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de Lange AMG, Leonardsen EH, Barth C, Schindler LS, Crestol A, Holm MC, Subramaniapillai S, Hill D, Alnæs D, Westlye LT. Parental status and markers of brain and cellular age: A 3D convolutional network and classification study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 165:107040. [PMID: 38636355 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107040] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Recent research shows prominent effects of pregnancy and the parenthood transition on structural brain characteristics in humans. Here, we present a comprehensive study of how parental status and number of children born/fathered links to markers of brain and cellular ageing in 36,323 UK Biobank participants (age range 44.57-82.06 years; 52% female). To assess global effects of parenting on the brain, we trained a 3D convolutional neural network on T1-weighted magnetic resonance images, and estimated brain age in a held-out test set. To investigate regional specificity, we extracted cortical and subcortical volumes using FreeSurfer, and ran hierarchical clustering to group regional volumes based on covariance. Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) derived from DNA was used as a marker of cellular ageing. We employed linear regression models to assess relationships between number of children, brain age, regional brain volumes, and LTL, and included interaction terms to probe sex differences in associations. Lastly, we used the brain measures and LTL as features in binary classification models, to determine if markers of brain and cellular ageing could predict parental status. The results showed associations between a greater number of children born/fathered and younger brain age in both females and males, with stronger effects observed in females. Volume-based analyses showed maternal effects in striatal and limbic regions, which were not evident in fathers. We found no evidence for associations between number of children and LTL. Classification of parental status showed an Area under the ROC Curve (AUC) of 0.57 for the brain age model, while the models using regional brain volumes and LTL as predictors showed AUCs of 0.52. Our findings align with previous population-based studies of middle- and older-aged parents, revealing subtle but significant associations between parental experience and neuroimaging-based surrogate markers of brain health. The findings further corroborate results from longitudinal cohort studies following parents across pregnancy and postpartum, potentially indicating that the parenthood transition is associated with long-term influences on brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Marie G de Lange
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | | | - Claudia Barth
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Louise S Schindler
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Arielle Crestol
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Sivaniya Subramaniapillai
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dónal Hill
- Swiss Data Science Center (SDSC), EPFL-ETHZ, Switzerland
| | - Dag Alnæs
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Centre for Precision Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars T Westlye
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Centre for Precision Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; KG Jebsen Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Luoma I, Korhonen M, Salmelin RK, Siirtola A, Mäntymaa M, Valkonen-Korhonen M, Puura K. Mothers' and their children's emotional and behavioral symptom trajectories and subsequent maternal adjustment: Twenty-seven years of motherhood. J Affect Disord 2024; 361:299-309. [PMID: 38876318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.027] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to describe maternal depressive symptoms (MDS) trajectories in a longitudinal study extending from pregnancy to 27 years after the birth of the firstborn child. We also explored the associations of both MDS trajectories and child internalizing and externalizing problem trajectories with maternal adjustment (adaptive functioning, emotional and behavioral problems). METHODS The population-based study was conducted in Tampere, Finland, and the sample comprised 356 first-time mothers. MDS were screened with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale during pregnancy, first week after delivery, 2 and 6 months postnatally, and when the child was 4-5, 8-9, 16-17, and 26-27 years of age. The internalizing and externalizing problems of the children were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist when the child was 4-5, 8-9, and 16-17 years of age. Maternal adaptive functioning and internalizing and externalizing problems were assessed with the Adult Self Report at 26-27 years after the birth of the first child. Complete follow-up data were available for 168 mothers. RESULTS We describe a three-group trajectory model of MDS (High Stable, Low Stable, Very Low). Elevated depressive symptom patterns were associated with less optimal maternal outcomes regarding both adaptive and problem dimensions. The child's internalizing and externalizing problem trajectories were associated with maternal internalizing and externalizing problems but not with maternal adaptive functioning. LIMITATIONS Maternal and child measures were based on maternal reports only. CONCLUSIONS The interconnectedness of the well-being of the mother and child should be noted in health and mental health services for adults and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Luoma
- University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kuopio, Finland; Kuopio University Hospital, Department of Child Psychiatry, Kuopio, Finland; Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Marie Korhonen
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere, Finland; Helsinki University Hospital, Department of Child Psychiatry, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Raili K Salmelin
