1
|
Escelsior A, Sterlini B, Tardito S, Altosole T, Magioncalda P, Martino M, Serafini G, Murri MB, Aguglia A, Amerio A, da Silva BP, Trabucco A, Fenoglio D, Filaci G, Amore M. Evidence of alterations of Beta-endorphin levels and Mu-opioid receptor gene expression in bipolar disorder. Psychiatry Res 2022; 316:114787. [PMID: 35988328 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite the well-recognized effects of endogenous opioids on mood and behavior, research on its role in bipolar disorder (BD) is still limited to small or anecdotal reports. Considering that Beta-endorphins (β-END) and Mu-opioid receptors (MOR), in particular, have a crucial activity in affective modulation, we hypothesized their alteration in BD. A cross-sectional study was conducted. We compared: (1) BD type I (BD-I) patients (n = 50) vs healthy controls (n = 27), (2) two BD-I subject subgroups: manic (MAN; n = 25) vs depressed (DEP; n = 25) subjects. Plasma levels of β-END and MOR gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were analyzed using ELISA Immunoassay qRT-PCR. We found that subjects with BD exhibited a significant upregulation of MOR gene expression and a decrease of β-END (p<0.0001 for both). MAN display higher MOR levels than DEP (p<0.001) and HC (p<0.0001). Plasma levels of β-END were lower in DEP compared to MAN (p<0.05) and HC (p<0.0001). The main limitations are the cross-sectional design and the lack of a group of euthymic subjects. Although preliminary, our results suggest a dysregulation of the endogenous opioid systems in BD. In particular, both MAN and DEP showed a reduction of β-END levels, whereas MAN was associated with MOR gene overexpression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Escelsior
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Bruno Sterlini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Samuele Tardito
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Tiziana Altosole
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Magioncalda
- Graduate Institute of Mind Brain and Consciousness, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Brain and Consciousness Research Center, Taipei Medical University - Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Medical University - Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Matteo Martino
- Graduate Institute of Mind Brain and Consciousness, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Brain and Consciousness Research Center, Taipei Medical University - Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Gianluca Serafini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Martino Belveri Murri
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Aguglia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Amerio
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Beatriz Pereira da Silva
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alice Trabucco
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniela Fenoglio
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; Biotherapy Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Gilberto Filaci
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research and Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; Biotherapy Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Mario Amore
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Richards EM, Mathews DC, Luckenbaugh DA, Ionescu DF, Machado-Vieira R, Niciu MJ, Duncan WC, Nolan NM, Franco-Chaves JA, Hudzik T, Maciag C, Li S, Cross A, Smith MA, Zarate CA. A randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial of the delta opioid receptor agonist AZD2327 in anxious depression. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:1119-30. [PMID: 26728893 PMCID: PMC5103283 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-4195-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Patients with anxious major depressive disorder (AMDD) have more severe symptoms and poorer treatment response than patients with non-AMDD. Increasing evidence implicates the endogenous opioid system in the pathophysiology of depression. AZD2327 is a selective delta opioid receptor (DOR) agonist with anxiolytic and antidepressant activity in animal models. OBJECTIVE This double-blind, parallel group design, placebo-controlled pilot study evaluated the safety and efficacy of AZD2327 in a preclinical model and in patients with AMDD. METHODS We initially tested the effects of AZD2327 in an animal model of AMDD. Subsequently, 22 subjects with AMDD were randomized to receive AZD2327 (3 mg BID) or placebo for 4 weeks. Primary outcome measures included the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). We also evaluated neurobiological markers implicated in mood and anxiety disorders, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and