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Proaño SB, Miller CK, Krentzel AA, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Sex steroid hormones, the estrous cycle, and rapid modulation of glutamatergic synapse properties in the striatal brain regions with a focus on 17β-estradiol and the nucleus accumbens. Steroids 2024; 201:109344. [PMID: 37979822 PMCID: PMC10842710 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109344] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The striatal brain regions encompassing the nucleus accumbens core (NAcc), shell (NAcs) and caudate-putamen (CPu) regulate cognitive functions including motivated behaviors, habit, learning, and sensorimotor action, among others. Sex steroid hormone sensitivity and sex differences have been documented in all of these functions in both normative and pathological contexts, including anxiety, depression and addiction. The neurotransmitter glutamate has been implicated in regulating these behaviors as well as striatal physiology, and there are likewise documented sex differences in glutamate action upon the striatal output neurons, the medium spiny neurons (MSNs). Here we review the available data regarding the role of steroid sex hormones such as 17β-estradiol (estradiol), progesterone, and testosterone in rapidly modulating MSN glutamatergic synapse properties, presented in the context of the estrous cycle as appropriate. Estradiol action upon glutamatergic synapse properties in female NAcc MSNs is most comprehensively discussed. In the female NAcc, MSNs exhibit development period-specific sex differences and estrous cycle variations in glutamatergic synapse properties as shown by multiple analyses, including that of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs). Estrous cycle-differences in NAcc MSN mEPSCs can be mimicked by acute exposure to estradiol or an ERα agonist. The available evidence, or lack thereof, is also discussed concerning estrogen action upon MSN glutamatergic synapse in the other striatal regions as well as the underexplored roles of progesterone and testosterone. We conclude that there is strong evidence regarding estradiol action upon glutamatergic synapse function in female NAcs MSNs and call for more research regarding other hormones and striatal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie B Proaño
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Christiana K Miller
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Amanda A Krentzel
- Office of Research and Innovation, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - David M Dorris
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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Shenoy S, Ibrahim S. Perinatal Depression and the Role of Synaptic Plasticity in Its Pathogenesis and Treatment. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:942. [PMID: 37998688 PMCID: PMC10669186 DOI: 10.3390/bs13110942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that synaptic plasticity is significantly involved in the pathophysiology and treatment of perinatal depression. Animal models have demonstrated the effects of overstimulated or weakened synapses in various circuits of the brain in causing affective disturbances. GABAergic theory of depression, stress, and the neuroplasticity model of depression indicate the role of synaptic plasticity in the pathogenesis of depression. Multiple factors related to perinatal depression like hormonal shifts, newer antidepressants, mood stabilizers, monoamine systems, biomarkers, neurotrophins, cytokines, psychotherapy and electroconvulsive therapy have demonstrated direct and indirect effects on synaptic plasticity. In this review, we discuss and summarize the various patho-physiology-related effects of synaptic plasticity in depression. We also discuss the association of treatment-related aspects related to psychotropics, electroconvulsive therapy, neuromodulation, psychotherapy, physical exercise and yoga with synaptic plasticity in perinatal depression. Future insights into newer methods of treatment directed towards the modulation of neuroplasticity for perinatal depression will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Shenoy
- Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India;
| | - Sufyan Ibrahim
- Neuro-Informatics Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
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Gorman-Sandler E, Robertson B, Crawford J, Wood G, Ramesh A, Arishe OO, Webb RC, Hollis F. Gestational stress decreases postpartum mitochondrial respiration in the prefrontal cortex of female rats. Neurobiol Stress 2023; 26:100563. [PMID: 37654512 PMCID: PMC10466928 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2023.100563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major psychiatric complication of childbirth, affecting up to 20% of mothers, yet remains understudied. Mitochondria, dynamic organelles crucial for cell homeostasis and energy production, share links with many of the proposed mechanisms underlying PPD pathology. Brain mitochondrial function is affected by stress, a major risk factor for development of PPD, and is linked to anxiety-like and social behaviors. Considering the importance of mitochondria in regulating brain function and behavior, we hypothesized that mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with behavioral alterations in a chronic stress-induced rat model of PPD. Using a validated and translationally relevant chronic mild unpredictable stress paradigm during late gestation, we induced PPD-relevant behaviors in adult postpartum Wistar rats. In the mid-postpartum, we measured mitochondrial function in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) using high-resolution respirometry. We then measured protein expression of mitochondrial complex proteins and 4-hydroxynonenal (a marker of oxidative stress), and Th1/Th2 cytokine levels in PFC and plasma. We report novel findings that gestational stress decreased mitochondrial function in the PFC, but not the NAc of postpartum dams. However, in groups controlling for the effects of either stress or parity alone, no differences in mitochondrial respiration measured in either brain regions were observed compared to nulliparous controls. This decrease in PFC mitochondrial function in stressed dams was accompanied by negative behavioral consequences in the postpartum, complex-I specific deficits in protein expression, and increased Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha cytokine levels in plasma and PFC. Overall, we report an association between PFC mitochondrial respiration, PPD-relevant behaviors, and inflammation following gestational stress, highlighting a potential role for mitochondrial function in postpartum health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Gorman-Sandler