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere, Finland; Tampere University Hospital, Department of Child Psychiatry, Tampere, Finland
| | - Arja Siirtola
- Tampere University Hospital, Department of Child Psychiatry, Tampere, Finland
| | - Mirjami Mäntymaa
- University of Oulu, Faculty of Medicine, Oulu, Finland; Oulu University Hospital, Department of Child Psychiatry, Oulu, Finland
| | - Minna Valkonen-Korhonen
- University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kuopio, Finland; Kuopio University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kaija Puura
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere, Finland; Tampere University Hospital, Department of Child Psychiatry, Tampere, Finland
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Lotter LD, Nehls S, Losse E, Dukart J, Chechko N. Temporal dissociation between local and global functional adaptations of the maternal brain to childbirth: a longitudinal assessment. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01880-9. [PMID: 38769432 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01880-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The maternal brain undergoes significant reorganization during birth and the postpartum period. However, the temporal dynamics of these changes remain unclear. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging, we report on local and global brain function alterations in 75 mothers in their first postpartum week, compared to 23 nulliparous women. In a subsample followed longitudinally for the next six months, we observed a temporal and spatial dissociation between changes observed at baseline (cluster mass permutation: pFWE < 0.05). Local activity and connectivity changes in widespread neocortical regions persisted throughout the studied time period (ANCOVAs vs. controls: pFDR < 0.05), with preliminary evidence linking these alterations to behavioral and psychological adaptations (interaction effect with postpartum time: uncorrected p < 0.05). In contrast, the initially reduced whole-brain connectivity of putamen-centered subcortical areas returned to control levels within six to nine weeks postpartum (linear and quadratic mixed linear models: pFDR < 0.05). The whole-brain spatial colocalization with hormone receptor distributions (Spearman correlations: pFDR < 0.05) and preliminary blood hormone associations (interaction effect with postpartum time: uncorrected p < 0.05) suggested that the postpartum restoration of progesterone levels may underlie this rapid normalization. These observations enhance our understanding of healthy maternal brain function, contributing to the identification of potential markers for pathological postpartum adaptation processes, which in turn could underlie postpartum psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon D Lotter
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behavior (INM-7), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
- Max Planck School of Cognition; Stephanstrasse 1A, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Susanne Nehls
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Elena Losse
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Juergen Dukart
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behavior (INM-7), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Natalya Chechko
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behavior (INM-7), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
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Ozcalik HB, Aksoy YE. The relationship between maternal functioning and birth memory and trauma. Midwifery 2024; 132:103974. [PMID: 38503117 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2024.103974] [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] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to determine the relationship between birth memory and trauma and maternal functioning in the postpartum period. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 584 mothers in the postpartum period between 1 January 2022 and 1 April 2022. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Barkin Index of Maternal Functioning (BIMF), the Birth Memories and Recall Questionnaire (BirthMARQ) and the City Birth Trauma Scale (CityBiTS). RESULTS The participants' mean scores for the overall BIMF, BirthMARQ and CityBiTS were 81.41 ± 9.28, 80.30 ± 21.21 and 15.85 ± 11.30, respectively. Their sociodemographic characteristics did not affect their maternal functioning; however, maternal functioning improved with the number of pregnancies. While emotional memory (BirthMARQ subscale) negatively affected maternal functioning (p < 0.001), the centrality of memory (BirthMARQ subscale) positively affected maternal functioning (p < 0.001). The hyperarousal (CityBiTS subscale) score significantly and negatively affected the total maternal functioning score, explaining 6 % of its variance (F = 9.176, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that birth memory and trauma affected maternal functioning. The mother's functional status in the postpartum period reflects the physical and psychosocial changes associated with pregnancy and birth. Therefore, for women to have positive birth memories and emotions when recalling the birth, their emotional health and physical care should be supported during labour and the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habibe Bay Ozcalik
- Selcuk University Faculty of Health Science, Midwifery Department, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Yasemin Erkal Aksoy
- Selcuk University Faculty of Health Science, Midwifery Department, Konya, Turkey
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Martínez-García M, Jacobs EG, de Lange AMG, Carmona S. Advancing the neuroscience of human pregnancy. Nat Neurosci 2024; 27:805-807. [PMID: 38600168 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01629-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Martínez-García
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.