electroencephalogram (EEG). RESULTS Seven (54 %) patients responded to active drug and three (33 %) responded to placebo. No significant main drug effect was found on either the HAM-D (p = 0.39) or the HAM-A (p = 0.15), but the HAM-A had a larger effect size. Levels of AZ12311418, a major metabolite of AZD2327, were higher in patients with an anti-anxiety response to treatment compared to nonresponders (p = 0.03). AZD2327 treatment decreased VEGF levels (p = 0.02). There was a trend (p < 0.06) for those with an anti-anxiety response to have higher EEG gamma power than nonresponders. CONCLUSION These results suggest that AZD2327 has larger potential anxiolytic than antidepressant efficacy. Additional research with DOR agonists should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica M Richards
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Daniel C Mathews
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- Lundbeck LLC, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David A Luckenbaugh
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Dawn F Ionescu
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rodrigo Machado-Vieira
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Mark J Niciu
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Wallace C Duncan
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Neal M Nolan
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Jose A Franco-Chaves
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- Veteran Affairs Caribbean Healthcare System, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Thomas Hudzik
- AstraZeneca Neuroscience Innovative Medicines, Cambridge, MA, USA
- AbbVie, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carla Maciag
- AstraZeneca Neuroscience Innovative Medicines, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Sage Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Shuang Li
- AstraZeneca Neuroscience Innovative Medicines, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alan Cross
- AstraZeneca Neuroscience Innovative Medicines, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mark A Smith
- AstraZeneca Neuroscience Innovative Medicines, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive CRC, Room 7-5545, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Roncon CM, Almada RC, Maraschin JC, Audi EA, Zangrossi H, Graeff FG, Coimbra NC. Pharmacological evidence for the mediation of the panicolytic effect of fluoxetine by dorsal periaqueductal gray matter μ-opioid receptors. Neuropharmacology 2015; 99:620-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
4
|
de Oliveira WM, de Sá IR, de Torres SM, de Morais RN, Andrade AM, Maia FCL, Tenorio BM, da Silva Junior VA. Perinatal exposure to fluoxetine via placenta and lactation inhibits the testicular development in male rat offspring. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2013; 59:244-50. [PMID: 23651434 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2013.796021] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Due to the widespread use of fluoxetine to treat depression, including pregnant and nursing women, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of in utero and lactational exposure to fluoxetine in rat offspring at post natal day 22. Wistar rat dams were orally treated with fluoxetine (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) from day 13 gestation to day 21 lactation. Exposure to 10 and 20 mg/kg fluoxetine reduced the body and testis weights. The volume of the seminiferous tubules and epithelium were also reduced following 20 mg/kg fluoxetine exposure. The length of the seminiferous tubules and the population of Sertoli cells changed in offspring exposed to fluoxetine. The amount of seminiferous tubules lacking tubular lumen was higher in rats exposed to 20 mg/kg fluoxetine. Plasma testosterone showed no significant change. In conclusion, fluoxetine exposure via the placenta and lactation may inhibit and delay testicular development, adversely affecting several testicular parameters important for the establishment of sperm production in adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Waldo Monteiro de Oliveira
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology , Federal Rural University of Pernambuco , Recife, Pernambuco , Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lauterbach EC. An extension of hypotheses regarding rapid-acting, treatment-refractory, and conventional antidepressant activity of dextromethorphan and dextrorphan. Med Hypotheses 2012; 78:693-702. [PMID: 22401777 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2012.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
