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Mbiydzenyuy NE, Joanna Hemmings SM, Shabangu TW, Qulu-Appiah L. Exploring the influence of stress on aggressive behavior and sexual function: Role of neuromodulator pathways and epigenetics. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27501. [PMID: 38486749 PMCID: PMC10937706 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can significantly influence both aggressive behavior and sexual function. This review explores the intricate relationship between stress, neuromodulator pathways, and epigenetics, shedding light on the various mechanisms that underlie these connections. While the role of stress in both aggression and sexual behavior is well-documented, the mechanisms through which it exerts its effects are multifarious and not yet fully understood. The review begins by delving into the potential influence of stress on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, glucocorticoids, and the neuromodulators involved in the stress response. The intricate interplay between these systems, which encompasses the regulation of stress hormones, is central to understanding how stress may contribute to aggressive behavior and sexual function. Several neuromodulator pathways are implicated in both stress and behavior regulation. We explore the roles of norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, and androgens in mediating the effects of stress on aggression and sexual function. It is important to distinguish between general sexual behavior, sexual motivation, and the distinct category of "sexual aggression" as separate constructs, each necessitating specific examination. Additionally, epigenetic mechanisms emerge as crucial factors that link stress to changes in gene expression patterns and, subsequently, to behavior. We then discuss how epigenetic modifications can occur in response to stress exposure, altering the regulation of genes associated with stress, aggression, and sexual function. While numerous studies support the association between epigenetic changes and stress-induced behavior, more research is necessary to establish definitive links. Throughout this exploration, it becomes increasingly clear that the relationship between stress, neuromodulator pathways, and epigenetics is intricate and multifaceted. The review emphasizes the need for further research, particularly in the context of human studies, to provide clinical significance and to validate the existing findings from animal models. By better understanding how stress influences aggressive behavior and sexual function through neuromodulator pathways and epigenetic modifications, this research aims to contribute to the development of innovative protocols of precision medicine and more effective strategies for managing the consequences of stress on human behavior. This may also pave way for further research into risk factors and underlying mechanisms that may associate stress with sexual aggression which finds application not only in neuroscience, but also law, ethics, and the humanities in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngala Elvis Mbiydzenyuy
- Basic Science Department, School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, P.O Box 71191, Ndola, Zambia
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Sian Megan Joanna Hemmings
- Division of Molecular Biology & Human Genetics, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Thando W. Shabangu
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Lihle Qulu-Appiah
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
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Sgro M, Ray J, Foster E, Mychasiuk R. Making migraine easier to stomach: the role of the gut-brain-immune axis in headache disorders. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:3605-3621. [PMID: 37329292 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15934] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Headache disorders place a significant burden on the healthcare system, being the leading cause of disability in those under 50 years. Novel studies have interrogated the relationship between headache disorders and gastrointestinal dysfunction, suggesting a link between the gut-brain-immune (GBI) axis and headache pathogenesis. Although the exact mechanisms driving the complex relationship between the GBI axis and headache disorders remain unclear, there is a growing appreciation that a healthy and diverse microbiome is necessary for optimal brain health. METHODS A literature search was performed through multiple reputable databases in search of Q1 journals within the field of headache disorders and gut microbiome research and were critically and appropriately evaluated to investigate and explore the following; the role of the GBI axis in dietary triggers of headache disorders and the evidence indicating that diet can be used to alleviate headache severity and frequency. The relationship between the GBI axis and post-traumatic headache is then synthesized. Finally, the scarcity of literature regarding paediatric headache disorders and the role that the GBI axis plays in mediating the relationship between sex hormones and headache disorders are highlighted. CONCLUSIONS There is potential for novel therapeutic targets for headache disorders if understanding of the GBI axis in their aetiology, pathogenesis and recovery is increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Sgro
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason Ray
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Foster
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richelle Mychasiuk
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Martinez CI, Liktor-Busa E, Largent-Milnes TM. Molecular mechanisms of hormones implicated in migraine and the translational implication for transgender patients. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1117842. [PMID: 37795389 PMCID: PMC10546064 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1117842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a primary headache disorder recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the most poorly understood and debilitating neurological conditions impacting global disability. Chronic pain disorders are more frequently diagnosed among cisgender women than men, suggesting that female sex hormones could be responsible for mediating chronic pain, including migraine and/or that androgens can be protective. This review discusses the major gonadal hormones, estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone in the context of molecular mechanisms by which they play a role in migraine pathophysiology. In addition, the literature to date describing roles of minor sex hormones including prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicular stimulating hormone, and gonadotropin releasing hormone in migraine are presented. Because transgender and gender non-conforming (trans*) individuals are an underserved patient population in which gender-affirming sex hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often medically necessary to align biological sex with gender identity, results from cisgender patient populations are discussed in the context of these major and minor sex hormones on migraine incidence and management in trans* patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tally M. Largent-Milnes
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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Indirli R, Lanzi V, Arosio M, Mantovani G, Ferrante E. The association of hypogonadism with depression and its treatments. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1198437. [PMID: 37635965 PMCID: PMC10449581 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1198437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
According to World Health Organization estimates, 5% of the adult population worldwide suffers from depression. In addition to the affective, psychomotor and cognitive symptoms which characterize this mood disorder, sexual dysfunction has been frequently reported among men suffering from depression. The most common sexual manifestations are decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and orgasmic disorder. In addition, epidemiological studies have documented a reduction of testosterone concentrations in men with depression and, for these reasons, depressive disorders appear as one possible cause of male functional hypogonadism. Moreover, some largely used antidepressant medications can cause or worsen sexual complaints, thus depression and its treatments rise several andrological-relevant issues. The other way round, men with hypogonadism can manifest depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, memory impairment which, if mild, may respond to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, the prevalence of functional hypogonadism in depression, and of depressive symptoms in hypogonadal men, is not known. Severe depressive symptoms do not respond to TRT, while the effect of treating major depression on functional hypogonadism, has not been investigated. Overall, the clinical relevance of each condition to the other, as well as the physiopathological underpinnings of their relationship, are still to be clarified. The present review summarizes current evidence on the influence of testosterone on mood and of depression on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis; the clinical association between male hypogonadism and depression; and the reciprocal effects of respective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Indirli
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Lanzi
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maura Arosio
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanna Mantovani
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Ferrante
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Fox LC, Scholl JL, Watt MJ, Forster GL. GABA A Receptor and Serotonin Transporter Expression Changes Dissociate Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Influence of Sex and Estrus Cycle Phase in Rats. Neuroscience 2023; 514:38-55. [PMID: 36736883 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injuries (mild TBIs) can affect both males and females, but females are more likely to report long-term psychological complications, including changes in mood and generalized anxiety. Additionally, reproductive cycle phase has been shown to affect mild TBI symptom expression within females. These variances may result from sex differences in mild TBI-induced alterations to neurotransmission in brain regions that influence mood and emotion, possibly mediated by sex steroids. The hippocampus and amygdala are implicated in stress responses and anxiety, and within these regions, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin modulate output and behavioral expression. Metabolites of progesterone can allosterically enhance GABAergic signaling, and sex steroids are suggested to regulate the expression of the serotonin transporter (SERT). To determine how mild TBI might alter GABA receptor and SERT expression in males and females, immunocytochemistry was used to quantify expression of the alpha-1 subunit of the GABAA receptor (α1-GABAA), SERT, and a neuronal marker (NeuN) in the brains of adult male and naturally-cycling female rats, both with and without mild TBI, 17 days after injury. Mild TBI altered the expression of α1-GABAA in the amygdala and hippocampus in both sexes, but the direction of change observed depended on sex and reproductive cycle phase. In contrast, mild TBI had little effect on SERT expression. However, SERT expression differed between sexes and varied with the cycle phase. These findings demonstrate that regulation of neurotransmission following mild TBI differs between males and females, with implications for behavioral outcomes and the efficacy of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Fox
- Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, 414 East Clark St, Vermillion, SD, USA.
| | - Jamie L Scholl
- Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, 414 East Clark St, Vermillion, SD, USA.
