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Castagno AN, Spaiardi P, Trucco A, Maniezzi C, Raffin F, Mancini M, Nicois A, Cazzola J, Pedrinazzi M, Del Papa P, Pisani A, Talpo F, Biella GR. Oxytocin Modifies the Excitability and the Action Potential Shape of the Hippocampal CA1 GABAergic Interneurons. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2613. [PMID: 38473860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052613] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a neuropeptide that modulates social-related behavior and cognition in the central nervous system of mammals. In the CA1 area of the hippocampus, the indirect effects of the OT on the pyramidal neurons and their role in information processing have been elucidated. However, limited data are available concerning the direct modulation exerted by OT on the CA1 interneurons (INs) expressing the oxytocin receptor (OTR). Here, we demonstrated that TGOT (Thr4,Gly7-oxytocin), a selective OTR agonist, affects not only the membrane potential and the firing frequency but also the neuronal excitability and the shape of the action potentials (APs) of these INs in mice. Furthermore, we constructed linear mixed-effects models (LMMs) to unravel the dependencies between the AP parameters and the firing frequency, also considering how TGOT can interact with them to strengthen or weaken these influences. Our analyses indicate that OT regulates the functionality of the CA1 GABAergic INs through different and independent mechanisms. Specifically, the increase in neuronal firing rate can be attributed to the depolarizing effect on the membrane potential and the related enhancement in cellular excitability by the peptide. In contrast, the significant changes in the AP shape are directly linked to oxytocinergic modulation. Importantly, these alterations in AP shape are not associated with the TGOT-induced increase in neuronal firing rate, being themselves critical for signal processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Nicolas Castagno
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Spaiardi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- INFN-Pavia Section, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Arianna Trucco
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Maniezzi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Francesca Raffin
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Mancini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Nicois
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Jessica Cazzola
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Matilda Pedrinazzi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Del Papa
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Talpo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gerardo Rosario Biella
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- INFN-Pavia Section, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Aygün O, Mohr E, Duff C, Matthew S, Schoenberg P. Oxytocin Modulation in Mindfulness-Based Pain Management for Chronic Pain. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:253. [PMID: 38398763 PMCID: PMC10890287 DOI: 10.3390/life14020253] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In the context of chronic pain management, opioid-based treatments have been heavily relied upon, raising concerns related to addiction and misuse. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as Mindfulness-Based Pain Management, offer alternative strategies. We conducted a mechanistic clinical study to investigate the impact of an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Pain Management intervention on chronic pain, the modulation of inflammatory markers, stress physiology, and oxytocin, and their interplay with clinical pain symptoms and perception, in comparison to a patient wait-list active control. A total of 65 participants, including 50 chronic pain patients and 15 healthy controls, underwent salivary assays to assess endocrine markers, oxytocin, interleukin (IL)-1b, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S). Psychological assessments were also conducted to evaluate aspects of pain perception, mindfulness, mood, and well-being. Findings revealed significant differences between chronic pain patients and healthy controls in various clinical metrics, highlighting the psychological distress experienced by patients. Following Mindfulness-Based Pain Management, oxytocin levels significantly increased in chronic pain patients, that was not observed in the patient wait-list control group. In contrast, cytokine and DHEA-S levels decreased (not to statistically significant margins) supporting anti-inflammatory effects of Mindfulness-Based Pain Management. The fact DHEA-S levels, a marker of stress, did attenuate but not to statistically meaningful levels, suggests that pain reduction was not solely related to stress reduction, and that oxytocin pathways may be more salient than previously considered. Psychological assessments demonstrated substantial improvements in pain perception and mood in the intervention group. These results contribute to the growing body of evidence regarding the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in chronic pain management and underscore oxytocin's potential role as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oytun Aygün
- Laboratoire DysCo, Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, 93526 Saint-Denis, France;
| | - Emily Mohr
- Osher Center for Integrative Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
| | - Colin Duff
- Breathworks Foundation, Manchester M4 1DZ, UK
| | | | - Poppy Schoenberg
- Osher Center for Integrative Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
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López-León CF, Soriano J, Planet R. Rheological Characterization of Three-Dimensional Neuronal Cultures Embedded in PEGylated Fibrin Hydrogels. Gels 2023; 9:642. [PMID: 37623097 PMCID: PMC10454106 DOI: 10.3390/gels9080642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) neuronal cultures are valuable models for studying brain complexity in vitro, and the choice of the bulk material in which the neurons grow is a crucial factor in establishing successful cultures. Indeed, neuronal development and network functionality are influenced by the mechanical properties of the selected material; in turn, these properties may change due to neuron-matrix interactions that alter the microstructure of the material. To advance our understanding of the interplay between neurons and their environment, here we utilized a PEGylated fibrin hydrogel as a scaffold for mouse primary neuronal cultures and carried out a rheological characterization of the scaffold over a three-week period, both with and without cells. We observed that the hydrogels exhibited an elastic response that could be described in terms of the Young's modulus E. The hydrogels without neurons procured a stable E≃420 Pa, while the neuron-laden hydrogels showed a higher E≃590 Pa during the early stages of development that decreased to E≃340 Pa at maturer stages. Our results suggest that neurons and their processes dynamically modify the hydrogel structure during development, potentially compromising both the stability of the material and the functional traits of the developing neuronal network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara F. López-León
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain; (C.F.L.-L.); (J.S.)
- Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Soriano
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain; (C.F.L.-L.); (J.S.)
- Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Planet
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain; (C.F.L.-L.); (J.S.)
- Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Tang Y, Liu S, Xu L, Huang M, Zhang K. Arginine vasopressin effects on membrane potentials of preoptic area temperature-sensitive and -insensitive neurons in rat hypothalamic tissue slices. Neuropeptides 2023; 100:102344. [PMID: 37148733 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2023.102344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Arginine vasopressin (AVP) plays a hypothermic regulatory role in thermoregulation and is an important endogenous mediator in this mechanism. In the preoptic area (POA), AVP increases the spontaneous firing and thermosensitivity of warm-sensitive neurons and decreases those of cold-sensitive and temperature-insensitive neurons. Because POA neurons play a crucial role in precise thermoregulatory responses, these findings indicate that there is an association between the hypothermia and changes in the firing activity of AVP-induced POA neurons. However, the electrophysiological mechanisms by which AVP controls this firing activity remain unclear. Therefore, in the present study, using in vitro hypothalamic brain slices and whole-cell recordings, we elucidated the membrane potential responses of temperature-sensitive and -insensitive POA neurons to identify the applications of AVP or V1a vasopressin receptor antagonists. By monitoring changes in the resting potential and membrane potential thermosensitivity of the neurons before and during experimental perfusion, we observed that AVP increased the changes in the resting potential of 50% of temperature-insensitive neurons but reduced them in others. These changes are because AVP enhances the membrane potential thermosensitivity of nearly 50% of the temperature-insensitive neurons. On the other hand, AVP changes both the resting potential and membrane potential thermosensitivity of temperature-sensitive neurons, with no differences between the warm- and cold-sensitive neurons. Before and during AVP or V1a vasopressin receptor antagonist perfusion, no correlation was observed between changes in the thermosensitivity and membrane potential of all neurons. Furthermore, no correlation was observed between the thermosensitivity and membrane potential thermosensitivity of the neurons during experimental perfusion. In the present study, we found that AVP induction did not result in any changes in resting potential, which is unique to temperature-sensitive neurons. The study results suggest that AVP-induced changes in the firing activity and firing rate thermosensitivity of POA neurons are not controlled by resting potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, CNNC 416th Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China; Department of Physiology, Key Laboratory of Thermoregulatory and Inflammation of Sichuan Higher Education Institutes, Development and Regeneration Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Siyuan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, CNNC 416th Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Lingzhi Xu
- School of clinical medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Min Huang
- Department of Physiology, Key Laboratory of Thermoregulatory and Inflammation of Sichuan Higher Education Institutes, Development and Regeneration Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, CNNC 416th Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
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Kobashi M, Shimatani Y, Fujita M. Oxytocin increased intragastric pressure in the forestomach of rats via the dorsal vagal complex. Physiol Behav 2023; 261:114087. [PMID: 36646162 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported that appetite-enhancing peptides facilitated phasic contractions of the distal stomach and relaxed the forestomach via the dorsal vagal complex (DVC). The present study investigated the effects of anorectic substances on gastric reservoir function. The effects of oxytocin on the motility of the forestomach were examined in rats anesthetized with urethane-chloralose. Gastric motor responses were measured using an intragastric balloon. The fourth ventricular administration of oxytocin (0.1 - 1.0 nmol) increased intragastric pressure (IGP) in the forestomach in a dose-dependent manner. Conversely, the administration of oxytocin (0.3 nmol) suppressed phasic contractions of the distal stomach. These responses were opposite to those of appetite-enhancing peptides in previous studies. The oxytocin response in the forestomach was not observed after bilateral cervical vagotomy. The effects of oxytocin on forestomach motility were examined in animals that underwent ablation of the area postrema (AP) to clarify its involvement. Although the magnitude of the response to the fourth ventricular administration of oxytocin decreased, a significant response was still observed. A microinjection of oxytocin (3 pmol) into the AP, the left medial nucleus of the nucleus tractus solitarius (mNTS), the left commissural part of the NTS, or the left dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus was performed. The oxytocin injection into the AP and/or mNTS induced a rapid and large increase in IGP in the forestomach. Prior injection of L-368,899, an oxytocin receptor antagonist, into both the AP and mNTS attenuated the oxytocin response of the forestomach induced by fourth ventricular administration of oxytocin. These results indicate that oxytocin acts on the AP and/or mNTS to increase IGP in the forestomach via vagal preganglionic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoi Kobashi
- Department of Oral Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8525, Japan.
