1
|
Lewitus VJ, Blackwell KT. Estradiol Receptors Inhibit Long-Term Potentiation in the Dorsomedial Striatum. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0071-23.2023. [PMID: 37487741 PMCID: PMC10405883 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0071-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Estradiol, a female sex hormone and the predominant form of estrogen, has diverse effects throughout the brain including in learning and memory. Estradiol modulates several types of learning that depend on the dorsomedial striatum (DMS), a subregion of the basal ganglia involved in goal-directed learning, cued action-selection, and motor skills. A cellular basis of learning is synaptic plasticity, and the presence of extranuclear estradiol receptors ERα, ERβ, and G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) throughout the DMS suggests that estradiol may influence rapid cellular actions including those involved in plasticity. To test whether estradiol affects synaptic plasticity in the DMS, corticostriatal long-term potentiation (LTP) was induced using theta-burst stimulation (TBS) in ex vivo brain slices from intact male and female C57BL/6 mice. Extracellular field recordings showed that female mice in the diestrous stage of the estrous cycle exhibited LTP similar to male mice, while female mice in estrus did not exhibit LTP. Furthermore, antagonists of ERα or GPER rescued LTP in estrous females and agonists of ERα or GPER reduced LTP in diestrous females. In males, activating ERα but not GPER reduced LTP. These results uncover an inhibitory action of estradiol receptors on cellular learning in the DMS and suggest a cellular mechanism underlying the impairment in certain types of DMS-based learning observed in the presence of high estradiol. Because of the dorsal striatum's role in substance use disorders, these findings may provide a mechanism underlying an estradiol-mediated progression from goal-directed to habitual drug use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kim T Blackwell
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience PhD Program
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kövesdi E, Udvarácz I, Kecskés A, Szőcs S, Farkas S, Faludi P, Jánosi TZ, Ábrahám IM, Kovács G. 17β-estradiol does not have a direct effect on the function of striatal cholinergic interneurons in adult mice in vitro. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:993552. [PMID: 36686456 PMCID: PMC9848397 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.993552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The striatum is an essential component of the basal ganglia that is involved in motor control, action selection and motor learning. The pathophysiological changes of the striatum are present in several neurological and psychiatric disorder including Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases. The striatal cholinergic neurons are the main regulators of striatal microcircuitry. It has been demonstrated that estrogen exerts various effects on neuronal functions in dopaminergic and medium spiny neurons (MSN), however little is known about how the activity of cholinergic interneurons are influenced by estrogens. In this study we examined the acute effect of 17β-estradiol on the function of striatal cholinergic neurons in adult mice in vitro. We also tested the effect of estrus cycle and sex on the spontaneous activity of cholinergic interneurons in the striatum. Our RNAscope experiments showed that ERα, ERβ, and GPER1 receptor mRNAs are expressed in some striatal cholinergic neurons at a very low level. In cell-attached patch clamp experiments, we found that a high dose of 17β-estradiol (100 nM) affected the spontaneous firing rate of these neurons only in old males. Our findings did not demonstrate any acute effect of a low concentration of 17β-estradiol (100 pM) or show any association of estrus cycle or sex with the activity of striatal cholinergic neurons. Although estrogen did not induce changes in the intrinsic properties of neurons, indirect effects via modulation of the synaptic inputs of striatal cholinergic interneurons cannot be excluded.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erzsébet Kövesdi
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Udvarácz
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Angéla Kecskés
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Szilárd Szőcs
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Szidónia Farkas
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Péter Faludi
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tibor Z. Jánosi
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - István M. Ábrahám
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gergely Kovács
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Johnson CS, Micevych PE, Mermelstein PG. Membrane estrogen signaling in female reproduction and motivation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1009379. [PMID: 36246891 PMCID: PMC9557733 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1009379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptors were initially identified in the uterus, and later throughout the brain and body as intracellular, ligand-regulated transcription factors that affect genomic change upon ligand binding. However, rapid estrogen receptor signaling initiated outside of the nucleus was also known to occur via mechanisms that were less clear. Recent studies indicate that these traditional receptors, estrogen receptor-α and estrogen receptor-β, can also be trafficked to act at the surface membrane. Signaling cascades from these membrane-bound estrogen receptors (mERs) not only rapidly effect cellular excitability, but can and do ultimately affect gene expression, as seen through the phosphorylation of CREB. A principal mechanism of neuronal mER action is through glutamate-independent transactivation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), which elicits multiple signaling outcomes. The interaction of mERs with mGluRs has been shown to be important in many diverse functions in females, including, but not limited to, reproduction and motivation. Here we review membrane-initiated estrogen receptor signaling in females, with a focus on the interactions between these mERs and mGluRs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S. Johnson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- *Correspondence: Caroline S. Johnson,
| | - Paul E Micevych
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paul G. Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jacobson MH, Ghassabian A, Gore AC, Trasande L. Exposure to environmental chemicals and perinatal psychopathology. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 195:114835. [PMID: 34774531 PMCID: PMC8712457 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Women are nearly twice as likely to develop mood disorders compared with men, and incidence is greatest during reproductive transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum. Because these periods are characterized by dramatic hormonal and physiologic changes, there is heightened susceptibility to external factors, such as exposure to environmental toxicants, which may play a role in maternal psychopathology. The purpose of this scoping review was to provide an overview of studies conducted in humans and animal models on the effects of nonoccupational exposure to environmental chemicals on maternal psychopathology during the perinatal period. The largest number of studies examined exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and antenatal depression and showed consistently positive findings, although more prospective studies using biomarkers for exposure assessment are needed. The few studies examining persistent organic pollutants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers and perinatal depression were consistent in showing associations with increased depressive symptoms. Results were mixed for exposure to heavy metals and non-persistent chemicals, but a strong literature in animal models supported an association between bisphenols and phthalates and reduced maternal behavior and care of pups after parturition. Biological mechanisms may include endocrine disruption, neurotransmitter system impairment, alterations in gene expression, and immune activation and inflammation. Additional longitudinal studies that include biospecimen collection are essential to furthering the understanding of how environmental toxicants during pregnancy may affect perinatal psychopathology and the underlying mechanisms of action. Future work should also leverage the parallels between animal and human maternal behavior, thereby highlighting the opportunity for multidisciplinary work in this avenue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie H Jacobson
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Akhgar Ghassabian
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; New York University Wagner School of Public Service, New York, NY, USA; New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mietlicki-Baase EG, Santollo J, Daniels D. Fluid intake, what's dopamine got to do with it? Physiol Behav 2021; 236:113418. [PMID: 33838203 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2021.113418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining fluid balance is critical for life. The central components that control fluid intake are only partly understood. This contribution to the collection of papers highlighting work by members of the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior focuses on the role that dopamine has on fluid intake and describes the roles that various bioregulators can have on thirst and sodium appetite by influencing dopamine systems in the brain. The goal of the review is to highlight areas in need of more research and to propose a framework to guide that research. We hope that this framework will inspire researchers in the field to investigate these interesting questions in order to form a more complete understanding of how fluid intake is controlled.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Mietlicki-Baase
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States; Center for Ingestive Behavior Research, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, United States
| | - Jessica Santollo
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, United States
| | - Derek Daniels
- Center for Ingestive Behavior Research, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, United States; Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
S-Equol mitigates motivational deficits and dysregulation associated with HIV-1. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11870. [PMID: 34088932 PMCID: PMC8178385 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91240-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Motivational deficits (e.g., apathy) and dysregulation (e.g., addiction) in HIV-1 seropositive individuals, despite treatment with combination antiretroviral therapy, necessitates the development of innovative adjunctive therapeutics. S-Equol (SE), a selective estrogen receptor β agonist, has been implicated as a neuroprotective and/or neurorestorative therapeutic for HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND); its therapeutic utility for motivational alterations, however, has yet to be systematically evaluated. Thus, HIV-1 transgenic (Tg) and control animals were treated with either a daily oral dose of SE (0.2 mg) or vehicle and assessed in a series of tasks to evaluate goal-directed and drug-seeking behavior. First, at the genotypic level, motivational deficits in HIV-1 Tg rats treated with vehicle were characterized by a diminished reinforcing efficacy of, and sensitivity to, sucrose. Motivational dysregulation was evidenced by enhanced drug-seeking for cocaine relative to control animals treated with vehicle. Second, treatment with SE ameliorated both motivational deficits and dysregulation in HIV-1 Tg rats. Following a history of cocaine self-administration, HIV-1 Tg animals treated with vehicle exhibited lower levels of dendritic branching and a shift towards longer dendritic spines with decreased head diameter. Treatment with SE, however, led to long-term enhancements in dendritic spine morphology in HIV-1 Tg animals supporting a potential underlying basis by which SE exerts its therapeutic effects. Taken together, SE restored motivated behavior in the HIV-1 Tg rat, expanding the potential clinical utility of SE to include both neurocognitive and affective alterations.