- University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Emily G Jacobs
- University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Ann-Marie G de Lange
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Susana Carmona
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Wagner C, Carmeli C, Jackisch J, Kivimäki M, van der Linden BWA, Cullati S, Chiolero A. Life course epidemiology and public health. Lancet Public Health 2024; 9:e261-e269. [PMID: 38553145 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(24)00018-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Life course epidemiology aims to study the effect of exposures on health outcomes across the life course from a social, behavioural, and biological perspective. In this Review, we describe how life course epidemiology changes the way the causes of chronic diseases are understood, with the example of hypertension, breast cancer, and dementia, and how it guides prevention strategies. Life course epidemiology uses complex methods for the analysis of longitudinal, ideally population-based, observational data and takes advantage of new approaches for causal inference. It informs primordial prevention, the prevention of exposure to risk factors, from an eco-social and life course perspective in which health and disease are conceived as the results of complex interactions between biological endowment, health behaviours, social networks, family influences, and socioeconomic conditions across the life course. More broadly, life course epidemiology guides population-based and high-risk prevention strategies for chronic diseases from the prenatal period to old age, contributing to evidence-based and data-informed public health actions. In this Review, we assess the contribution of life course epidemiology to public health and reflect on current and future challenges for this field and its integration into policy making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Wagner
- Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Cristian Carmeli
- Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Josephine Jackisch
- Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland; Department of Public Health Sciences, Centre for Health Equity Studies, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mika Kivimäki
- UCL Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Stéphane Cullati
- Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Arnaud Chiolero
- Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland; Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Nguyen T, Kungl MT, Hoehl S, White LO, Vrtička P. Visualizing the invisible tie: Linking parent-child neural synchrony to parents' and children's attachment representations. Dev Sci 2024:e13504. [PMID: 38523055 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
It is a central tenet of attachment theory that individual differences in attachment representations organize behavior during social interactions. Secure attachment representations also facilitate behavioral synchrony, a key component of adaptive parent-child interactions. Yet, the dynamic neural processes underlying these interactions and the potential role of attachment representations remain largely unknown. A growing body of research indicates that interpersonal neural synchrony (INS) could be a potential neurobiological correlate of high interaction and relationship quality. In this study, we examined whether interpersonal neural and behavioral synchrony during parent-child interaction is associated with parent and child attachment representations. In total, 140 parents (74 mothers and 66 fathers) and their children (age 5-6 years; 60 girls and 80 boys) engaged in cooperative versus individual problem-solving. INS in frontal and temporal regions was assessed with functional near-infrared spectroscopy hyperscanning. Attachment representations were ascertained by means of the Adult Attachment Interview in parents and a story-completion task in children, alongside video-coded behavioral synchrony. Findings revealed increased INS during cooperative versus individual problem solving across all dyads (𝛸2(2) = 9.37, p = 0.009). Remarkably, individual differences in attachment representations were associated with INS but not behavioral synchrony (p > 0.159) during cooperation. More specifically, insecure maternal attachment representations were related to higher mother-child INS in frontal regions (𝛸2(3) = 9.18, p = 0.027). Conversely, secure daughter attachment representations were related to higher daughter-parent INS within temporal regions (𝛸2(3) = 12.58, p = 0.006). Our data thus provide further indication for INS as a promising correlate to probe the neurobiological underpinnings of attachment representations in the context of early parent-child interactions. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: We assessed attachment representations using narrative measures and interpersonal neural synchrony (INS) during parent-child problem-solving. Dyads including mothers with insecure attachment representations showed higher INS in left prefrontal regions. Dyads including daughters with secure attachment representations showed higher INS in right temporo-parietal regions. INS is a promising correlate to probe the neurobiological underpinnings of attachment representations in the context of parent-child interactions, especially within the mutual prediction framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trinh Nguyen
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Neuroscience of Perception and Action Lab, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | - Melanie T Kungl
- Department of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hoehl
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lars O White
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Clinical Psychology, Psychological University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pascal Vrtička
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Centre for Brain Science, Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