| | - Yuichi Shimatani
- Department of Medical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo City University, Tokyo, 158-8557, Japan
| | - Masako Fujita
- Department of Oral Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8525, Japan
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Talpo F, Spaiardi P, Castagno AN, Maniezzi C, Raffin F, Terribile G, Sancini G, Pisani A, Biella GR. Neuromodulatory functions exerted by oxytocin on different populations of hippocampal neurons in rodents. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1082010. [PMID: 36816855 PMCID: PMC9932910 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1082010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a neuropeptide widely known for its peripheral hormonal effects (i.e., parturition and lactation) and central neuromodulatory functions, related especially to social behavior and social, spatial, and episodic memory. The hippocampus is a key structure for these functions, it is innervated by oxytocinergic fibers, and contains OT receptors (OTRs). The hippocampal OTR distribution is not homogeneous among its subregions and types of neuronal cells, reflecting the specificity of oxytocin's modulatory action. In this review, we describe the most recent discoveries in OT/OTR signaling in the hippocampus, focusing primarily on the electrophysiological oxytocinergic modulation of the OTR-expressing hippocampal neurons. We then look at the effect this modulation has on the balance of excitation/inhibition and synaptic plasticity in each hippocampal subregion. Additionally, we review OTR downstream signaling, which underlies the OT effects observed in different types of hippocampal neuron. Overall, this review comprehensively summarizes the advancements in unraveling the neuromodulatory functions exerted by OT on specific hippocampal networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Talpo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Spaiardi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy,Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Nicolas Castagno
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Maniezzi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Raffin
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Terribile
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Sancini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy,Nanomedicine Center, Neuroscience Center, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy,Neurological Institute Foundation Casimiro Mondino (IRCCS), Pavia, Italy
| | - Gerardo Rosario Biella
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy,Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Pavia, Pavia, Italy,*Correspondence: Gerardo Rosario Biella,
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Wang Y, Xu H, Zhang X. Breakthrough in Structural and Functional Dissection of the Hypothalamo-Neurohypophysial System. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:1087-1089. [PMID: 33909241 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
| | - Huamin Xu
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
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Kania A, Sambak P, Gugula A, Szlaga A, Soltys Z, Blasiak T, Hess G, Rajfur Z, Blasiak A. Electrophysiology and distribution of oxytocin and vasopressin neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus: a study in male and female rats. Brain Struct Funct 2019; 225:285-304. [DOI: 10.1007/s00429-019-01989-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Wayman C, Russell R, Tang K, Weibly L, Gaboardi S, Fisher L, Allers K, Jackson M, Hawcock T, Robinson N, Wilson L, Gupta J, Casey J, Gibson KR. Cligosiban, A Novel Brain-Penetrant, Selective Oxytocin Receptor Antagonist, Inhibits Ejaculatory Physiology in Rodents. J Sex Med 2019; 15:1698-1706. [PMID: 30527053 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Few treatments are available for men with premature ejaculation (PE); oxytocin (OT) receptor antagonism in the central nervous system (CNS) is a potential new approach. AIM To determine if cligosiban selectively inhibits human OT receptors, penetrates the CNS, shows pharmacology in the CNS, and effects ejaculatory physiology in pre-clinical systems. METHODS Experiments complied with United Kingdom legislation and were subject to local ethical review. In vitro potency and selectivity of cligosiban was assessed using recombinant and native OT receptor systems including both neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. Selectivity was determined over neighboring V1A, V1B, and V2 vasopressin receptors using a combination of recombinant and native vasopressin receptor assay systems. To determine an effect on central OT receptors and on ejaculation, cligosiban was evaluated in 2 anesthetized rat models-the electromyography model of ejaculatory physiology and a model of OT-mediated CNS neuronal firing. The CNS penetration of cligosiban was also determined by measuring cerebrospinal fluid and plasma drug concentrations following an intravenous (IV) infusion in rats. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE These were functional measures of pharmacology in vitro, in cell lines and tissues, and in vivo in rats. RESULTS Cligosiban is a potent OT receptor antagonist, with a base dissociation constant of 5.7 nmol/L against native human uterine smooth muscle cell OT receptors. Cligosiban displays similar antagonistic potency against human recombinant and rat native OT receptors, including neuronal OT receptors. Cligosiban demonstrates >100-fold selectivity over human V1A, V1B, and V2 vasopressin receptors. In the electromyography model, cligosiban (0.9 mg/kg, IV bolus) reduced the bulbospongiosum burst pattern and contraction amplitude associated with ejaculation. In the anesthetized CNS neuronal firing model, the same dosing regimen of cligosiban (0.9 mg/kg IV bolus) modulated the OT-mediated response in the nucleus tractus solitarius. After systemic dosing to rats, cligosiban showed good CNS penetration. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS As the first highly selective and centrally penetrant OT receptor antagonist, cligosiban represents a promising compound to test the clinical hypothesis that antagonism of central OT receptors may be of therapeutic benefit in the treatment of PE. STRENGTH & LIMITATIONS The pharmacology and selectivity of cligosiban is determined using functional assays in recombinant cell lines, native cell lines, and tissue. Functional outcomes in in vivo systems are linked to CNS measures of pharmacology. The translation of the animal models of ejaculation to PE in man is unproven. CONCLUSION Cligosiban, a potent, selective OT receptor antagonist, demonstrated CNS penetration and pharmacology and, using the same dosing regimen, inhibited apomorphine-induced ejaculation in rats. Cligosiban is a promising compound to test the clinical hypothesis that antagonism of central OT receptors may be of therapeutic benefit in the treatment of PE. Wayman C, Russell R, Tang K, et al. Cligosiban, A Novel Brain Penetrant Selective Oxytocin Receptor Antagonist, Inhibits Ejaculatory Physiology in Rodents. J Sex Med 2018;15:1698-1706.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Wayman
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Russell
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Kim Tang
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Weibly
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha Gaboardi
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Fisher
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly Allers
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret Jackson
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Tony Hawcock
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Robinson
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Lesley Wilson
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Gupta
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - James Casey
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom
| | - Karl R Gibson
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sexual Health Therapeutic Area, Sandwich, United Kingdom; Ixchelsis Ltd, Sandwich, United Kingdom.
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Li Q, Yang C, Zhang X, Yang Z, Zhang T. Arginine vasopressin attenuates dysfunction of hippocampal theta and gamma oscillations in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion via V1a receptor. Brain Res Bull 2019; 153:84-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Cellular Mechanisms for Antinociception Produced by Oxytocin and Orexins in the Rat Spinal Lamina II-Comparison with Those of Other Endogenous Pain Modulators. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12030136. [PMID: 31527474 PMCID: PMC6789548 DOI: 10.3390/ph12030136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Much evidence indicates that hypothalamus-derived neuropeptides, oxytocin, orexins A and B, inhibit nociceptive transmission in the rat spinal dorsal horn. In order to unveil cellular mechanisms for this antinociception, the effects of the neuropeptides on synaptic transmission were examined in spinal lamina II neurons that play a crucial role in antinociception produced by various analgesics by using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique and adult rat spinal cord slices. Oxytocin had no effect on glutamatergic excitatory transmission while producing a membrane depolarization, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic and glycinergic spontaneous inhibitory transmission enhancement. On the other hand, orexins A and B produced a membrane depolarization and/or a presynaptic spontaneous excitatory transmission enhancement. Like oxytocin, orexin A enhanced both GABAergic and glycinergic transmission, whereas orexin B facilitated glycinergic but not GABAergic transmission. These inhibitory transmission enhancements were due to action potential production. Oxytocin, orexins A and B activities were mediated by oxytocin, orexin-1 and orexin-2 receptors, respectively. This review article will mention cellular mechanisms for antinociception produced by oxytocin, orexins A and B, and discuss similarity and difference in antinociceptive mechanisms among the hypothalamic neuropeptides and other endogenous pain modulators (opioids, nociceptin, adenosine, adenosine 5’-triphosphate (ATP), noradrenaline, serotonin, dopamine, somatostatin, cannabinoids, galanin, substance P, bradykinin, neuropeptide Y and acetylcholine) exhibiting a change in membrane potential, excitatory or inhibitory transmission in the spinal lamina II neurons.