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Columbia VA Health Care Systems, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Breanna Robertson
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jesseca Crawford
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Columbia VA Health Care Systems, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Gabrielle Wood
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Archana Ramesh
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Olufunke O. Arishe
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - R. Clinton Webb
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- USC Institute for Cardiovascular Disease Research, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Fiona Hollis
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Columbia VA Health Care Systems, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Cardiovascular Translational Research Center, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- USC Institute for Cardiovascular Disease Research, Columbia, SC, USA
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Roets M, Brand L, Steyn SF. Increased depressive-like behaviour of postpartum Flinders sensitive and resistant line rats is reversed by a predictable postpartum stressor. Behav Brain Res 2023; 442:114321. [PMID: 36720349 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
During the peripartum period, women are at an increased risk to develop perinatal distress, presenting as symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Yet, due to practical and ethical restrictions, our understanding of this condition remains limited. Animal studies that focus on the neuropsychiatric mechanisms associated with the postpartum period, often ignore the genetical predisposition factor. We therefore investigated whether pregnancy could alter the bio-behavioural profile of the Flinders sensitive and resistant line rats, and whether these effects are exacerbated by a postpartum stressor. Postpartum dams were compared to nulliparous controls in behavioural tests, analysing depressive- and anxiety-like behaviours. Next, postpartum dams were subjected to a maternal separation and early weaning (MSEW) regimen, with their behaviour and serotonergic and noradrenergic concentrations compared to rats not separated from their pups. Regardless of strain, pregnancy decreased time spent in the open arms of the elevated plus maze and hippocampal serotonin concentrations. Time spent immobile in the forced swim test was also increased, with a significant effect in the FRL and a strong trend in the FSL rats. MSEW reversed these behaviours in both strains and increased social interaction with a male counterpart in the FSL rats, without influencing hippocampal or cortical serotonin or norepinephrine. Taken together, these results suggest that pregnancy influences postpartum behaviour, in a strain-dependent manner. Contrary to what we expected, MSEW overall decreased depressive- and anxiety-like behaviours, with strain specific differences, indicating that a chronic, predictable stressor may not necessarily adversely affect postpartum behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareli Roets
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Linda Brand
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Stephan F Steyn
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
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Miller CK, Krentzel AA, Meitzen J. ERα Stimulation Rapidly Modulates Excitatory Synapse Properties in Female Rat Nucleus Accumbens Core. Neuroendocrinology 2023; 113:1140-1153. [PMID: 36746131 PMCID: PMC10623399 DOI: 10.1159/000529571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The nucleus accumbens core (NAcc) is a sexually differentiated brain region that is modulated by steroid hormones such as 17β-estradiol (estradiol), with consequential impacts on relevant motivated behaviors and disorders such as addiction, anxiety, and depression. NAcc estradiol levels naturally fluctuate, including during the estrous cycle in adult female rats, which is analogous to the menstrual cycle in adult humans. Across the estrous cycle, excitatory synapse properties of medium spiny neurons rapidly change, as indicated by analysis of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs). mEPSC frequency decreases during estrous cycle phases associated with high estradiol levels. This decrease in mEPSC frequency is mimicked by acute topical exposure to estradiol. The identity of the estrogen receptor (ER) underlying this estradiol action is unknown. Adult rat NAcc expresses three ERs, all extranuclear: membrane ERα, membrane ERβ, and GPER1. METHODS In this brief report, we take a first step toward addressing this challenge by testing whether activation of ERs via acute topical agonist application is sufficient for inducing changes in mEPSC properties recorded via whole-cell patch clamp. RESULTS An agonist of ERα induced large decreases in mEPSC frequency, while agonists of ERβ and GPER1 did not robustly modulate mEPSC properties. CONCLUSIONS These data provide evidence that activation of ERα is sufficient for inducing changes in mEPSC frequency and is a likely candidate underlying the estradiol-induced changes observed during the estrous cycle. Overall, these findings extend our understanding of the neuroendocrinology of the NAcc and implicate ERα as a primary target for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana K. Miller