It was previously hypothesized that dextromethorphan (DM) and dextrorphan (DX) may possess antidepressant properties, including rapid and conventional onsets of action and utility in treatment-refractory depression, based on pharmacodynamic similarities to ketamine. These similarities included sigma-1 (σ(1)) agonist and NMDA antagonist properties, calcium channel blockade, muscarinic binding, serotonin transporter (5HTT) inhibition, and μ receptor potentiation. Here, six specific hypotheses are developed in light of additional mechanisms and evidence. Comparable potencies to ketamine for DM and DX are detailed for σ(1) (DX>DM>ketamine), NMDA PCP site (DX>ketamine>DM), and muscarinic (DX>ketamine>>>>DM) receptors, 5HTT (DM>DX≫ketamine), and NMDA antagonist potentiation of μ receptor stimulation (DM>ketamine). Rapid acting antidepressant properties of DM include NMDA high-affinity site, NMDR-2A, and functional NMDR-2B receptor antagonism, σ(1) stimulation, putative mTOR activation (by σ(1) stimulation, μ potentiation, and 5HTT inhibition), putative AMPA receptor trafficking (by mTOR activation, PCP antagonism, σ(1) stimulation, μ potentiation, and 5HTT inhibition), and dendritogenesis, spinogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neuronal survival by NMDA antagonism and σ(1) and mTOR signaling. Those for dextrorphan include NMDA high-affinity site and NMDR-2A antagonism, σ(1) stimulation, putative mTOR activation (by σ(1) stimulation and ß adrenoreceptor stimulation), putative AMPA receptor trafficking (by mTOR activation, PCP antagonism, σ(1) stimulation, ß stimulation, and μ antagonism), and dendritogenesis, spinogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neuronal survival by NMDA antagonism and σ(1) and mTOR signaling. Conventional antidepressant properties for dextromethorphan and dextrorphan include 5HTT and norepinephrine transporter inhibition, σ(1) stimulation, NMDA and PCP antagonism, and possible serotonin 5HT1b/d receptor stimulation. Additional properties for dextromethorphan include possible presynaptic α(2) adrenoreceptor antagonism or postsynaptic α(2) stimulation and, for dextrorphan, ß stimulation and possible muscarinic and μ antagonism. Treatment-refractory depression properties include increased serotonin and norepinephrine availability, PCP, NMDR-2B, presynaptic alpha-2 antagonism, and the multiplicity of other antidepressant receptor mechanisms. Suggestions for clinical trials are provided for oral high-dose dextromethorphan and Nuedexta (dextromethorphan combined with quinidine to block metabolism to dextrorphan, thereby increasing dextromethorphan plasma concentrations). Suggestions include exclusionary criteria, oral dosing, observation periods, dose-response approaches, and safety and tolerability are considered. Although oral dextromethorphan may be somewhat more likely to show efficacy through complementary antidepressant mechanisms of dextrorphan, a clinical trial will be more logistically complex than one of Nuedexta due to high doses and plasma level variability. Clinical trials may increase our therapeutic armamentarium and our pharmacological understanding of treatment-refractory depression and antidepressant onset of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward C Lauterbach
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, 1550 College Street, Macon, GA 31201, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Receptor targets for antidepressant therapy in bipolar disorder: an overview. J Affect Disord 2012; 138:222-38. [PMID: 21601292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2011.04.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of bipolar depression is one of the most challenging issues in contemporary psychiatry. Currently only quetiapine and the olanzapine-fluoxetine combination are officially approved by the FDA against this condition. The neurobiology of bipolar depression and the possible targets of bipolar antidepressant therapy remain relatively elusive. We performed a complete and systematic review to identify agents with definite positive or negative results concerning efficacy followed by a second systematic review to identify the pharmacodynamic properties of these agents. The comparison of properties suggests that the stronger predictors for antidepressant efficacy in bipolar depression were norepinephrine alpha-1, dopamine D1 and histamine antagonism, followed by 5-HT2A, muscarinic and dopamine D2 and D3 antagonism and eventually by norepinephrine reuptake inhibition and 5HT-1A agonism. Serotonin reuptake which constitutes the cornerstone in unipolar depression treatment does not seem to play a significant role for bipolar depression. Our exhaustive review is compatible with a complex model with multiple levels of interaction between the major neurotransmitter systems without a single target being either necessary or sufficient to elicit the antidepressant effect in bipolar depression.