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Maniezzi C, Talpo F, Spaiardi P, Toselli M, Biella G. Oxytocin Increases Phasic and Tonic GABAergic Transmission in CA1 Region of Mouse Hippocampus. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:178. [PMID: 31133808 PMCID: PMC6516053 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide that plays important peripheral and central neuromodulatory functions. Our data show that, following activation of oxytocin receptors (OtRs) with the selective agonist TGOT (Thr4,Gly7-oxytocin), a significant increase in frequency and amplitude of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSC) occurred in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons (PYR) in mice. TGOT affected also sIPSC deactivation kinetics, suggesting the involvement of perisynaptic GABAA receptors (GABAARs) as well. By contrast, TGOT did not cause significant changes in frequency, amplitude or deactivation kinetics of miniature IPSC, suggesting that the effects elicited by the agonist are strictly dependent on the firing activity of presynaptic neurons. Moreover, TGOT was able to modulate tonic GABAergic current mediated by extrasynaptic GABAARs expressed by PYRs. Consistently, at spike threshold TGOT induced in most PYRs a significant membrane hyperpolarization and a decrease in firing rate. The source of increased inhibition onto PYRs was represented by stuttering fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons (INs) that directly respond to TGOT with a depolarization and an increase in their firing rate. One putative ionic mechanism underlying this effect could be represented by OtR activation-induced up-modulation of L-type Ca2+ channels. In conclusion, our results indicate that oxytocin can influence the activity of a subclass of hippocampal GABAergic INs and therefore regulate the operational modes of the downstream PYRs by increasing phasic and tonic GABAergic transmission in CA1 region of mouse hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Maniezzi
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Talpo
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Spaiardi
- Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mauro Toselli
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gerardo Biella
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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13
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Molecular Mechanisms of Oxytocin Signaling at the Synaptic Connection. Neural Plast 2018; 2018:4864107. [PMID: 30057594 PMCID: PMC6051047 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4864107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant regulation of oxytocin signaling is associated with the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Synaptic dysfunctions in neurodevelopmental disorders are becoming increasingly known, and their pathogenic mechanisms could be a target of potential therapeutic intervention. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the role of oxytocin and its receptor in synapse structure, function, and neuron connectivity. An early alteration in oxytocin signaling may disturb neuronal maturation and may have short-term and long-term pathological consequences. At the molecular level, neurodevelopmental disorders include alterations in cytoskeletal rearrangement and neuritogenesis resulting in a diversity of synaptopathies. The presence of oxytocin receptors in the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes and the direct effects of oxytocin on neuronal excitability by regulating the activity of ion channels in the cell membrane implicate that alterations in oxytocin signaling could be involved in synaptopathies. The ability of oxytocin to modulate neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and certain parameters of cytoskeletal arrangement is discussed in the present review.
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Distribution of mesotocin-immunoreactive neurons in the brain of the male native Thai chicken. Acta Histochem 2017; 119:804-811. [PMID: 29055508 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesotocin (MT), a homolog of oxytocin (OT) in mammals, is a nonapeptide neurohypophysial hormone that is mainly synthesized in specific neuronal groups within the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary gland in amphibian, reptilian, and avian species. MT is associated with the neuroendocrine regulation of reproductive cycle and maternal behaviors in female native Thai chickens. Male birds exhibit parental behaviors as well. However, there are limited data regarding the role(s) of the MTergic system in males. Thus, the objective of this study was to elucidate the localization of the MT neuronal groups in the brain of male native Thai chickens. The distributions of MT-immunoreactive (-ir) neurons and fibers in the brain were studied utilizing immunohistochemistry technique. The results revealed that MT-ir neurons and fibers were distributed throughout the brain and extensively in the diencephalon. MT-ir neurons and fibers were predominantly located within the nucleus supraopticus, pars ventralis (SOv), nucleus preopticus medialis (POM), nucleus ventrolateralis thalami (VLT), nucleus paraventricularis magnocellularis (PVN), and regio lateralis hypothalami (LHy), suggesting that MT neurons in these nuclei might be involved in the reproductive activities and/or parental behavior in the male chickens. In addition, the numbers of MT-ir neurons within the SOv and POM were significantly higher than those of the VLT, PVN, and LHy. More importantly, the number of MT-ir neurons in the SOv was high in the male brain when compared with the female brain, indicating that the MTergic system in the SOv might play a significant role in male reproductive activities in this equatorial species.
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Dumais KM, Kulkarni PP, Ferris CF, Veenema AH. Sex differences in neural activation following different routes of oxytocin administration in awake adult rats. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 81:52-62. [PMID: 28412582 PMCID: PMC5497485 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) regulates social behavior in sex-specific ways across species. OT has promising effects on alleviating social deficits in sex-biased neuropsychiatric disorders. However little is known about potential sexually dimorphic effects of OT on brain function. Using the rat as a model organism, we determined whether OT administered centrally or peripherally induces sex differences in brain activation. Functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to examine blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal intensity changes in the brains of awake rats during the 20min following intracerebroventricular (ICV; 1μg/5μl) or intraperitoneal (IP; 0.1mg/kg) OT administration as compared to baseline. ICV OT induced sex differences in BOLD activation in 26 out of 172 brain regions analyzed, with 20 regions showing a greater volume of activation in males (most notably the nucleus accumbens and insular cortex), and 6 regions showing a greater volume of activation in females (including the lateral and central amygdala). IP OT also elicited sex differences in BOLD activation with a greater volume of activation in males, but this activation was found in different and fewer (10) brain regions compared to ICV OT. In conclusion, exogenous OT modulates neural activation differently in male versus female rats with the pattern and magnitude, but not the direction, of sex differences depending on the route of administration. These findings highlight the need to include both sexes in basic and clinical studies to fully understand the role of OT on brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M. Dumais
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA, 02467
| | - Praveen P. Kulkarni
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA, 02115
| | - Craig F. Ferris
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA, 02115
| | - Alexa H. Veenema
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA, 02467
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16
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Arginine vasopressin ameliorates spatial learning impairments in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion via V1a receptor and autophagy signaling partially. Transl Psychiatry 2017; 7:e1174. [PMID: 28934194 PMCID: PMC5538111 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2017.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is a major factor contributing to neurological disorders and cognitive decline. Autophagy activation is believed to provide both beneficial and detrimental roles during hypoxic/ischemic cellular injury. Although arginine vasopressin (AVP) has been strongly involved in many behaviors, especially in learning and memory, the effects of AVP on CCH and their molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, to investigate whether there was neuroprotective effects of AVP on CCH through V1a receptor (an AVP receptor) signaling, permanent bilateral carotid arteries occlusion (two vessel occlusion, 2VO) was used to establish a rat model of CCH, and hypertonic saline (5.3%) was injected intraperitoneally to induce the secretion of AVP. Results showed that hypertonic saline effectively alleviated spatial learning and memory deficit, enhanced synaptic plasticity of CA3-CA1 hippocampal synapses, upregulated N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor subunit 2B (NR2B) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) surface expressions, reduced oxidative stress and increased Nissl bodies in 2VO model rats. These phenomena were significantly decreased by V1a receptor antagonist SR49059. Interestingly, hypertonic saline also upregulated autophagy in the hippocampus of 2VO rats partly through V1a receptor. These findings imply that AVP has a beneficial role for the treatment of cognitive impairments partly through V1a receptor signaling in CCH, which is possibly related to improving synaptic plasticity by promoting NR2B and PSD-95 externalization and by enhancing autophagy.
