Francis Quessy
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Khaled Abdallah
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Annie Barbeau
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Marc Hébert
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Benoit Labonté
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Maziade M, Silverstein SM. The place of the retina in psychiatry: Uniting neurobiological and neurodevelopmental research with clinical research in psychiatric disorders. Schizophr Res 2020; 219:1-4. [PMID: 32249123 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2020.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Maziade
- Medicine Faculty, University Laval Québec Research Center CERVO, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale.
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