Collapse
|
7
|
Churruca I, Portillo MP, Zumalabe JM, Macarulla MT, Sáenz Del Burgo L, Zarate J, Echevarría E. FLUOXETINE ALTERS MU OPIOID RECEPTOR EXPRESSION IN OBESE ZUCKER RAT EXTRAHYPOTHALAMIC REGIONS. Int J Neurosci 2009; 116:289-98. [PMID: 16484055 DOI: 10.1080/00207450500403231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this article was to describe the effects of chronic fluoxetine on mu opioid receptor expression in obese Zucker rat extrahypothalamic regions. Male obese Zucker (fa/fa) rats were administered with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg; i.p.) daily for two weeks. Brain regional immunostaining for mu opioid receptor was carried out. An increase in the numbers of neural cells immunostained for mu opioid receptor in caudatus-putamen, dentate gyrus, lateral septum, amygdala, and frontal, parietal, and piriform cortices was observed. Increased mu opioid receptor expression in the central amygdaloid nuclei suggests a decreased opioidergic tone at this level that could be involved in fluoxetine anorectic action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Itziar Churruca
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy University of the Basque Country, Vitoria, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li ZH, Chu N, Shan LD, Gong S, Yin QZ, Jiang XH. Inducible expression of functional mu opioid receptors in murine dendritic cells. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2009; 4:359-67. [PMID: 19189219 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-009-9145-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2008] [Accepted: 01/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Opioids are known to exert direct effects on the immune system, and the expression of functional opioid receptors has been reported on several immune cell types. Dendritic cells (DCs) are important inducers and regulators of immune responses. In this study, we investigated whether murine dendritic cells express functional mu opioid receptors (MOR). RT-PCR analysis and double immunofluorescence staining revealed the expression of MOR in activated murine dendritic cells. We also studied the dynamic expression of MOR messenger RNA in murine dendritic cells in response to different Toll-like receptor ligands. Functionally, treatment of DCs with endomorphin 1 (EM1), a specific agonist of MOR, can inhibit the forskolin-induced formation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate level in activated DCs. Moreover, EM1 treatment resulted in less activation of p38 MAPK and more activation of ERK signaling in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated DCs. Consistently, treatment of DCs with EM1 altered cytokine production by increasing IL-10 and decreasing IL-12 and IL-23. Our results suggest that MOR is inducibly expressed on activated DCs and functionally mediates EM1-induced effects on DCs. Thus, dendritic cells might be involved in crosstalk between the neuroendocrine and the immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Hong Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lopez-Gimenez JF, Vilaró MT, Milligan G. Morphine desensitization, internalization, and down-regulation of the mu opioid receptor is facilitated by serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine2A receptor coactivation. Mol Pharmacol 2008; 74:1278-91. [PMID: 18703670 DOI: 10.1124/mol.108.048272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Analysis of the distribution of mRNA encoding the serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT(2A) receptor and the mu opioid peptide receptor in rat brain demonstrated their coexpression in neurons in several distinct regions. These regions included the periaqueductal gray, an area that plays an important role in morphine-induced analgesia but also in the development of tolerance to morphine. To explore potential cross-regulation between these G protein-coupled receptors, the human mu opioid peptide receptor was expressed stably and constitutively in Flp-In T-REx human embryonic kidney 293 cells that harbored the human 5-HT(2A) receptor at the inducible Flp-In locus. In the absence of the 5-HT(2A) receptor, pretreatment with the enkephalin agonist [D-Ala(2),N-Me-Phe(4),Gly(5)-ol]-enkephalin but not with the alkaloid agonist morphine produced desensitization, internalization, and down-regulation of the mu opioid peptide receptor. Induction of 5-HT(2A) receptor expression in these cells resulted in up-regulation of mu opioid peptide receptor levels that was blocked by both a 5-HT(2A) receptor inverse agonist and selective inhibition of signaling via Galpha(q)/Galpha(11) G proteins. After induction of the 5-HT(2A) receptor, coaddition of 5-HT with morphine now also resulted in desensitization, receptor internalization, and down-regulation of the mu opioid peptide receptor. It has been argued that enhancement of mu opioid peptide receptor internalization in response to morphine would limit the development of tolerance without limiting analgesia. These data suggest that selective activation of the 5-HT(2A) receptor in concert with treatment with morphine might achieve this aim.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Lopez-Gimenez
