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Bäckström T, Bengtsson SKS, Sjöstedt J, Malinina E, Johansson M, Ragagnin G, Ekberg K, Lundgren P. Isoallopregnanolone Inhibits Estrus Cycle-Dependent Aggressive Behavior. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1017. [PMID: 37371597 DOI: 10.3390/biom13061017] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Among female rats, some individuals show estrus cycle-dependent irritability/aggressive behaviors, and these individual rats may be used as a model for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). We wanted to investigate if these behaviors are related to the estrus cycle phase containing moderately increased levels of positive GABA-A receptor-modulating steroids (steroid-PAM), especially allopregnanolone (ALLO), and if the adverse behavior can be antagonized. The electrophysiology studies in this paper show that isoallopregnanolone (ISO) is a GABA-A-modulating steroid antagonist (GAMSA), meaning that ISO can antagonize the agonistic effects of positive GABA-A receptor-modulating steroids in both α1β2γ2L and α4β3δ GABA-A receptor subtypes. In this study, we also investigated whether ISO could antagonize the estrus cycle-dependent aggressive behaviors in female Wistar rats using a resident-intruder test. Our results confirmed previous reports of estrus cycle-dependent behaviors in that 42% of the tested rats showed higher levels of irritability/aggression at diestrus compared to those at estrus. Furthermore, we found that, during the treatment with ISO, the aggressive behavior at diestrus was alleviated to a level comparable to that of estrus. We noticed an 89% reduction in the increase in aggressive behavior at diestrus compared to that at estrus. Vehicle treatment in the same animals showed a minimal effect on the diestrus-related aggressive behavior. In conclusion, we showed that ISO can antagonize Steroid-PAM both in α1β2γ2L and α4β3δ GABA-A receptor subtypes and inhibit estrus cycle-dependent aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
| | - Sara K S Bengtsson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
| | - Jessica Sjöstedt
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
| | - Evgenya Malinina
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
| | - Maja Johansson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
| | - Gianna Ragagnin
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
| | - Karin Ekberg
- Asarina Pharma AB, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Per Lundgren
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Science, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umea, Sweden
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Sun Y, Gao M, Gao D, Chen D, Wang J. Allopregnanolone-mediated GABAA-Rα4 function in amygdala and hippocampus of PMDD liver qi-invasion syndrome model rats. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:1143-1157. [PMID: 36842096 PMCID: PMC10008490 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204541] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a common mental health challenge among women of reproductive age. Allopregnanolone (3α, 5α-THP; ALLO) mediated functional alterations of GABAA receptors (GABAA-R) are involved in PMDD pathogenesis, however, the specific mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the role of ALLO mediated GABAA-Rα4 in the pathophysiology of PMDD. PURPOSE We determined whether the pathogenesis of PMDD is associated with ALLO mediated GABAA-Rα4 expression changes in different brain regions. METHODS Rat models of PMDD liver-qi invasion syndrome (PMDD-LIS) were established via the resident intruder paradigm. Behavioral changes of rats were assessed by aggressive behavior tests, EPM and OFT. The levels of progesterone and ALLO in serum as well as brain areas were determined by ELISA. Variations in GABAA-Rα4 levels in brain regions were assessed by immunofluorescence and RT-PCR. Medicated serum was used to interfere with rat hippocampal neurons, and changes in Cl- current were recorded through electrophysiology. RESULTS Premenstrual anxiety and irritability of PMDD-LIS patients can be simulated in PMDD-LIS rat models. Exogenous ALLO significantly improved the anxiety behaviors of PMDD-LIS rats. Changes in ALLO among different brain regions varied. GABAA-Rα4 expressions were low in the amygdala and abnormally high in the hippocampus, however, ALLO alleviated these deviations. Whole-cell patch clamp recording technique showed a weaker Cl- current intensity of PMDD-LIS rats, reduced neuroinhibitory functions and increased Cl- current intensity in the ALLO group drug serum intervention and enhanced emotional inhibition function. CONCLUSION We established that ALLO regulation of the GABAA-Rα4 subunit in the amygdala and hippocampus is involved in PMDD-LIS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Sun
- Team of Research and Innovation Focusing on Emotional Diseases and Syndromes, Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, Shandong, China
| | - Mingzhou Gao
- Team of Research and Innovation Focusing on Emotional Diseases and Syndromes, Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, Shandong, China
| | - Dongmei Gao
- Teaching and Research Office of Basic Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, Shandong, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Graduate, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, Shandong, China
| | - Jieqiong Wang
- Scientific Research Achievements Transformation Department, Office of Academic Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, Shandong, China
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3