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17
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Galbusera A, De Felice A, Girardi S, Bassetto G, Maschietto M, Nishimori K, Chini B, Papaleo F, Vassanelli S, Gozzi A. Intranasal Oxytocin and Vasopressin Modulate Divergent Brainwide Functional Substrates. Neuropsychopharmacology 2017; 42:1420-1434. [PMID: 27995932 PMCID: PMC5436116 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2016.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptides oxytocin (OXT) and vasopressin (AVP) have been identified as modulators of emotional social behaviors and associated with neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by social dysfunction. Experimental and therapeutic use of OXT and AVP via the intranasal route is the subject of extensive clinical research. However, the large-scale functional substrates directly engaged by these peptides and their functional dynamics remain elusive. By using cerebral blood volume (CBV) weighted fMRI in the mouse, we show that intranasal administration of OXT rapidly elicits the transient activation of cortical regions and a sustained activation of hippocampal and forebrain areas characterized by high oxytocin receptor density. By contrast, intranasal administration of AVP produced a robust and sustained deactivation in cortico-parietal, thalamic and mesolimbic regions. Importantly, intravenous administration of OXT and AVP did not recapitulate the patterns of modulation produced by intranasal dosing, supporting a central origin of the observed functional changes. In keeping with this notion, hippocampal local field potential recordings revealed multi-band power increases upon intranasal OXT administration. We also show that the selective OXT-derivative TGOT reproduced the pattern of activation elicited by OXT and that the deletion of OXT receptors does not affect AVP-mediated deactivation. Collectively, our data document divergent modulation of brainwide neural systems by intranasal administration of OXT and AVP, an effect that involves key substrates of social and emotional behavior. The observed divergence calls for a deeper investigation of the systems-level mechanisms by which exogenous OXT and AVP modulate brain function and exert their putative therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Galbusera
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems @UniTn, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto (TN), Italy
| | - Alessia De Felice
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems @UniTn, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto (TN), Italy
| | - Stefano Girardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giacomo Bassetto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marta Maschietto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Bice Chini
- CNR, Institute of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy,Department of Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Gozzi
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems @UniTn, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto (TN), Italy,Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems @UniTn, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto (TN) 38068, Italy, Tel: +39 04648028701, E-mail:
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18
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Yan X, Chen X, Guo Y, He D, Chen Y, Xia C, Wang J. Arginine Vasopressin Alters Both Spontaneous and Phase-Locked Synaptic Inputs to Airway Vagal Preganglionic Neuron via Activation of V 1a Receptor: Insights into Stress-Related Airway Vagal Excitation. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:12. [PMID: 28210214 PMCID: PMC5288349 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The airway vagal preganglionic neurons (AVPNs) in the external formation of the nucleus ambiguus (eNA) play a major role in the vagal control of tracheobronchial smooth muscle tone and maintenance of airway resistance. The eNA receives vasopressinergic projection from the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), the key node for the genesis of psychological stress. Since airway vagal excitation is reportedly to be associated with the psychological stress-induced/exacerbated airway hyperresponsiveness in asthmatics, arginine vasopressin (AVP) might be involved in stress-related airway vagal excitation. However, this possibility has not been validated. This study aimed to test whether and how AVP regulates AVPNs. In rhythmically active medullary slices of newborn rats, retrogradely labeled AVPNs were identified as inspiratory-activated and inspiratory-inhibited AVPNs (IA- and II-AVPNs) using patch-clamp techniques according to their inspiratory-related firing behavior and synaptic activities. The results show that under current clamp, AVP depolarized both IA- and II-AVPNs, and significantly increased their spontaneous firing rate. Under voltage clamp, AVP elicited a slow inward current, and significantly increased the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) in both types of AVPNs. In addition, AVP significantly enhanced the phase-locked excitatory inspiratory inward current in inspiratory-activated airway vagal preganglionic neurons (IA-AVPNs), but significantly suppressed the phase-locked inhibitory inspiratory outward current in II-AVPNs. In both types AVPNs, AVP significantly increased the frequency and amplitude of pharmacologically isolated spontaneous GABAergic and glycinergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs). All of the AVP-induced effects were prevented by SR49059, an antagonist of V1a receptors, but unaffected by SSR149415, an antagonist of V1b receptors. AVP did not cause significant changes in the miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs), miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) and membrane input resistance of either type of AVPNs. These results demonstrate that AVP, via activation of V1a receptors, enhanced the spontaneous excitatory and inhibitory inputs similarly in the two types of AVPNs, but differentially altered their phase-locked inspiratory excitatory and inhibitory inputs. The overall effects of AVP are excitatory in both types AVPNs. These results suggest that increased central AVP release may be involved in the stress-induced augmentation of airway vagal activity, and, consequently, the induction or exacerbation of some airway diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianxia Yan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Xingxin Chen
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhong Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Ding He
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Yonghua Chen
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Chunmei Xia
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Jijiang Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
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19
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Oettl LL, Ravi N, Schneider M, Scheller MF, Schneider P, Mitre M, da Silva Gouveia M, Froemke RC, Chao MV, Young WS, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Grinevich V, Shusterman R, Kelsch W. Oxytocin Enhances Social Recognition by Modulating Cortical Control of Early Olfactory Processing. Neuron 2016; 90:609-21. [PMID: 27112498 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin promotes social interactions and recognition of conspecifics that rely on olfaction in most species. The circuit mechanisms through which oxytocin modifies olfactory processing are incompletely understood. Here, we observed that optogenetically induced oxytocin release enhanced olfactory exploration and same-sex recognition of adult rats. Consistent with oxytocin's function in the anterior olfactory cortex, particularly in social cue processing, region-selective receptor deletion impaired social recognition but left odor discrimination and recognition intact outside a social context. Oxytocin transiently increased the drive of the anterior olfactory cortex projecting to olfactory bulb interneurons. Cortical top-down recruitment of interneurons dynamically enhanced the inhibitory input to olfactory bulb projection neurons and increased the signal-to-noise of their output. In summary, oxytocin generates states for optimized information extraction in an early cortical top-down network that is required for social interactions with potential implications for sensory processing deficits in autism spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Lennart Oettl
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Namasivayam Ravi
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Miriam Schneider
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Max F Scheller
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peggy Schneider
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Mariela Mitre
- Skirball Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Miriam da Silva Gouveia
- Schaller Research Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert C Froemke
- Skirball Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Moses V Chao
- Skirball Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - W Scott Young
- Section on Neural Gene Expression, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Valery Grinevich
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany; Schaller Research Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roman Shusterman
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Wolfgang Kelsch
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159 Mannheim, Germany.
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20
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Waller R, Corral-Frías NS, Vannucci B, Bogdan R, Knodt AR, Hariri AR, Hyde LW. An oxytocin receptor polymorphism predicts amygdala reactivity and antisocial behavior in men. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2016; 11:1218-26. [PMID: 27036876 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsw042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Variability in oxytocin (OXT) signaling is associated with individual differences in sex-specific social behavior across species. The effects of OXT signaling on social behavior are, in part, mediated through its modulation of amygdala function. Here, we use imaging genetics to examine sex-specific effects of three single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the human oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR; rs1042778, rs53576 and rs2254298) on threat-related amygdala reactivity and social behavior in 406 Caucasians. Analyses revealed that among men but not women, OXTR rs1042778 TT genotype was associated with increased right amygdala reactivity to angry facial expressions, which was uniquely related to higher levels of antisocial behavior among men. Moderated meditation analysis suggested a trending indirect effect of OXTR rs1042778 TT genotype on higher antisocial behavior via increased right amygdala reactivity to angry facial expressions in men. Our results provide evidence linking genetic variation in OXT signaling to individual differences in amygdala function. The results further suggest that these pathways may be uniquely important in shaping antisocial behavior in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Nadia S Corral-Frías
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, USA
| | - Bianca Vannucci
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, USA
| | - Ryan Bogdan
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, USA
| | - Annchen R Knodt
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Ahmad R Hariri
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Luke W Hyde
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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21
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Gafford GM, Ressler KJ. Mouse models of fear-related disorders: Cell-type-specific manipulations in amygdala. Neuroscience 2015; 321:108-120. [PMID: 26102004 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Fear conditioning is a model system used to study threat responses, fear memory and their dysregulation in a variety of organisms. Newly developed tools such as optogenetics, Cre recombinase and DREADD technologies have allowed researchers to manipulate anatomically or molecularly defined cell subtypes with a high degree of temporal control and determine the effect of this manipulation on behavior. These targeted molecular techniques have opened up a new appreciation for the critical contributions different subpopulations of cells make to fear behavior and potentially to treatment of fear and anxiety disorders. Here we review progress to date across a variety of techniques to understand fear-related behavior through the manipulation of different cell subtypes within the amygdala.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Gafford
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - K J Ressler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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22
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Vargas-Martínez F, Uvnäs-Moberg K, Petersson M, Olausson HA, Jiménez-Estrada I. Neuropeptides as neuroprotective agents: Oxytocin a forefront developmental player in the mammalian brain. Prog Neurobiol 2014; 123:37-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2014.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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23
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Quattrocki E, Friston K. Autism, oxytocin and interoception. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 47:410-30. [PMID: 25277283 PMCID: PMC4726659 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by profound social and verbal communication deficits, stereotypical motor behaviors, restricted interests, and cognitive abnormalities. Autism affects approximately 1% of children in developing countries. Given this prevalence, identifying risk factors and therapeutic interventions are pressing objectives—objectives that rest on neurobiologically grounded and psychologically informed theories about the underlying pathophysiology. In this article, we review the evidence that autism could result from a dysfunctional oxytocin system early in life. As a mediator of successful procreation, not only in the reproductive system, but also in the brain, oxytocin plays a crucial role in sculpting socio-sexual behavior. Formulated within a (Bayesian) predictive coding framework, we propose that oxytocin encodes the saliency or precision of interoceptive signals and enables the neuronal plasticity necessary for acquiring a generative model of the emotional and social 'self.' An aberrant oxytocin system in infancy could therefore help explain the marked deficits in language and social communication—as well as the sensory, autonomic, motor, behavioral, and cognitive abnormalities—seen in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Quattrocki
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, UCL, 12 Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK.
| | - Karl Friston
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, UCL, 12 Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK.