| | - Michael J Watt
- Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Gina L Forster
- Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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Alwhaibi A, Alsanea S, Almadi B, Al-Sabhan J, Alosaimi FD. Androgen deprivation therapy and depression in the prostate cancer patients: review of risk and pharmacological management. Aging Male 2022; 25:101-124. [PMID: 35343371 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2022.2053954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the effectiveness of androgen deprivation therapy in advanced prostate cancer, serious neuropsychiatric consequences in androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)-treated patients, mainly depression, have been concerning and gained more attention recently. This narrative review aims to shed light on the risk and pharmacological management of ADT-induced depression in PCa patients.Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases using MESH keywords "Prostate cancer OR prostate neoplasm" AND "Depression" AND "Androgen Deprivation Therapy" AND "antidepressants". Search was limited to English and studies conducted on humans. Studies' titles and abstracts were screened, and further information were obtained from the text, if necessary, to decide whether studies are to be included in this review.Results: Our review revealed 23 studies confirming the occurrence and worsening of depressive symptoms in ADT-treated patients, which frequently require pharmacological interventions; whereas 10 studies indicated otherwise. All studies were prospective, retrospective, cross-sectional or case reports. Based on the incidence of depression provided by the observational studies, the average among ADT-treated patients was 18.23% (range: 2.1-46.9%), while it was 8.42% (range: 1.4-23.3%) in the non-ADT patients. Although several treatments have been used for depression in cancer patients, current knowledge lacks observational and controlled studies as well as clinical guidelines that demonstrate efficacy and safety of antidepressants and guide clinicians to the appropriate treatment in these patients, respectively. On the other side, a few clinical studies have been published regarding the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and/or saftey on other ADT associated adverse effects.Conclusions: Our work supports the recent attention towards mood issues as an adverse effect of ADT, and that greater awareness of this is warranted among clinicians. Clinical studies published regarding the use of antidepressants for other ADT associated adverse effects established the foundation that can be adopted to examine these therapies on ADT-induced depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahman Alwhaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sary Alsanea
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bana Almadi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawza Al-Sabhan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad D Alosaimi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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PILLEROVÁ M, PASTOREK M, BORBÉLYOVÁ V, RILJAK V, FRICK KM, HODOSY J, TÓTHOVÁ Ľ. Sex steroid hormones in depressive disorders as a basis for new potential treatment strategies. Physiol Res 2022; 71:S187-S202. [PMID: 36647907 PMCID: PMC9906660 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The sex steroid hormones (SSHs) such as testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, and their metabolites have important organizational and activational impacts on the brain during critical periods of brain development and in adulthood. A variety of slow and rapid mechanisms mediate both organizational and activational processes via intracellular or membrane receptors for SSHs. Physiological concentrations and distribution of SSHs in the brain result in normal brain development. Nevertheless, dysregulation of hormonal equilibrium may result in several mood disorders, including depressive disorders, later in adolescence or adulthood. Gender differences in cognitive abilities, emotions as well as the 2-3 times higher prevalence of depressive disorders in females, were already described. This implies that SSHs may play a role in the development of depressive disorders. In this review, we discuss preclinical and clinical studies linked to SSHs and development of depressive disorders. Our secondary aim includes a review of up-to-date knowledge about molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of depressive disorders. Understanding these molecular mechanisms might lead to significant treatment adjustments for patients with depressive disorders and to an amelioration of clinical outcomes for these patients. Nevertheless, the impact of SSHs on the brain in the context of the development of depressive disorders, progression, and treatment responsiveness is complex in nature, and depends upon several factors in concert such as gender, age, comorbidities, and general health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam PILLEROVÁ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal PASTOREK
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Veronika BORBÉLYOVÁ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Vladimír RILJAK
- Institute of Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karyn M. FRICK
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Július HODOSY
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Ľubomíra TÓTHOVÁ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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Malik H, Wolff MD, Teskey GC, Mychasiuk R. Electrographic seizures and brain hyperoxia may be key etiological factors for post-concussive deficits. J Neurophysiol 2022; 128:727-737. [PMID: 35976074 PMCID: PMC9484996 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00533.2021] [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] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Repetitive mild traumatic brain injuries (RmTBIs) are increasingly recognized to have long-term neurological sequelae in a significant proportion of patients. Individuals that have had RmTBIs exhibit a variety of sensory, cognitive, or behavioral consequences that can negatively impact quality of life. Brain tissue oxygen levels (PO2) are normally maintained through exquisite regulation of blood supply to stay within the normoxic zone (18–30 mmHg in the rat hippocampus). However, during neurological events in which brain tissue oxygen levels leave the normoxic zone, neuronal dysfunction and behavioral deficits have been observed, and are frequently related to poorer prognoses. The oxygenation response in the brain after RmTBIs/repeated concussions has been poorly characterized, with most preliminary research limited to the neocortex. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which RmTBIs impact changes to brain oxygenation and vice versa remain to be determined. In the current study, we demonstrate that upon receiving RmTBIs, rats exhibit posttraumatic, electrographic seizures in the hippocampus, without behavioral (clinical) seizures, that are accompanied by a long-lasting period of hyperoxygenation. These electrographic seizures and the ensuing hyperoxic episodes are associated with deficits in working memory and motor coordination that were reversible through attenuation of the posttraumatic and postictal (postseizure) hyperoxia, via administration of a vasoconstricting agent, the calcium channel agonist Bay K8644. We propose that the posttraumatic period characterized by brain oxygenation levels well above the normoxic zone, may be the basis for some of the common symptoms associated with RmTBIs. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We monitor oxygenation and electrographic activity in the hippocampus, immediately before and after mild traumatic brain injury. We demonstrate that as the number of injuries increases from 1 to 3, the proportion of rats that exhibit electrographic seizures and hyperoxia increases. Moreover, the presence of electrographic seizures and hyperoxia are associated with postinjury behavioral impairments, and if the hyperoxia is blocked with Bay K8644, the behavioral deficits are eliminated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Malik
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Marshal D Wolff
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - G Campbell Teskey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Richelle Mychasiuk
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Abstract
Purpose of Review We seek to update readers on recent advances in our understanding of sex and gender in episodic migraine with a two part series. In part 1, we examine migraine epidemiology in the context of sex and gender, differences in symptomatology, and the influence of sex hormones on migraine pathophysiology (including CGRP). In part 2, we focus on practical clinical considerations for sex and gender in episodic migraine by addressing menstrual migraine and the controversial topic of hormone-containing therapies. We make note of data applicable to gender minority populations, when available, and summarize knowledge on gender affirming hormone therapy and migraine management in transgender individuals. Finally, we briefly address health disparities, socioeconomic considerations, and research bias. Recent Findings Migraine is known to be more prevalent, frequent, and disabling in women. There are also differences in migraine co-morbidities and symptomatology. For instance, women are likely to experience more migraine associated symptoms such as nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. Migraine pathophysiology is influenced by sex hormones, e.g., estrogen withdrawal as a known trigger for migraine. Other hormones such as progesterone and testosterone are less well studied. Relationships between CGRP (the target of new acute and preventive migraine treatments) and sex hormones have been established with both animal and human model studies. The natural course of migraine throughout the lifetime suggests a contribution from hormonal changes, from puberty to pregnancy to menopause/post-menopause. Treatment of menstrual migraine and the use of hormone-containing therapies remains controversial. Re-evaluation of the data reveals that stroke risk is an estrogen dose- and aura frequency-dependent phenomenon. There are limited data on episodic migraine in gender minorities. Gender affirming hormone therapy may be associated with a change in migraine and unique risks (including ischemic stroke with high dose estrogen). Summary There are key differences in migraine epidemiology and symptomatology, thought to be driven at least in part by sex hormones which influence migraine pathophysiology and the natural course of migraine throughout the lifetime. More effective and specific treatments for menstrual migraine are needed. A careful examination of the data on estrogen and stroke risk suggests a nuanced approach to the issue of estrogen-containing contraception and hormone replacement therapy is warranted. Our understanding of sex and gender is evolving, with limited but growing research on the relationship between gender affirming therapy and migraine, and treatment considerations for transgender people with migraine.
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Barone B, Napolitano L, Abate M, Cirillo L, Reccia P, Passaro F, Turco C, Morra S, Mastrangelo F, Scarpato A, Amicuzi U, Morgera V, Romano L, Calace FP, Pandolfo SD, De Luca L, Aveta A, Sicignano E, Trivellato M, Spena G, D’Alterio C, Fusco GM, Vitale R, Arcaniolo D, Crocetto F. The Role of Testosterone in the Elderly: What Do We Know? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3535. [DOI: doi.org/10.3390/ijms23073535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Testosterone is the most important hormone in male health. Aging is characterized by testosterone deficiency due to decreasing testosterone levels associated with low testicular production, genetic factors, adiposity, and illness. Low testosterone levels in men are associated with sexual dysfunction (low sexual desire, erectile dysfunction), reduced skeletal muscle mass and strength, decreased bone mineral density, increased cardiovascular risk and alterations of the glycometabolic profile. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) shows several therapeutic effects while maintaining a good safety profile in hypogonadal men. TRT restores normal levels of serum testosterone in men, increasing libido and energy level and producing beneficial effects on bone density, strength and muscle as well as yielding cardioprotective effects. Nevertheless, TRT could be contraindicated in men with untreated prostate cancer, although poor findings are reported in the literature. In addition, different potential side effects, such as polycythemia, cardiac events and obstructive sleep apnea, should be monitored. The aim of our review is to provide an updated background regarding the pros and cons of TRT, evaluating its role and its clinical applicability in different domains.
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The Role of Testosterone in the Elderly: What Do We Know? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073535. [PMID: PMID: 35408895 PMCID: PMC8998588 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone is the most important hormone in male health. Aging is characterized by testosterone deficiency due to decreasing testosterone levels associated with low testicular production, genetic factors, adiposity, and illness. Low testosterone levels in men are associated with sexual dysfunction (low sexual desire, erectile dysfunction), reduced skeletal muscle mass and strength, decreased bone mineral density, increased cardiovascular risk and alterations of the glycometabolic profile. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) shows several therapeutic effects while maintaining a good safety profile in hypogonadal men. TRT restores normal levels of serum testosterone in men, increasing libido and energy level and producing beneficial effects on bone density, strength and muscle as well as yielding cardioprotective effects. Nevertheless, TRT could be contraindicated in men with untreated prostate cancer, although poor findings are reported in the literature. In addition, different potential side effects, such as polycythemia, cardiac events and obstructive sleep apnea, should be monitored. The aim of our review is to provide an updated background regarding the pros and cons of TRT, evaluating its role and its clinical applicability in different domains.