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Gao M, Zhang H, Gao Z, Sun Y, Xu G, Wei F, Wang J, Gao D. Resident intruder paradigm-induced PMDD rat model of premenstrual irritability: behavioral phenotypes, drug intervention, and biomarkers. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:9210-9220. [PMID: 36441533 PMCID: PMC9740374 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204402] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is high in women of childbearing age with obvious premenstrual irritability. However, reliable animal models are still lacking. MATERIALS AND METHODS PMDD rat model of premenstrual irritability was induced by the resident-intruder paradigm (RIP). Behavioral characteristics were determined by the aggressive behavior test, elevated plus maze, open-field test, and breast width measurement. The estrous cycle in rats was artificially manipulated by bilateral ovariectomy and exogenous hormone injection to verify the model phenotype's dependence on the estrous cycle. Fluoxetine and Baixiangdan capsules were administered by gavage to determine the symptom improvement effect of PMDD irritability. Biomarkers in serum and brain were detected using ELISA, and GABRA4 was detected in the brain by RT-PCR and Western blot. RESULTS Rat models demonstrated similar clinical characteristics as PMDD, such as premenstrual irritability and anxiety, and the above symptoms were estrous cycle-dependent. In addition, the levels of progesterone (P) and ALLO hormones decreased in the serum, hippocampus, amygdala, and frontal lobe in the NR phase. The contents of 5-HT in the brain were significantly increased, while NE and GABA contents were considerably reduced. Moreover, mRNA and protein expression of GABRA4 levels in model rats' amygdala, hippocampus, and frontal lobe were significantly increased, while drug intervention downregulated its expression in these tissues. CONCLUSION Premenstrual irritability rat model of PMDD demonstrates a behavioral phenotype consistent with the clinical symptoms of PMDD and micro index. The increased levels of 5-HT, NE, and expression of GABRA4, as well as the decrease of GABA, P, and ALLO levels, may be critical biomarkers of the abnormal changes that occur during the pathogenesis of PMDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhou Gao
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhan Gao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ya Sun
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Guanghao Xu
- Marxism College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Fengqin Wei
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jieqiong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Dongmei Gao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
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Kundakovic M, Rocks D. Sex hormone fluctuation and increased female risk for depression and anxiety disorders: From clinical evidence to molecular mechanisms. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101010. [PMID: 35716803 PMCID: PMC9715398 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Women are at twice the risk for anxiety and depression disorders as men are, although the underlying biological factors and mechanisms are largely unknown. In this review, we address this sex disparity at both the etiological and mechanistic level. We dissect the role of fluctuating sex hormones as a critical biological factor contributing to the increased depression and anxiety risk in women. We provide parallel evidence in humans and rodents that brain structure and function vary with naturally-cycling ovarian hormones. This female-unique brain plasticity and associated vulnerability are primarily driven by estrogen level changes. For the first time, we provide a sex hormone-driven molecular mechanism, namely chromatin organizational changes, that regulates neuronal gene expression and brain plasticity but may also prime the (epi)genome for psychopathology. Finally, we map out future directions including experimental and clinical studies that will facilitate novel sex- and gender-informed approaches to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Kundakovic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Devin Rocks
- Department of Biological Sciences, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
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5
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Can animal models resemble a premenstrual dysphoric condition? Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101007. [PMID: 35623450 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101007] [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: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Around 80% of women worldwide suffer mild Premenstrual Disorders (PMD) during their reproductive life. Up to a quarter are affected by moderate to severe symptoms, and between 3% and 8% experience a severe form. It is classified as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with predominantly physical symptoms and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) with psychiatric symptoms. The present review analyzes the factors associated with PMD and the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovarian or Hypothalamus-Pituitary-adrenal axis and discusses the main animal models used to study PMDD. Evidence shows that the ovarian hormones participate in PMDD symptoms, and several points of regulation of their synthesis, metabolism, and target sites could be altered. PMDD is complex and implies several factors that require consideration when this condition is modeled in animals. Of particular interest are those points related to areas that may represent opportunities to develop new approximations to understand the mechanisms involved in PMDD and possible treatments.