Collapse
|
7
|
Cao J, Meitzen J. Perinatal activation of ER α and ER β but not GPER-1 masculinizes female rat caudate-putamen medium spiny neuron electrophysiological properties. J Neurophysiol 2021; 125:2322-2338. [PMID: 33978486 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00063.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to steroid sex hormones such as 17β-estradiol (estradiol) during early life potentially permanently masculinize neuron electrophysiological phenotype. In rodents, one crucial component of this developmental process occurs in males, with estradiol aromatized in the brain from testes-sourced testosterone. However, it is unknown whether most neuron electrophysiological phenotypes are altered by this early masculinization process, including medium spiny neurons (MSNs) of the rat caudate-putamen. MSNs are the predominant and primary output neurons of the caudate-putamen and exhibit increased intrinsic excitability in females compared to males. Here, we hypothesize that since perinatal estradiol exposure occurs in males, then a comparable exposure in females to estradiol or its receptor agonists would be sufficient to induce masculinization. To test this hypothesis, we injected perinatal female rats with estradiol or its receptor agonists and then later assessed MSN electrophysiology. Female and male rats on postnatal day 0 and 1 were systemically injected with either vehicle, estradiol, the estrogen receptor (ER)α agonist PPT, the ERβ agonist DPN, or the G-protein-coupled receptor 1 (GPER-1) agonist G1. On postnatal days 19 ± 2, MSN electrophysiological properties were assessed using whole cell patch clamp recordings. Estradiol exposure abolished increased intrinsic excitability in female compared to male MSNs. Exposure to either an ERα or ERβ agonist masculinized female MSN evoked action potential firing rate properties, whereas exposure to an ERβ agonist masculinized female MSN inward rectification properties. Exposure to ER agonists minimally impacted male MSN electrophysiological properties. These findings indicate that perinatal estradiol exposure masculinizes MSN electrophysiological phenotype via activation of ERα and ERβ.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study is the first to demonstrate that estradiol and estrogen receptor α and β stimulation during early development sexually differentiates the electrophysiological properties of caudate-putamen medium spiny neurons, the primary output neuron of the striatal regions. Overall, this evidence provides new insight into the neuroendocrine mechanism by which caudate-putamen neuron electrophysiology is sexually differentiated and demonstrates the powerful action of early hormone exposure upon individual neuron electrophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyan Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hwang WJ, Lee TY, Kim NS, Kwon JS. The Role of Estrogen Receptors and Their Signaling across Psychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010373. [PMID: 33396472 PMCID: PMC7794990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests estrogen and estrogen signaling pathway disturbances across psychiatric disorders. Estrogens are not only crucial in sexual maturation and reproduction but are also highly involved in a wide range of brain functions, such as cognition, memory, neurodevelopment, and neuroplasticity. To add more, the recent findings of its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects have grown interested in investigating its potential therapeutic use to psychiatric disorders. In this review, we analyze the emerging literature on estrogen receptors and psychiatric disorders in cellular, preclinical, and clinical studies. Specifically, we discuss the contribution of estrogen receptor and estrogen signaling to cognition and neuroprotection via mediating multiple neural systems, such as dopaminergic, serotonergic, and glutamatergic systems. Then, we assess their disruptions and their potential implications for pathophysiologies in psychiatric disorders. Further, in this review, current treatment strategies involving estrogen and estrogen signaling are evaluated to suggest a future direction in identifying novel treatment strategies in psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wu Jeong Hwang
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (W.J.H.); (J.S.K.)
| | - Tae Young Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan 50612, Korea;
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan 50612, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-55-360-2468
| | - Nahrie Suk Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan 50612, Korea;
| | - Jun Soo Kwon
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (W.J.H.); (J.S.K.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Obata T. The effect of tamoxifen on opening ATP-sensitive K + channels enhances hydroxyl radical generation in rat striatum. J Clin Neurosci 2019; 63:196-201. [PMID: 30795876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.01.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The present study was examined the antioxidant effect of tamoxifen, a synthetic non-steroidal antiestrogen, on cromakalim or nicorandil (ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels opener)-enhanced hydroxyl radical (OH) generation induced by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+) in extracellular fluid of rat striatum. Rats were anesthetized, and sodium salicylate in Ringer's solution (0.5 mM or 0.5 nmol/µl/min) was infused through a microdialysis probe to detect the generation of OH as reflected by the non-enzymatic formation of 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHBA) in the striatum. Cromakalim (100 µM) or nicorandil (1 mM) enhanced the formation of OH trapped as DHBA induced by MPP+ (5 mM). Concomitantly, these drugs enhanced dopamine (DA) efflux induced by MPP+. Tamoxifen (30 µM) significantly decreased the level of DA enhanced by cromakalim or nicorandil. Tamoxifen suppressed DHBA formation induced by MPP+ and cromakalim or nicorandil. When iron(II) was administered to cromakalim treated animals, a marked elevation of DHBA was observed, compared with the tamoxifen-treated rats These results indicated that the effects of tamoxifen on opening of KATP channels enhances OH generation in the extracellular space of striatum during of DA release by MPP+. These results indicated that estrogen protects against neuronal degeneration by as an anti-oxidant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshio Obata
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Osaka Aoyama University, 2-11-1 Niina, Mino City, Japan; Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Oita Medical University, Hasama-machi, Oita, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cao J, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Electrophysiological properties of medium spiny neurons in the nucleus accumbens core of prepubertal male and female Drd1a-tdTomato line 6 BAC transgenic mice. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:1712-1727. [PMID: 29975170 PMCID: PMC6230806 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00257.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens core (AcbC) is a striatal brain region essential for integrating motivated behavior and reward processing with premotor function. In humans and rodents, research has identified sex differences and sex steroid hormone sensitivity in AcbC-mediated behaviors, in disorders, and in rats in the electrophysiological properties of the AcbC output neuron type, the medium spiny neuron (MSN). It is unknown whether the sex differences detected in MSN electrophysiological properties extend to mice. Furthermore, MSNs come in distinct subtypes with subtle differences in electrophysiological properties, and it is unknown whether MSN subtype-specific electrophysiology varies by sex. To address these questions, we used male and female Drd1a-tdTomato line 6 bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic mice. We made acute brain slices of the AcbC, and performed whole cell patch-clamp recordings across MSN subtypes to comprehensively assess AcbC MSN subtype electrophysiological properties. We found that ( 1 mice MSNs did not exhibit the sex differences detected in rat MSNs, and 2) electrophysiological properties differed between MSN subtypes in both sexes, including rheobase, resting membrane potential, action potential properties, intrinsic excitability, input resistance in both the linear and rectified ranges, and miniature excitatory postsynaptic current properties. These findings significantly extend previous studies of MSN subtypes performed in males or animals of undetermined sex and indicate that the influence of sex upon AcbC MSN properties varies between rodent species. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This research provides the most comprehensive assessment of medium spiny neuron subtype electrophysiological properties to date in a critical brain region, the nucleus accumbens core. It additionally represents the first evaluation of whether mouse medium spiny neuron subtype electrophysiological properties differ by sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyan Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
- W. M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - David M Dorris
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
- W. M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tonn Eisinger KR, Gross KS, Head BP, Mermelstein PG. Interactions between estrogen receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors and their impact on drug addiction in females. Horm Behav 2018; 104:130-137. [PMID: 29505763 PMCID: PMC6131090 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Contribution to Special Issue on Fast effects of steroids. Estrogen receptors α and β (ERα and ERβ) have a unique relationship with metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) in the female rodent brain such that estradiol is able to recruit intracellular G-protein signaling cascades to influence neuronal physiology, structure, and ultimately behavior. While this association between ERs and mGluRs exists in many cell types and brain regions, its effects are perhaps most striking in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). This review will discuss the original characterization of ER/mGluR signaling and how estradiol activity in the NAc confers increased sensitivity to drugs of abuse in females through this mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Tonn Eisinger
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kellie S Gross
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
| | - Brian P Head
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Paul G Mermelstein