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Amanda A. Krentzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Xu F, Wu H, Xie L, Chen Q, Xu Q, Sun L, Li H, Xie J, Chen X. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate alleviates gestational stress-induced postpartum anxiety and depression-like behaviors in mice by downregulating semaphorin3A and promoting GSK3β phosphorylation in the hippocampus. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1109458. [PMID: 36776771 PMCID: PMC9909483 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1109458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by depression and comorbid anxiety during the postpartum period. PPD is difficult to treat because of its elusive mechanisms. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a component of tea polyphenols, is reported to exert neuroprotective effects in emotional disorders by reducing inflammation and apoptosis. However, the effect of EGCG on PPD and the underlying mechanism are unknown. Methods We used a mouse model of PPD established by exposing pregnant mice to gestational stress. Open field, forced swimming and tail suspension tests were performed to investigate the anxiety and depression-like behaviors. Immunohistochemical staining was used to measure the c-fos positive cells. The transcriptional levels of hippocampal semaphorin3A(sema3A), (glycogen synthase kinase 3-beta)GSK3β and collapsin response mediator protein 2(CRMP2) were assessed by RT-PCR. Alterations in protein expression of Sema3A, GSK3β, p-GSK3β, CRMP2 and p-CRMP2 were quantified by western blotting. EGCG was administrated to analyze its effect on PPD mice. Results Gestational stress induced anxiety and depression-like behaviors during the postpartum period, increasing Sema3A expression while decreasing that of phosphorylated GSK3β as well as c-Fos in the hippocampus. These effects were reversed by systemic administration of EGCG. Conclusions Thus, EGCG may alleviate anxiety and depression-like behaviors in mice by downregulating Sema3A and increasing GSK3β phosphorylation in the hippocampus, and has potential application in the treatment of PPD.
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Rincón-Cortés M, Grace AA. Dopamine downregulation in novel rodent models useful for the study of postpartum depression. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:1065558. [PMID: 36620861 PMCID: PMC9812956 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.1065558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is the most common psychiatric disorder following childbirth and is characterized by maternal mood disturbances, impaired maternal responses, and disrupted caregiving- all of which negatively impact offspring development. Since PPD has detrimental consequences for both mother and child, clinical and preclinical research has focused on identifying brain changes associated with this disorder. In humans, PPD is linked to dysregulated mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system function and altered neural responses (i.e., decreased reward-related activity) to infant-related cues, which are considered hallmark features of PPD. In accordance, rodent models employing translational risk factors useful for the study of PPD have demonstrated alterations in mesolimbic DA system structure and function, and these changes are reviewed here. We also present two novel rodent models based on postpartum adversity exposure (i.e., pup removal, scarcity-adversity) which result in PPD-relevant behavioral changes (e.g., disrupted mother-infant interactions, deficits in maternal behavior, depressive-like phenotypes) and attenuated ventral tegmental area (VTA) DA neuron activity consistent with a hypodopaminergic state. Furthermore, we highlight open questions and future directions for these rodent models. In sum, human and rodent studies converge in showing blunted mesolimbic DA function (i.e., DA downregulation) in PPD. We propose that reduced activity of VTA DA neurons, resulting in downregulation of the mesolimbic DA system, interferes with reward-related processes necessary for maternal motivation and responsiveness. Thus, the mesolimbic DA system may constitute a therapeutic target for ameliorating reward-related deficits in PPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Millie Rincón-Cortés
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States,*Correspondence: Millie Rincón-Cortés
| | - Anthony A. Grace
- Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Liu ZF, Sylivris A, Gordon M, Sundram S. The association between tryptophan levels and postpartum mood disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:539. [PMID: 35941560 PMCID: PMC9361669 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04178-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 50% of women experience mood disturbance in the postpartum period, with significant implications for maternal and infant health but identifying those at risk is not easily possible. The essential amino acid, tryptophan (TRP) through its neuroactive metabolites, has been implicated in the pathology of mood disorders. Thus, TRP levels tested in the peripartum period have been proposed as a potential biomarker for subsequent development of postpartum mood disturbances, in particular postpartum depression (PPD). A systematic review and meta-analysis following PROSPERO guidelines [CRD42021252462] was conducted on peer-reviewed, English language studies that measured blood levels of TRP during the postpartum period in women who were also evaluated for postpartum "blues" or PPD. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, of which five studies contained sufficient data to conduct a meta-analysis. Low total TRP levels in postpartum days 1 to 5 were significantly associated with PPD (SMD: -5.39, 95%CI [-7.72, -3.05]). No significant association was found between free TRP levels in the postpartum period and PPD (SMD: -3.43, 95%CI [-7.76, 0.89]). Our findings confirm the necessity for more replicable designed studies regarding TRP and its relationship to postpartum depression. If there were greater clarity regarding TRP metabolism during pregnancy, then the next step would be to consider measuring total plasma TRP levels on postpartum days 1 to 5 to identify women at greater risk of developing PPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Feng Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy Sylivris
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Gordon
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Mental Health Program, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Suresh Sundram
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Mental Health Program, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Monash Medical Centre, Block P, Level 3, 246 Clayton Rd, Melbourne, 3168, VIC, Australia.