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Neuroscience and Molecular Pharmacology, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zarate J, Churruca I, Echevarría E, Casis L, López de Jesús M, Saenz del Burgo L, Sallés J. Immunohistochemical localization of CB1 cannabinoid receptors in frontal cortex and related limbic areas in obese Zucker rats: effects of chronic fluoxetine treatment. Brain Res 2008; 1236:57-72. [PMID: 18722357 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.07.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2008] [Revised: 07/17/2008] [Accepted: 07/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we report on the application of two specific polyclonal antibodies to different intracellular domains of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor to define the expression of the neural CB1 cannabinoid receptor at the histochemical level in frontal cortex and related limbic areas of the obese Zucker rats. Higher levels of CB1 receptor expression in frontal, cingulated and piriform cortex, without differences in temporal, parietal and occipital cortex, were observed in obese Zucker rats, with respect to their lean littermates. CB1 phosphorylated receptor (CB1-P) levels were also higher in frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital cortex in obese rats with respect to lean controls. Potential involvement of brain cortical CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the long-term effects of fluoxetine was studied. Experimental animals were administered with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) daily for 3 weeks, whereas the control group was given 0.9% NaCl solution. In obese Zucker rats, a significant decrease in CB1 receptor levels, measured by western blot, was observed in brain cortex after fluoxetine treatment. Immunostaining for CB1 receptor expression was also carried out, showing a significant decrease in the density of neural cells positive for CB1 receptor in frontal, cingulate and piriform cortex, without changes in parietal, temporal and occipital regions. Regional prosencephalic immunostaining for CB1-P receptor level showed a significant decrease in the density of stained neural cells in frontal, temporal and parietal cortex, without changes in cingulated, piriform and occipital cortex. These results suggest the involvement of endocannabinoid system in the chronic effects of fluoxetine, especially in the frontal cortex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Zarate
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Effects of chronic treatment with citalopram on cannabinoid and opioid receptor-mediated G-protein coupling in discrete rat brain regions. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2008; 198:29-36. [PMID: 18084745 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-1033-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2007] [Accepted: 11/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE There is growing interest in investigating the mechanisms of action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), beyond their association with the serotonergic system, due to their wide therapeutic potential for disorders including depression, pain and addiction. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate whether chronic treatment with the SSRI, citalopram, alters the functional coupling of G(i/o)-associated cannabinoid type 1 (CB(1)) and mu-opioid receptors in selected areas of rat brain implicated in psychiatric disorders and pain. METHODS Using an autoradiographic approach, the effects of the cannabinoid receptor agonist, HU210 (in the presence or absence of the CB(1) receptor antagonist AM251), or the mu-opioid receptor agonist, [D: -Ala(2),N-Me-Phe4,Gly(5)-ol]-enkephalin (DAMGO; in the presence or absence of the mu-opioid receptor antagonist D: -Phe-Cys-Tyr-D: -Trp-Orn-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH(2)), on [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding in discrete brain regions of citalopram-treated (10 mg kg(-1) day(-1) for 14 days by subcutaneous minipump) and control rats were investigated. RESULTS The HU210-induced increase in [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding observed in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus of control rats was abolished after chronic treatment with citalopram. Reduced response to HU210 in rats receiving chronic treatment with citalopram was also observed in the hippocampus and medial geniculate nucleus. Citalopram had no significant effect on DAMGO-induced [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding in the brain regions investigated, with the exception of the medial geniculate nucleus where a modest impairment was observed. CONCLUSIONS These data provide evidence for reduced cannabinoid receptor-mediated G-protein coupling in the hypothalamus, hippocampus and medial geniculate nucleus of rats chronically treated with citalopram, effects which may, in part, underlie the mechanism of action of SSRIs.