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12
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Pillerová M, Borbélyová V, Pastorek M, Riljak V, Hodosy J, Frick KM, Tóthová L. Molecular actions of sex hormones in the brain and their potential treatment use in anxiety disorders. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:972158. [PMID: 36159923 PMCID: PMC9492942 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.972158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are one of the most prevalent mood disorders that can lead to impaired quality of life. Current treatment of anxiety disorders has various adverse effects, safety concerns, or restricted efficacy; therefore, novel therapeutic targets need to be studied. Sex steroid hormones (SSHs) play a crucial role in the formation of brain structures, including regions of the limbic system and prefrontal cortex during perinatal development. In the brain, SSHs have activational and organizational effects mediated by either intracellular or transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors. During perinatal developmental periods, the physiological concentrations of SSHs lead to the normal development of the brain; however, the early hormonal dysregulation could result in various anxiety diorders later in life. Sex differences in the prevalence of anxiety disorders suggest that SSHs might be implicated in their development. In this review, we discuss preclinical and clinical studies regarding the role of dysregulated SSHs signaling during early brain development that modifies the risk for anxiety disorders in a sex-specific manner in adulthood. Moreover, our aim is to summarize potential molecular mechanisms by which the SSHs may affect anxiety disorders in preclinical research. Finally, the potential effects of SSHs in the treatment of anxiety disorders are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Pillerová
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Borbélyová
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Pastorek
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Vladimír Riljak
- First Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Physiology, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Július Hodosy
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - L'ubomíra Tóthová
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
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Mikhail ME, Anaya C, Culbert KM, Sisk CL, Johnson A, Klump KL. Gonadal Hormone Influences on Sex Differences in Binge Eating Across Development. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2021; 23:74. [PMID: 34613500 PMCID: PMC8576863 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-021-01287-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Binge eating is a transdiagnostic symptom that disproportionately affects females. Sexually dimorphic gonadal hormones (e.g., estradiol, testosterone) substantially impact eating behavior and may contribute to sex differences in binge eating. We examine recent evidence for the role of gonadal hormones in binge eating risk across development. RECENT FINDINGS Both organizational (long-lasting impact on the central nervous system (CNS)) and activational (transient influences on the CNS) hormone effects may contribute to sex differences in binge eating. Gonadal hormones also impact within-sex variability in binge eating, with higher estradiol levels in females and higher testosterone levels in males protective across development. Emerging evidence suggests that the impact of gonadal hormones may be greatest for people with other risk factors, including genetic, temperamental (e.g., high negative affect), and psychosocial (e.g., exposure to weight-based teasing) risk. Gonadal hormones contribute to sex differences and within-sex variability in binge eating across development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E. Mikhail
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, 316 Physics Rd., Room 107B, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1116, USA
| | - Carolina Anaya
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, 316 Physics Rd., Room 107B, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1116, USA
| | - Kristen M. Culbert
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Cheryl L. Sisk
- Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Alexander Johnson
- Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kelly L. Klump
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, 316 Physics Rd., Room 107B, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1116, USA,Corresponding author:
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Arinami H, Suzuki Y, Tajiri M, Tsuneyama N, Someya T. Role of insulin-like growth factor 1, sex and corticosteroid hormones in male major depressive disorder. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:157. [PMID: 33731067 PMCID: PMC7967945 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03116-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG), hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA), and hypothalamic-pituitary-somatotropic (HPS) axes are potentially involved in major depressive disorder (MDD), but these hormones have not been simultaneously investigated in male patients with MDD. We investigated the association between male MDD symptoms and estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1). METHODS Serum estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, DHEAS, and IGF1 levels were measured in 54 male patients with MDD and 37 male controls and were compared with clinical factors. We investigated the associations between hormone levels and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) scores. The correlations among hormones were also investigated. RESULTS Patients had significantly lower estradiol levels than controls (22.4 ± 8.4 pg/mL vs. 26.1 ± 8.5 pg/mL, P = 0.040). Serum estradiol levels were negatively correlated with HAM-D scores (P = 0.000094) and positively correlated with Global Assessment of Functioning scores (P = 0.000299). IGF1 levels and the cortisol:DHEAS ratio were higher in patients than in controls (IGF1: 171.5 ± 61.8 ng/mL vs. 144.1 ± 39.2 ng/mL, P = 0.011; cortisol:DHEAS ratio: 0.07 ± 0.05 vs. 0.04 ± 0.02, P = 0.001). DHEAS levels were lower in patients than in controls (227.9 ± 108.4 μg/dL vs. 307.4 ± 131.2 μg/dL, P = 0.002). IGF1, cortisol:DHEAS ratio, and DHEAS were not significantly correlated with HAM-D scores. Cortisol and testosterone levels were not significantly different between patients and controls. Serum estradiol levels were positively correlated with DHEAS levels (P = 0.00062) in patients, but were not significantly correlated with DHEAS levels in controls. CONCLUSION Estradiol may affect the pathogenesis and severity of patients with MDD in men, and other hormones, such as those in the HPA and HPS axes, may also be involved in male MDD. Additionally, a correlation between estradiol and DHEAS may affect the pathology of MDD in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Arinami
- grid.260975.f0000 0001 0671 5144Department of Psychiatry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8510 Japan
| | - Yutaro Suzuki
- Department of Psychiatry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan.
| | - Misuzu Tajiri
- grid.260975.f0000 0001 0671 5144Department of Psychiatry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8510 Japan
| | - Nobuto Tsuneyama
- grid.260975.f0000 0001 0671 5144Department of Psychiatry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8510 Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Someya
- grid.260975.f0000 0001 0671 5144Department of Psychiatry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8510 Japan
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Dichtel LE, Carpenter LL, Nyer M, Mischoulon D, Kimball A, Deckersbach T, Dougherty DD, Schoenfeld DA, Fisher L, Cusin C, Dording C, Trinh NH, Pedrelli P, Yeung A, Farabaugh A, Papakostas GI, Chang T, Shapero BG, Chen J, Cassano P, Hahn EM, Rao EM, Brady RO, Singh RJ, Tyrka AR, Price LH, Fava M, Miller KK. Low-Dose Testosterone Augmentation for Antidepressant-Resistant Major Depressive Disorder in Women: An 8-Week Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. Am J Psychiatry 2020; 177:965-973. [PMID: 32660299 PMCID: PMC7748292 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.19080844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Low-dose testosterone has been shown to improve depression symptom severity, fatigue, and sexual function in small studies in women not formally diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The authors sought to determine whether adjunctive low-dose transdermal testosterone improves depression symptom severity, fatigue, and sexual function in women with antidepressant-resistant major depression. A functional MRI (fMRI) substudy examined effects on activity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a brain region important in mood regulation. METHODS The authors conducted an 8-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive testosterone cream in 101 women, ages 21-70, with antidepressant-resistant major depression. The primary outcome measure was depression symptom severity as assessed by the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Secondary endpoints included fatigue, sexual function, and safety measures. The primary outcome of the fMRI substudy (N=20) was change in ACC activity. RESULTS The participants' mean age was 47 years (SD=14) and their mean baseline MADRS score was 26.6 (SD=5.9). Eighty-seven (86%) participants completed 8 weeks of treatment. MADRS scores decreased in both study arms from baseline to week 8 (testosterone arm: from 26.8 [SD=6.3] to 15.3 [SD=9.6]; placebo arm: from 26.3 [SD=5.4] to 14.4 [SD=9.3]), with no significant difference between groups. Improvement in fatigue and sexual function did not differ between groups, nor did side effects. fMRI results showed a relationship between ACC activation and androgen levels before treatment but no difference in ACC activation with testosterone compared with placebo. CONCLUSIONS Adjunctive transdermal testosterone, although well tolerated, was not more effective than placebo in improving symptoms of depression, fatigue, or sexual dysfunction. Imaging in a subset of participants demonstrated that testosterone did not result in greater activation of the ACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Dichtel
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Linda L. Carpenter
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Maren Nyer
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - David Mischoulon
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Allison Kimball
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Thilo Deckersbach
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Darin D. Dougherty
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - David A. Schoenfeld
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Lauren Fisher
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Cristina Cusin
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Christina Dording
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Nhi-Ha Trinh
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Paola Pedrelli
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Albert Yeung
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Amy Farabaugh
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - George I. Papakostas
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Trina Chang
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Benjamin G. Shapero
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Justin Chen
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Paolo Cassano
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Emily M. Hahn
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Elizabeth M. Rao
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Roscoe O. Brady
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Ravinder J. Singh
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Audrey R. Tyrka
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Lawrence H. Price
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Maurizio Fava
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
| | - Karen K. Miller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Dichtel, Kimball, Miller); Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston (Nyer, Mischoulon, Deckersbach, Dougherty, Yeung, Cassano, Hahn, Farabaugh, Pedrelli, Trinh, Dording, Cusin, Papakostas, Chang, Fisher, Shapero, Chen, Fava); Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard
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Gao J, Xiu MH, Liu DY, Wei CW, Zhang X. Interactive effect of MTHFR C677T polymorphism and sex on symptoms and cognitive functions in Chinese patients with chronic schizophrenia. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:10290-10299. [PMID: 32497019 PMCID: PMC7346048 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of schizophrenia is still unknown, and the MTHFR gene has been shown to be associated with SCZ. Previous studies have shown that patients with schizophrenia exhibit sex differences in symptoms and cognitive function. However, no study has been conducted to investigate the sex difference in the association between C677T polymorphism and symptoms and cognitive impairment in Chinese patients with schizophrenia. The C677T polymorphism was genotyped in 957 patients with schizophrenia and 576 controls. Patients were also rated on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). The results showed that there were significant differences in MTHFR C677T genotype and allele distributions between male patients and male controls (both p<0.05), while there was no significant difference between female patients and female controls (both p>0.05). Further analysis showed that there were significant sex differences in the association between C677T genotype and negative symptoms, immediate memory or attention index score in schizophrenia (p<0.05). This study suggests that the complex interactive effect between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and sex plays an important role in some clinical characteristics of patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Gao
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Beijing Chao-yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Hong Xiu
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Dian Ying Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, The Third People's Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chang Wei Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyang Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Association of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor With Cognitive Function: An Investigation of Sex Differences in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes. Psychosom Med 2020; 81:488-494. [PMID: 31083054 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000000709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although a reduction in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated as a cause of cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the role of sex in moderating this effect has not been explored. METHODS We compared the difference in serum BDNF and performance on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) between 96 men and 134 women with T2DM. We compared this with the difference in serum BDNF and performance in the control group (104 men, 144 women). RESULTS Patients with T2DM performed worse on most RBANS indices (η = 0.372, all p < .05); within T2DM patients, men performed worse than women on the delayed memory score (74.1 (12.1) versus 79.9 (11.5), p = .002) and on the total score (71.4 (11.5) versus 76.5 (10.8), p = .025). Serum BDNF was lower in patients with T2DM versus controls (7.5 (2.7) ng/ml versus 11.5 (2.7) ng/ml, p < .001), and in men compared with women (6.9 (2.4) versus 7.9 (2.8), p = .024). Serum BDNF levels positively correlated with delayed memory score in patients with T2DM (β = 0.19, p = .007). However, this association was only observed in women, not in men (pinteraction = 0.04). Among healthy controls, no sex differences were noted in either RBANS or BDNF levels (η = 0.04, Cohen's d < 0.163, all p > .05). CONCLUSIONS Our results show sex differences in poorer cognitive performance, lower BDNF concentration, and their relationship in T2DM patients, suggesting that female sex may be a protective factor for cognitive decline in T2DM patients. However, the findings should be regarded as preliminary because of the cross-sectional design and chronicity of the diabetes.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Females experience eating disorders at substantially higher rates than males. Although sociocultural factors have traditionally been thought to underlie this sex disparity, accumulating evidence implicates differential exposure to gonadal hormones early in life. Gonadal hormones also impact within-sex variability in disordered eating, helping to explain why not all women develop an eating disorder, and some men do. We review recent findings regarding these gonadal hormone effects and their implications for the etiology of eating disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Males are exposed to significantly higher testosterone levels than females perinatally, and this exposure appears to protect against later binge eating in males relative to females. Within-sex, higher estradiol levels among females and higher testosterone levels among males appear to be protective. Progesterone exhibits minimal direct phenotypic effects on disordered eating but appears to counteract the protective effects of estrogen in adult females. Importantly, gonadal hormone effects may be moderated by psychosocial factors. SUMMARY Evidence suggests that gonadal hormones play a critical role in the etiology of disordered eating. Overall, higher testosterone and estrogen appear to be protective across development. Additional research is needed to identify mechanisms underlying these effects and further explore interactions between hormonal and psychosocial risk.