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24
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Hertz L, Xu J, Chen Y, Gibbs ME, Du T, Hertz L, Xu J, Chen Y, Gibbs ME, Du T. Antagonists of the Vasopressin V1 Receptor and of the β(1)-Adrenoceptor Inhibit Cytotoxic Brain Edema in Stroke by Effects on Astrocytes - but the Mechanisms Differ. Curr Neuropharmacol 2014; 12:308-23. [PMID: 25342939 PMCID: PMC4207071 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x12666140828222723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2014] [Revised: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain edema is a serious complication in ischemic stroke because even relatively small changes in brain volume can compromise cerebral blood flow or result in compression of vital brain structures on account of the fixed volume of the rigid skull. Literature data indicate that administration of either antagonists of the V1 vasopressin (AVP) receptor or the β1-adrenergic receptor are able to reduce edema or infarct size when administered after the onset of ischemia, a key advantage for possible clinical use. The present review discusses possible mechanisms, focusing on the role of NKCC1, an astrocytic cotransporter of Na(+), K(+), 2Cl(-) and water and its activation by highly increased extracellular K(+) concentrations in the development of cytotoxic cell swelling. However, it also mentions that due to a 3/2 ratio between Na(+) release and K(+) uptake by the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase driving NKCC1 brain extracellular fluid can become hypertonic, which may facilitate water entry across the blood-brain barrier, essential for development of edema. It shows that brain edema does not develop until during reperfusion, which can be explained by lack of metabolic energy during ischemia. V1 antagonists are likely to protect against cytotoxic edema formation by inhibiting AVP enhancement of NKCC1-mediated uptake of ions and water, whereas β1-adrenergic antagonists prevent edema formation because β1-adrenergic stimulation alone is responsible for stimulation of the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase driving NKCC1, first and foremost due to decrease in extracellular Ca(2+) concentration. Inhibition of NKCC1 also has adverse effects, e.g. on memory and the treatment should probably be of shortest possible duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leif Hertz
- Laboratory of Brain Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, P.R. China
| | - Junnan Xu
- Laboratory of Brain Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, P.R. China
| | - Ye Chen
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation 6720A Rockledge Dr #100, Bethesda MD 20817, USA
| | - Marie E Gibbs
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ting Du
- Laboratory of Brain Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, P.R. China
| | - Leif Hertz
- Laboratory of Brain Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, P.R. China
| | - Junnan Xu
- Laboratory of Brain Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, P.R. China
| | - Ye Chen
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation 6720A Rockledge Dr #100, Bethesda MD 20817, USA
| | - Marie E Gibbs
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ting Du
- Laboratory of Brain Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, P.R. China
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25
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Jiang CY, Fujita T, Kumamoto E. Synaptic modulation and inward current produced by oxytocin in substantia gelatinosa neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices. J Neurophysiol 2014; 111:991-1007. [DOI: 10.1152/jn.00609.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular mechanisms for antinociception produced by oxytocin in the spinal dorsal horn have not yet been investigated thoroughly. We examined how oxytocin affects synaptic transmission in substantia gelatinosa neurons, which play a pivotal role in regulating nociceptive transmission, by applying the whole-cell patch-clamp technique to the substantia gelatinosa neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices. Bath-applied oxytocin did not affect glutamatergic spontaneous, monosynaptically-evoked primary-afferent Aδ-fiber and C-fiber excitatory transmissions. On the other hand, oxytocin produced an inward current at −70 mV and enhanced GABAergic and glycinergic spontaneous inhibitory transmissions. These activities were repeated with a slow recovery from desensitization, concentration-dependent and mimicked by oxytocin-receptor agonist. The oxytocin current was inhibited by oxytocin-receptor antagonist, intracellular GDPβS, U-73122, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, but not dantrolene, chelerythrine, dibutyryl cyclic-AMP, CNQX, Ca2+-free and tetrodotoxin, while the spontaneous inhibitory transmission enhancements were depressed by tetrodotoxin. Current-voltage relation for the oxytocin current reversed at negative potentials more than the equilibrium potential for K+, or around 0 mV. The oxytocin current was depressed in high-K+, low-Na+ or Ba2+-containing solution. Vasopressin V1A-receptor antagonist inhibited the oxytocin current, but there was no correlation in amplitude between a vasopressin-receptor agonist [Arg8]vasopressin and oxytocin responses. It is concluded that oxytocin produces a membrane depolarization mediated by oxytocin but not vasopressin-V1A receptors, which increases neuronal activity, resulting in the enhancement of inhibitory transmission, a possible mechanism for antinociception. This depolarization is due to a change in membrane permeabilities to K+ and/or Na+, which is possibly mediated by phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate-induced Ca2+-release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Yu Jiang
- Department of Physiology, Saga Medical School, Saga, Japan
| | - Tsugumi Fujita
- Department of Physiology, Saga Medical School, Saga, Japan
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Lee S, Kim SJ, Kwon OB, Lee JH, Kim JH. Inhibitory networks of the amygdala for emotional memory. Front Neural Circuits 2013; 7:129. [PMID: 23914157 PMCID: PMC3729980 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2013.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The amygdala is important for emotional memory, including learned fear. A number of studies for amygdala neural circuits that underlie fear conditioning have elucidated specific cellular and molecular mechanisms of emotional memory. Recent technical advances such as optogenetic approaches have not only confirmed the importance of excitatory circuits in fear conditioning, but have also shed new light for a direct role of inhibitory circuits in both the acquisition and extinction of fear memory in addition to their role in fine tuning of excitatory neural circuitry. As a result, the circuits in amygdala could be drawn more elaborately, and it led us to understand how fear or extinction memories are formed in the detailed circuit level, and various neuromodulators affect these circuit activities, inducing subtle behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungho Lee
- Department of Life Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology Pohang, South Korea
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Zhang L, Hernández VS. Synaptic innervation to rat hippocampus by vasopressin-immuno-positive fibres from the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei. Neuroscience 2012; 228:139-62. [PMID: 23085097 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Revised: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide arginine vasopressin (AVP) exerts a modulatory role on hippocampal excitability through vasopressin V(1A) and V(1B) receptors. However, the origin and mode of termination of the AVP innervation of the hippocampus remain unknown. We have used light and electron microscopy to trace the origin, distribution and synaptic relationships of AVP-immuno-positive fibres and nerve terminals in the rat hippocampus. Immuno-positive fibres were present in all areas (CA1-3, dentate gyrus) of the whole septo-temporal extent of the hippocampus; they had the highest density in the CA2 region, strongly increasing in density towards the ventral hippocampus. Two types of fibres were identified, both establishing synaptic junctions. Type A had large varicosities packed with immuno-positive large-granulated peptidergic vesicles and few small clear vesicles forming type I synaptic junctions with pyramidal neuron dendrites, dendritic spines and with axonal spines. Type B had smaller varicosities containing mostly small clear vesicles and only a few large-granulated vesicles and established type II synaptic junctions mainly with interneuron dendrites. The AVP-positive axons in stratum oriens appeared to follow and contact metabotropic glutamate receptor 1α (mGluR1α)-immuno-positive interneuron dendrites. Fluoro-Gold injection into the hippocampus revealed retrogradely labelled AVP-positive somata in hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei. Hypothalamo-hippocampal AVP-positive axons entered the hippocampus mostly through a ventral route, also innervating the amygdala and to a lesser extent through the dorsal fimbria fornix, in continuation of the septal AVP innervation. Thus, it appears the AVP-containing neurons of the magnocellular hypothalamic nuclei serve as important sources for hippocampal AVP innervation, although the AVP-expressing neurons located in amygdala and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis reported previously may also contribute.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Zhang
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico.
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Differential effects of osmotic and SSR149415 challenges in maternally separated and control rats: The role of vasopressin on spatial learning. Neurosci Lett 2012; 528:143-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Revised: 08/13/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Tang Y, Yang YL, Wang N, Shen ZL, Zhang J, Hu HY. Effects of arginine vasopressin on firing activity and thermosensitivity of rat PO/AH area neurons. Neuroscience 2012; 219:10-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.05.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2012] [Revised: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Mazzuca M, Minlebaev M, Shakirzyanova A, Tyzio R, Taccola G, Janackova S, Gataullina S, Ben-Ari Y, Giniatullin R, Khazipov R. Newborn Analgesia Mediated by Oxytocin during Delivery. Front Cell Neurosci 2011; 5:3. [PMID: 21519396 PMCID: PMC3080614 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2011.00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms controlling pain in newborns during delivery are poorly understood. We explored the hypothesis that oxytocin, an essential hormone for labor and a powerful neuromodulator, exerts analgesic actions on newborns during delivery. Using a thermal tail-flick assay, we report that pain sensitivity is two-fold lower in rat pups immediately after birth than 2 days later. Oxytocin receptor antagonists strongly enhanced pain sensitivity in newborn, but not in 2-day-old rats, whereas oxytocin reduced pain at both ages suggesting an endogenous analgesia by oxytocin during delivery. Similar analgesic effects of oxytocin, measured as attenuation of pain-vocalization induced by electrical whisker pad stimulation, were also observed in decerebrated newborns. Oxytocin reduced GABA-evoked calcium responses and depolarizing GABA driving force in isolated neonatal trigeminal neurons suggesting that oxytocin effects are mediated by alterations of intracellular chloride. Unlike GABA signaling, oxytocin did not affect responses mediated by P2X3 and TRPV1 receptors. In keeping with a GABAergic mechanism, reduction of intracellular chloride by the diuretic NKCC1 chloride co-transporter antagonist bumetanide mimicked the analgesic actions of oxytocin and its effects on GABA responses in nociceptive neurons. Therefore, endogenous oxytocin exerts an analgesic action in newborn pups that involves a reduction of the depolarizing action of GABA on nociceptive neurons. Therefore, the same hormone that triggers delivery also acts as a natural pain killer revealing a novel facet of the protective actions of oxytocin in the fetus at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Mazzuca
- INMED/INSERM U901, Université de la Méditerranée Marseille, France
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Carrera-González MP, Ramírez-Expósito MJ, de Saavedra JMA, Sánchez-Agesta R, Mayas MD, Martínez-Martos JM. Hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis disruption in rats with breast cancer is related to an altered endogenous oxytocin/insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) system. Tumour Biol 2011; 32:543-9. [PMID: 21207221 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-010-0149-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2010] [Accepted: 12/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Associations of breast cancer with diseases of the thyroid have been repeatedly reported, but the mechanism underlying this association remains to be elucidated. It has been reported that oxytocin (OXT) attenuates the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) release in response to thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) and decreased plasma levels of TSH as well as the thyroid hormones by an effect mediated by the central nervous system. Oxytocinase (IRAP) is the regulatory proteolytic enzyme reported to hydrolyze OXT. Changes in IRAP activity have been reported in both human breast cancer and N-methyl-nitrosourea (NMU)-induced rat mammary tumours. Here, we measure IRAP activity fluorometrically using cystyl-β-naphthylamide as the substrate, in the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis together with the circulating levels of OXT, and its relationship with circulating levels of TSH and free thyroxine (fT4), as markers of thyroid function in control rats and rats with breast cancer induced by NMU. We found decreased thyroid function in rats with breast cancer induced by NMU, supported by the existence of lower serum circulating levels of both TSH and fT4 than their corresponding controls. Concomitantly, we found a decrease of hypothalamic IRAP activity and an increase in circulating levels of OXT. We propose that breast cancer increases OXT pituitary release by decreasing its hypothalamic catabolism through IRAP activity, probably due to the alteration of the estrogenic endocrine status. Thus, high circulating levels of OXT decreased TSH release from the pituitary, and therefore, of thyroid hormones from the thyroid, supporting the association between breast cancer and thyroid function disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Pilar Carrera-González
- Experimental and Clinical Physiopathology Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Experimental and Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Campus Universitario Las Lagunillas, 23071, Jaén, Spain.