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ortega-Alvaro A, Acebes I, Saracíbar G, Echevarría E, Casis L, Micó JA. Effect of the antidepressant nefazodone on the density of cells expressing mu-opioid receptors in discrete brain areas processing sensory and affective dimensions of pain. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2004; 176:305-11. [PMID: 15138764 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-004-1894-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2003] [Accepted: 03/23/2004] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The principal use of antidepressants is in the treatment of depression and affective disorders. Antidepressants have also been used as an adjuvant to analgesics in pain treatment. However, in chronic treatment, their antinociceptive and antidepressive effects coexist simultaneously. Antidepressants can interact with the opioid system, which is also involved in regulating nociceptive processing and affective state. Chronic antidepressants could act by increasing mu-opioid receptor expression in many brain areas involved in the regulation of nociception and affective state. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive and antidepressant-like effects and the possible variations in mu-opioid receptor expression induced by a chronic nefazodone treatment in brain areas related to pain and affective state. METHODS Wistar rats were chronically treated with nefazodone (10 and 25 mg/kg IP, twice a day, for 14 days). Twelve hours after the last day 14 dose of nefazodone, a tail-flick test was performed. After the administration of a daily dose of nefazodone, Porsolt's test was carried out 12 h after last dose. Two hours after completion of 14 days treatment, other animals were processed for mu-opioid receptor immunocytochemistry using polyclonal antisera raised in rabbits. Several brain regions were analyzed: the frontal and cingulate cortex, the dorsal raphe nucleus and the periaqueductal gray. RESULTS Chronic nefazodone treatment induced a significant increase in tail-flick latency and a significant decrease in immobility time at total doses of 20 and 50 mg/kg per day ( P<0.05). In treated animals, the density of neural cells immunostained for mu-opioid receptor in the frontal and cingulate cortices, dorsal raphe nucleus and periaqueductal gray had increased after chronic nefazodone compared to controls. CONCLUSION Therefore, chronic nefazodone induces antinociceptive and antidepressant-like effects in rats and increases mu-opioid receptor expression in brain areas related to pain and affective state. These results suggest that antidepressants could be effective on somatic and affective dimensions of pain and this action could be related to its influence on the opioid system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ortega-Alvaro
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience Research Group (CTS-510), Department of Neuroscience (Pharmacology and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, Plaza Fragela 9, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Slattery DA, Hudson AL, Nutt DJ. Invited review: the evolution of antidepressant mechanisms. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2004; 18:1-21. [PMID: 14748749 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2004.00195.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Present antidepressants are all descendents of the serendipitous findings in the 1950s that the monoamine oxidase inhibitor iproniazid and the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine were effective antidepressants. The identification of their mechanism of action, and those of reserpine and amphetamine, in the 1960s, led to the monoamine theories of depression being postulated; first, with noradrenaline then 5-hydroxytryptamine being considered the more important amine. These monoamine theories of depression predominated both industrial and academic research for four decades. Recently, in attempts to design new drugs with faster onsets of action and more universal therapeutic action, downstream alterations common to current antidepressants are being examined as potential antidepressants. Additionally, the use of animal models has identified a number of novel targets some of which have been subjected to clinical trials in humans. However, monoamine antidepressants remain the best current medications and it may be some time before they are dislodged as the market leaders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D A Slattery