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Zhang Q, Shao A, Jiang Z, Tsai H, Liu W. The exploration of mechanisms of comorbidity between migraine and depression. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:4505-4513. [PMID: 31106971 PMCID: PMC6584585 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine comorbid with depression is common and is often encountered in clinical practice. The comorbidity may lead to more serious conditions with other symptoms and a longer duration of treatment and it may impose heavy economic and social burdens, directly or indirectly, on patients and their families. Numerous studies have been published on the association of migraine with depression. Numerous literature have showed that the comorbidity may have a common complicated pathogenic mechanism involving biopsychosocial characteristics, including abnormal brain development and shared genetic basis, as well as neurotransmitters, sex hormones and stress. In addition, some studies have identified the multiple, bidirectional relationship between migraine and depressive disorder. We searched the literature for the possible common mechanisms between migraine and depression and classified the research results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhengyan Jiang
- Department of Psychiatry, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of General Practice, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huitzong Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weibo Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Tenkorang MAA, Duong P, Cunningham RL. NADPH Oxidase Mediates Membrane Androgen Receptor-Induced Neurodegeneration. Endocrinology 2019; 160:947-963. [PMID: 30811529 PMCID: PMC6435014 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-01079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is a common characteristic of several neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson disease (PD). PD is more prevalent in men than in women, indicating the possible involvement of androgens. Androgens can have either neuroprotective or neurodamaging effects, depending on the presence of OS. Specifically, in an OS environment, androgens via a membrane-associated androgen receptor (mAR) exacerbate OS-induced damage. To investigate the role of androgens on OS signaling and neurodegeneration, the effects of testosterone and androgen receptor activation on the major OS signaling cascades, the reduced form of NAD phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX)1 and NOX2 and the Gαq/inositol trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R), were examined. To create an OS environment, an immortalized neuronal cell line was exposed to H2O2 prior to cell-permeable/cell-impermeable androgens. Different inhibitors were used to examine the role of G proteins, mAR, InsP3R, and NOX1/2 on OS generation and cell viability. Both testosterone and DHT/3-O-carboxymethyloxime (DHT)-BSA increased H2O2-induced OS and cell death, indicating the involvement of an mAR. Furthermore, classical AR antagonists did not block testosterone's negative effects in an OS environment. Because there are no known antagonists specific for mARs, an AR protein degrader, ASC-J9, was used to block mAR action. ASC-J9 blocked testosterone's negative effects. To determine OS-related signaling mediated by mAR, this study examined NOX1, NOX2, Gαq. NOX1, NOX2, and the Gαq complex with mAR. Only NOX inhibition blocked testosterone-induced cell loss and OS. No effects of blocking either Gαq or G protein activation were observed on testosterone's negative effects. These results indicate that androgen-induced OS is via the mAR-NOX complex and not the mAR-Gαq complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mavis A A Tenkorang
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Institute for Healthy Aging, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Phong Duong
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Institute for Healthy Aging, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Rebecca L Cunningham
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Institute for Healthy Aging, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
- Correspondence: Rebecca L. Cunningham, PhD, Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3400 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. E-mail:
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Sex difference in association of symptoms and white matter deficits in first-episode and drug-naive schizophrenia. Transl Psychiatry 2018; 8:281. [PMID: 30563964 PMCID: PMC6298972 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0346-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence shows that disruption of white matter (WM) may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, even at the onset of psychosis. However, very few studies have explored sex difference in its association with psychopathology in schizophrenia. This study aims to compare sex differences in clinical features and WM abnormalities in first-episode and drug-naive (FEDN) schizophrenia among Han Chinese inpatients. The WM fractional anisotropy (FA) values of the whole-brain were determined using voxel-based diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in 39 (16 males and 23 females) FEDN patients with schizophrenia and 30 healthy controls (13 males and 17 females) matched for gender, age, and education. Patient psychopathology was assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS).Our results showed that compared with the controls, the patients showed widespread areas of lower FA, including corpus callosum, brainstem, internal capsule, cingulate, and cerebellum (all adjusted p < 0.01). Further, male patients showed lower FA values in left cingulate (F = 4.92, p = 0.033), but higher scores on the PANSS total, positive, and general psychopathology subscale scores (all p < 0.01) than female patients. Multivariate regression analysis showed that for male patients, FA values in right corpus callosum were positively associated with the PANSS total (beta = 0.785, t = 3.76, p = 0.002) and the negative symptom scores (beta = 0.494, t = 2.20, p = 0.044), while for female patients, FA values in left cingulate were negatively associated with the PANSS positive symptom score (beta = -0.717, t = -2.25, p = 0.041). Our findings indicate sex difference in white matter disconnectivity and its association with psychopathological symptoms in an early course of schizophrenia onset.
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Frau R, Bortolato M. Repurposing steroidogenesis inhibitors for the therapy of neuropsychiatric disorders: Promises and caveats. Neuropharmacology 2018; 147:55-65. [PMID: 29907425 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Steroids exert a profound influence on behavioral reactivity, by modulating the functions of most neurotransmitters and shaping the impact of stress and sex-related variables on neural processes. This background - as well as the observation that most neuroactive steroids (including sex hormones, glucocorticoids and neurosteroids) are synthetized and metabolized by overlapping enzymatic machineries - points to steroidogenic pathways as a powerful source of targets for neuropsychiatric disorders. Inhibitors of steroidogenic enzymes have been developed and approved for a broad range of genitourinary and endocrine dysfunctions, opening to new opportunities to repurpose these drugs for the treatment of mental problems. In line with this idea, preliminary clinical and preclinical results from our group have shown that inhibitors of key steroidogenic enzymes, such as 5α-reductase and 17,20 desmolase-lyase, may have therapeutic efficacy in specific behavioral disorders associated with dopaminergic hyperfunction. While the lack of specificity of these effects raises potential concerns about endocrine adverse events, these initial findings suggest that steroidogenesis modulators with greater brain specificity may hold significant potential for the development of alternative therapies for psychiatric problems. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Drug Repurposing: old molecules, new ways to fast track drug discovery and development for CNS disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato CA, Italy; Tourette Syndrome Center, University of Cagliari, Monserrato CA, Italy; Sleep Medicine Center, University of Cagliari, Monserrato CA, Italy; National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, Monserrato CA, Italy.