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Díaz-Pons A, Soler-Andrés M, Ortiz-García de la Foz V, Murillo-García N, Yorca-Ruiz A, Magdaleno Herrero R, Castaño-Castaño S, González-Rodríguez A, Setién-Suero E, Ayesa-Arriola R. Exploring parenthood in first episode of psychosis: the potential role of the offspring in the outcome of women. Arch Womens Ment Health 2024:10.1007/s00737-024-01457-x. [PMID: 38512467 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-024-01457-x] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to explore the role of parenthood at first episode of psychosis (FEP) on recovery, with a focus on potential sex differences. METHODS Sociodemographic, clinical, and neurocognitive information was considered on 610 FEP patients form the PAFIP cohort (Spain). Baseline and three-year follow-up comparisons were carried out. Chi-square tests and ANCOVA analysis were performed controlling for the effect of age and years of education. RESULTS Men comprised 57.54% of the sample, with only 5.41% having offspring when compared to 36.29% of women. Parenthood was related to shorter duration of untreated illness (DUI) in women with children (12.08 months mothers vs. 27.61 months no mothers), showing mothers better premorbid adjustment as well. Childless men presented the worst premorbid adjustment and the highest cannabis and tobacco consumption rates. Mothers presented better global cognitive function, particularly in attention, motor dexterity and executive function at three-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Diminished parental rates among FEP men could be suggested as a consequence of a younger age of illness onset. Sex roles in caregiving may explain the potential role of parenthood on premorbid phase, with a better and heathier profile, and a more favorable long-term outcome in women. These characteristics may be relevant when adjusting treatment specific needs in men and women with and without offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Díaz-Pons
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria (UC), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Faculty of Psychology, National University of Distance Education (UNED), 28015, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, European University of the Atlantic (UNEAT), 39011, Santander, Spain
| | - Marina Soler-Andrés
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, European University of the Atlantic (UNEAT), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Oviedo (UO), 33003, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Nancy Murillo-García
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria (UC), 39011, Santander, Spain
| | - Angel Yorca-Ruiz
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, European University of the Atlantic (UNEAT), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria (UC), 39011, Santander, Spain
| | - Rebeca Magdaleno Herrero
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, European University of the Atlantic (UNEAT), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria (UC), 39011, Santander, Spain
| | - Sergio Castaño-Castaño
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Oviedo (UO), 33003, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Alexandre González-Rodríguez
- Department of Mental Health, Mutua Terrassa University Hospital, Fundació Docència I Recerca Mutua Terrassa, University of Barcelona (UB), 08221, Terrassa, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center in Mental Health Network (CIBERSAM), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Setién-Suero
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain
- Faculty of Psychology, National University of Distance Education (UNED), 28015, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, European University of the Atlantic (UNEAT), 39011, Santander, Spain
| | - Rosa Ayesa-Arriola
- Mental Illness Research Department, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute (IDIVAL), 39011, Santander, Spain.
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria (UC), 39011, Santander, Spain.
- Faculty of Psychology, National University of Distance Education (UNED), 28015, Madrid, Spain.
- Biomedical Research Center in Mental Health Network (CIBERSAM), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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Scher MS. The science of uncertainty guides fetal-neonatal neurology principles and practice: diagnostic-prognostic opportunities and challenges. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1335933. [PMID: 38352135 PMCID: PMC10861710 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1335933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal-neonatal neurologists (FNNs) consider diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic decisions strengthened by interdisciplinary collaborations. Bio-social perspectives of the woman's health influence evaluations of maternal-placental-fetal (MPF) triad, neonate, and child. A dual cognitive process integrates "fast thinking-slow thinking" to reach shared decisions that minimize bias and maintain trust. Assessing the science of uncertainty with uncertainties in science improves diagnostic choices across the developmental-aging continuum. Three case vignettes highlight challenges that illustrate this approach. The first maternal-fetal dyad involved a woman who had been recommended to terminate her pregnancy based on an incorrect diagnosis of an encephalocele. A meningocele was subsequently identified when she sought a second opinion with normal outcome for her child. The second vignette involved two pregnancies during which fetal cardiac rhabdomyoma was identified, suggesting tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). One woman sought an out-of-state termination without confirmation using fetal brain MRI or postmortem examination. The second woman requested pregnancy care with postnatal evaluations. Her adult child experiences challenges associated with TSC sequelae. The third vignette involved a prenatal diagnosis of an open neural tube defect with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. The family requested prenatal surgical closure of the defect at another institution at their personal expense despite receiving a grave prognosis. The subsequent Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) would not have recommended this procedure. Their adult child requires medical care for global developmental delay, intractable epilepsy, and autism. These three evaluations involved uncertainties requiring shared clinical decisions among all stakeholders. Falsely negative or misleading positive interpretation of results reduced chances for optimal outcomes. FNN diagnostic skills require an understanding of dynamic gene-environment interactions affecting reproductive followed by pregnancy exposomes that influence the MPF triad health with fetal neuroplasticity consequences. Toxic stressor interplay can impair the neural exposome, expressed as anomalous and/or destructive fetal brain lesions. Functional improvements or permanent sequelae may be expressed across the lifespan. Equitable and compassionate healthcare for women and families require shared decisions that preserve pregnancy health, guided by person-specific racial-ethnic, religious, and bio-social perspectives. Applying developmental origins theory to neurologic principles and practice supports a brain health capital strategy for all persons across each generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Steven Scher