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6
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Wei S, Geng X, Li Z, Xu K, Hu M, Wu H, Shi W, Qiao M. A forced swim-based rat model of premenstrual depression: effects of hormonal changes and drug intervention. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:24357-24370. [PMID: 33229622 PMCID: PMC7762461 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), is a severe health disturbance that affects a patient’s emotions; it is caused by periodic psychological symptoms, and its pathogenesis remains unclear. As depression-like symptoms are found in a majority of clinical cases, a reliable animal model of premenstrual depression is indispensable to understand the pathogenesis. Herein, we describe a novel rat model of premenstrual depression, based on the forced swimming test, with a regular estrous cycle. The results showed that in the estrous cycle, the depression-like behavior of rats occurred in the non-receptive phase and disappeared in the receptive phase. Following ovariectomy, the depression-like symptoms disappeared and returned after a hormone priming regimen. Moreover, fluoxetine, an anti-depressant, could reverse the behavioral symptoms in these model rats with normal estrous cycle. Further, the model rats showed significant changes in the serum levels of estrogen and progesterone, hippocampal levels of allopregnanolone, 5-hydroxytryptamine, norepinephrine, and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and in the expression of GABAA receptor 4α subunit, all of which were reversed to physiological levels by fluoxetine. Overall, we established a reliable and standardized rat model of premenstrual depression, which may facilitate the elucidation of PMS/PMDD pathogenesis and development of related therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, Ji’nan 250012, China.,Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China
| | - Xiwen Geng
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China
| | - Zifa Li
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China
| | - Kaiyong Xu
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China
| | - Minghui Hu
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China
| | - Hongyun Wu
- Department of Encephalopathy, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250011, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250011, China
| | - Mingqi Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan 250355, China
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7
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Zhang H, Geng X, Li Z, Li Y, Xu K, Wu H, Xie J, Sun P, Wei S, Qiao M. Paeonol at Certain Doses Alleviates Aggressive and Anxiety-Like Behaviours in Two Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Rat Models. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:295. [PMID: 32351418 PMCID: PMC7174695 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a common mental health disturbance associated with several periodic psychological symptoms in women. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first-line treatment for PMS/PMDD patients; however, side effects are inevitable, especially in long-term treatment. In previous studies, the natural compound paeonol in Moutan Cortex was found to play effective roles in central nervous system disorders with its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and neuroprotective effects. Consequently, we assume that paeonol might produce positive effects in the treatment of PMS/PMDD. In this study, the open-field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (EPM) and light dark box (LDB) tests were performed in mice to determine the optimal dose of paeonol for treating anxiety. Then, paeonol was used to treat the progesterone withdrawal (PWD) and resident intruder paradigm (RIP) rat models of PMDD. Using these two reliable models, the OFT and EPM, LDB, and composite aggressive tests were performed to evaluate the effect of the drug on behavioural symptoms of PMDD. From the dosage screening results, the optimal anti-anxiety dose of paeonol was identified as 17.5 mg/kg/d for 7 days. With regard to the effect of paeonol on PMDD rat models, a significantly improvement was found in the behavioural symptoms, but the effective dose varied in different models. For the PWD model rats, treatment with 6.05 mg/kg paeonol could significantly improve anxiety and irritability, while that with 24.23 mg/kg paeonol resulted in anxiety-like effects in behavioural tests. In RIP model rats, treatment with 12.11 mg/kg paeonol demonstrated excellent effects in improving anxiety, particularly irritable emotional behaviour. In conclusion, our study indicates that paeonol is a potential therapeutic compound for PMS/PMDD; it is a drug option that helps establish dosage guidance for treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Xiwen Geng
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Zifa Li
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Yaqiong Li
- Bozhou Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Bozhou, China
| | - Kaiyong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Hongyun Wu
- No. 3 Department of Encephalopathy, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Jinlu Xie
- Key Laboratory of Vector Biology and Pathogen Control of Zhejiang, School of Medicine, Huzhou University, Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Sheng Wei
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China.,Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
| | - Mingqi Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan, China
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8
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Planchez B, Surget A, Belzung C. Animal models of major depression: drawbacks and challenges. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2019; 126:1383-1408. [PMID: 31584111 PMCID: PMC6815270 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-019-02084-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Major depression is a leading contributor to the global burden of disease. This situation is mainly related to the chronicity and/or recurrence of the disorder, and to poor response to antidepressant therapy. Progress in this area requires valid animal models. Current models are based either on manipulating the environment to which rodents are exposed (during the developmental period or adulthood) or biological underpinnings (i.e. gene deletion or overexpression of candidate genes, targeted lesions of brain areas, optogenetic control of specific neuronal populations, etc.). These manipulations can alter specific behavioural and biological outcomes that can be related to different symptomatic and pathophysiological dimensions of major depression. However, animal models of major depression display substantial shortcomings that contribute to the lack of innovative pharmacological approaches in recent decades and which hamper our capabilities to investigate treatment-resistant depression. Here, we discuss the validity of these models, review putative models of treatment-resistant depression, major depression subtypes and recurrent depression. Furthermore, we identify future challenges regarding new paradigms such as those proposing dimensional rather than categorical approaches to depression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Catherine Belzung
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France.
- UMR 1253, iBrain, UFR Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, 37200, Tours, France.