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neurodevelopmental disorders disproportionately affect males. The mechanisms underlying male vulnerability or female protection are not known and remain understudied. Determining the processes involved is crucial to understanding the etiology and advancing treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we review current findings and theories that contribute to male preponderance of neurodevelopmental disorders, with a focus on autism. RECENT FINDINGS Recent work on the biological basis of the male preponderance of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders includes discussion of a higher genetic burden in females and sex-specific gene mutations or epigenetic changes that differentially confer risk to males or protection to females. Other mechanisms discussed are sex chromosome and sex hormone involvement. Specifically, fetal testosterone is involved in many aspects of development and may interact with neurotransmitter, neuropeptide, or immune pathways to contribute to male vulnerability. Finally, the possibilities of female underdiagnosis and a multi-hit hypothesis are discussed. This review highlights current theories of male bias in developmental disorders. Topics include environmental, genetic, and epigenetic mechanisms; theories of sex chromosomes, hormones, neuroendocrine, and immune function; underdiagnosis of females; and a multi-hit hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L. Ferri
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Pappajohn Biomedical Discovery Building, 169 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| | - Ted Abel
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Pappajohn Biomedical Discovery Building, 169 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| | - Edward S. Brodkin
- Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Translational Research Laboratory, 125 South 31 Street, Room 2202, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3403 USA
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Culbert KM, Burt SA, Klump KL. Expanding the developmental boundaries of etiologic effects: The role of adrenarche in genetic influences on disordered eating in males. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY 2017; 126:593-606. [PMID: 28691847 PMCID: PMC5505185 DOI: 10.1037/abn0000226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Genetic influences on disordered eating (DE) increase across age and puberty in girls, an effect that is at least partially due to ovarian hormone activation. However, development shifts in genetic effects have not been detected in boys; genetic influences have been found to be relatively constant from prepuberty to adulthood, suggesting that gonadal hormones may be less important. One caveat is that studies have examined males ages 10 or older. Genetic effects on DE may emerge earlier in boys, such as during adrenarche, when androgens begin to increase but the physical changes of puberty are not yet observable. The current study investigated this hypothesis in 1,212 male twins (ages 6-28) from the Michigan State University Twin Registry. Results supported a potential role of adrenarche, as genetic influences on DE increased during middle childhood, prior to the external physical changes of puberty. Specifically, genetic influences on DE were negligible (0%) in twins during pre- to early adrenarche, but increased incrementally across advancing adrenarche (17% to 44%) and into early puberty (57%). Genetic effects then remained stable into midpuberty and postpuberty (58%), suggesting that nearly all of the genetic effects on DE become prominent during adrenarche in males. Findings suggest that genetic effects on DE emerge sooner in boys than the midpubertal activation that is consistently found in girls. These data highlight a potentially important role for adrenarche in the genetic diathesis for DE in males and a need to examine younger ages in studies of developmental effects. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Morozova M, Burminskiy D, Rupchev G, Lepilkina T, Potanin S, Beniashvili A, Lavrovsky Y, Vostokova N, Ivaschenko A. 5-HT6 Receptor Antagonist as an Adjunct Treatment Targeting Residual Symptoms in Patients With Schizophrenia: Unexpected Sex-Related Effects (Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial). J Clin Psychopharmacol 2017; 37:169-175. [PMID: 28141622 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000000673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treating patients who experience residual psychotic symptoms during remission of schizophrenia remains one of the most challenging problems. The mechanisms underlying these symptoms differ from those of acute hallucinations and delusions. 5-HT6 receptor antagonists have been considered promising agents in treatment of residual psychotic symptoms and cognitive dysfunction. The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of a selective 5-HT6 inhibitor Avisetron in the reduction of residual psychotic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia on stable antipsychotic therapy. METHODS Eighty clinically stable outpatient subjects with schizophrenia with residual psychotic symptoms were randomized in a double-blind manner to 6 weeks of Avisetron or placebo at 1:1 ratio. Subjects received 8 mg of Avisetron or placebo on top their stable antipsychotic treatment. Standard clinical scales and cognitive tests were used for endpoint assessment. The primary efficacy endpoint was the mean reduction of total Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale score after 6 weeks of treatment. RESULTS No significant differences in the primary and secondary endpoints were found between the groups. However, based on the subgroup analysis, the significant improvement of total Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale score and residual psychotic symptoms was observed in female patients. CONCLUSIONS It was a negative study with unexpected benefits of the drug only in females. We hypothesized that the role of patients' sex can impact the treatment response to serotonergic drugs in general. We suggest a possible synergistic interaction between estrogen and Avisetron by means of modulating the effect of estrogens on the serotonergic system. Future studies targeting the sex-related effects of serotonergic drugs are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Morozova
- From the *Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia; †R-Pharm Overseas, Inc, San Diego, CA; ‡IPHARMA LLC (ChemRar/ChemDiv group), Moscow, Russia; §ChemDiv, San-Diego, CA
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Schulster M, Bernie AM, Ramasamy R. The role of estradiol in male reproductive function. Asian J Androl 2017; 18:435-40. [PMID: 26908066 PMCID: PMC4854098 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.173932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, testosterone and estrogen have been considered to be male and female sex hormones, respectively. However, estradiol, the predominant form of estrogen, also plays a critical role in male sexual function. Estradiol in men is essential for modulating libido, erectile function, and spermatogenesis. Estrogen receptors, as well as aromatase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen, are abundant in brain, penis, and testis, organs important for sexual function. In the brain, estradiol synthesis is increased in areas related to sexual arousal. In addition, in the penis, estrogen receptors are found throughout the corpus cavernosum with high concentration around neurovascular bundles. Low testosterone and elevated estrogen increase the incidence of erectile dysfunction independently of one another. In the testes, spermatogenesis is modulated at every level by estrogen, starting with the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis, followed by the Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cells, and finishing with the ductal epithelium, epididymis, and mature sperm. Regulation of testicular cells by estradiol shows both an inhibitory and a stimulatory influence, indicating an intricate symphony of dose-dependent and temporally sensitive modulation. Our goal in this review is to elucidate the overall contribution of estradiol to male sexual function by looking at the hormone's effects on erectile function, spermatogenesis, and libido.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Head shaking in the forced swim test: A robust but unexplored sex difference. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017; 152:90-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Nikmahzar E, Jahanshahi M, Ghaemi A, Naseri GR, Moharreri AR, Lotfinia AA. Hippocampal serotonin-2A receptor-immunoreactive neurons density increases after testosterone therapy in the gonadectomized male mice. Anat Cell Biol 2016; 49:259-272. [PMID: 28127501 PMCID: PMC5266105 DOI: 10.5115/acb.2016.49.4.259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The change of steroid levels may also exert different modulatory effects on the number and class of serotonin receptors present in the plasma membrane. The effects of chronic treatment of testosterone for anxiety were examined and expression of 5-HT2A serotonergic receptor, neuron, astrocyte, and dark neuron density in the hippocampus of gonadectomized male mice was determined. Thirty-six adult male NMRI mice were randomly divided into six groups: intact-no testosterone treatment (No T), gonadectomy (GDX)-No T, GDX-Vehicle, GDX-6.25 mg/kg testosterone (T), GDX-12.5 mg/kg T, and GDX-25 mg/kg T. Anxiety-related behavior was evaluated using elevated plus maze apparatus. The animals were anesthetized after 48 hours after behavioral testing, and decapitated and micron slices were prepared for immunohistochemical as well as histopathological assessment. Subcutaneous injection of testosterone (25 mg/kg) may induce anxiogenic-like behavior in male mice. In addition, immunohistochemical data reveal reduced expression of 5-HT2A serotonergic receptor after gonadectomy in all areas of the hippocampus. However, treatment with testosterone could increase the mean number of dark neurons as well as immunoreactive neurons in CA1 and CA3 area, dose dependently. The density of 5-HT2A receptor-immunoreactive neurons may play a crucial role in the induction of anxiety like behavior. As reduction in such receptor expression have shown to significantly enhance anxiety behaviors. However, replacement of testosterone dose dependently enhances the number of 5-HT2A receptor-immunoreactive neurons and interestingly also reduced anxiety like behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emsehgol Nikmahzar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Jahanshahi
- Department of Anatomy, Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Amir Ghaemi
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholam Reza Naseri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Moharreri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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Vetvik KG, MacGregor EA. Sex differences in the epidemiology, clinical features, and pathophysiology of migraine. Lancet Neurol 2016; 16:76-87. [PMID: 27836433 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(16)30293-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Migraine is two to three times more prevalent in women than men, and women report a longer attack duration, increased risk of headache recurrence, greater disability, and a longer period of time required to recover. Conditions recognised to be comorbid with migraine include asthma, anxiety, depression, and other chronic pain conditions, and these comorbidities add to the amount of disability in both sexes. Migraine-specifically migraine with aura-has been identified as a risk factor for vascular disorders, particularly in women, but because of the scarcity of data, the comparative risk in men has yet to be established. There is evidence implicating the role of female sex hormones as a major factor in determining migraine risk and characteristics, which accounts for sex differences, but there is also evidence to support underlying genetic variance. Although migraine is often recognised in women, it is underdiagnosed in men, resulting in suboptimal management and less participation of men in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjersti Grøtta Vetvik
- Department of Neurology and Head and Neck Research Group, Research Centre, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - E Anne MacGregor
- Centre for Neuroscience and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.