- Psychopharmacology Unit, School of Medical Sciences, University Walk, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gutiérrez M, Ortega-Alvaro A, Gibert-Rahola J, Micó JA. Interactions of acute morphine with chronic imipramine and fluvoxamine treatment on the antinociceptive effect in arthritic rats. Neurosci Lett 2003; 352:37-40. [PMID: 14615044 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2003.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to investigate the effects induced by chronic systemic administration of two different antidepressants: imipramine (IMI), a dual serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, and fluvoxamine (FVX), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, on the antinociceptive effect of morphine (MOR) in a paw pressure test in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats. For 30 days rats were administered with IMI, FVX or saline (SAL). On days 15 and 30, animals were tested in the paw pressure test 20 min after MOR or SAL administration. MOR induced a significant antinociceptive effect in IMI, FVX and SAL treated rats. But, at 30 days, this increase in pain threshold was significatively higher in IMI than SAL rats. This increase was not seen in FVX rats. These results suggest that a combination of opioid and mixed monoaminergic activities is effective in enhancing the antinociceptive effect of MOR in arthritic rats while only opioid and serotonergic activities have no enhancer effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Gutiérrez
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience Research Group (PAI CTS-510), Department of Neuroscience (Pharmacology and Psychiatry), University of Cadiz, Plaza Fragela 9, 11003 Cadiz, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Singh VP, Patil CS, Jain NK, Singh A, Kulkarni SK. Paradoxical Effects of Opioid Antagonist Naloxone on SSRI-Induced Analgesia and Tolerance in Mice. Pharmacology 2003; 69:115-22. [PMID: 14512696 DOI: 10.1159/000072662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2003] [Accepted: 04/08/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been used clinically as co-analgesics in various devastating painful conditions. Upon chronic treatment tolerance develops to their analgesic effect, which is often refractory to increasing dose. Although modulation of serotonergic pathways considerably explains their clinical efficacy, numerous reports nevertheless indicate the direct/indirect role of the opioidergic pathway in SSRI-induced analgesia. The present study was designed to investigate the effect, if any, of the opioid antagonist naloxone on SSRIs-induced analgesia and tolerance employing acetic acid-induced writhing assay. Two SSRIs, fluoxetine (FLX), and citalopram (CTP) were used in the study. Acute systemic (5-40 mg kg(-1) i.p.), or intrathecal (5-40 microg per mouse, i.t.) administration of fluoxetine or citalopram exhibited a dose-dependent and significant (p < 0.05) antinociceptive effect. Single systemic (2-5 mg kg(-1) i.p.) or intrathecal (1 microg per mouse, i.t.) administration of opioid antagonist naloxone blocked where as systemic ultra-low dose (10 ng/kg) or intrathecal (0.05 ng) naloxone potentiated the acute antinociceptive effect of both SSRIs (10 mg kg(-1) i.p. and 10 microg i.t.). Animals treated chronically over a 7-day period with SSRIs developed tolerance to their antinociceptive effect. Further, chronic administration of ultra-low dose of naloxone intrathecal (0.05 ng per mouse, i.t.) or systemic (10 ng kg(-1) i.p.) with fluoxetine or citalopram (10 microg i.t.; 5 mg kg(-1) i.p.) over a 7-day period reversed the tolerance to the antinociceptive effect of SSRIs. Thus, in ultra-low doses, naloxone paradoxically enhances SSRIs-induced analgesia and reverse tolerance through spinal and peripheral action. These effects of opioid antagonist naloxone on SSRIs-induced antinociception may have an implication in refractory cases upon chronic use of SSRIs as co-analgesics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Pal Singh
- Research and Development Division, Panacea Biotec Ltd., Punjab, India