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Gravati M, Busnelli M, Bulgheroni E, Reversi A, Spaiardi P, Parenti M, Toselli M, Chini B. Dual modulation of inward rectifier potassium currents in olfactory neuronal cells by promiscuous G protein coupling of the oxytocin receptor. J Neurochem 2010; 114:1424-35. [PMID: 20557424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.06861.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin receptor is a seven transmembrane receptor widely expressed in the CNS that triggers G(i) or G(q) protein-mediated signaling cascades leading to the regulation of a variety of neuroendocrine and cognitive functions. We decided to investigate whether and how the promiscuous receptor/G protein coupling affects neuronal excitability. As an experimental model, we used the immortalized gonadotropin-releasing hormone-positive GN11 cell line displaying the features of immature, migrating olfactory neurons. Using RT-PCR analysis, we detected the presence of oxytocin receptors whose stimulation by oxytocin led to the accumulation of inositol phosphates and to the inhibition of cell proliferation, and the expression of several inward rectifier (IR) K+ channel subtypes. Moreover, electrophysiological and pharmacological inspections using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings evidenced that in GN11 cells, IR channel subtypes are responsive to oxytocin. In particular, we found that: (i) peptide activation of receptor either inhibited or stimulated IR conductances, and (ii) IR current inhibition was mediated by a pertussis toxin-resistant G protein presumably of the G(q/11) subtype, and by phospholipase C, whereas IR current activation was achieved via receptor coupling to a pertussis toxin-sensitive G(i/o) protein. The findings suggest that neuronal excitability might be tuned by a single peptide receptor that mediates opposing effects on distinct K+ channels through the promiscuous coupling to different G proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gravati
- Department of Physiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Gerardo RP, Rosalinda MR, Guadalupe ML, Miguel CL. Oxytocin, but not vassopressin, modulates nociceptive responses in dorsal horn neurons. Neurosci Lett 2010; 476:32-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.03.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2010] [Revised: 03/26/2010] [Accepted: 03/30/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Jójárt J, Jójárt I, Boda K, Gálfi M, Mihály A, B-Baldauf Z, Vecsernyés M. Distribution of oxytocin-immunoreactive neuronal elements in the rat spinal cord. ACTA BIOLOGICA HUNGARICA 2009; 60:333-46. [PMID: 20015826 DOI: 10.1556/abiol.60.2009.4.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the distribution of oxytocin in rat spinal cord using immunocytochemistry and radioimmunoassay (RIA). Each segment of the spinal cord from cervical to coccygeal contained oxytocin-immunoreactive fibers. The Rexed laminae I and II of the dorsal horn showed moderate to intense immunoreactivity. A dense network was found around the central canal where some fibers apposed the ependyma. The autonomic centers of the spinal cord at the thoracolumbar and sacral segments were heavily innervated. Few fibers were found around the motoneurons. In the white matter, the immunoreactivity was localized mainly in the dorsal part of the lateral funiculus, in the pars funicularis of the nucleus intermediolateralis and in a longitudinal network of the lateral funiculus below the spinal cord surface. Some fibers from this network entered the pia mater. RIA measurements revealed that the cervical spinal cord had lower oxytocin content than that found in either the thoracic, lumbar, sacral or coccygeal region. Our results show that the distribution of oxytocin-immunoreactive fibers in the spinal cord correlates with anatomic locations related to nociceptive, autonomic and motor functions. We assume that oxytocin-containing axons play a role in secreting oxytocin directly into the liquor space of the spinal cord.
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Breton JD, Poisbeau P, Darbon P. Antinociceptive action of oxytocin involves inhibition of potassium channel currents in lamina II neurons of the rat spinal cord. Mol Pain 2009; 5:63. [PMID: 19909537 PMCID: PMC2780383 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-5-63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2009] [Accepted: 11/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Growing evidence in the literature shows that oxytocin (OT) has a strong spinal anti-nociceptive action. Oxytocinergic axons originating from a subpopulation of paraventricular hypothalamic neurons establish synaptic contacts with lamina II interneurons but little is known about the functional role of OT with respect to neuronal firing and excitability. Results Using the patch-clamp technique, we have recorded lamina II interneurons in acute transverse lumbar spinal cord slices of rats (15 to 30 days old) and analyzed the OT effects on action potential firing ability. In the current clamp mode, we found that bath application of a selective OT-receptor agonist (TGOT) reduced firing in the majority of lamina II interneurons exhibiting a bursting firing profile, but never in those exhibiting a single spike discharge upon depolarization. Interestingly, OT-induced reduction in spike frequency and increase of firing threshold were often observed, leading to a conversion of the firing profile from repetitive and delayed profiles into phasic ones and sometimes further into single spike profile. The observed effects following OT-receptor activation were completely abolished when the OT-receptor agonist was co-applied with a selective OT-receptor antagonist. In current and voltage clamp modes, we show that these changes in firing are strongly controlled by voltage-gated potassium currents. More precisely, transient IA currents and delayed-rectifier currents were reduced in amplitude and transient IA current was predominantly inactivated after OT bath application. Conclusion This effect of OT on the firing profile of lamina II neurons is in good agreement with the antinociceptive and analgesic properties of OT described in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Didier Breton
- Nociception and Pain Department, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, France.
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Heinrichs M, von Dawans B, Domes G. Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human social behavior. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:548-557. [PMID: 19505497 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 534] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2009] [Revised: 05/07/2009] [Accepted: 05/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
There is substantial evidence from animal research indicating a key role of the neuropeptides oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the regulation of complex social cognition and behavior. As social interaction permeates the whole of human society, and the fundamental ability to form attachment is indispensable for social relationships, studies are beginning to dissect the roles of OT and AVP in human social behavior. New experimental paradigms and technologies in human research allow a more nuanced investigation of the molecular basis of social behavior. In addition, a better understanding of the neurobiology and neurogenetics of human social cognition and behavior has important implications for the current development of novel clinical approaches for mental disorders that are associated with social deficits (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder). This review focuses on our recent knowledge of the behavioral, endocrine, genetic, and neural effects of OT and AVP in humans and provides a synthesis of recent advances made in the effort to implicate the oxytocinergic system in the treatment of psychopathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Heinrichs
- Department of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i. Br., Germany.
| | | | - Gregor Domes
- Department of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i. Br., Germany
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Coleman CG, Anrather J, Iadecola C, Pickel VM. Angiotensin II type 2 receptors have a major somatodendritic distribution in vasopressin-containing neurons in the mouse hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus. Neuroscience 2009; 163:129-42. [PMID: 19539723 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2009] [Revised: 05/21/2009] [Accepted: 06/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and angiotensin II (AngII) play critical roles in cardiovascular and neurohumoral regulation ascribed in part to vasopressin (VP) release. The AngII actions in the PVN are mediated largely through angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors. However, there is indirect evidence that the functionally elusive central angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptors are also mediators of AngII signaling in the PVN. We used electron microscopic dual immunolabeling of antisera recognizing the AT2 receptor and VP to test the hypothesis that mouse PVN neurons expressing VP are among the cellular sites where this receptor has a subcellular distribution conducive to local activation. Immunoreactivity for the AT2 receptor was detected in somatodendritic profiles, of which approximately 60% of the somata and approximately 28% of the dendrites also contained VP. In comparison with somata and dendrites, axons, axon terminals, and glia less frequently contained the AT2 receptor. Somatic labeling for the AT2 receptor was often seen in the cytoplasm near the Golgi lamellae and other endomembrane structures implicated in receptor trafficking. AT2 receptor immunoreactivity in dendrites was commonly localized to cytoplasmic endomembranes, but was occasionally observed on extra- or peri-synaptic portions of the plasma membrane apposed by astrocytic processes or by unlabeled axon terminals. The labeled dendritic plasmalemmal segments containing AT2 receptors received asymmetric excitatory-type or more rarely symmetric inhibitory-type contacts from unlabeled axon terminals containing dense core vesicles, many of which are known to store neuropeptides. These results provide the first ultrastructural evidence that AT2 receptors in PVN neurons expressing VP and other neuromodulators are strategically positioned for surface activation by AngII and/or intracellular trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Coleman
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Division of Neurobiology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 407 E 61st Street, New York, NY, USA.