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Brammer WA, Jezior KL, Lee SS. Psychopathic traits mediate the association of serotonin transporter genotype and child externalizing behavior. Aggress Behav 2016; 42:455-70. [PMID: 26990675 DOI: 10.1002/ab.21642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Although the promoter polymorphism of the serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR) gene is associated with externalizing behavior, its mediating pathways are unknown. Given their sensitivity to serotonin neurotransmission and unique association with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), we tested callous-unemotional (CU) traits and narcissism as separate mediators of the association of 5-HTTLPR with ADHD and ODD. We evaluated 209 5-9 year-old children with and without ADHD at baseline; approximately 2 years later (i.e., Wave 2), parents and teachers separately rated ADHD and ODD symptoms and youth self-reported antisocial behavior. Controlling for race-ethnicity and baseline ADHD/ODD, narcissism uniquely mediated predictions of multi-informant rated Wave 2 ADHD and ODD from variation in 5-HTTLPR; CU traits mediated predictions of Wave 2 ADHD from variations in 5-HTTLPR, but did not mediate the associations of 5-HTTLPR with ODD or youth self-reported antisocial behavior. Specifically, the number of 5-HTTLPR long alleles positively predicted CU traits and narcissism; narcissism was positively associated with Wave 2 ADHD and ODD symptoms, whereas CU traits were positively associated with Wave 2 ADHD. Child sex also moderated indirect effects of CU traits and narcissism, such that narcissism mediated predictions of ADHD/ODD in girls but not boys. Psychopathic traits may represent a relevant pathway underlying predictions of prospective change in ADHD and ODD from 5-HTTLPR, particularly in girls. We consider the role of psychopathic traits as a potential intermediate phenotype in genetically sensitive studies of child psychopathology. Aggr. Behav. 42:455-470, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney A. Brammer
- Department of Psychology; University of California; 1285 Franz Hall Los Angeles California
| | - Kristen L. Jezior
- Department of Psychology; University of California; 1285 Franz Hall Los Angeles California
| | - Steve S. Lee
- Department of Psychology; University of California; 1285 Franz Hall Los Angeles California
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Grilo NM, Correia MJ, Sequeira C, Harjivan SG, Caixas U, Diogo LN, Marques MM, Monteiro EC, Antunes AMM, Pereira SA. Efavirenz biotransformation as an up-stream event of mood changes in HIV-infected patients. Toxicol Lett 2016; 260:28-35. [PMID: 27543169 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2016.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Efavirenz is a drug of choice for adults and children infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. Notably, up to 35% of patients on efavirenz suffer from mood changes. This work aimed to investigate efavirenz biotransformation into 8-hydroxy-efavirenz as an up-stream event of mood changes and to evaluate the suitability of 8-hydroxy-efavirenz biomonitoring for the minimization of these manifestations. A case-control study with two age-matched groups of HIV-infected male patients was performed in a group without adverse central nervous system complaints (28 patients) and a group presenting mood changes (14 patients). The plasma concentration of non-conjugated 8-hydroxy-efavirenz was higher in patients with mood changes (p=0.020). An association between efavirenz and 8-hydroxy-efavirenz-glucuronide was found (Spearman r=0.414, p<0.010), only within therapeutic efavirenz concentrations. This correlation was not observed in patients with toxic (>4mg/L) plasma concentrations of the parent drug. We conclude that metabolism to 8-hydroxy-efavirenz is associated with efavirenz-related mood changes, which suggests that the concentration of this metabolite is a suitable parameter for therapeutic drug monitoring aimed at controlling these manifestations. Moreover, our data suggest that 8-hydroxy-efavirenz is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and that the peripheral detoxification of 8-hydroxy-efavirenz by glucuronidation may be inhibited by toxic efavirenz concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nádia M Grilo
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M João Correia
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina Sequeira
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Shrika G Harjivan
- Centro de Química Estrutural (CQE), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Umbelina Caixas
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal; Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, Lisboa, EPE, 1150-199, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Lucília N Diogo
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M Matilde Marques
- Centro de Química Estrutural (CQE), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Emília C Monteiro
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M M Antunes
- Centro de Química Estrutural (CQE), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia A Pereira
- Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1150-052, Lisboa, Portugal.
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Age-related changes in the antidepressant-like effect of desipramine and fluoxetine in the rat forced-swim test. Behav Pharmacol 2016; 27:22-8. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Reduced estradiol synthesis by letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, is protective against development of pentylenetetrazole-induced kindling in mice. Neurochem Int 2015; 90:271-4. [PMID: 26449311 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids, such as testosterone and their metabolites, are known to modulate neuronal excitability. The enzymes regulating the metabolism of these neurosteroids, thus, may be targeted as a noval strategy for the development of new antiepileptic drugs. The present work targeted two such enzymes i,e aromatase and 5α-reductase in order to explore the potential of letrozole (an aromatase inhibitor) on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced kindling in mice and the ability of finasteride (a 5α-reductase inhibitor) to modulate any such effects. PTZ (30 mg/kg, i.p.), when administered once every two days (for a total of 24 doses) induced kindling in Swiss albino mice. Letrozole (1 mg/kg, p.o.), administered prior to PTZ, significantly reduced the % incidence of kindling, delayed mean onset time of seizures and reduced seizure severity score. Letrozole reduced the levels of plasma 17β-estradiol after induction of kindling. The concurrent administration of finasteride and letrozole produced effects similar to letrozole on PTZ-kindling and on estradiol levels. This implies that the ability of letrozole to redirect the synthesis of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 5α-androstanediol from testosterone doesn't appear to play a significant role in the protective effects of letrozole against PTZ kindling. Letrozole, however, increased the levels of 5α-DHT in mice plasma. The aromatase inhibitors, thus, may be exploited for inhibiting the synthesis of proconvulsant (17β-estradiol) and/or redirecting the synthesis of anticonvulsant (DHT and 5α-androstanediol) neurosteroids.
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Carrier N, Saland SK, Duclot F, He H, Mercer R, Kabbaj M. The Anxiolytic and Antidepressant-like Effects of Testosterone and Estrogen in Gonadectomized Male Rats. Biol Psychiatry 2015; 78:259-69. [PMID: 25683735 PMCID: PMC4501899 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2014.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the influence of testosterone levels on vulnerability to affective disorders is not straightforward, research suggests this hormone may confer some degree of resiliency in men. We recently demonstrated a role for the dentate gyrus in mediating testosterone's protective effects on depressive-like behavior in gonadectomized male rats. Here, testosterone may exert its effects through androgen receptor-mediated mechanisms or via local aromatization to estradiol. METHODS Gonadectomized male rats were implanted with a placebo, testosterone, or estradiol pellet, and subsequent protective anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of testosterone and its aromatized metabolite, estradiol, were then investigated in the open field and sucrose preference tests, respectively. Moreover, their influence on gene expression in the hippocampus was analyzed by genome-wide complementary DNA microarray analysis. Finally, the contribution of testosterone's aromatization within the dentate gyrus was assessed by local infusion of the aromatase inhibitor fadrozole, whose efficacy was confirmed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Both hormones had antidepressant-like effects associated with a substantial overlap in transcriptional regulation, particularly in synaptic plasticity- and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway-related genes. Further, chronic aromatase inhibition within the dentate gyrus blocked the protective effects of testosterone. CONCLUSIONS Both testosterone and estradiol exhibit anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects in gonadectomized male rats, while similarly regulating critical mediators of these behaviors, suggesting common underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, we demonstrated that testosterone's protective effects are mediated, in part, by its aromatization in the dentate gyrus. These findings thus provide further insight into a role for estradiol in mediating the protective anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mohamed Kabbaj
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Program in Neurosciences.
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Fink G. 60 YEARS OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY: MEMOIR: Harris' neuroendocrine revolution: of portal vessels and self-priming. J Endocrinol 2015; 226:T13-24. [PMID: 25967698 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Geoffrey Harris, while still a medical student at Cambridge, was the first researcher (1937) to provide experimental proof for the then tentative view that the anterior pituitary gland was controlled by the CNS. The elegant studies carried out by Harris in the 1940s and early 1950s, alone and in collaboration with John Green and Dora Jacobsohn, established that this control was mediated by a neurohumoral mechanism that involved the transport by hypophysial portal vessel blood of chemical substances from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland. The neurohumoral control of anterior pituitary secretion was proved by the isolation and characterisation of the 'chemical substances' (mainly neuropeptides) and the finding that these substances were released into hypophysial portal blood in a manner consistent with their physiological functions. The new discipline of neuroendocrinology - the way that the brain controls endocrine glands and vice versa - revolutionised the treatment of endocrine disorders such as growth and pubertal abnormalities, infertility and hormone-dependent tumours, and it underpins our understanding of the sexual differentiation of the brain and key aspects of behaviour and mental disorder. Neuroendocrine principles are illustrated in this Thematic Review by way of Harris' major interest: hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal control. Attention is focussed on the measurement of GnRH in hypophysial portal blood and the role played by the self-priming effect of GnRH in promoting the onset of puberty and enabling the oestrogen-induced surge or pulses of GnRH to trigger the ovulatory gonadotrophin surge in humans and other spontaneously ovulating mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Fink
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental HealthUniversity of Melbourne, Kenneth Myer Building, Genetics Lane, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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López-Doval S, Salgado R, Fernández-Pérez B, Lafuente A. Possible role of serotonin and neuropeptide Y on the disruption of the reproductive axis activity by perfluorooctane sulfonate. Toxicol Lett 2015; 233:138-47. [PMID: 25623392 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is an endocrine disruptor, whose exposure can induce several alterations on the reproductive axis activity in males during adulthood. This study was undertaken to evaluate the possible role of serotonin and neuropeptide Y (NPY) on the disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis induced by PFOS in adult male rats. For that, adult male rats were orally treated with 0.5; 1.0; 3.0 and 6.0mg of PFOS/kg/day for 28 days. After PFOS exposure, serotonin concentration increased in the anterior and mediobasal hypothalamus as well as in the median eminence. The metabolism of this amine (expressed as the ratio 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA)/serotonin) was diminished except in the anterior hypothalamus, with the doses of 3.0 and 6.0mg/kg/day, being this dose 0.5mg/kg/day in the median eminence. In general terms, PFOS-treated rats presented a decrease of the hypothalamic concentration of the gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and NPY. A diminution of the serum levels of the luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone and estradiol were also shown. These results suggest that both serotonin and NPY could be involved in the inhibition induced by PFOS on the reproductive axis activity in adult male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- S López-Doval
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Sciences School, University of Vigo, Las Lagunas S/n, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - R Salgado
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Sciences School, University of Vigo, Las Lagunas S/n, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - B Fernández-Pérez
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Sciences School, University of Vigo, Las Lagunas S/n, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - A Lafuente
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Sciences School, University of Vigo, Las Lagunas S/n, 32004 Ourense, Spain.