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9
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Wei S, Sun P, Guo Y, Chen J, Wang J, Song C, Li Z, Xue L, Qiao M. Gene Expression in the Hippocampus in a Rat Model of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder After Treatment With Baixiangdan Capsules. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2065. [PMID: 30483168 PMCID: PMC6242977 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To explore the targets, signal regulatory networks and mechanisms involved in Baixiangdan (BXD) capsule regulation of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) at the gene transcription level, since the etiology and pathogenesis of PMDD are not well understood. Methods: The PMDD rat model was prepared using the resident-intruder paradigm. The rats were tested for aggressive behavior, and those with scores in the lowest 30% were used as controls, while rats with scores in the highest 30% were divided into a PMDD model group, BXD administration group and fluoxetine administration group, which were evaluated with open-field tests and aggressive behavior tests. We also analyzed gene expression profiles in the hippocampus for each group, and verified differential expression of genes by real-time PCR. Results: Before and after BXD or fluoxetine administration, scores in the open-field test exhibited no significant differences. The aggressive behavior of the PMDD model rats was improved to a degree after administration of both substances. Gene chip data indicated that 715 genes were differentially expressed in the control and BXD groups. Other group-to-group comparisons exhibited smaller numbers of differentially expressed genes. The effective targets of both drugs included the Htr2c, Cdh3, Serpinb1a, Ace, Trpv4, Cacna1a, Mapk13, Mapk8, Cyp2c13, and Htr1a genes. The results of real-time PCR tests were in accordance with the gene chip data. Based on the target genes and signaling pathway network analysis, we have elaborated the impact and likely mechanism of BXD in treating PMDD and premenstrual irritability. Conclusion: Our work contributes to the understanding of PMDD pathogenesis and the mechanisms of BXD treatment. We speculate that the differentially expressed genes could participate in neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, mitogen-activated protein kinase, calcium, and gamma-aminobutyric acid signal transduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wei
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.,Behavioral Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yinghui Guo
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jingxuan Chen
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.,Behavioral Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jieqiong Wang
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chunhong Song
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zifa Li
- Behavioral Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ling Xue
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Mingqi Qiao
- Lab of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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10
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Paeoniflorin, the Main Active Ingredient of Shuyu Capsule, Inhibits Ca v1.2 and Regulates Calmodulin/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II Signalling. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:8459287. [PMID: 29362718 PMCID: PMC5736929 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8459287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism underlying the antidepression activity of paeoniflorin, the main active ingredient of paeony extract and Shuyu capsules, and determine its effect on the calmodulin/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM/CaMKII) signalling pathway and on the possible target, the voltage-gated calcium channel (Cav). Rats at the nonacceptance stage were selected for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) depression modelling. Behavioural assays were used for model testing. Rats were given Shuyu capsules, paeony extract, and bupleurum. Western blot analysis was used to assess the expression levels of calcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha 1 C (CACNA1C), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and CaM/CaMKII signalling pathway proteins. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration in CHO cell line was measured using Fluo-4-AM and whole-cell patch clamps. The PMS depression model was successfully established and demonstrated that Shuyu can mitigate depressive behaviour in a rat PMS model. Paeony extract did not affect CACNA1C protein expression in rat hippocampi but did affect Cav1.2-mediated CaM/CaMKII signalling pathways. Paeoniflorin significantly inhibited KCl-induced increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration and Cav1.2 current density. Further, it may function via the CaM/CaMKII pathway and its downstream signalling molecules by regulating Cav1.2, thus playing an important role in the treatment and alleviation of affective disorders.
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11
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Fernández-Guasti A, Olivares-Nazario M, Reyes R, Martínez-Mota L. Sex and age differences in the antidepressant-like effect of fluoxetine in the forced swim test. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017; 152:81-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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12
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Shuyu Capsules Relieve Premenstrual Syndrome Depression by Reducing 5-HT 3AR and 5-HT 3BR Expression in the Rat Brain. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:7950781. [PMID: 27725889 PMCID: PMC5048033 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7950781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of the Shuyu capsule on 5-HT3AR and 5-HT3BR expression in a rat model of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) depression and on 5-HT3AR and 5-HT3BR expression and hippocampal neuron 5-HT3 channel current were investigated, to elucidate its mechanism of action against PMS depression. PMS depression model rats were divided into depression and Shuyu- and fluoxetine-treated groups, which were compared to control rats for frontal lobe and hippocampal 5-HT3AR and 5-HT3BR expression and behavior. The depressed model rats displayed symptoms of depression, which were reduced in treated and normal control rats. Frontal lobe and hippocampal 5-HT3AR and 5-HT3BR levels were significantly higher in the model versus the control group and were significantly lower in the Shuyu group. As compared to control rats, the 5-HT3R channel current in the model group was significantly higher; the 5-HT3R channel current in hippocampal neurons treated with serum from Shuyu group rats was significantly lower than that in those treated with model group serum. Thus, PMS depression may be related to 5-HT3AR and 5-HT3BR expression and increased 5-HT3 channel current. Shuyu capsules rectified abnormal 5-HT3AR and 5-HT3BR expression and 5-HT3 channel current changes in a rat model; this finding may provide insight into treating PMS depression.