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Cognitive processing of emotional information during menstrual phases in women with and without postpartum depression: differential sensitivity to changes in gonadal steroids. Arch Womens Ment Health 2022; 25:753-762. [PMID: 35532792 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-022-01235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Gonadal steroids (GSs) have been repeatedly shown to play a central role in the onset of postpartum depression (PPD). The underlying mechanisms, however, are only partially understood. We investigated the relationship between cognitive processing of emotional information and naturally occurring hormonal fluctuations in women with and without previous PPD. Euthymic, parous women, with a history (hPPD, n=32) and without a history (nhPPD, n=43) of PPD, were assessed during late-follicular and late-luteal phases. Participants were administered cognitive tasks assessing attention (dot-probe; emotional Stroop), evaluation (self-referential encoding) and incidental recall, and self-report measures. Menstrual-phase-specific differences were found between late-follicular vs. late-luteal phases among hPPD only, with depression-associated patterns observed in the late-luteal phase on the self-referential encoding and incidental recall task and emotional Stroop task, but not on the dot-probe task. No main effect for menstrual phase was found on any of the tasks or questionnaires, apart from the brooding component of rumination. Women with hPPD demonstrate a differential bias in cognitive processing of emotional information that is menstrual phase dependent, and did not correspond to similar difference in mood symptoms. These biases may reflect sensitivity to gonadal steroid fluctuations that are associated with PPD.
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Fuentes I, Morishita Y, Gonzalez-Salinas S, Champagne FA, Uchida S, Shumyatsky GP. Experience-Regulated Neuronal Signaling in Maternal Behavior. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:844295. [PMID: 35401110 PMCID: PMC8987921 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.844295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal behavior is shaped and challenged by the changing developmental needs of offspring and a broad range of environmental factors, with evidence indicating that the maternal brain exhibits a high degree of plasticity. This plasticity is displayed within cellular and molecular systems, including both intra- and intercellular signaling processes as well as transcriptional profiles. This experience-associated plasticity may have significant overlap with the mechanisms controlling memory processes, in particular those that are activity-dependent. While a significant body of work has identified various molecules and intracellular processes regulating maternal care, the role of activity- and experience-dependent processes remains unclear. We discuss recent progress in studying activity-dependent changes occurring at the synapse, in the nucleus, and during the transport between these two structures in relation to maternal behavior. Several pre- and postsynaptic molecules as well as transcription factors have been found to be critical in these processes. This role reflects the principal importance of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of memory formation to maternal and other behavioral adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ileana Fuentes
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | | | | | - Frances A. Champagne
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Shusaku Uchida
- SK Project, Medical Innovation Center, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Gleb P. Shumyatsky
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
- *Correspondence: Gleb P. Shumyatsky
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Qiu W, Go KA, Wen Y, Duarte-Guterman P, Eid RS, Galea LAM. Maternal fluoxetine reduces hippocampal inflammation and neurogenesis in adult offspring with sex-specific effects of periadolescent oxytocin. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 97:394-409. [PMID: 34174336 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Untreated perinatal depression can have severe consequences for the mother and her children. However, both the efficacy to mothers and safety to exposed infants of pharmacological antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been questioned. We previously reported that maternal SSRI exposure increased hippocampal IL-1β levels, which may be tied to limited efficacy of SSRIs during the postpartum to the dam but is not yet known whether maternal postpartum SSRIs affect the neuroinflammatory profile of adult offspring. In addition, although controversial, perinatal SSRI exposure has been linked to increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. Oxytocin (OT) is under investigation as a treatment for ASD, but OT is a large neuropeptide that has difficulty crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). TriozanTM is a nanoformulation that can facilitate OT to cross the BBB. Thus, we investigated the impact of maternal postpartum SSRIs and offspring preadolescent OT treatment on adult offspring neuroinflammation, social behavior, and neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Using a model of de novo postpartum depression, corticosterone (CORT) was given in the postpartum to the dam with or without treatment with the SSRI, fluoxetine (FLX) for 21 days postpartum. Offspring were then subsequently treated with either OT, OT + TriozanTM, or vehicle for 10 days prior to adolescence (PD25-34). Maternal FLX decreased hippocampal IL-10 and IL-13 and neurogenesis in both sexes, whereas maternal CORT increased hippocampal IL-13 in both sexes. Maternal CORT treatment shifted the neuroimmune profile towards a more proinflammatory profile in offspring hippocampus, whereas oxytocin, independent of formulation, normalized this profile. OT treatment increased hippocampal neurogenesis in adult males but not in adult females, regardless of maternal treatment. OT treatment increased the time spent with a novel social stimulus animal (social investigation) in both adult male and female offspring, although this effect depended on maternal CORT. These findings underscore that preadolescent exposure to OT can reverse some of the long-lasting effects of postpartum maternal CORT and FLX treatments in the adult offspring. In addition, we found that maternal treatments that reduce (CORT) or increase (FLX) hippocampal inflammation in dams resulted in opposing patterns of hippocampal inflammation in adult offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wansu Qiu
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kimberly A Go
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yanhua Wen
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Rand S Eid
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Canada.