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Wang P, Liu C, Liu L, Zhang X, Ren B, Li B. The Antidepressant-like Effects of Estrogen-mediated Ghrelin. Curr Neuropharmacol 2015; 13:524-35. [PMID: 26412072 PMCID: PMC4790402 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x1304150831120650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin, one of the brain-gut peptides, stimulates food-intake. Recently, ghrelin has also shown to play an important role in depression treatment. However, the mechanism of ghrelin's antidepressant-like actions is unknown. On the other hand, sex differences in depression, and the fluctuation of estrogens secretion have been proved to play a key role in depression. It has been reported that women have higher level of ghrelin expression, and ghrelin can stimulate estrogen secretion while estrogen acts as a positive feedback mechanism to up-regulate ghrelin level. Ghrelin may be a potential regulator of reproductive function, and estrogen may have additional effect in ghrelin's antidepressantlike actions. In this review, we summarize antidepressant-like effects of ghrelin and estrogen in basic and clinical studies, and provide new insight on ghrelin's effect in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Wang
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Changhong Liu
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Lei Liu
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Xingyi Zhang
- Jilin provincial key
laboratory on molecular and chemical genetic, Second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun
130024, China
| | - Bingzhong Ren
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
| | - Bingjin Li
- Life Sciences institute, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China 130024
- Jilin provincial key
laboratory on molecular and chemical genetic, Second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun
130024, China
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Clement P, Giuliano F. Anatomy and physiology of genital organs - men. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2015; 130:19-37. [PMID: 26003237 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63247-0.00003-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Male sexual functions involve a number of organs and structures in genitalia whose role is to produce fertilizing gametes and to allow female-partner insemination. The testes belong to the reproductive and endocrine systems as they synthesize spermatozoa and androgens, and are under finely regulated hormonal control by the hypothalamopituitary axis. Sexual responses are controlled by a complex and coordinated interplay of both the somatic and the autonomic nervous system in multiple components of the brain, spinal cord, and relevant peripheral organs. Erectile bodies are an essential element of the penis and engorgement of the penis with blood leads to penile tumescence. Blood engorgement is due to relaxation of smooth-muscle cells of erectile tissue and endothelium of the penile arteries. The penis gains additional rigidity when the ischiocavernosus muscles contract. Stimuli from peripheral and/or central origins activate particular spinal nuclei, causing penile erection. Ejaculation consists of two phases, emission and expulsion, which correspond, respectively, to secretion of the different components of the semen by sex glands and forceful expulsion of semen due to rhythmic contractions of the bulbospongiosus muscle. A spinal generator of ejaculation integrates genital stimuli and sexual cues and, when the excitatory threshold is reached, triggers ejaculation by orchestrating the activation of autonomic and somatic pathways commanding the peripheral events of ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Clement
- School of Health Sciences, University of Versailles-St. Quentin en Yvelines, Montigny le Bretonneux, France; Pelvipharm Laboratories, Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | - François Giuliano
- School of Health Sciences, University of Versailles-St. Quentin en Yvelines, Montigny le Bretonneux, France; Pelvipharm Laboratories, Montigny le Bretonneux, France; Neuro-Uro-Andrology, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, Garches, France.
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40
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Jovanovic H, Kocoska-Maras L, Rådestad AF, Halldin C, Borg J, Hirschberg AL, Nordström AL. Effects of estrogen and testosterone treatment on serotonin transporter binding in the brain of surgically postmenopausal women--a PET study. Neuroimage 2014; 106:47-54. [PMID: 25462800 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones and the serotonergic system interact in the regulation of mood, learning, memory and sexual behaviour. However, the mechanisms have not been fully explored. The serotonin transporter protein (5-HTT) regulates synaptic concentrations of serotonin and is a primary target for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The aim of this study was to explore how estrogen treatment alone or in combination with testosterone affects 5-HTT binding potentials measured by positron emission tomography (PET) in specific brain regions of postmenopausal women. Ten healthy surgically postmenopausal women (years since oophorectomy 7.5 ± 4.0, mean ± SD) underwent PET examinations at baseline, after three months of estrogen treatment (transdermal estradiol 100 μg/24 hours) and after another three months of combined estrogen and testosterone (testosterone undecanoate 40 mg daily) treatment using the radioligand [(11)C] MADAM developed for examination of the serotonin transporter. The 5-HTT binding potentials decreased significantly in several cortical regions, as well as in limbic and striatal regions after both estrogen treatment alone and combined estrogen/testosterone treatment in comparison to baseline. The observed decrease in 5-HTT could either be due to direct effects on serotonin transporter expression or be the result of indirect adaptation to estrogen and /or testosterone effects on synaptic serotonin levels. Although the mechanism still needs further exploration, the study supports the view that gonadal hormones play a role in serotonin regulated mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hristina Jovanovic
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry Section, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ljiljana Kocoska-Maras
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelique Flöter Rådestad
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christer Halldin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry Section, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jacqueline Borg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry Section, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna-Lena Nordström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry Section, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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41
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Sigurdsson B, Palsson SP, Aevarsson O, Olafsdottir M, Johannsson M. Saliva testosterone and cortisol in male depressive syndrome, a community study. The Sudurnesjamenn Study. Nord J Psychiatry 2014; 68:579-87. [PMID: 24724928 DOI: 10.3109/08039488.2014.898791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The association between testosterone levels and depression is unclear. The relationship has been described as complex, i.e. more U (J)-shaped than linear in some previous studies. AIM The primary aim of this study was to examine the relationship between saliva testosterone level variations and different levels of male depressive symptoms in a community sample. The secondary aim was to investigate whether simultaneous testing of evening cortisol and testosterone improved the detection of depression. METHODS In a community study, 534 males were screened, using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Gotland Male Depression Scale (GMDS) and the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Those with signs of depression (n = 65) and randomly selected controls (n = 69) had psychiatric evaluation for depressive disorder. In a sub-sample (n = 51) saliva testosterone was measured twice on a single day. RESULTS Testosterone morning values were significantly higher than evening values (236 vs. 145 pg/ml, P = 0.009). Evening testosterone was significantly higher in depressive males, according to both MADRS (P = 0.028) and BDI (P = 0.036). Having depression increased the likelihood of being in the highest third of testosterone levels (BDI P = 0.021; MADRS P = 0.018). Positive correlation was between total BDI score and elevated evening testosterone with and without psychotropics (P = 0.017; P = 0.002). Correlation was between elevated evening cortisol and evening testosterone levels (P = 0.021) though simultaneous testing did not increase specificity of detecting depression. CONCLUSION Evening saliva testosterone measurements seem the most informative, as they correlate with male depressive syndrome. Simultaneous testing for evening cortisol and evening testosterone levels did not increase specificity for clinical diagnosis of depressive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjarni Sigurdsson
- Bjarni Sigurdsson, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Iceland , Reykjavik , Iceland
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42
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Zhang XY, Chen DC, Tan YL, Tan SP, Wang ZR, Yang FD, Xiu MH, Hui L, Lv MH, Zunta-Soares GB, Soares JC. Gender difference in association of cognition with BDNF in chronic schizophrenia. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 48:136-46. [PMID: 24999831 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
While numerous studies have reported that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, very few studies have explored its association with cognitive impairment or gender differences in schizophrenia which we explored. We compared gender differences in 248 chronic schizophrenic patients (male/female=185/63) to 188 healthy controls (male/female=98/90) on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and serum BDNF. Schizophrenic symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Our results showed that schizophrenic patients performed worse than normals on most of the cognitive tasks, and male patients had significantly lower immediate memory and delayed memory scores than female patients. BDNF levels were significantly lower in patients than controls, and male patients had significantly lower BDNF levels than female patients. For the patients, BDNF was positively associated with immediate memory and the RBANS total score. Furthermore, these associations were only observed in female not male patients. Among healthy controls, no gender difference was observed in cognitive domains and BDNF levels, or in the association between BDNF and cognition. Our results suggest gender differences in cognitive impairments, BDNF levels and their association in chronic patients with schizophrenia. However, the findings should be regarded as preliminary due to the cross-sectional design and our chronic patients, which need replication in a first-episode and drug naïve patients using a longitudinal study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Da-Chun Chen
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun-Long Tan
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Ping Tan
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Ren Wang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-De Yang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Mei-Hong Xiu
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Hui
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Meng-Han Lv
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Giovana B Zunta-Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jair C Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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El-Bakly WM, Hasanin AH. Hypericum Perforatum Decreased Hippocampus TNF-α and Corticosterone Levels with No Effect on Kynurenine/Tryptophan Ratio in Bilateral Ovariectomized Rats. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2014; 18:233-9. [PMID: 24976763 PMCID: PMC4071176 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2014.18.3.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the effect Hypericum Perforatum (HP), on behavioral changes, corticosterone, TNF-α levels and tryptophan metabolism and disposition in bilateral ovariectomized rats compared to 17α -ethinylestradiol. Behavioral analysis by measuring immobility time in forced swimming test and open field test, serum and hippocampal corticosterone and TNF-α along with hippocampal kynurenine/tryptophan ratio were determined in mature ovariectomized rats treated orally either by HP at three different doses 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day or by 17α-ethinylestradiol 30 µg/kg/day for 30 days. Ovariectomized rats showed significant increase in immobility time in the forced swimming test. Along with elevation in serum and hippocampal TNF-α and corticosterone levels associated with significant increase in hippocampal kynurenine/tryptophan ratio. Immobility time in the forced swimming test was decreased in rats treated by different doses of HP in a dose dependent manner and 17α-ethinylestradiol with no concomitant changes in the open field test. Only Rats treated with HP exhibited significant decrease in the elevated serum and hippocampal TNF-α and corticosterone, which couldn't explain the associated insignificant effect on hippocampaus kynurenine/tryptophan ratio in comparison to ovariectomized untreated rats. It is concluded that increased tryptophan metabolism toward kynurenine secondary to elevated corticosterone and TNF-α might be one of the pathohphysiological mechanisms that could explain depression like state observed in this rat model. Further, the observed attenuating effect of HP on TNF-α and corticosterone could contribute in its antidepressant effect in this animal model by other ways than their effects on tryptophan-kynurenine metabolism pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesam M El-Bakly
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Abbasia, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Amany H Hasanin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Abbasia, Cairo 11566, Egypt
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44
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Patrick RP, Ames BN. Vitamin D hormone regulates serotonin synthesis. Part 1: relevance for autism. FASEB J 2014; 28:2398-413. [PMID: 24558199 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-246546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Serotonin and vitamin D have been proposed to play a role in autism; however, no causal mechanism has been established. Here, we present evidence that vitamin D hormone (calcitriol) activates the transcription of the serotonin-synthesizing gene tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the brain at a vitamin D response element (VDRE) and represses the transcription of TPH1 in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier at a distinct VDRE. The proposed mechanism explains 4 major characteristics associated with autism: the low concentrations of serotonin in the brain and its elevated concentrations in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier; the low concentrations of the vitamin D hormone precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D3]; the high male prevalence of autism; and the presence of maternal antibodies against fetal brain tissue. Two peptide hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin, are also associated with autism and genes encoding the oxytocin-neurophysin I preproprotein, the oxytocin receptor, and the arginine vasopressin receptor contain VDREs for activation. Supplementation with vitamin D and tryptophan is a practical and affordable solution to help prevent autism and possibly ameliorate some symptoms of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhonda P Patrick
- Nutrition and Metabolism Center, Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Bruce N Ames
- Nutrition and Metabolism Center, Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, California, USA
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45
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Madden AMK, Zup SL. Effects of developmental hyperserotonemia on juvenile play behavior, oxytocin and serotonin receptor expression in the hypothalamus are age and sex dependent. Physiol Behav 2014; 128:260-9. [PMID: 24530263 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2013] [Revised: 12/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a striking sex difference in the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), such that males are diagnosed more often than females, usually in early childhood. Given that recent research has implicated elevated blood serotonin (hyperserotonemia) in perinatal development as a potential factor in the pathogenesis of ASD, we sought to evaluate the effects of developmental hyperserotonemia on social behavior and relevant brain morphology in juvenile males and females. Administration of 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT) both pre- and postnatally was found to disrupt normal social play behavior in juveniles. In addition, alterations in the number of oxytocinergic cells in the lateral and medial paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were evident on postnatal day 18 (PND18) in 5-MT treated females, but not treated males. 5-MT treatment also changed the relative expression of 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(2A) receptors in the PVN, in males at PND10 and in females at PND18. These data suggest that serotonin plays an organizing role in the development of the PVN in a sexually dimorphic fashion, and that elevated serotonin levels during perinatal development may disrupt normal organization, leading to neurochemical and behavioral changes. Importantly, these data also suggest that the inclusion of both juvenile males and females in studies will be necessary to fully understand the role of serotonin in development, especially in relation to ASD.