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Kokras N, Antoniou K, Mikail HG, Kafetzopoulos V, Papadopoulou-Daifoti Z, Dalla C. Forced swim test: What about females? Neuropharmacology 2015; 99:408-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Mueller SC, Grissom EM, Dohanich GP. Assessing gonadal hormone contributions to affective psychopathologies across humans and animal models. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 46:114-28. [PMID: 24882164 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite increasing acknowledgement of hormonal contributions to mood and anxiety disorders, the underlying mechanisms by which gonadal hormones influence psychopathology-related behaviours remain unknown. This review focuses on recent research that examines the influence of gonadal steroid hormones, including androgens, oestrogens, and progesterone, on mood and anxiety-related behaviours in human health and disease. To this aim, the literature was surveyed for studies that assess conditions with suspected underlying hormonal imbalances in otherwise healthy participants (e.g., premenstrual dysphoric disorder, postmenopausal depression) as well as conditions linked to congenital endocrine abnormalities (e.g., Turner Syndrome, Klinefelter Syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, familial male precocious puberty, androgen insensitivity syndrome). Furthermore, to better inform clinical work and to create a translational bridge, a second goal was to set human psychopathologies and animal models of these conditions side-by-side. In the second part of the review, based on consistencies revealed in the existing literature across conditions, a new model for the impact of gonadal hormones on anxious and depressed behavioural states is proposed. Finally, we conclude by proposing directions for future research, including the development of specific tasks suitable for cross-species comparisons to increase our knowledge of the role of gonadal hormones in mood and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Mueller
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - E M Grissom
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - G P Dohanich
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Wei S, Ji XW, Wu CL, Li ZF, Sun P, Wang JQ, Zhao QT, Gao J, Guo YH, Sun SG, Qiao MQ. Resident intruder paradigm-induced aggression relieves depressive-like behaviors in male rats subjected to chronic mild stress. Med Sci Monit 2014; 20:945-52. [PMID: 24911067 PMCID: PMC4067422 DOI: 10.12659/msm.890200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Accumulating epidemiological evidence shows that life event stressors are major vulnerability factors for psychiatric diseases such as major depression. It is also well known that the resident intruder paradigm (RIP) results in aggressive behavior in male rats. However, it is not known how resident intruder paradigm-induced aggression affects depressive-like behavior in isolated male rats subjected to chronic mild stress (CMS), which is an animal model of depression. Material/Methods Male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: non-stressed controls, isolated rats subjected to the CMS protocol, and resident intruder paradigm-exposed rats subjected to the CMS protocol. Results In the sucrose intake test, ingestion of a 1% sucrose solution by rats in the CMS group was significantly lower than in control and CMS+RIP rats after 3 weeks of stress. In the open-field test, CMS rats had significantly lower open-field scores compared to control rats. Furthermore, the total scores given the CMS group were significantly lower than in the CMS+RIP rats. In the forced swimming test (FST), the immobility times of CMS rats were significantly longer than those of the control or CMS+RIP rats. However, no differences were observed between controls and CMS+RIP rats. Conclusions Our data show that aggressive behavior evoked by the resident intruder paradigm could relieve broad-spectrum depressive-like behaviors in isolated adult male rats subjected to CMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wei
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Xiao-wei Ji
- Second Affiliated Hospita, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Shandong Provincial Hospital of Integrated Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | | | - Zi-fa Li
- Laboratory of Behavioral Brain Analysis, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Peng Sun
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Jie-qiong Wang
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Qi-tao Zhao
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Jie Gao
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Ying-hui Guo
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Shi-guang Sun
- Laboratory of Behavioral Brain Analysis, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
| | - Ming-qi Qiao
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China (mainland)
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Kato TA, Hayakawa K, Monji A, Kanba S. Missing and Possible Link between Neuroendocrine Factors, Neuropsychiatric Disorders, and Microglia. Front Integr Neurosci 2013; 7:53. [PMID: 23874274 PMCID: PMC3711058 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2013.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine systems have long been suggested to be one of the important factors in neuropsychiatric disorders, while the underlying mechanisms have not been well understood. Traditionally, neuropsychiatric disorders have been mainly considered the consequence of abnormal conditions in neural circuitry. Beyond the neuronal doctrine, microglia, one of the glial cells with inflammatory/immunological functions in the central nervous system (CNS), have recently been suggested to play important roles in neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the crosstalk between neuroendocrine factors, neuropsychiatric disorders, and microglia has been unsolved. Therefore, we herein introduce and discuss a missing and possible link between these three factors; especially highlighting the following hormones; (1) Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis-related hormones such as corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and glucocorticoids, (2) sex-related hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, and (3) oxytocin. A growing body of evidence has suggested that these hormones have a direct effect on microglia. We hypothesize that hormone-induced microglial activation and the following microglia-derived mediators may lead to maladaptive neuronal networks including synaptic dysfunctions, causing neuropsychiatric disorders. Future investigations to clarify the correlation between neuroendocrine factors and microglia may contribute to a novel understanding of the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro A Kato
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan ; Innovation Center for Medical Redox Navigation, Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
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Fernandez JW, Grizzell JA, Wecker L. The role of estrogen receptor β and nicotinic cholinergic receptors in postpartum depression. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2013; 40:199-206. [PMID: 23063492 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Revised: 10/02/2012] [Accepted: 10/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a devastating disease occurring in approximately 20% of women. Women who suffer from PPD appear to be more sensitive to postpartum hormonal changes than women who do not experience this form of depression. Furthermore, women who quit smoking prior to or during pregnancy, and who develop PPD, are at an increased risk of smoking relapse. Unfortunately, the mechanistic relationship between the pathophysiology of PPD and smoking relapse is unknown. Here we review the roles of both estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and cholinergic nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) in the pathogenesis of depression and propose a mechanistic rationale to explain the high rate of smoking relapse exhibited by women who develop PPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Winderbaum Fernandez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3515 E. Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33611, USA.