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Ogier R, Wrobel L, Raggenbass M. Action of tachykinins in the hippocampus: Facilitation of inhibitory drive to GABAergic interneurons. Neuroscience 2008; 156:527-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2008] [Revised: 08/01/2008] [Accepted: 08/02/2008] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Kalsbeek A, Verhagen LA, Schalij I, Foppen E, Saboureau M, Bothorel B, Buijs RM, Pévet P. Opposite actions of hypothalamic vasopressin on circadian corticosterone rhythm in nocturnal versus diurnal species. Eur J Neurosci 2008; 27:818-27. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2008.06057.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Raggenbass M. Overview of cellular electrophysiological actions of vasopressin. Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 583:243-54. [PMID: 18280467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2007.11.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2007] [Revised: 08/24/2007] [Accepted: 11/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The nonapeptide vasopressin acts both as a hormone and as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator. As a hormone, its target organs include kidney, blood vessels, liver, platelets and anterior pituitary. As a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator, vasopressin plays a role in autonomic functions, such as cardiovascular regulation and temperature regulation and is involved in complex behavioral and cognitive functions, such as sexual behavior, pair-bond formation and social recognition. At the neuronal level, vasopressin acts by enhancing membrane excitability and by modulating synaptic transmission. The present review will focus on the electrophysiological effects of vasopressin at the cellular level. A large proportion of the experiments summarized here have been performed in in vitro systems, especially in brain and spinal cord slices of the rat. Vasopressin exerts a powerful excitatory action on motoneurons of young rats and mice. It acts by generating a cationic inward current and/or by reducing a potassium conductance. In addition, vasopressin enhances the inhibitory synaptic input to motoneurons. By virtue of these actions, vasopressin may regulate the functioning of neuronal networks involved in motor control. In the amygdala, vasopressin can directly excite a subpopulation of neurons, whereas oxytocin, a related neuropeptide, can indirectly inhibit these same neurons. In the lateral septum, vasopressin exerts a similar dual action: it excites directly a neuronal subpopulation, but causes indirect inhibition of virtually all lateral septal neurons. The actions of vasopressin in the amygdala and lateral septum may represent at least part of the neuronal substrate by which vasopressin influences fear and anxiety-related behavior and social recognition, respectively. Central vasopressin can modulate cardiovascular parameters by causing excitation of spinal sympathetic preganglionic neurons, by increasing the inhibitory input to cardiac parasympathetic neurons in the nucleus ambiguus, by depressing the excitatory input to parabrachial neurons, or by inhibiting glutamate release at solitary tract axon terminals. By acting in or near the hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus, vasopressin can influence magnocellular neuron activity, suggesting that the peptide may exert some control on its own release at neurohypophyseal axon terminals. The central actions of vasopressin are mainly mediated by receptors of the V(1A) type, although recent studies have also reported the presence of vasopressin V(1B) receptors in the brain. Major unsolved problems are: (i) what is the transduction pathway activated following stimulation of central vasopressin V(1A) receptors? (ii) What is the precise nature of the cation channels and/or potassium channels operated by vasopressin? (iii) Does vasopressin, by virtue of its second messenger(s), interfere with other neurotransmitter/neuromodulator systems? In recent years, information concerning the mechanism of action of vasopressin at the neuronal level and its possible role and function at the whole-animal level has been accumulating. Translation of peptide actions at the cellular level into autonomic, behavioral and cognitive effects requires an intermediate level of integration, i.e. the level of neuronal circuitry. Here, detailed information is lacking. Further progress will probably require the introduction of new techniques, such as targeted in vivo whole-cell recording, large-scale recordings from neuronal ensembles or in vivo imaging in small animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Raggenbass
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University Medical Center, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
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Allaman-Exertier G, Reymond-Marron I, Tribollet E, Raggenbass M. Vasopressin modulates lateral septal network activity via two distinct electrophysiological mechanisms. Eur J Neurosci 2007; 26:2633-42. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2007.05866.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Cumbers MR, Chung ST, Wakerley JB. A neuromodulatory role for oxytocin within the supramammillary nucleus. Neuropeptides 2007; 41:217-26. [PMID: 17568668 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2007.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2006] [Revised: 03/05/2007] [Accepted: 04/10/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin functions as both a neurohypophysial hormone and central neuromodulatory peptide, and has been implicated in reproductive behaviours, anxiety and reward, as well as facilitation of the neuroendocrine milk-ejection reflex. A potential substrate for oxytocin is the supramammillary nucleus (SuM), a structure that contains oxytocin binding sites and serves as an important relay within the limbic system. Hence, this study investigated the neuromodulatory role of oxytocin within the SuM. Firstly, the effect of oxytocin on neuronal firing within the SuM was studied, using in vitro brain slices from virgin female rats. Oxytocin (10(-6)M) excited approximately 50% of SuM neurones, and similar results were obtained with the selective oxytocin agonist, Thr(4) Gly(7) oxytocin (TGOT) (10(-6) and 10(-7)M). The remaining neurones were unaffected. The TGOT response was blocked by application of the oxytocin antagonist, [d(CH(2))51,Tyr(Me)(2),Thr(4),Orn(8),Tyr-NH29]-vasotocin. Repeat doses of TGOT caused diminution of the response, indicative of desensitisation. In the second series of experiments, immunocytochemical techniques were used to study the oxytocinergic innervation of the SuM. The supramammillary decussation was found to contain numerous oxytocinergic fibres, and some could be seen coursing ventrally to enter the SuM. Whereas, some were clearly "en passant" fibres innervating the neurohypophysis, others followed a more convoluted and branching course, and appeared to terminate within the nucleus. Finally, in vivo microinfusion studies investigated whether oxytocin injected into the SuM facilitated the milk-ejection reflex, a well known action of central oxytocin. Oxytocin microinfusion in the region of the SuM caused a pronounced facilitation of the reflex, contrasting with the much smaller effects of microinfusions made rostral or caudal to the nucleus. Collectively, these results strongly support a neuromodulatory role for oxytocin within the SuM. This could have important implications for understanding the diverse neuroendocrine and behavioural functions of central oxytocin, including its role in reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Cumbers
- Department of Anatomy, University of Bristol, School of Medical Sciences, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
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Crépel V, Aronov D, Jorquera I, Represa A, Ben-Ari Y, Cossart R. A Parturition-Associated Nonsynaptic Coherent Activity Pattern in the Developing Hippocampus. Neuron 2007; 54:105-20. [PMID: 17408581 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2007.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2006] [Revised: 01/25/2007] [Accepted: 03/09/2007] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Correlated neuronal activity is instrumental in the formation of networks, but its emergence during maturation is poorly understood. We have used multibeam two-photon calcium microscopy combined with targeted electrophysiological recordings in order to determine the development of population coherence from embryonic to postnatal stages in the hippocampus. At embryonic stages (E16-E19), synchronized activity is absent, and neurons are intrinsically active and generate L-type channel-mediated calcium spikes. At birth, small cell assemblies coupled by gap junctions spontaneously generate synchronous nonsynaptic calcium plateaus associated to recurrent burst discharges. The emergence of coherent calcium plateaus at birth is controlled by oxytocin, a maternal hormone initiating labour, and progressively shut down a few days later by the synapse-driven giant depolarizing potentials (GDPs) that synchronize the entire network. Therefore, in the developing hippocampus, delivery is an important signal that triggers the first coherent activity pattern, which is silenced by the emergence of synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Crépel
- INMED, INSERM, U29, Université de La Méditerranée, Parc scientifique de Luminy, BP 13, 13273 Marseille Cedex 09, France
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de Jong TR, Veening JG, Olivier B, Waldinger MD. Oxytocin Involvement in SSRI-Induced Delayed Ejaculation: A Review of Animal Studies. J Sex Med 2007; 4:14-28. [PMID: 17233773 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2006.00394.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) differ in the severity of induced ejaculation delay. Various studies indicate that oxytocin is involved in sexual behavior. AIM To review and evaluate the involvement of oxytocin in SSRI-induced ejaculation delay. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Oxytocine release, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurotransmission, and desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors. METHODS A review and critical analysis of animal studies investigating the interaction of serotonergic and oxytocinergic neurotransmission in relation to the ejaculation process. RESULTS Although acute treatment with the SSRIs fluoxetine and paroxetine immediately causes increased serotonin levels, delayed ejaculation does not occur. The increased serotonin levels induce oxytocin release via activation of 5-HT(1A) receptors, and this might compensate for the inhibitory actions of serotonin on sexual behavior. Chronic treatment with fluoxetine and paroxetine desensitizes 5-HT(1A) receptors on oxytocin neurons, and that might in part determine the onset of delayed ejaculation. Desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors is less strong following chronic treatment with the SSRIs fluvoxamine or citalopram, which may attenuate the degree of delayed ejaculation. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary data suggest that the severity of chronic SSRI treatment-induced delayed ejaculation and the differences between the various SSRIs in inducing ejaculation delay is related to gradual desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors on oxytocin neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trynke R de Jong
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jan G Veening
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands;; Department of Anatomy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Berend Olivier
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands;; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marcel D Waldinger
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands;; Department of Psychiatry and Neurosexology, HagaHospital Leyenburg, The Hague, the Netherlands.