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MESH Headings
- Age Factors
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Female
- Hypothalamus/drug effects
- Hypothalamus/metabolism
- Hypothalamus/physiology
- Male
- Paraventricular Hypothalamic Nucleus/drug effects
- Paraventricular Hypothalamic Nucleus/metabolism
- Paraventricular Hypothalamic Nucleus/physiology
- Play and Playthings
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley/growth & development
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/biosynthesis
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/physiology
- Receptors, Oxytocin/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Oxytocin/physiology
- Receptors, Serotonin/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Serotonin/physiology
- Serotonin/blood
- Serotonin/pharmacology
- Sex Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M K Madden
- Graduate Program in Developmental and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA; Psychology Department, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Susan L Zup
- Graduate Program in Developmental and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA; Psychology Department, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA.
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46
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Brain SERT Expression of Male Rats Is Reduced by Aging and Increased by Testosterone Restitution. NEUROSCIENCE JOURNAL 2013; 2013:201909. [PMID: 26317087 PMCID: PMC4437264 DOI: 10.1155/2013/201909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In preclinical and clinical studies aging has been associated with a deteriorated response to antidepressant treatment. We hypothesize that such impairment is explained by an age-related decrease in brain serotonin transporter (SERT) expression associated with low testosterone (T) levels. The objectives of this study were to establish (1) if brain SERT expression is reduced by aging and (2) if the SERT expression in middle-aged rats is increased by T-restitution. Intact young rats (3–5 months) and gonad-intact middle-aged rats with or without T-restitution were used. The identification of the brain SERT expression was done by immunofluorescence in prefrontal cortex, lateral septum, hippocampus, and raphe nuclei. An age-dependent reduction of SERT expression was observed in all brain regions examined, while T-restitution recovered the SERT expression only in the dorsal raphe of middle-aged rats. This last action seems relevant since dorsal raphe plays an important role in the antidepressant action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. All data suggest that this mechanism accounts for the T-replacement usefulness to improve the response to antidepressants in the aged population.
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47
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Short-term quetiapine treatment alters the use of reinforcement signals during risky decision-making and promotes the choice of negative expected values in healthy adult males. J Neurosci 2013; 33:15588-95. [PMID: 24068825 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5721-11.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective decision-making can involve using environmental signals about the possible good and bad outcomes, and their probabilities, to select optimal actions. Problematic decision-making in psychiatric disorders, and particularly bipolar illness, may result from disrupted use of these reinforcement cues, leading to actions that reflect or precipitate pathological changes in mood. Previous experiments indicate that the processing of reinforcement cues while selecting between risky actions can be influenced by dopamine and serotonin activity. Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic agent with a complex pharmacology, including antagonist actions at 5-HT2A and, to a lesser extent, D2 receptors. Here, we investigated the effects of (short-term) treatment with quetiapine on the risky decision-making of healthy human adults. Twenty participants received 150 mg of quetiapine XL for 7 d, whereas 20 age- and IQ-matched participants received a placebo. On the eighth day, all participants completed a risky decision-making task that involved making a series of choices between two simultaneously presented gambles that differed in the magnitudes of their possible gains and losses, and the probabilities with which these outcomes were delivered. Quetiapine treatment was associated with a marked tendency to choose options with negative expected values compared with placebo treatment in male but not female participants. Our results demonstrate that antagonism of serotonin and dopamine receptor activity can alter the way individuals use information about gains and losses when selecting between risky actions, possibly reflecting gender-specific differences in risk attitudes. These effects may be beneficial by correcting decision-making biases that feature in mood disorders.
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Serotonin depletion counteracts sex differences in anxiety-related behaviour in rat. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 230:29-35. [PMID: 23681161 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3133-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies suggest (1) that a major physiological role of brain serotonin-containing neurons is to modulate sex steroid-driven behaviour such as sex and aggression, (2) that sex steroids influence brain serotonergic neurotransmission and (3) that brain serotonergic neurotransmission displays sexual dimorphism. Such observations indicate that an important task for brain serotonin is to either enhance or counteract sex differences in behaviour. METHODS To test this hypothesis, we explored the effect of short-term serotonin depletion on the behaviour of adult male and female rats in a behavioural paradigm in which males and females have been shown to behave differently, i.e. the elevated plus maze. RESULTS Two rounds of testing of untreated Wistar rats confirmed the previous observation that females make more entries into open arms (round 1, p = 0.001; round 2, p = 0.008) and spend more time on these arms (round 1, p ≤ 0.001; round 2, p = 0.006) than males; in addition, males displayed fewer entries into closed arms upon habituation, i.e. at the second round (p ≤ 0.001) than did females. Administration of the tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitor para-chloro-phenylalanine, at a regimen (300 mg/kg/day for 3 days), markedly reducing brain content of serotonin, enhanced entries upon open arms (p = 0.01) and time spent on open arms (p = 0.004) in males but exerted no such effects in females (p = 0.9 and p = 0.9, respectively); moreover, it reduced entries into closed arms in females (p ≤ 0.001) but not in males (p = 0.1). CONCLUSIONS Serotonin depletion abolishing the sex differences observed at baseline supports the theory that serotonin aids to uphold certain sex differences in behaviour.
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Boys' serotonin transporter genotype affects maternal behavior through self-control: a case of evocative gene-environment correlation. Dev Psychopathol 2013; 25:151-62. [PMID: 23398759 DOI: 10.1017/s095457941200096x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Self-control, involving processes such as delaying gratification, concentrating, planning, following instructions, and adapting emotions and behavior to situational requirements and social norms, may have a profound impact on children's adjustment. The importance of self-control suggests that parents are likely to modify their parenting based on children's ability for self-control. We study the effect of children's self-control, a trait partially molded by genetics, on their mothers' parenting, a process of evocative gene-environment correlation. Israeli 3.5-year-old twins (N = 320) participated in a lab session in which their mothers' parenting was observed. DNA was available from most children (N = 228). Mothers described children's self-control in a questionnaire. Boys were lower in self-control and received less positive parenting from their mothers, in comparison with girls. For boys, and not for girls, the serotonin transporter linked polymorphic region gene predicted mothers' levels of positive parenting, an effect mediated by boys' self-control. The implications of this evocative gene-environment correlation and the observed sex differences are discussed.
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Höfer P, Lanzenberger R, Kasper S. Testosterone in the brain: neuroimaging findings and the potential role for neuropsychopharmacology. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2013; 23:79-88. [PMID: 22578782 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2012.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Revised: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone plays a substantial role in a number of physiological processes in the brain. It is able to modulate the expression of certain genes by binding to androgen receptors. Acting via neurotransmitter receptors, testosterone shows the potential to mediate a non-genomic so-called "neuroactive effect". Various neurotransmitter systems are also influenced by the aromatized form of testosterone, estradiol. The following article summarizes the findings of preclinical and clinical neuroimaging studies including structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI/fMRI), voxel based morphometry (VBM), as well as pharmacological fMRI (phfMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) regarding the effects of testosterone on the human brain. The impact of testosterone on the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders and on sex-related prevalence differences have been supported by a wide range of clinical studies. An antidepressant effect of testosterone can be implicitly explained by its effects on the limbic system--especially amygdala, a major target in the treatment of depression--solidly demonstrated by a large body of neuroimaging findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Höfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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