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vilpoux C, Carpentier C, Leroux-Nicollet I, Naudon L, Costentin J. Differential effects of chronic antidepressant treatments on micro- and delta-opioid receptors in rat brain. Eur J Pharmacol 2002; 443:85-93. [PMID: 12044796 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(02)01585-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We performed an autoradiographic study of [D-Ala(2),MePhe(4),Gly-ol(5)]enkephalin (DAMGO)-sensitive [(3)H]naloxone binding to micro-opioid receptors and of [(3)H][D-Pen(2),D-Pen(5)]enkephalin (DPDPE) binding to delta-opioid receptors in the rat brain after 4- or 21-day treatments with paroxetine, reboxetine and moclobemide to investigate the participation of these receptors in the adaptive mechanisms occurring during the delay of action of new generation antidepressants. Paroxetine increased micro-opioid receptor binding site density in cingulate and insular cortices, dorsal endopiriform nucleus (4 days) and olfactory tubercle (21 days) and decreased it in thalamus (21 days). Reboxetine increased it in amygdala (4 days), hippocampus and thalamus (21 days) and decreased it in dorsal raphe (4 days). Moclobemide increased it in hippocampus (4 days) and decreased it in anterior olfactory nucleus, frontal cortex, amygdala and hypothalamus (21 days). Moclobemide increased delta-opioid receptor binding site density in frontal cortex and amygdala (4 days) and decreased it in amygdala and colliculi (21 days). Opioid receptors displayed distinct patterns of adaptations in response to the three antidepressants studied.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antidepressive Agents/administration & dosage
- Antidepressive Agents/pharmacology
- Autoradiography
- Binding Sites
- Brain/anatomy & histology
- Brain/metabolism
- Enkephalin, Ala(2)-MePhe(4)-Gly(5)-/pharmacology
- Enkephalin, D-Penicillamine (2,5)-/pharmacology
- Injections, Intraperitoneal
- Male
- Moclobemide/administration & dosage
- Moclobemide/pharmacology
- Morpholines/administration & dosage
- Morpholines/pharmacology
- Paroxetine/administration & dosage
- Paroxetine/pharmacology
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Reboxetine
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Time Factors
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Vilpoux
- Unité de Neuropsychopharmacologie Expérimentale, CNRS UPRESA 6036, IFRMP No. 23, UFR de Médecine-Pharmacie, 22 Bd. Gambetta, 76 183 Rouen, Cedex, France
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
This paper is the twenty-second installment of the annual review of research concerning the opiate system. It summarizes papers published during 1999 that studied the behavioral effects of the opiate peptides and antagonists, excluding the purely analgesic effects, although stress-induced analgesia is included. The specific topics covered this year include stress; tolerance and dependence; learning, memory, and reward; eating and drinking; alcohol and other drugs of abuse; sexual activity, pregnancy, and development; mental illness and mood; seizures and other neurologic disorders; electrical-related activity; general activity and locomotion; gastrointestinal, renal, and hepatic function; cardiovascular responses; respiration and thermoregulation; and immunologic responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A L Vaccarino
- Department of Psychology, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70148, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
de Gandarias JM, Acebes I, Echevarría E, Vegas L, Abecia LC, Casis L. Lithium alters mu-opioid receptor expression in the rat brain. Neurosci Lett 2000; 279:9-12. [PMID: 10670775 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(99)00944-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Lithium can potentiate the effects of antidepressant drugs and alters morphine analgesia and phosphoinositide turnover. Analysis of mu-opioid receptor immunostaining after chronic lithium administration in rats revealed an increase in the density of cells expressing mu-opioid receptors in the caudatus-putamen, the dentate gyrus, the lateral septum and the frontal, parietal and piriform cortices. These data suggest that mu-opioid receptor expression in the rat forebrain is altered by in vivo chronic lithium treatment. This could be a compensatory mechanism, induced in part by the effects of lithium on mu-opioid receptor transduction mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J M de Gandarias
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of the Basque Country, Bilbao, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Modulating monoamine activity as a therapeutic strategy continues to dominate antidepressant research, with a recent emphasis on agents with multiple targets, including combined serotonin/noradrenaline re-uptake inhibitors and numerous serotonin receptor ligands. An important new development has been the emergence of potential novel mechanisms of action, notably modulation of the activity of neuropeptides substance P and corticotrophin-releasing factor, and the intracellular messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate. Efforts in this area have recently been rewarded by the demonstration of antidepressant efficacy of the substance P receptor antagonist MK-0869.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K A Maubach
- Merck Sharp & Dohme Neuroscience Research Centre, Terlings Park, Eastwick Road, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2QR, UK.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|