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Molina-Hernández M, Téllez-Alcántara NP, Olivera-López JI, Jaramillo MT. Estrous cycle variation in anxiolytic-like effects of topiramate in Wistar rats in two animal models of anxiety-like behavior. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 103:631-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Revised: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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A rodent model of premenstrual dysphoria: progesterone withdrawal induces depression-like behavior that is differentially sensitive to classes of antidepressants. Behav Brain Res 2012; 234:238-47. [PMID: 22789402 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2012] [Revised: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 06/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is characterized by a range of physical and affective symptoms including anxiety, irritability, anhedonia, social withdrawal and depression. We demonstrate robust and reproducible depression-like behavior during progesterone withdrawal (PWD) protocols with different methodological variables. Comparable immobility in the forced swim test was evident with different routes of administration (i.e. injections vs. implants), with and without exogenous estrogens in addition to progesterone, and in both single and multiple withdrawal paradigms. Furthermore, withdrawal from physiological doses of progesterone resulted in modest social withdrawal in the social preference test and anhedonia in the saccharin preference test without altering general activity levels or total liquid consumption. However, progesterone withdrawal did not alter serotonin levels in the cortex or hippocampus. Furthermore tryptophan depletion did not augment immobility during PWD. Neither fluoxetine nor duloxetine reduced depression-like behavior during PWD in the forced swim test. In contrast, the tricyclic antidepressant, amitriptyline, was effective in reducing the immobility in forced swim test. These data demonstrate that progesterone withdrawal is a reproducible model of PMDD in several critical behavioral domains. Furthermore, these data do not support alterations in serotonin levels in the etiology of hormonally induced depression.
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Yen JY, Chang SJ, Long CY, Tang TC, Chen CC, Yen CF. Working memory deficit in premenstrual dysphoric disorder and its associations with difficulty in concentrating and irritability. Compr Psychiatry 2012; 53:540-5. [PMID: 21821238 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2011.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2011] [Revised: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 05/31/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluates working memory deficit among women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and whether such a deficit and its premenstrual aggravation is associated with difficulty in concentrating, irritability, and impaired daily function or not. METHOD Sixty women with PMDD (PMDD group) and 60 women without PMDD (control group) completed the assessment. Severity of irritability, difficulty concentrating, total symptoms, and functional impairment of PMDD were evaluated by the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool. All participants performed N2 and N3 back tasks to assess working memory in both luteal and follicular phases. RESULTS The PMDD group had significantly poorer performance on N2 and N3 back tasks than the control group did in the luteal phase but not in the follicular phase. Compared to the control group, the PMDD group also exhibited more deterioration in performance of N3 back task in the luteal phase. Performance of N2 and N3 back tasks in luteal phase was significantly associated with irritability, symptom severity, and functional impairment by PMDD. CONCLUSIONS Working memory deficit is aggravated in the luteal phase among women with PMDD. Appropriate interventions are needed to prevent negative consequences of working memory deficit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Yu Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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21
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Estrogen effects on the forced swim test differ in two outbred rat strains. Physiol Behav 2012; 106:81-6. [PMID: 22266677 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2012.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2011] [Revised: 01/02/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Changes in reproductive hormones, such as estrogen, play a role in mood regulation. The present study examined strain differences (Long-Evans vs. Wistar-Hannover) in the behavioral and biochemical effects of estrogen manipulation. Adult ovariectomized female rats were treated with estradiol, vehicle, or withdrawn from estradiol. The two strains demonstrated differential behavioral responses to short-term estradiol administration in the forced swim test; estradiol induced an antidepressant-like effect in Long-Evans rats but not in Wistar rats. Conversely, withdrawal from estradiol resulted in a depressive-like state in the Wistar rats but not in the Long-Evans rats. Western blot analyses found no differences in estrogen receptors α and β within the hippocampus or the frontal cortex, two brain areas strongly implicated in affective disorders. These data demonstrate the importance of strain as a variable when interpreting behavioral effects of estrogen.