- Department of Neuroscience and Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cao J, Willett JA, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Sex Differences in Medium Spiny Neuron Excitability and Glutamatergic Synaptic Input: Heterogeneity Across Striatal Regions and Evidence for Estradiol-Dependent Sexual Differentiation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:173. [PMID: 29720962 PMCID: PMC5915472 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid sex hormones and biological sex influence how the brain regulates motivated behavior, reward, and sensorimotor function in both normal and pathological contexts. Investigations into the underlying neural mechanisms have targeted the striatal brain regions, including the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens core (AcbC), and shell. These brain regions are of particular interest to neuroendocrinologists given that they express membrane-associated but not nuclear estrogen receptors, and also the well-established role of the sex steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (estradiol) in modulating striatal dopamine systems. Indeed, output neurons of the striatum, the medium spiny neurons (MSNs), exhibit estradiol sensitivity and sex differences in electrophysiological properties. Here, we review sex differences in rat MSN glutamatergic synaptic input and intrinsic excitability across striatal regions, including evidence for estradiol-mediated sexual differentiation in the nucleus AcbC. In prepubertal animals, female MSNs in the caudate-putamen exhibit a greater intrinsic excitability relative to male MSNs, but no sex differences are detected in excitatory synaptic input. Alternatively, female MSNs in the nucleus AcbC exhibit increased excitatory synaptic input relative to male MSNs, but no sex differences in intrinsic excitability were detected. Increased excitatory synaptic input onto female MSNs in the nucleus AcbC is abolished after masculinizing estradiol or testosterone exposure during the neonatal critical period. No sex differences are detected in MSNs in prepubertal nucleus accumbens shell. Thus, despite possessing the same neuron type, striatal regions exhibit heterogeneity in sex differences in MSN electrophysiological properties, which likely contribute to the sex differences observed in striatal function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyan Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Jaime A. Willett
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Graduate Program in Physiology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - David M. Dorris
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: John Meitzen,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Enterría-Morales D, López-López I, López-Barneo J, d’Anglemont de Tassigny X. Striatal GDNF Production Is Independent to Circulating Estradiol Level Despite Pan-Neuronal Activation in the Female Mouse. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164391. [PMID: 27741271 PMCID: PMC5065215 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Gender difference in Parkinson’s disease (PD) suggests that female sex steroids may promote dopaminergic neuron survival and protect them from degeneration. The glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is believed to be dopaminotrophic; thus it is considered as a potential therapeutic target in PD. Additionally, GDNF is endogenously synthetized in the caudate/putamen of humans and striatum in rodents. A neuroprotective role of estrogens on the nigrostriatal pathway via the stimulation of GDNF has been proposed. Since the GDNF-producing parvalbumin (Parv) interneurons express the estrogen receptor alpha in the mouse striatum, we sought to determine whether ectopic estrogenic compound modulates the GDNF synthesis in mice. Using an ovariectomized-estradiol (E2) replacement regimen, which reliably generates a rise of plasma estradiol, we assessed the effects of different levels of E2 on the activation of striatal neuronal populations, and GDNF production. A strong correlation was found between plasma E2 and the expression of the immediate early gene cFos in the striatum, as well as in other cortical regions. However, moderate and high E2 treatments failed to induce any striatal GDNF mRNA and protein synthesis. High E2 only stimulates cFos induction in a low percentage of striatal Parv neurons whereas the majority of cFos-positive cells are medium spiny neurons. Activation of these projecting neurons by E2 suggests a role of circulating sex steroids in the modulation of striatal neural pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Enterría-Morales
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Departamento de Fisiología Médica y Biofísica, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/ CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Ivette López-López
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Departamento de Fisiología Médica y Biofísica, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/ CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - José López-Barneo
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Departamento de Fisiología Médica y Biofísica, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/ CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Xavier d’Anglemont de Tassigny
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Departamento de Fisiología Médica y Biofísica, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/ CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lisofsky N, Wiener J, de Condappa O, Gallinat J, Lindenberger U, Kühn S. Differences in navigation performance and postpartal striatal volume associated with pregnancy in humans. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2016; 134 Pt B:400-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2016.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
15
|
Cao J, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Neonatal Masculinization Blocks Increased Excitatory Synaptic Input in Female Rat Nucleus Accumbens Core. Endocrinology 2016; 157:3181-96. [PMID: 27285859 PMCID: PMC4967116 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Steroid sex hormones and genetic sex regulate the phenotypes of motivated behaviors and relevant disorders. Most studies seeking to elucidate the underlying neuroendocrine mechanisms have focused on how 17β-estradiol modulates the role of dopamine in striatal brain regions, which express membrane-associated estrogen receptors. Dopamine action is an important component of striatal function, but excitatory synaptic neurotransmission has also emerged as a key striatal substrate and target of estradiol action. Here, we focus on excitatory synaptic input onto medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the striatal region nucleus accumbens core (AcbC). In adult AcbC, miniature excitatory postsynaptic current (mEPSC) frequency is increased in female compared with male MSNs. We tested whether increased mEPSC frequency in female MSNs exists before puberty, whether this increased excitability is due to the absence of estradiol or testosterone during the early developmental critical period, and whether it is accompanied by stable neuron intrinsic membrane properties. We found that mEPSC frequency is increased in female compared with male MSNs before puberty. Increased mEPSC frequency in female MSNs is abolished after neonatal estradiol or testosterone exposure. MSN intrinsic membrane properties did not differ by sex. These data indicate that neonatal masculinization via estradiol and/or testosterone action is sufficient for down-regulating excitatory synaptic input onto MSNs. We conclude that excitatory synaptic input onto AcbC MSNs is organized long before adulthood via steroid sex hormone action, providing new insight into a mechanism by which sex differences in motivated behavior and other AbcC functions may be generated or compromised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyan Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences (J.C., D.M.D., J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology (J.C., J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; Center for Human Health and the Environment (J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; and Comparative Medicine Institute (J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695
| | - David M Dorris
- Department of Biological Sciences (J.C., D.M.D., J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology (J.C., J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; Center for Human Health and the Environment (J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; and Comparative Medicine Institute (J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences (J.C., D.M.D., J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology (J.C., J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; Center for Human Health and the Environment (J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695; and Comparative Medicine Institute (J.M.), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
No Evidence for Sex Differences in the Electrophysiological Properties and Excitatory Synaptic Input onto Nucleus Accumbens Shell Medium Spiny Neurons. eNeuro 2016; 3:eN-NRS-0147-15. [PMID: 27022621 PMCID: PMC4757778 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0147-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences exist in how the brain regulates motivated behavior and reward, both in normal and pathological contexts. Investigations into the underlying neural mechanisms have targeted the striatal brain regions, including the dorsal striatum and nucleus accumbens core and shell. Sex differences exist in how the brain regulates motivated behavior and reward, both in normal and pathological contexts. Investigations into the underlying neural mechanisms have targeted the striatal brain regions, including the dorsal striatum and nucleus accumbens core and shell. These investigations yield accumulating evidence of sexually different electrophysiological properties, excitatory synaptic input, and sensitivity to neuromodulator/hormone action in select striatal regions both before and after puberty. It is unknown whether the electrical properties of neurons in the nucleus accumbens shell differ by sex, and whether sex differences in excitatory synaptic input are present before puberty. To test the hypothesis that these properties differ by sex, we performed whole-cell patch-clamp recordings on male and female medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in acute brain slices obtained from prepubertal rat nucleus accumbens shell. We analyzed passive and active electrophysiological properties, and miniature EPSCs (mEPSCs). No sex differences were detected; this includes those properties, such as intrinsic excitability, action potential afterhyperpolarization, threshold, and mEPSC frequency, that have been found to differ by sex in other striatal regions and/or developmental periods. These findings indicate that, unlike other striatal brain regions, the electrophysiological properties of nucleus accumbens shell MSNs do not differ by sex. Overall, it appears that sex differences in striatal function, including motivated behavior and reward, are likely mediated by other factors and striatal regions.