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12
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Qiu W, Go KA, Lamers Y, Galea LAM. Postpartum corticosterone and fluoxetine shift the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway in dams. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 130:105273. [PMID: 34051656 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Perinatal depression (PND) affects 15% of mothers. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are currently the first-line of treatment for PND but are not always efficacious. Previously, we found significant reductions in plasma tryptophan concentrations and higher hippocampal proinflammatory cytokine, IL-1β levels, due to maternal SSRI treatment. Both inflammation and tryptophan-kynurenine metabolic pathway (TKP) are associated with SSRI efficacy in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD). TKP is divided into neuroprotective and neurotoxic pathways. Higher metabolite concentrations of the neurotoxic pathway are associated with depression onset and implicated in SSRI efficacy. Metabolites in TKP were investigated in a rodent model of de novo postpartum depression (PPD) given treatment with the SSRI, fluoxetine (FLX). Dams were administered corticosterone (CORT) (40 mg/kg, s.c.), and treated with the SSRI, fluoxetine (FLX) (10 mg/kg, s.c.), during the postpartum for 22 days after parturition. Plasma TKP metabolite concentrations were quantified on the last day of treatment. Maternal postpartum CORT increased neurotoxic metabolites and co-enzyme/cofactors in dams (3-hydroxykynurenine, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, vitamin B2, flavin adenine dinucleotide). The combination of both CORT and FLX shifted the neuroprotective-to-neurotoxic ratio towards neurotoxicity. Postpartum FLX decreased plasma xanthurenic acid concentrations. Together, our data indicate higher neurotoxic TKP expression due to maternal postpartum CORT treatment, similar to clinical presentation of MDD. Moreover, maternal FLX treatment showed limited efficacy to influence TKP metabolites, which may correspond to its limited efficacy to treat depressive-like endophenotypes in the postpartum. Overall suggesting changes in TKP may be used as a biomarker of de novo PPD and antidepressant efficacy and targeting this pathway may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wansu Qiu
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kimberly A Go
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yvonne Lamers
- Food Nutrition and Health Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Canada.
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de Lange AMG, Jacobs EG, Galea LAM. The scientific body of knowledge: Whose body does it serve? A spotlight on women's brain health. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 60:100898. [PMID: 33383040 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Marie G de Lange
- LREN, Centre for Research in Neurosciences - Department of Clinical Neurosciences, CHUV and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emily G Jacobs
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
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Moyer SW, Kinser PA. A Comprehensive Conceptual Framework to Guide Clinical Practice and Research About Mental Health During the Perinatal Period. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2021; 35:46-56. [PMID: 33528187 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect up to 20% of pregnant and postpartum women and can have negative sequelae for maternal-child health. Nurses with clinical and research roles are on the front line of efforts to assess for and assist with prevention and intervention with PMAD symptoms. Thus, they can play an essential role in enhancing the mental well-being of women in the perinatal period and maternal-child health outcomes. The aim of this article is to assist nurses in this work by outlining the Comprehensive Model of Mental Health during the Perinatal Period, a conceptual framework for considering clinical and research opportunities to enhance perinatal mental health. The framework uses key principles that recognize biopsychoneuroimmunologic mechanisms involved in mental health; the key role that the experience of matrescence ("becoming a mother") plays in mental health and maternal-child health; and the mother-infant dyad as the functional unit during the perinatal period. Examples are provided of how the key principles of this framework might be used to enhance research and clinical practice about PMADs and, ultimately, enhance maternal-child health outcomes.
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