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Bello SR, Batestusso RS, de Oliveira CGB, Fonseca FLA, de Almeida RG, Azzalis LA. The management of menopause with complementary and alternative medicine using an experimental model: ovariectomized rats. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2010; 36:219-23. [PMID: 20492369 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2009.01144.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The purpose of this research was to assess the effects of the flower essences She Oak and Bush Fuchsia on behavioral anxiety in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. METHODS For four weeks, OVX rats received the flower essences She Oak, Bush Fuchsia or a combination of the two. After flower therapy, the animals were subjected to an elevated plus maze (EPM) behavioral anxiety-test. Cortisol blood level was also evaluated. RESULTS OVX rats treated with the flower essence She Oak became less anxious and had more entries in the EPM open arms. On the other hand, OVX rats treated with the Bush Fuchsia essence spent more time in the EPM closed arms. This finding is similar to those obtained with controls. In addition, OVX rats that received She Oak and Bush Fuchsia in combination presented the same results as those receiving the Bush Fuchsia alone. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the flower essence She Oak could have an anxiolytic effect in OVX rats, but that the combination therapy of the She Oak and Bush Fuchsia could avoid the effects of the She Oak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suely R Bello
- Naturology Course, Anhembi Morumbi University, São Paulo, Brazil
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Hellemans KGC, Verma P, Yoon E, Yu WK, Young AH, Weinberg J. Prenatal alcohol exposure and chronic mild stress differentially alter depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in male and female offspring. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2010; 34:633-45. [PMID: 20102562 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2009.01132.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is associated with numerous neurobehavioral alterations, as well as disabilities in a number of domains, including a high incidence of depression and anxiety disorders. Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) also alters hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) function, resulting in increased responsiveness to stressors and HPA dysregulation in adulthood. Interestingly, data suggest that pre-existing HPA abnormalities may be a major contributory factor to some forms of depression, particularly when an individual is exposed to stressors later in life. We tested the hypothesis that exposure to stressors in adulthood may unmask an increased vulnerability to depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in PAE animals. METHODS Male and female offspring from prenatal alcohol (PAE), pair-fed (PF), and ad libitum-fed control (C) treatment groups were tested in adulthood. Animals were exposed to 10 consecutive days of chronic mild stress (CMS), and assessed in a battery of well-validated tasks sensitive to differences in depressive- and/or anxiety-like behaviors. RESULTS We report here that the combination of PAE and CMS in adulthood increases depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in a sexually dimorphic manner. PAE males showed impaired hedonic responsivity (sucrose contrast test), locomotor hyperactivity (open field), and alterations in affiliative and nonaffiliative social behaviors (social interaction test) compared to control males. By contrast, PAE and, to a lesser extent, PF, females showed greater levels of "behavioral despair" in the forced swim test, and PAE females showed altered behavior in the final 5 minutes of the social interaction test compared to control females. CONCLUSIONS These data support the possibility that stress may be a mediating or contributing factor in the psychopathologies reported in FASD populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim G C Hellemans
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Gao D, Zheng Z, Han M, Tang X, Sun X. Findings of P300-like and CNV-like potentials in rat model of depression following repeatedly forced swim stress. Int J Psychophysiol 2009; 72:160-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2008.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2008] [Revised: 11/26/2008] [Accepted: 12/02/2008] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Affect-related behaviors in mice misexpressing the RNA editing enzyme ADAR2. Physiol Behav 2009; 97:446-54. [PMID: 19361536 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2009.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2008] [Revised: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 03/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Misediting of the serotonin (5HT) 2C receptor (5HT(2C)R) has been implicated in both depression and anxiety. The adenosine deaminases that act on double stranded RNAs (ADARs) are reported to modify the 5HT(2C)R by RNA editing. Transgenic mice misexpressing the RNA editing enzyme ADAR2 show an adult onset obese phenotype due to chronic hyperphagia, but little more than this is known about the behavior of these animals. The present experiments examined whether affect-associated behaviors are also altered in ADAR2 transgenic mice. Age- and weight-matched transgenic mice misexpressing ADAR2 were tested for signs of behavioral despair with the forced swim (FST) and tail suspension (TST) tests, and for anxiety by evaluating spontaneous exploration in a novel environment and by elevated plus maze performance. Plasma corticosterone was also determined by radioimmunoassay. Transgenic mice of both sexes displayed indications of increased behavioral despair on first exposures to the TST and the FST. Behavioral despair persisted in ADAR2 mice in that it was also observed in the FST in tests administered 24 h and 1 week following the initial TST and FST. ADAR2 transgenic mice also displayed behaviors associated with anxiety as indicated by decreased entry into the open arms in an elevated plus maze test. Both sexes of ADAR2 transgenic mice displayed elevated plasma corticosterone. Taken together, the results suggest that ADAR2 transgenic mice represent a novel rodent model of endogenous behavioral despair and anxiety accompanied by elevated hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal axis activity.