Collapse
|
17
|
Pisani SL, Neese SL, Katzenellenbogen JA, Schantz SL, Korol DL. Estrogen Receptor-Selective Agonists Modulate Learning in Female Rats in a Dose- and Task-Specific Manner. Endocrinology 2016; 157:292-303. [PMID: 26465198 PMCID: PMC4701887 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens are well known for their enhancing effects on hippocampus-sensitive cognition. However, estrogens can also impair learning and memory, particularly the acquisition of striatum-sensitive tasks. These cognitive shifts appear to be mediated through local estrogen receptor (ER) activation in each neural structure, but little information is known regarding which specific ER subtypes drive the opposing effects on learning. Elucidating the mnemonic roles of discrete ER subtypes is essential for predicting how treatments with distinct ER pharmacology such as drugs, hormone therapies, and phytoestrogen supplements affect cognitive abilities in and thus the daily lives of the women who take them. The present study examined the effects of the ERα-selective compound propyl pyrazole triol and the ERβ-selective compounds diarylpropionitrile and Br-ERb-041 on place and response learning in young adult female rats. Long-Evans rats were ovariectomized and maintained on phytoestrogen-free chow for 3 weeks before behavioral training, with treatments administered via subcutaneous injection 48 and 24 hours before testing. A dose-response paradigm was used, with each compound tested at 4 different doses in separate groups of rats. Propyl pyrazole triol, diarylpropionitrile, and Br-ERb-041 all enhanced place learning and impaired response learning, albeit with distinct dose-response patterns for each compound and task. These results are consistent with the detection of ERα and ERβ in the hippocampus and striatum and suggest that learning is modulated via activation of either ER subtype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Pisani
- Neuroscience Program (S.L.P., S.L.N., S.L.S., D.L.K.) and Department of Chemistry (J.A.K.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801; Department of Comparative Biosciences (S.L.N., S.L.S.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (S.L.N.), Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio 44017; and Department of Biology (D.L.K.), Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244
| | - Steven L Neese
- Neuroscience Program (S.L.P., S.L.N., S.L.S., D.L.K.) and Department of Chemistry (J.A.K.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801; Department of Comparative Biosciences (S.L.N., S.L.S.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (S.L.N.), Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio 44017; and Department of Biology (D.L.K.), Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244
| | - John A Katzenellenbogen
- Neuroscience Program (S.L.P., S.L.N., S.L.S., D.L.K.) and Department of Chemistry (J.A.K.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801; Department of Comparative Biosciences (S.L.N., S.L.S.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (S.L.N.), Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio 44017; and Department of Biology (D.L.K.), Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244
| | - Susan L Schantz
- Neuroscience Program (S.L.P., S.L.N., S.L.S., D.L.K.) and Department of Chemistry (J.A.K.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801; Department of Comparative Biosciences (S.L.N., S.L.S.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (S.L.N.), Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio 44017; and Department of Biology (D.L.K.), Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244
| | - Donna L Korol
- Neuroscience Program (S.L.P., S.L.N., S.L.S., D.L.K.) and Department of Chemistry (J.A.K.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801; Department of Comparative Biosciences (S.L.N., S.L.S.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (S.L.N.), Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio 44017; and Department of Biology (D.L.K.), Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wong JE, Cao J, Dorris DM, Meitzen J. Genetic sex and the volumes of the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens core and shell: original data and a review. Brain Struct Funct 2015; 221:4257-4267. [PMID: 26666530 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-015-1158-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences are widespread across vertebrate nervous systems. Such differences are sometimes reflected in the neural substrate via neuroanatomical differences in brain region volume. One brain region that displays sex differences in its associated functions and pathologies is the striatum, including the caudate-putamen (dorsal striatum), nucleus accumbens core and shell (ventral striatum). The extent to which these differences can be attributed to alterations in volume is unclear. We thus tested whether the volumes of the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens core, and nucleus accumbens shell differed by region, sex, and hemisphere in adult Sprague-Dawley rats. As a positive control for detecting sex differences in brain region volume, we measured the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the medial preoptic area (SDN-POA). As expected, SDN-POA volume was larger in males than in females. No sex differences were detected in the volumes of the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens core or shell. Nucleus accumbens core volume was larger in the right than left hemisphere across males and females. These findings complement previous reports of lateralized nucleus accumbens volume in humans, and suggest that this may possibly be driven via hemispheric differences in nucleus accumbens core volume. In contrast, striatal sex differences seem to be mediated by factors other than striatal region volume. This conclusion is presented within the context of a detailed review of studies addressing sex differences and similarities in striatal neuroanatomy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan E Wong
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7617, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7617, USA
| | - Jinyan Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7617, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7617, USA.,W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - David M Dorris
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7617, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7617, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7617, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7617, USA. .,W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA. .,Center for Human Health and the Environment, Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Korol DL, Pisani SL. Estrogens and cognition: Friends or foes?: An evaluation of the opposing effects of estrogens on learning and memory. Horm Behav 2015; 74:105-15. [PMID: 26149525 PMCID: PMC4573330 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "Estradiol and cognition". Estrogens are becoming well known for their robust enhancement on cognition particularly for learning and memory that relies upon functioning of the hippocampus and related neural systems. What is also emerging is that estrogen modulation of cognition is not uniform, at times enhancing yet at other times impairing learning. This review explores the bidirectional effects of estrogens on learning from a multiple memory systems view, focusing on the hippocampus and striatum, whereby modulation by estrogens sorts according to task attributes and neural systems engaged during cognition. We highlight our findings showing that the ability to solve hippocampus-sensitive tasks typically improves under relatively high estrogen status while the ability to solve striatum-sensitive tasks degrades with estrogen exposures. Though constrained by dose and timing of exposure, these opposing enhancements and impairments of cognition can be observed following treatments with different estrogenic compounds including the hormone estradiol, the isoflavone genistein found in soybeans, and agonists that are selective for specific estrogen receptors, suggesting that activation of a single receptor type is sufficient to produce the observed shifts in learning strategies. Using this multi-dimensional framework will allow us to extend our thinking of the relationship between estrogens and cognition to other brain regions and cognitive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donna L Korol
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY-Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA.
| | - Samantha L Pisani
- Neuroscience Program and Medical Scholars Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Labouesse MA, Langhans W, Meyer U. Effects of selective estrogen receptor alpha and beta modulators on prepulse inhibition in male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2015; 232:2981-94. [PMID: 25893642 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-3935-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Multiple lines of evidence suggest that the sex steroid hormone 17-β estradiol (E2) plays a protective role in schizophrenia. Systemic E2 enhances prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reflex, an operational measure of sensorimotor gating known to be impaired in schizophrenia and related disorders. However, the relative contribution of different estrogen-receptor (ER) isoforms in these associations still awaits examination. OBJECTIVES The present study explored the effects of ER-α and ER-β stimulation or blockade on PPI and their functional relevance in an amphetamine-induced PPI deficiency model in male mice. METHODS Prior to the assessment of PPI, C57BL/6N male mice were injected with the ER-α agonist 4,4',4″-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl) trisphenol (PPT), the ER-α antagonist 1,3-bis (4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methyl-5-[4-(2-piperidinylethoxy) phenol]-1N-pyrozole dihydrochloride (MPP), the ER-β agonist 2,3-bis (4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionitrile (DPN), or the ER-β antagonist 4-[2-phenyl-5,7-bis (trifluoromethyl) pyrazolo [1,5-a] pyrimidin-3-yl] phenol (PHTPP), with or without concomitant amphetamine treatment. RESULTS Acute pharmacological stimulation and blockade of ER-α, respectively, led to a dose-dependent increase and decrease in basal PPI. In contrast, acute treatment with preferential ER-β modulators spared PPI under basal conditions. Pretreatment with either ER-α or ER-β agonist was, however, effective in blocking amphetamine-induced PPI disruption. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that activation of either ER isoform is capable of modulating dopamine-dependent PPI levels. At the same time, our results suggest that endogenous ER-α signaling may be more relevant than ER-β in the regulation of sensorimotor gating under basal conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie A Labouesse
- Physiology and Behavior Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Schorenstrasse 16, 8603, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Tozzi A, de Iure A, Tantucci M, Durante V, Quiroga-Varela A, Giampà C, Di Mauro M, Mazzocchetti P, Costa C, Di Filippo M, Grassi S, Pettorossi VE, Calabresi P. Endogenous 17β-estradiol is required for activity-dependent long-term potentiation in the striatum: interaction with the dopaminergic system. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:192. [PMID: 26074768 PMCID: PMC4445326 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-estradiol (E2), a neurosteroid synthesized by P450-aromatase (ARO), modulates various brain functions. We characterized the role of the locally synthesized E2 on striatal long-term synaptic plasticity and explored possible interactions between E2 receptors (ERs) and dopamine (DA) receptors in the dorsal striatum of adult male rats. Inhibition of E2 synthesis or antagonism of ERs prevented the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) in both medium spiny neurons (MSNs) and cholinergic interneurons (ChIs). Activation of a D1-like DA receptor/cAMP/PKA-dependent pathway restored LTP. In MSNs exogenous E2 reversed the effect of ARO inhibition. Also antagonism of M1 muscarinic receptors prevented the D1-like receptor-mediated restoration of LTP confirming a role for ChIs in controlling the E2-mediated LTP of MSNs. A novel striatal interaction, occurring between ERs and D1-like receptors in both MSNs and ChIs, might be critical to regulate basal ganglia physiology and to compensate synaptic alterations in Parkinson’s disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Tozzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy ; Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio de Iure