- Fetal/Neonatal Neurology Program, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
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Faraji M, Viera-Resto OA, Setlow B, Bizon JL. Effects of reproductive experience on cost-benefit decision making in female rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1304408. [PMID: 38352625 PMCID: PMC10863065 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1304408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Many individuals undergo mating and/or other aspects of reproductive experience at some point in their lives, and pregnancy and childbirth in particular are associated with alterations in the prevalence of several psychiatric disorders. Research in rodents shows that maternal experience affects spatial learning and other aspects of hippocampal function. In contrast, there has been little work in animal models concerning how reproductive experience affects cost-benefit decision making, despite the relevance of this aspect of cognition for psychiatric disorders. To begin to address this issue, reproductively experienced (RE) and reproductively naïve (RN) female Long-Evans rats were tested across multiple tasks that assess different forms of cost-benefit decision making. In a risky decision-making task, in which rats chose between a small, safe food reward and a large food reward accompanied by variable probabilities of punishment, RE females chose the large risky reward significantly more frequently than RN females (greater risk taking). In an intertemporal choice task, in which rats chose between a small, immediate food reward and a large food reward delivered after a variable delay period, RE females chose the large reward less frequently than RN females. Together, these results show distinct effects of reproductive experience on different forms of cost-benefit decision making in female rats, and highlight reproductive status as a variable that could influence aspects of cognition relevant for psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojdeh Faraji
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Omar A. Viera-Resto
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Barry Setlow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Bizon
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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11
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Scher MS. Interdisciplinary fetal-neonatal neurology training applies neural exposome perspectives to neurology principles and practice. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1321674. [PMID: 38288328 PMCID: PMC10824035 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1321674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
An interdisciplinary fetal-neonatal neurology (FNN) program over the first 1,000 days teaches perspectives of the neural exposome that are applicable across the life span. This curriculum strengthens neonatal neurocritical care, pediatric, and adult neurology training objectives. Teaching at maternal-pediatric hospital centers optimally merges reproductive, pregnancy, and pediatric approaches to healthcare. Phenotype-genotype expressions of health or disease pathways represent a dynamic neural exposome over developmental time. The science of uncertainty applied to FNN training re-enforces the importance of shared clinical decisions that minimize bias and reduce cognitive errors. Trainees select mentoring committee participants that will maximize their learning experiences. Standardized questions and oral presentations monitor educational progress. Master or doctoral defense preparation and competitive research funding can be goals for specific individuals. FNN principles applied to practice offer an understanding of gene-environment interactions that recognizes the effects of reproductive health on the maternal-placental-fetal triad, neonate, child, and adult. Pre-conception and prenatal adversities potentially diminish life-course brain health. Endogenous and exogenous toxic stressor interplay (TSI) alters the neural exposome through maladaptive developmental neuroplasticity. Developmental disorders and epilepsy are primarily expressed during the first 1,000 days. Communicable and noncommunicable illnesses continue to interact with the neural exposome to express diverse neurologic disorders across the lifespan, particularly during the critical/sensitive time periods of adolescence and reproductive senescence. Anomalous or destructive fetal neuropathologic lesions change clinical expressions across this developmental-aging continuum. An integrated understanding of reproductive, pregnancy, placental, neonatal, childhood, and adult exposome effects offers a life-course perspective of the neural exposome. Exosome research promises improved disease monitoring and drug delivery starting during pregnancy. Developmental origins of health and disease principles applied to FNN practice anticipate neurologic diagnoses with interventions that can benefit successive generations. Addressing health care disparities in the Global South and high-income country medical deserts require constructive dialogue among stakeholders to achieve medical equity. Population health policies require a brain capital strategy that reduces the global burden of neurologic diseases by applying FNN principles and practice. This integrative neurologic care approach will prolong survival with an improved quality of life for persons across the lifespan confronted with neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S. Scher
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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12