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Solomon MB, Herman JP. Sex differences in psychopathology: of gonads, adrenals and mental illness. Physiol Behav 2009; 97:250-8. [PMID: 19275906 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2009.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2009] [Revised: 02/10/2009] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Stress-related disorders such as anxiety and depression are disproportionately prevalent in women. Women are more likely to experience depression and anxiety disorders during periods of marked hormonal fluctuations, suggesting that gonadal hormones are involved in stress pathology. Depression and anxiety are both associated with aberrant secretion of glucocorticoids, which also show marked fluctuations across the reproductive cycle and in response to gonadal steroids. Thus, interactions between gonadal and stress hormones may play a major role in predisposing females to stress-related disease. The purpose of this brief review is to highlight preclinical data regarding the role of estrogens in depression and anxiety-like behaviors. While it is evident the exogenous estrogens modulate affective behavior in rodents, there is some disagreement in the literature, perhaps related to experimental designs that vary with respect to administration parameters and stress. Beneficial effects of estrogens on mood are most likely due to estrogen receptor (ER)beta signaling. The antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of ERbeta are consistent with its role in attenuating glucocorticoid responses to stress, suggesting that estrogens, acting at ERbeta, may improve mood by suppressing glucocorticoid hyperactivity. However, additional studies demonstrate that ERbeta signaling in the hippocampus is sufficient to induce antidepressant and anxiolytic behaviors. Thus, ERbeta may improve mood via primary actions on hypothalamic (i.e., paraventricular nucleus) and/or extra-hypothalamic sites. Overall, the preclinical research suggests that selective ER modulators targeting ERbeta may be an attractive alternative or adjunct treatment to currently prescribed antidepressants or anxiolytics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matia B Solomon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati, Genome, Research Institute, Reading, OH 45237, USA.
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Reproductive cycle-dependent plasticity of perception of acoustic meaning in mice. Physiol Behav 2009; 96:428-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2008.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2008] [Revised: 11/06/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Schneider T, Popik P. An Animal Model of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Sensitive to Antidepressants. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; Chapter 9:Unit 9.31. [DOI: 10.1002/0471142301.ns0931s46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Schneider
- Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences Kraków Poland
| | - Piotr Popik
- Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences Kraków Poland
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Cunningham J, Yonkers KA, O'Brien S, Eriksson E. Update on research and treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2009; 17:120-37. [PMID: 19373620 PMCID: PMC3098121 DOI: 10.1080/10673220902891836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Many women in their reproductive years experience some mood, behavioral. or physical symptoms in the week prior to menses. Variability exists in the level of symptom burden in that some women experience mild symptoms, whereas a small minority experience severe and debilitating symptoms. For an estimated 5%-8% of premenopausal women, work or social functioning are affected by severe premenstrual syndrome. Many women in this group meet diagnostic criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Among women who suffer from PMDD, mood and behavioral symptoms such as irritability, depressed mood, tension, and labile mood dominate. Somatic complaints, including breast tenderness and bloating, also can prove disruptive to women's overall functioning and quality of life. Recent evidence suggests that individual sensitivity to cyclical variations in levels of gonadal hormones may predispose certain women to experience these mood, behavioral, and somatic symptoms. Treatments include: antidepressants of the serotonin reuptake inhibitor class, taken intermittently or throughout the menstrual cycle; medications that suppress ovarian cyclicity; and newer oral contraceptives with novel progestins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Cunningham
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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Schneider T, Popik P. Attenuation of estrous cycle-dependent marble burying in female rats by acute treatment with progesterone and antidepressants. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2007; 32:651-9. [PMID: 17561352 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2007.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2007] [Revised: 04/13/2007] [Accepted: 04/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is characterized by the recurrence of a cluster of physical and negative mood symptoms, especially irritability, appearing when estrogen and progesterone levels decrease during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The aim of the present study was to explore a new potential model of premenstrual irritability. It has been suggested that burying of harmless objects by rodents may reflect a form of impulsive or anxiety-like behavior. This study demonstrates changes in burying behavior during various phases of the estrous cycle in some but not all female rats. Burying behavior was found to be enhanced at metestrus and decreased at proestrus, characterized by low and high ovarian hormone levels, respectively. No habituation of the cycle-dependent burying was observed. Enhanced burying was not observed in reproductive senescent and ovariectomized females characterized by stable, low levels of ovarian hormones. Increased marble burying at metestrus was reversed by acute treatment with antidepressants fluoxetine, desipramine, nomifensine, the benzodiazepine agonist diazepam, and progesterone, while the neuroleptic chlorpromazine was without effect. Reversal of cycle-dependent burying was unrelated to the drugs' effects on locomotor activity. These results indicate that estrous cycle-dependent marble-burying behavior displayed by a subgroup of female rats might be a manifestation of ovarian hormone-dependent irritability. This manifestation may be used to elucidate the neuroendocrine mechanisms triggering premenstrual irritability, and the detailed mode of action of antidepressants when used for PMDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Schneider
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland.
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