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Michela Tantucci
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Durante
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Ana Quiroga-Varela
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Michela Di Mauro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
| | - Petra Mazzocchetti
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Costa
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Di Filippo
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvarosa Grassi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
| | - Vito Enrico Pettorossi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabresi
- Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS Rome, Italy ; Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Milne MR, Haug CA, Ábrahám IM, Kwakowsky A. Estradiol modulation of neurotrophin receptor expression in female mouse basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in vivo. Endocrinology 2015; 156:613-26. [PMID: 25415243 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The neuroprotective effect of estradiol (E2) on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) has been suggested to occur as a result of E2 modulation of the neurotrophin system on these neurons. The present study provides a comprehensive examination of the relationship between E2 and neurotrophin signaling on BFCNs by investigating the effect of E2 deficiency on the expression levels of neurotrophin receptors (NRs), TrkA, TrkB, and p75 on BFCNs. The number of TrkA receptor-expressing choline acetyltransferase-positive neurons was significantly reduced in the medial septum (MS) in the absence of E2. A significant reduction in TrkB-expressing choline acetyltransferase-positive cells was also observed in ovariectomized mice in the MS and nucleus basalis magnocellularis (NBM). p75 receptor expression was reduced in the NBM and striatum but not in the MS. We also showed that estrogen receptor (ER)-α was expressed by a small percentage of TrkA- and TrkB-positive neurons in the MS (12%) and NBM (19%) and by a high percentage of TrkB-positive neurons in the striatum (69%). Similarly, ERα was expressed at low levels by p75 neurons in the MS (6%) and NBM (9%) but was not expressed on striatal neurons. Finally, ERα knockout using neuron-specific estrogen receptor-α knockout transgenic mice abolished all E2-mediated changes in the NR expression on BFCNs. These results indicate that E2 differentially regulates NR expression on BFCNs, with effects depending on the NR type and neuroanatomical location, and also provide some evidence that alterations in the NR expression are, at least in part, mediated via ERα.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Milne
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Dorris DM, Cao J, Willett JA, Hauser CA, Meitzen J. Intrinsic excitability varies by sex in prepubertal striatal medium spiny neurons. J Neurophysiol 2014; 113:720-9. [PMID: 25376786 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00687.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in neuron electrophysiological properties were traditionally associated with brain regions directly involved in reproduction in adult, postpubertal animals. There is growing acknowledgement that sex differences can exist in other developmental periods and brain regions as well. This includes the dorsal striatum (caudate/putamen), which shows robust sex differences in gene expression, neuromodulator action (including dopamine and 17β-estradiol), and relevant sensorimotor behaviors and pathologies such as the responsiveness to drugs of abuse. Here we examine whether these sex differences extend to striatal neuron electrophysiology. We test the hypothesis that passive and active medium spiny neuron (MSN) electrophysiological properties in prepubertal rat dorsal striatum differ by sex. We made whole cell recordings from male and females MSNs from acute brain slices. The slope of the evoked firing rate to current injection curve was increased in MSNs recorded from females compared with males. The initial action potential firing rate was increased in MSNs recorded from females compared with males. Action potential after-hyperpolarization peak was decreased, and threshold was hyperpolarized in MSNs recorded from females compared with males. No sex differences in passive electrophysiological properties or miniature excitatory synaptic currents were detected. These findings indicate that MSN excitability is increased in prepubertal females compared with males, providing a new mechanism that potentially contributes to generating sex differences in striatal-mediated processes. Broadly, these findings demonstrate that sex differences in neuron electrophysiological properties can exist prepuberty in brain regions not directly related to reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David M Dorris
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Jinyan Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina; W. M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Jaime A Willett
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina; W. M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina; Graduate Program in Physiology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Caitlin A Hauser
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina; W. M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina; Center for Human Health and the Environment, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina; and Grass Laboratory, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Volpicelli F, Caiazzo M, Moncharmont B, di Porzio U, Colucci-D’Amato L. Neuronal differentiation dictates estrogen-dependent survival and ERK1/2 kinetic by means of caveolin-1. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109671. [PMID: 25350132 PMCID: PMC4211669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogens promote a plethora of effects in the CNS that profoundly affect both its development and mature functions and are able to influence proliferation, differentiation, survival and neurotransmission. The biological effects of estrogens are cell-context specific and also depend on differentiation and/or proliferation status in a given cell type. Furthermore, estrogens activate ERK1/2 in a variety of cellular types. Here, we investigated whether ERK1/2 activation might be influenced by estrogens stimulation according to the differentiation status and the molecular mechanisms underling this phenomenon. ERK1/2 exert an opposing role on survival and death, as well as on proliferation and differentiation depending on different kinetics of phosphorylation. Hence we report that mesencephalic primary cultures and the immortalized cell line mes-c-myc A1 express estrogen receptor α and activate ERK1/2 upon E2 stimulation. Interestingly, following the arrest of proliferation and the onset of differentiation, we observe a change in the kinetic of ERKs phosphorylation induced by estrogens stimulation. Moreover, caveolin-1, a main constituent of caveolae, endogenously expressed and co-localized with ER-α on plasma membrane, is consistently up-regulated following differentiation and cell growth arrest. In addition, we demonstrate that siRNA-induced caveolin-1 down-regulation or disruption by means of ß-cyclodextrin treatment changes ERK1/2 phosphorylation in response to estrogens stimulation. Finally, caveolin-1 down-regulation abolishes estrogens-dependent survival of neurons. Thus, caveolin-1 appears to be an important player in mediating, at least, some of the non-genomic action of estrogens in neurons, in particular ERK1/2 kinetics of activation and survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floriana Volpicelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caiazzo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, CNR, Naples, Italy
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Moncharmont
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Umberto di Porzio
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Colucci-D’Amato
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
- C.I.R.N., Inter-University Center for Research in Neuroscience, Naples, Italy
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Duarte JM, Do KQ, Gruetter R. Longitudinal neurochemical modifications in the aging mouse brain measured in vivo by 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 35:1660-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.01.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Revised: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
26
|
Smith KM, Dahodwala N. Sex differences in Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. Exp Neurol 2014; 259:44-56. [PMID: 24681088 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Movement disorders including Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), chorea, tics, and Tourette's syndrome (TS) display sex differences in disease susceptibility, disease pathogenesis, and clinical presentation. PD is more common in males than in females. Epidemiologic studies suggest that exposure to endogenous and exogenous estrogen contributes to these sex differences. There is extensive evidence that estrogen prevents dopaminergic neuron depletion induced by neurotoxins in PD animal models and therefore is neuroprotective. Estrogen may also decrease the efficacy of other neuroprotective substances such as caffeine in females but not males. Sex chromosomes can exert effects independent of sex steroid hormones on the development and maintenance of the dopamine system. As a result of hormone, chromosome and other unknown effects, there are sexual dimorphisms in the basal ganglia, and at the molecular levels in dopaminergic neurons that may lead to distinct mechanisms of pathogenesis in males and females. In this review, we summarize the evidence that estrogen and selective estrogen receptor modulators are neuroprotective in PD and discuss potential mechanisms of action. We also briefly review how sex differences in basal ganglia function and dopaminergic pathways may impact HD, chorea, and tics/Tourette's syndrome. Further understanding of these sex differences may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for prevention and treatment of these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara M Smith
- Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center, 330 S. 9th St, 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
| | - Nabila Dahodwala
- Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center, 330 S. 9th St, 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
The loss of estrogen efficacy against cerebral ischemia in aged postmenopausal female mice. Neurosci Lett 2014; 558:115-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2013.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2013] [Revised: 11/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
28
|
Abstract
AbstractStudies in both rodents and humans have made much progress in shedding light on how fluctuations in ovarian hormones can affect memory in women across the lifespan. Specifically, advances in neuroscience have identified multiple memory systems that are each mediated by different brain areas. Two memory systems used to navigate an environment are ‘place’ and ‘response’ memory. They are defined as either using an allocentric strategy: using a spatial or cognitive map of the surroundings, or an egocentric strategy: using habitual-turns/movements, respectively. Studies in neuroendocrinology have shown that estrogen levels can bias a female to use one memory system over another to solve a task, such that high estrogen levels are associated with using place memory and low levels with using response memory. Furthermore, recent advances in identifying and localizing estrogen receptors in the rodent brain are uncovering which brain regions are affected by estrogen and providing insight into how hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause might affect which memory system is facilitated or impaired in women at different life stages. These studies can help point the way to improving cognitive health in women.