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Gorman-Sandler E, Wood G, Cloude N, Frambes N, Brennen H, Robertson B, Hollis F. Mitochondrial might: powering the peripartum for risk and resilience. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1286811. [PMID: 38187925 PMCID: PMC10767224 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1286811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The peripartum period, characterized by dynamic hormonal shifts and physiological adaptations, has been recognized as a potentially vulnerable period for the development of mood disorders such as postpartum depression (PPD). Stress is a well-established risk factor for developing PPD and is known to modulate mitochondrial function. While primarily known for their role in energy production, mitochondria also influence processes such as stress regulation, steroid hormone synthesis, glucocorticoid response, GABA metabolism, and immune modulation - all of which are crucial for healthy pregnancy and relevant to PPD pathology. While mitochondrial function has been implicated in other psychiatric illnesses, its role in peripartum stress and mental health remains largely unexplored, especially in relation to the brain. In this review, we first provide an overview of mitochondrial involvement in processes implicated in peripartum mood disorders, underscoring their potential role in mediating pathology. We then discuss clinical and preclinical studies of mitochondria in the context of peripartum stress and mental health, emphasizing the need for better understanding of this relationship. Finally, we propose mitochondria as biological mediators of resilience to peripartum mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Gorman-Sandler
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
- Columbia VA Healthcare System, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Gabrielle Wood
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Nazharee Cloude
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Noelle Frambes
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Hannah Brennen
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Breanna Robertson
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Fiona Hollis
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
- Columbia VA Healthcare System, Columbia, SC, United States
- USC Institute for Cardiovascular Disease Research, Columbia, SC, United States
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13
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Barth C, Crestol A, de Lange AMG, Galea LAM. Sex steroids and the female brain across the lifespan: insights into risk of depression and Alzheimer's disease. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2023; 11:926-941. [PMID: 37865102 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(23)00224-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Despite widespread sex differences in prevalence and presentation of numerous illnesses affecting the human brain, there has been little focus on the effect of endocrine ageing. Most preclinical studies have focused on males only, and clinical studies often analyse data by covarying for sex, ignoring relevant differences between the sexes. This sex- (and gender)-neutral approach is biased and contributes to the absence of targeted treatments and services for all sexes (and genders). Female health has been historically understudied, with grave consequences for their wellbeing and health equity. In this Review, we spotlight female brain health across the lifespan by informing on the role of sex steroids, particularly oestradiol, on the female brain and on risk for diseases more prevalent in females, such as depression and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Barth
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway; NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Arielle Crestol
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway; NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ann-Marie G de Lange
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
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14
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Howland MA. Recalibration of the stress response system over adult development: Is there a perinatal recalibration period? Dev Psychopathol 2023; 35:2315-2337. [PMID: 37641984 PMCID: PMC10901284 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579423000998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
During early life-sensitive periods (i.e., fetal, infancy), the developing stress response system adaptively calibrates to match environmental conditions, whether harsh or supportive. Recent evidence suggests that puberty is another window when the stress system is open to recalibration if environmental conditions have shifted significantly. Whether additional periods of recalibration exist in adulthood remains to be established. The present paper draws parallels between childhood (re)calibration periods and the perinatal period to hypothesize that this phase may be an additional window of stress recalibration in adult life. Specifically, the perinatal period (defined here to include pregnancy, lactation, and early parenthood) is also a developmental switch point characterized by heightened neural plasticity and marked changes in stress system function. After discussing these similarities, lines of empirical evidence needed to substantiate the perinatal stress recalibration hypothesis are proposed, and existing research support is reviewed. Complexities and challenges related to delineating the boundaries of perinatal stress recalibration and empirically testing this hypothesis are discussed, as well as possibilities for future multidisciplinary research. In the theme of this special issue, perinatal stress recalibration may be a mechanism of multilevel, multisystem risk, and resilience, both intra-individually and intergenerationally, with implications for optimizing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann A Howland
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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15
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Duarte-Guterman P, Richard JE, Lieblich SE, Eid RS, Lamers Y, Galea LAM. Cellular and molecular signatures of motherhood in the adult and ageing rat brain. Open Biol 2023; 13:230217. [PMID: 37989220 PMCID: PMC10681025 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is marked by robust changes, including brain changes to volume, structure, connectivity and neuroplasticity. Although some brain changes are restricted to pregnancy and the postpartum, others are long-lasting. Few studies have examined possible mechanisms of these changes or the effects of multiple pregnancies. We characterized various cellular and molecular signatures of parity (nulliparous, primiparous, biparous) in the rat hippocampus. We investigated density of neural stems cells (Sox2), microglia (Iba-1) and levels of a synaptic protein (PSD-95), cell signalling pathways, neuroinflammation, and the tryptophan-kynurenine (TRP-KYN) pathway, one week after weaning their pups from the last pregnancy (age of dam: seven months) and in middle-age (age of dam: 13 months). Parity increased PSD-95 levels in both age groups and prevented the age-related decrease in neural stem cell density observed in nulliparous rats. Biparity increased cell signalling phosphoproteins (pp70S6K, S6RP) and number of microglia in the dentate gyrus, regardless of age. Parity resulted in transient changes to the TRP-KYN system. Thus, previous parity has lasting effects on synaptic plasticity with fewer lasting effects on inflammation and cell signalling phosphoproteins in the whole hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Duarte-Guterman