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Eaton JL, Glasgow E. Zebrafish orthopedia (otp) is required for isotocin cell development. Dev Genes Evol 2006; 217:149-58. [PMID: 17180684 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-006-0123-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2006] [Accepted: 11/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Several behavioral and physiological processes such as social, sexual, and maternal behaviors, learning and memory, and parturition are influenced by the neurohypophysial peptide oxytocin. Studies in knockout mice have identified four transcriptional regulatory genes that are required for oxytocin neuronal development in the hypothalamus. These are the basic helix-loop-helix PAS genes Single-minded 1 (Sim1) and Arylhydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator 2 (Arnt2), the POU homeobox gene Pou3f2, and the paired homeobox gene Orthopedia (Otp). Overall, however, the molecular control of oxytocin cell development is poorly understood. Studies in zebrafish provide a complementary view to mouse knockout experiments and facilitate understanding of neuroendocrine cell development. Isotocin, which is orthologous to oxytocin, is expressed early in the developing zebrafish brain. In this paper we show that zebrafish otp mRNA expression in the embryonic forebrain is dynamic and complex, and that it overlaps with isotocin expression in the dorsal preoptic area. Additionally, these studies demonstrate that otp is required for isotocin cell development. Evidence is also provided that otp and sim1 function in parallel to direct the differentiation of isotocin cells, and that otp is unlikely to affect brain patterning. Overall, these studies support the hypothesis that the role of otp in zebrafish neuroendocrine cell development is evolutionarily conserved with that of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Eaton
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, 232 Building D, 4000 Reservoir Rd, NW Washington, DC 20057, USA
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Tyzio R, Cossart R, Khalilov I, Minlebaev M, Hübner CA, Represa A, Ben-Ari Y, Khazipov R. Maternal oxytocin triggers a transient inhibitory switch in GABA signaling in the fetal brain during delivery. Science 2006; 314:1788-92. [PMID: 17170309 DOI: 10.1126/science.1133212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 325] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
We report a signaling mechanism in rats between mother and fetus aimed at preparing fetal neurons for delivery. In immature neurons, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter. We found that, shortly before delivery, there is a transient reduction in the intracellular chloride concentration and an excitatory-to-inhibitory switch of GABA actions. These events were triggered by oxytocin, an essential maternal hormone for labor. In vivo administration of an oxytocin receptor antagonist before delivery prevented the switch of GABA actions in fetal neurons and aggravated the severity of anoxic episodes. Thus, maternal oxytocin inhibits fetal neurons and increases their resistance to insults during delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Tyzio
- Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, INSERM U29, Université de la Méditerranée, Campus Scientifique de Luminy, Boite Postale 13, 13273 Marseille Cedex 09, France
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Bisetti A, Cvetkovic V, Serafin M, Bayer L, Machard D, Jones BE, Mühlethaler M. Excitatory action of hypocretin/orexin on neurons of the central medial amygdala. Neuroscience 2006; 142:999-1004. [PMID: 16996221 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2006] [Revised: 07/06/2006] [Accepted: 07/11/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The neurons of the lateral hypothalamus that contain hypocretin/orexin (hcrt/orx) are thought to promote arousal through the excitatory action they exert on the multiple areas to which they project within the CNS. We show here that the hcrt/orx peptides can also exert a strong action on the amygdala, a structure known for its implication in emotional aspects of behavior. Indeed, the hcrt/orx peptides, applied in acute rat brain slices, excite a specific class of "low threshold burst" neurons in the central medial (CeM) nucleus which is considered as a major output of the amygdala. These excitatory effects are postsynaptic, mediated by Hcrt2/OX2 receptors and result from the closure of a potassium conductance. They occur on a class of neurons that are also excited by vasopressin acting through V1a receptors. These results suggest that the hcrt/orx system can act through the amygdala to augment arousal and evoke the autonomic and behavioral responses associated with fear, stress or emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bisetti
- Département des Neurosciences Fondamentales, Centre Médical Universitaire, 1 rue Michel-Servet, 1211 Genève 4, Switzerland
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Eaton JL, Glasgow E. The zebrafish bHLH PAS transcriptional regulator, single-minded 1 (sim1), is required for isotocin cell development. Dev Dyn 2006; 235:2071-82. [PMID: 16691572 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A wide range of physiological and behavioral processes, such as social, sexual, and maternal behaviors, learning and memory, and osmotic homeostasis are influenced by the neurohypophysial peptides oxytocin and vasopressin. Disruptions of these hormone systems have been linked to several neurobehavioral disorders, including autism, Prader-Willi syndrome, affective disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Studies in zebrafish promise to reveal the complex network of regulatory genes and signaling pathways that direct the development of oxytocin- and vasopressin-like neurons, and provide insight into factors involved in brain disorders associated with disruption of these systems. Isotocin, which is homologous to oxytocin, is expressed early, in a simple pattern in the developing zebrafish brain. Single-minded 1 (sim1), a member of the bHLH-PAS family of transcriptional regulatory genes, is required for terminal differentiation of mammalian oxytocin cells and is a master regulator of neurogenesis in Drosophila. Here we show that sim1 is expressed in the zebrafish forebrain and is required for isotocin cell development. The expression pattern of sim1 mRNA in the embryonic forebrain is dynamic and complex, and overlaps with isotocin expression in the preoptic area. We provide evidence that the role of sim1 in zebrafish neuroendocrine cell development is evolutionarily conserved with that of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Eaton
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, USA
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Reymond-Marron I, Tribollet E, Raggenbass M. The vasopressin-induced excitation of hypoglossal and facial motoneurons in young rats is mediated by V1a but not V1b receptors, and is independent of intracellular calcium signalling. Eur J Neurosci 2006; 24:1565-74. [PMID: 17004920 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.05038.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
As a hormone, vasopressin binds to three distinct receptors: V1a and V1b receptors, which induce phospholipase-Cbeta (PLCbeta) activation and Ca2+ mobilization; and V2 receptors, which are coupled to adenylyl cyclase. V1a and V1b receptors are also present in neurons. In particular, hypoglossal (XII) and facial (VII) motoneurons are excited following vasopressin-V1a receptor binding. The aim of the present study was double: (i) to determine whether V1b receptors contribute to the excitatory effect of vasopressin in XII and VII motoneurons; and (ii) to establish whether the action of vasopressin on motoneurons is mediated by Ca2+ signalling. Patch-clamp recordings were performed in brainstem slices of young rats. Vasopressin depolarized the membrane or generated an inward current. By contrast, [1-deamino-4-cyclohexylalanine] arginine vasopressin (d[Cha4]AVP), a V1b agonist, had no effect. The action of vasopressin was suppressed by Phaa-D-Tyr(Et)-Phe-Gln-Asn-Lys-Pro-Arg-NH2, a V1a antagonist, but not by SSR149415, a V1b antagonist. Thus, the vasopressin-induced excitation of brainstem motoneurons was exclusively mediated by V1a receptors. Light microscopic autoradiography failed to detect V1b binding sites in the facial nucleus. In motoneurons loaded with GTP-gamma-S, a non-hydrolysable analogue of GTP, the effect of vasopressin was suppressed, indicating that neuronal V1a receptors are G-protein-coupled. Intracellular Ca2+ chelation suppressed a Ca2+-activated potassium current, but did not affect the vasopressin-evoked current. H7 and GF109203, inhibitors of protein kinase C, were without effect on the vasopressin-induced excitation. U73122 and D609, PLCbeta inhibitors, were also without effect. Thus, excitation of brainstem motoneurons by V1a receptor activation is probably mediated by a second messenger distinct from that associated with peripheral V1a receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Reymond-Marron
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University Medical Center, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
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Remage-Healey L, Bass AH. A rapid neuromodulatory role for steroid hormones in the control of reproductive behavior. Brain Res 2006; 1126:27-35. [PMID: 16854385 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.06.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2006] [Revised: 06/15/2006] [Accepted: 06/16/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The long-term transcriptional actions of steroids that shape neuronal morphology and the probability of behavioral expression are well established. More recently, attention has been focused on the role of rapid (minute-by-minute) steroid actions on neuronal mechanisms of reproductive behavior. In this review, we first consider the rapid actions of steroids on mating and copulatory behaviors in tetrapod vertebrates. Evidence for rapid effects of steroids is presented for chemoinvestigatory behavior (genital sniffing of females by male mice), lordosis (arched-back mating posture in female rats), copulatory mounting (male mice and male Japanese quail), reproductive clasping (pre-copulatory mounting in newts), and paced mating (copulation rate as determined by female rats). We then review recent studies in teleost fish that demonstrate the rapid actions of steroids on vocal patterning at two levels: (1) central pattern generators and (2) social behavior in natural environments. Thus, we propose that steroid-dependent modulation of central pattern generators can govern the overt expression of reproductive behaviors via rapid non-transcriptional mechanisms that are likely to be widespread among vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Remage-Healey
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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