Collapse
|
29
|
Mott NN, Pak TR. Estrogen signaling and the aging brain: context-dependent considerations for postmenopausal hormone therapy. ISRN ENDOCRINOLOGY 2013; 2013:814690. [PMID: 23936665 PMCID: PMC3725729 DOI: 10.1155/2013/814690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent clinical studies have spurred rigorous debate about the benefits of hormone therapy (HT) for postmenopausal women. Controversy first emerged based on a sharp increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease in participants of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) studies, suggesting that decades of empirical research in animal models was not necessarily applicable to humans. However, a reexamination of the data from the WHI studies suggests that the timing of HT might be a critical factor and that advanced age and/or length of estrogen deprivation might alter the body's ability to respond to estrogens. Dichotomous estrogenic effects are mediated primarily by the actions of two high-affinity estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ER α & ER β ). The expression of the ERs can be overlapping or distinct, dependent upon brain region, sex, age, and exposure to hormone, and, during the time of menopause, there may be changes in receptor expression profiles, post-translational modifications, and protein:protein interactions that could lead to a completely different environment for E2 to exert its effects. In this review, factors affecting estrogen-signaling processes will be discussed with particular attention paid to the expression and transcriptional actions of ER β in brain regions that regulate cognition and affect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha N. Mott
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, 2160 S First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
| | - Toni R. Pak
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, 2160 S First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Navarro A, del Valle E, Ordóñez C, Martínez E, Pérez C, Alonso A, González C, Tolivia J. Aging and substitutive hormonal therapy influence in regional and subcellular distribution of ERα in female rat brain. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2013; 35:821-37. [PMID: 22648398 PMCID: PMC3636381 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-012-9415-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Estrogens are not only critical for sexual differentiation it is well-known for the role of 17β-estradiol (E2) in the adult brain modulating memory, learning, mood and acts as a neuroprotector. E2 exerts its actions through two classical receptors: estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ). The distribution of both receptors changes from one brain area to another, E2 being able to modulate their expression. Among the classical features of aging in humans, we find cognitive impairment, dementia, memory loss, etc. As estrogen levels change with age, especially in females, it is important to know the effects of low E2 levels on ERα distribution; results from previous studies are controversial regarding this issue. In the present work, we have studied the effects of long-term E2 depletion as well as the ones of E2 treatment on ERα brain distribution of ovariectomized rats along aging in the diencephalon and in the telencephalon. We have found that ovariectomy causes downregulation and affects subcellular localization of ERα expression during aging, meanwhile prolonged estrogen treatment produces upregulation and overexpression of the receptor levels. Our results support the idea of the region-specific neuroprotection mechanisms mediated by estradiol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Navarro
- />Department of Morphology, Cellular Biology Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eva del Valle
- />Department of Morphology, Cellular Biology Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Cristina Ordóñez
- />Área de Neurociencias, CIMA, Avda. Pío XII, 55 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez
- />Área de Neurociencias, CIMA, Avda. Pío XII, 55 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristina Pérez
- />Department of Morphology, Cellular Biology Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ana Alonso
- />Department of Functional Biology–Physiology Area, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Celestino González
- />Department of Functional Biology–Physiology Area, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge Tolivia
- />Department of Morphology, Cellular Biology Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- />Dpto. Morfología y Biología Celular, 8ª Planta Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, c/Julián Clavería s/n, Oviedo, 33006 Spain
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Al Sweidi S, Morissette M, Rouillard C, Di Paolo T. Estrogen receptors and lesion-induced response of striatal dopamine receptors. Neuroscience 2013; 236:99-109. [PMID: 23357113 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.12.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Revised: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuroprotection by 17β-estradiol and an estrogen receptor (ER) agonist against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) lesion were shown to implicate protein kinase B (Akt) signaling in mice. In order to evaluate the associated mechanisms, this study compared estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) intact or knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) C57Bl/6 male mice following MPTP treatment of 7, 9, 11mg/kg and/or 17β-estradiol. Striatal D1 and D2 dopamine (DA) receptors were measured by autoradiography with the specific ligands [(3)H]-SCH 23390 and [(3)H]-raclopride, respectively and signaling by Western blot for Akt, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and extracellular-regulated signal kinases (ERK1 and ERK2). Control ERKOβ mice had lower striatal [(3)H]-SCH 23390 specific binding than WT and ERKOα mice; both KO mice had lower [(3)H]-raclopride specific binding. Striatal D1 receptors decreased with increasing doses of MPTP in correlation with striatal DA concentrations in ERKOα mice and remained unchanged in WT and ERKOβ mice. Striatal D2 receptors decreased with increasing doses of MPTP in correlation with striatal DA concentrations in WT and ERKOα mice and increased in ERKOβ mice. In MPTP-lesioned mice, 17β-estradiol treatment increased D1 receptors in ERKOα and ERKOβ mice and D2 receptors in WT and ERKOβ mice. MPTP did not affect striatal pAkt/Akt and pGSK3β/GSK3β levels in WT and ERKOα mice, while in vehicle-treated ERKOβ mice these levels were higher and increased with MPTP lesioning. Striatal pERK1/ERK1 and pERK2/ERK2 levels showed to a lesser extent a similar pattern. In conclusion, ERs affected the response of striatal DA receptors to a MPTP lesion and post receptor signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Al Sweidi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada G1K 7P4
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Al-Sweidi S, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Effect of oestrogen receptors on brain NMDA receptors of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:1375-85. [PMID: 22672467 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2012.02349.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterised by the loss of nigrostriatal dopamine (DA) neurones and glutamate overactivity. There is substantial evidence to suggest that oestrogens prevent or delay the disease. 17β-oestradiol has neuroprotective effects in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of PD and modulates brain NMDA receptors. In MPTP-lesioned mice, oestrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ are important in 17β-oestradiol-induced neuroprotection. To evaluate the role of ERs in the response of NMDA receptors to lesion, we compared wild-type (WT) with ER knockout (KO) C57Bl/6 male mice that received 7, 9 or 11 mg/kg of MPTP. These mice were also treated with MPTP (9 mg/kg) and 17β-oestradiol. [(3) H]Ro 25-6981 specific binding autoradiography was used to label NMDA receptors containing NR2B subunits. In the frontal and cingulate cortex and striatum, vehicle-treated WT mice had higher [(3) H]Ro 25-6981 specific binding compared to ERKO mice. Cortical [(3) H]Ro 25-6981 specific binding decreased with increasing doses of MPTP in WT and ERKOα but not ERKOβ mice, whereas a dose-related decrease was only observed in the striatum of WT mice remaining low in ERKOα and ERKOβ mice. No effect of 17β-oestradiol treatment in intact or MPTP-lesioned mice of all three genotypes was observed in the cortex, whereas it increased striatal specific binding of intact ERKOβ and MPTP-lesioned WT mice. Striatal [(3) H]Ro 25-6981 specific binding positively correlated with striatal DA concentrations only in WT mice. MPTP and 17β-oestradiol treatments had more limited effects in the hippocampus. Only in the CA3 and dentate gyrus did vehicle and 17β-oestradiol-treated ERKOα mice have higher [(3) H]Ro 25-6981 specific binding than WT and ERKOβ mice, whereas MPTP decreased this specific binding only in the CA1, CA2 and CA3 of ERKOα mice. Hence, brain NMDA receptors were affected by the deletion of ERs, which affect the response to MPTP and 17β-oestradiol treatments with brain region specificity.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine
- Animals
- Brain/drug effects
- Brain/metabolism
- Brain/pathology
- CA1 Region, Hippocampal/drug effects
- CA1 Region, Hippocampal/metabolism
- CA1 Region, Hippocampal/pathology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Estradiol/blood
- Estradiol/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Parkinsonian Disorders/chemically induced
- Parkinsonian Disorders/genetics
- Parkinsonian Disorders/metabolism
- Parkinsonian Disorders/pathology
- Phenols/pharmacology
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/physiology
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/genetics
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Al-Sweidi
- Endocrinology and Genomics Research Axis of the CHUQ, CHUL, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Almey A, Filardo EJ, Milner TA, Brake WG. Estrogen receptors are found in glia and at extranuclear neuronal sites in the dorsal striatum of female rats: evidence for cholinergic but not dopaminergic colocalization. Endocrinology 2012; 153:5373-83. [PMID: 22919059 PMCID: PMC3473205 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens rapidly affect dopamine (DA) neurotransmission in the dorsal striatum (dSTR) and DA-related diseases, such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. How estrogens influence DA function remains unclear, in part, because the ultrastructural localization of estrogen receptors (ER) in the dSTR is not known. Light microscopic studies of the dSTR have suggested the presence of ER. This experiment used electron microscopy to determine whether these ER are at extranuclear sites in the dSTR, providing evidence for a mechanism through which estrogen could rapidly affect DA transmission. The dSTR was labeled with antibodies for ERα, ERβ, and G protein-coupled ER 1 (GPER-1) to confirm whether these ER were present in this brain area. After this, the dSTR was dual labeled with antibodies for ERα or GPER-1 and tyrosine hydroxylase or vesicular acetylcholine transporter to determine whether ER are localized to dopaminergic and/or cholinergic processes, respectively. Ultrastructural analysis revealed immunoreactivity (IR) for ERα, ERβ, and GPER-1 exclusively at extranuclear sites throughout the dSTR. ERα-, ERβ-, and GPER-1-IR are mostly frequently observed in axons and glial profiles but are also localized to other neuronal profiles. Dual labeling revealed that ERα- and GPER-1-IR is not associated with DA axons and terminals but is sometimes associated with cholinergic neurons. Because these receptors are exclusively extranuclear in the dSTR, binding at these receptors likely affects neurotransmission via nongenomic mechanisms.