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - J. E. Richard
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - S. E. Lieblich
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - R. S. Eid
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Y. Lamers
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - L. A. M. Galea
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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16
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Servin-Barthet C, Martínez-García M, Pretus C, Paternina-Die M, Soler A, Khymenets O, Pozo ÓJ, Leuner B, Vilarroya O, Carmona S. The transition to motherhood: linking hormones, brain and behaviour. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:605-619. [PMID: 37612425 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00733-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
We are witnessing a stark increase in scientific interest in the neurobiological processes associated with pregnancy and maternity. Convergent evidence suggests that around the time of labour, first-time mothers experience a specific pattern of neuroanatomical changes that are associated with maternal behaviour. Here we provide an overview of the human neurobiological adaptations of motherhood, focusing on the interplay between pregnancy-related steroid and peptide hormones, and neuroplasticity in the brain. We discuss which brain plasticity mechanisms might underlie the structural changes detected by MRI, which hormonal systems are likely to contribute to such neuroanatomical changes and how these brain mechanisms may be linked to maternal behaviour. This Review offers an overarching framework that can serve as a roadmap for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Servin-Barthet
- Unitat de Recerca en Neurociència Cognitiva, Departament de Psiquiatria i Medicina Legal, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magdalena Martínez-García
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañon, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Pretus
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Psicobiologia i de Metodologia de els Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Paternina-Die
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañon, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anna Soler
- Unitat de Recerca en Neurociència Cognitiva, Departament de Psiquiatria i Medicina Legal, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Óscar J Pozo
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Benedetta Leuner
- Psychology Department, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Oscar Vilarroya
- Unitat de Recerca en Neurociència Cognitiva, Departament de Psiquiatria i Medicina Legal, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Susana Carmona
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañon, Madrid, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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17
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Hiraoka D, Makita K, Sakakibara N, Morioka S, Orisaka M, Yoshida Y, Tomoda A. Longitudinal changes in attention bias to infant crying in primiparous mothers. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1192275. [PMID: 37809040 PMCID: PMC10556249 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1192275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Infant stimuli attract caregiver attention and motivate parenting behavior. Studies have confirmed the existence of attentional bias toward infant face stimuli; however, relatively little is known about whether attentional bias exists for infant cry stimuli, which are as important as faces in child-rearing situations. Furthermore, scarce longitudinal evidence exists on how attentional bias toward infant crying changes through the postpartum period. Methods In the present study, we conducted an experiment to assess bias toward infant crying at two postpartum time points: at Time 1 (Mean = 75.24 days), 45 first-time mothers participated and at Time 2 (Mean = 274.33 days), 30 mothers participated. At both time points, the mothers participated in a Stroop task with infant crying and white noise as the stimuli. They were instructed to answer the color out loud as quickly and accurately as possible, while ignoring the sound. Four types of audio stimuli were used in this task (the cry of the mother's own infant, the cry of an unfamiliar infant, white noise matched to the cry of the mother's own infant, and white noise matched to the cry of an unfamiliar infant), one of which was presented randomly before each trial. Response time and the correct response rate for each condition were the dependent variables. Results For response time, the main effect of familiarity was significant, with longer response times when the participant's infant's cry was presented. In addition, response times were lower at Time 2 than at Time 1 in some conditions in which crying was presented. Discussion The results suggest that mothers may be less disturbed by infant crying as they gain more experience. Elucidating the characteristics of postpartum mothers' changes in cognitive performance related to infants' cries would be useful in fundamental and applied research to understand the process of parents' adaptation to parenting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Hiraoka
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
- The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kai Makita
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Nobuko Sakakibara
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Shigemi Morioka
- Department of Pediatrics, Fukui Aiiku Hospital, Fukui, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Makoto Orisaka
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Yoshio Yoshida
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Akemi Tomoda
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychological Medicine, University of Fukui Hospital, Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Fukui, Japan
- Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University, and University of Fukui, Osaka, Japan
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18
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Calvo N, Einstein G. Steroid hormones: risk and resilience in women's Alzheimer disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1159435. [PMID: 37396653 PMCID: PMC10313425 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1159435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
More women have Alzheimer disease (AD) than men, but the reasons for this phenomenon are still unknown. Including women in clinical research and studying their biology is key to understand not just their increased risk but also their resilience against the disease. In this sense, women are more affected by AD than men, but their reserve or resilience mechanisms might delay symptom onset. The aim of this review was to explore what is known about mechanisms underlying women's risk and resilience in AD and identify emerging themes in this area that merit further research. We conducted a review of studies analyzing molecular mechanisms that may induce neuroplasticity in women, as well as cognitive and brain reserve. We also analyzed how the loss of steroid hormones in aging may be linked to AD. We included empirical studies with human and animal models, literature reviews as well as meta-analyses. Our search identified the importance of 17-b-estradiol (E2) as a mechanism driving cognitive and brain reserve in women. More broadly, our analysis revealed the following emerging perspectives: (1) the importance of steroid hormones and their effects on both neurons and glia for the study of risk and resilience in AD, (2) E2's crucial role in women's brain reserve, (3) women's verbal memory advantage as a cognitive reserve factor, and (4) E2's potential role in linguistic experiences such as multilingualism and hearing loss. Future directions for research include analyzing the reserve mechanisms of steroid hormones on neuronal and glial plasticity, as well as identifying the links between steroid hormone loss in aging and risk for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Calvo
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gillian Einstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tema Genus, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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19
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Puri TA, Richard JE, Galea LAM. Beyond sex differences: short- and long-term effects of pregnancy on the brain. Trends Neurosci 2023; 46:459-471. [PMID: 37120339 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Growing attention has been directed to the inclusion of females in neuroscience studies, and to the importance of studying sex as a biological variable. However, how female-specific factors such as menopause and pregnancy, affect the brain remains understudied. In this review, we use pregnancy as a case in point of a female-unique experience that can alter neuroplasticity, neuroinflammation, and cognition. We examine studies in both humans and rodents indicating that pregnancy can modify neural function in the short term, as well as alter the trajectory of brain aging. Furthermore, we discuss the influence of maternal age, fetal sex, number of pregnancies, and presence of pregnancy complications on brain health outcomes. We conclude by encouraging the scientific community to prioritize researching female health by recognizing and including factors such as pregnancy history in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi A Puri
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jennifer E Richard
- Djavad Mowafaghian Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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20
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Orchard ER, Voigt K, Chopra S, Thapa T, Ward PGD, Egan GF, Jamadar SD. The maternal brain is more flexible and responsive at rest: effective connectivity of the parental caregiving network in postpartum mothers. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4719. [PMID: 36959247 PMCID: PMC10036465 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31696-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of neuroscience has largely overlooked the impact of motherhood on brain function outside the context of responses to infant stimuli. Here, we apply spectral dynamic causal modelling (spDCM) to resting-state fMRI data to investigate differences in brain function between a group of 40 first-time mothers at 1-year postpartum and 39 age- and education-matched women who have never been pregnant. Using spDCM, we investigate the directionality (top-down vs. bottom-up) and valence (inhibition vs excitation) of functional connections between six key left hemisphere brain regions implicated in motherhood: the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, parahippocampal gyrus, amygdala, and nucleus accumbens. We show a selective modulation of inhibitory pathways related to differences between (1) mothers and non-mothers, (2) the interactions between group and cognitive performance and (3) group and social cognition, and (4) differences related to maternal caregiving behaviour. Across analyses, we show consistent disinhibition between cognitive and affective regions suggesting more efficient, flexible, and responsive behaviour, subserving cognitive performance, social cognition, and maternal caregiving. Together our results support the interpretation of these key regions as constituting a parental caregiving network. The nucleus accumbens and the parahippocampal gyrus emerging as 'hub' regions of this network, highlighting the global importance of the affective limbic network for maternal caregiving, social cognition, and cognitive performance in the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwina R Orchard
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Katharina Voigt
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Sidhant Chopra
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tribikram Thapa
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Phillip G D Ward
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gary F Egan
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sharna D Jamadar
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, Melbourne, Australia.
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