Collapse
|
34
|
Pisani SL, Neese SL, Doerge DR, Helferich WG, Schantz SL, Korol DL. Acute genistein treatment mimics the effects of estradiol by enhancing place learning and impairing response learning in young adult female rats. Horm Behav 2012; 62:491-9. [PMID: 22944517 PMCID: PMC3495242 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 08/17/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous estrogens have bidirectional effects on learning and memory, enhancing or impairing cognition depending on many variables, including the task and the memory systems that are engaged. Moderate increases in estradiol enhance hippocampus-sensitive place learning, yet impair response learning that taps dorsal striatal function. This memory modulation likely occurs via activation of estrogen receptors, resulting in altered neural function. Supplements containing estrogenic compounds from plants are widely consumed despite limited information about their effects on brain function, including learning and memory. Phytoestrogens can enter the brain and signal through estrogen receptors to affect cognition. Enhancements in spatial memory and impairments in executive function have been found following treatment with soy phytoestrogens, but no tests of actions on striatum-sensitive tasks have been made to date. The present study compared the effects of acute exposure to the isoflavone genistein with the effects of estradiol on performance in place and response learning tasks. Long-Evans rats were ovariectomized, treated with 17β-estradiol benzoate, genistein-containing sucrose pellets, or vehicle (oil or plain sucrose pellets) for 2 days prior to behavioral training. Compared to vehicle controls, estradiol treatment enhanced place learning at a low (4.5 μg/kg) but not high dose (45 μg/kg), indicating an inverted pattern of spatial memory facilitation. Treatment with 4.4 mg of genistein over 2 days also significantly enhanced place learning over vehicle controls. For the response task, treatment with estradiol impaired learning at both low and high doses; likewise, genistein treatment impaired response learning compared to rats receiving vehicle. Overall, genistein was found to mimic estradiol-induced shifts in place and response learning, facilitating hippocampus-sensitive learning and slowing striatum-sensitive learning. These results suggest signaling through estrogen receptor β and membrane-associated estrogen receptors in learning enhancements and impairments given the preferential binding of genistein to the ERβ subtype and affinity for GPER.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Pisani
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 505 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Al Sweidi S, Sánchez MG, Bourque M, Morissette M, Dluzen D, Di Paolo T. Oestrogen receptors and signalling pathways: implications for neuroprotective effects of sex steroids in Parkinson's disease. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:48-61. [PMID: 21790809 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02193.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder with a higher incidence in the male population. In the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of PD, 17β-oestradiol but not androgens were shown to protect dopamine (DA) neurones. We report that oestrogen receptors (ER)α and β distinctly contribute to neuroprotection against MPTP toxicity, as revealed by examining the membrane DA transporter (DAT), the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) and tyrosine hyroxylase in ER wild-type (WT) and knockout (ERKO) C57Bl/6 male mice. Intact ERKOβ mice had lower levels of striatal DAT and VMAT2, whereas ERKOα mice were the most sensitive to MPTP toxicity compared to WT and ERKOβ mice and had the highest levels of plasma androgens. In both ERKO mice groups, treatment with 17β-oestradiol did not provide neuroprotection against MPTP, despite elevated plasma 17β-oestradiol levels. Next, the recently described membrane G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER1) was examined in female Macaca fascicularis monkeys and mice. GPER1 levels were increased in the caudate nucleus and the putamen of MPTP-monkeys and in the male mouse striatum lesioned with methamphetamine or MPTP. Moreover, neuroprotective mechanisms in response to oestrogens transmit via Akt/glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) signalling. The intact and lesioned striata of 17β-oestradiol treated monkeys, similar to that of mice, had increased levels of pAkt (Ser 473)/βIII-tubulin, pGSK3 (Ser 9)/βIII-tubulin and Akt/βIII-tubulin. Hence, ERα, ERβ and GPER1 activation by oestrogens is imperative in the modulation of ER signalling and serves as a basis for evaluating nigrostriatal neuroprotection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Al Sweidi
- Molecular Endocrinology and Genomic Research Center, CHUQ (CHUL), Quebec City, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pleil KE, Cordes S, Meck WH, Williams CL. Rapid and acute effects of estrogen on time perception in male and female rats. Front Integr Neurosci 2011; 5:63. [PMID: 22016725 PMCID: PMC3192991 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2011.00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in the rapid and acute effects of estradiol on time perception were investigated in adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. Because estradiol has been shown to increase striatal dopamine release, it may be able to modify time perception and timed performance by increasing the speed of an internal clock in a manner similar to indirect dopamine agonists such as amphetamine and cocaine. Two groups of females (neonatally estradiol-treated/adult ovariectomized and neonatally oil-treated/adult ovariectomized) and two groups of males (neonatally castrated and adult castrated) were trained in a 2 vs. 8-s duration bisection procedure and tested using intermediate signal durations. After obtaining oil-injected baseline psychometric functions over several days, rats were administered 5 μg of estradiol for 4 days and behaviorally evaluated 30 min following each injection. This oil-estradiol administration cycle was subsequently repeated three times following the re-establishment of baseline training. Results revealed significant sex differences in the initial baseline functions that were not modifiable by organizational hormones, with males' duration bisection functions shifted horizontally to the left of females'. Upon the first administration of estradiol, females, but not males, showed a significant, transient leftward shift in their bisection functions, indicative of an increase in clock speed. After extensive retraining in the duration bisection procedure, rats that were exposed to gonadal hormones during the first week of life showed a significant rightward shift in their bisection functions on the fourth day of estradiol administration during each cycle, suggesting a decrease in clock speed. Taken together, our results support the view that there are multiple mechanisms of estrogens' action in the striatum that modulate dopaminergic activity and are differentially organized by gonadal steroids during early brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen E Pleil
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Al-Sweidi S, Morissette M, Bourque M, Di Paolo T. Estrogen receptors and gonadal steroids in vulnerability and protection of dopamine neurons in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. Neuropharmacology 2011; 61:583-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 04/17/2011] [Accepted: 04/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
38
|
Mackedanz V, Mattos CB, Feksa LR, Wannmacher CMD, Wyse ATS. Ovariectomy alters energy metabolism in rat striatum: effect of supplementation with soy diet rich in isoflavones. Metab Brain Dis 2011; 26:97-105. [PMID: 21072576 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-010-9216-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2010] [Accepted: 10/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In the present study we investigated the effect of ovariectomy on some parameters of energy metabolism, namely Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and pyruvate kinase activities, as well as the mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes activities succinate dehydrogenase, complex II and cytochrome c oxidase in rat striatum. The influence of soy diet rich in isoflavones on the effects elicited by ovariectomy on enzyme activities was also evaluated. Female adult Wistar rats were assigned to one of the following groups: sham (submitted to surgery without removal of the ovaries) and ovariectomized. Seven days after surgery animals were fed for 30 days on a special diet with soy protein or a standard diet with casein (control). Rats were sacrificed after treatment and the striatum was dissected. Results showed that rats subjected to ovariectomy presented a significant increase in Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, succinate dehydrogenase and complex II activities. Treatment with isoflavones-rich soy diet was able to reverse the increase of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity, but was not effective in reversing the changes caused by ovariectomy on succinate dehydrogenase and complex II activities. Since ovariectomy mimics postmenopausal changes, our findings suggest that dysfunction of brain energy metabolism may be related to neurological symptoms observed in some postmenopausal women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanize Mackedanz
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e Doenças Metabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Membrane estrogen receptors activate the metabotropic glutamate receptors mGluR5 and mGluR3 to bidirectionally regulate CREB phosphorylation in female rat striatal neurons. Neuroscience 2010; 170:1045-55. [PMID: 20709161 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Revised: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 08/09/2010] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Along with its ability to directly regulate gene expression, estradiol influences cell signaling and brain functions via rapid, membrane-initiated events. In the female rat striatum, estradiol activates membrane-localized estrogen receptors to influence synaptic neurotransmission, calcium channel activity, and behaviors related to motor control. Yet, the mechanism by which estradiol acts to rapidly affect striatal physiology has remained elusive. Here we find that membrane estrogen receptors (ERs) couple to the metabotropic glutamate receptors mGluR5 and mGluR3, providing the framework to understand how membrane estrogen receptors affect striatal function. Using CREB phosphorylation as a downstream measure of ER/mGluR activation, membrane-localized estrogen receptor α (ERα) activates mGluR5 signaling to mediate mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent CREB phosphorylation. Further, ERα and estrogen receptor β (ERβ) activate mGluR3 to attenuate L-type calcium channel-dependent CREB signaling. Interestingly, while this fundamental mechanism of ER/mGluR signaling was initially characterized in hippocampal neurons, estrogen receptors in striatal neurons are paired with a different set of mGluRs, resulting in the potential to functionally isolate membrane-initiated estrogen signaling across brain regions via use of specific mGluR modulators. These results provide both a mechanism for the rapid actions of estrogens within the female striatum, as well as demonstrate that estrogen receptors can interact with a more diverse set of surface membrane receptors than previously recognized.
Collapse
|
40
|
Pleil KE, Williams CL. The development and stability of estrogen-modulated spatial navigation strategies in female rats. Horm Behav 2010; 57:360-7. [PMID: 20079739 PMCID: PMC2834838 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2009] [Revised: 01/06/2010] [Accepted: 01/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Adult female rats with high levels of circulating estradiol are biased to use a place strategy to solve an ambiguous spatial navigation task and those with low levels are biased to use a response strategy. We examined the development of this hormonal modulation of strategy use by training juvenile female rats on an ambiguous navigation task and probing them for strategy use at postnatal day (PD) 16, 21, or 26, after administration of 17 beta-estradiol or oil 48 and 24 h prior to testing. We found that rats could use either strategy successfully by PD21 but that estradiol did not bias rats to use a place strategy until PD26. In order to evaluate the stability of this effect over multiple navigation experiences, we retested oil-treated juveniles three times during adulthood. On the first adult navigation experience, rats were significantly more likely to use the same navigation strategy they used as juveniles, regardless of current estrous cycle phase. On the second and third adult tests, after rats had more experience with the task, previous navigation experience did not predict strategy use. Rats in proestrus were significantly more likely to use a place strategy while rats in estrus and diestrus did not appear to have a group bias to use either strategy. These results suggest that estradiol can modulate spatial navigation strategy use before puberty but that this effect interacts with previous navigation experience. This study sheds light on when and under what circumstances estradiol gains control over spatial navigation behavior in the female rat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen E Pleil
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Sung YH, Park KH, Lee YB, Park HM, Shin DJ. Chorea in the both lower limbs associated with nonketotic hyperglycemia. J Mov Disord 2009; 2:98-100. [PMID: 24868369 PMCID: PMC4027719 DOI: 10.14802/jmd.09027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Revised: 10/14/2009] [Accepted: 10/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemichorea-hemiballism (HC-HB) is a complication of non-ketotic hyperglycemia (NKH); in NKH patients, the frequency of occurrence of HC-HB is greater than that of bilateral chorea. We report the case of a hyperglycemic patient who showed chorea in both the lower limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed high signal intensity on T1-weighted images of the bilateral dorsolateral putamen. The abnormal involuntary movements disappeared after oral administration of haloperidol. Our case report that chorea associated with NKH is correlated with the topography of the basal ganglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young-Hee Sung
- Department of Neurology, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea
| | - Ki-Hyung Park
- Department of Neurology, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea
| | - Yeung-Bae Lee
- Department of Neurology, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea
| | - Hyeon-Mi Park
- Department of Neurology, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea
| | - Dong-Jin Shin
- Department of Neurology, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Doncel-Pérez E, Caballero-Chacón S, Nieto-Sampedro M. Neurosphere cell differentiation to aldynoglia promoted by olfactory ensheathing cell conditioned medium. Glia 2009; 57:1393-409. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.20858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
43
|
Bourque M, Dluzen DE, Di Paolo T. Neuroprotective actions of sex steroids in Parkinson's disease. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:142-57. [PMID: 19410597 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2009] [Revised: 04/22/2009] [Accepted: 04/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The sex difference in Parkinson's disease, with a higher susceptibility in men, suggests a modulatory effect of sex steroids in the brain. Numerous studies highlight that sex steroids have neuroprotective properties against various brain injuries. This paper reviews the protective effects of sex hormones, particularly estradiol, progesterone and androgens, in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) animal model of Parkinson's disease as compared to methamphetamine toxicity. The molecular mechanisms underlying beneficial actions of sex steroids on the brain have been investigated showing steroid, dose, timing and duration specificities and presently focus is on the dopamine signaling pathways, the next frontier. Both genomic and non-genomic actions of estrogen converge to promote survival factors and show sex differences. Neuroprotection by estrogen involves activation of signaling molecules such as the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/Akt and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Interaction with growth factors, such as insulin-like growth factor 1, also contributes to protective actions of estrogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Molecular Endocrinology and Genomic Research Center, Laval University Medical Center, CHUL, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Estradiol promotes proliferation of dopaminergic precursors resulting in a higher proportion of dopamine neurons derived from mouse embryonic stem cells. Int J Dev Neurosci 2009; 27:493-500. [PMID: 19379802 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2009.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2009] [Revised: 04/07/2009] [Accepted: 04/08/2009] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Estradiol protects dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra from toxic insults. Such neurons succumb in Parkinson's disease; one strategy for restoring dopamine deficiency is cell therapy with neurons differentiated from embryonic stem cells. We investigated the effects of 17beta-estradiol on dopaminergic induction of embryonic stem cells using the 5-stage protocol. Cells were incubated with different steroid concentrations during the proliferation (stage 4) or differentiation (stage 5) phases. Estradiol added at nM concentrations only during stage 4 increases the proliferation of dopaminergic precursors expressing Lmx1a, inducing a higher proportion of dopamine neurons at stage 5. These actions were mediated by activation of estrogen receptors, because co-incubation of cells with estradiol and ICI 182,780 completely abolished the positive effect on both proliferation of committed precursors, and subsequent differentiation to dopaminergic neurons. Our results suggest that estradiol should be useful in producing higher proportions of dopamine neurons from embryonic stem cells aimed for treating Parkinson's disease.
Collapse
|
45
|
Bales JW, Wagner AK, Kline AE, Dixon CE. Persistent cognitive dysfunction after traumatic brain injury: A dopamine hypothesis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2009; 33:981-1003. [PMID: 19580914 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2009.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2009] [Revised: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 03/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant cause of death and disability in industrialized countries. Of particular importance to patients the chronic effect that TBI has on cognitive function. Therapeutic strategies have been difficult to evaluate because of the complexity of injuries and variety of patient presentations within a TBI population. However, pharmacotherapies targeting dopamine (DA) have consistently shown benefits in attention, behavioral outcome, executive function, and memory. Still it remains unclear what aspect of TBI pathology is targeted by DA therapies and what time-course of treatment is most beneficial for patient outcomes. Fortunately, ongoing research in animal models has begun to elucidate the pathophysiology of DA alterations after TBI. The purpose of this review is to discuss clinical and experimental research examining DAergic therapies after TBI, which will in turn elucidate the importance of DA for cognitive function/dysfunction after TBI as well as highlight the areas that require further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James W Bales
- Brain Trauma Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Noppens RR, Kofler J, Grafe MR, Hurn PD, Traystman RJ. Estradiol after cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation is neuroprotective and mediated through estrogen receptor-beta. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2009; 29:277-86. [PMID: 18957991 PMCID: PMC2682442 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2008.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated long-term administration of estrogen after cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CA/CPR) on neurohistopathological and behavioral outcome. We also examined the effect of estrogen receptor (ER) stimulation using ER-alpha agonist propyl pyrazole triol (PPT) and ER-beta agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN) on neuronal survival after CA/CPR to determine whether possible neuroprotective effects of estrogen are ER-mediated. Male C57Bl/6 mice underwent 10 mins of CA/CPR and 3-day survival. In protocol 1, intravenous injection of vehicle (NaCl 0.9%) and 0.5 or 2.5 microg 17beta-estradiol (E2 loading dose) was performed followed by subcutaneous implants containing vehicle (oil) or E2 (12.6 microg), according to a treatment group. In experimental protocol 2, mice were injected (intravenously) with the ER-alpha agonist PPT or ER-beta agonist DPN followed by Alzet pump implants (subcutaneously) containing PPT (200 microg) or DPN (800 microg). Long-term E2 administration reduced neuronal injury in the striatum after administration of either loading dose (41%+/-19%, 35%+/-26% of injured neurons), as compared with vehicle (68%+/-7%, P<0.01), with no effect in the hippocampal CA1 field. In protocol 2, treatment with ER-beta agonist DPN reduced neuronal injury in the striatum (51%+/-13% injured neurons) as compared with ER-alpha agonist PPT (68%+/-10%) and vehicle (69%+/-11%; P<0.01). Estrogen receptor-beta agonist DPN reduced neuronal injury in the hippocampal CA1 field (29%+/-22% injured neurons) as compared with ER-alpha agonist PPT treatment (62%+/-33%; P<0.05). Injury was not different in hippocampal CA1 between vehicle and ER-alpha agonist-treated animals. We conclude that long-term E2 administration after CA/CPR is neuroprotective and that this effect is most likely mediated via ER-beta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruediger R Noppens
- Department of Anesthesiology and Peri-Operative Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Morissette M, Al Sweidi S, Callier S, Di Paolo T. Estrogen and SERM neuroprotection in animal models of Parkinson's disease. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2008; 290:60-9. [PMID: 18515001 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2008] [Revised: 04/14/2008] [Accepted: 04/14/2008] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A higher prevalence and incidence of Parkinson disease (PD) is observed in men and beneficial motor effects of estrogens are observed in parkinsonian women. Lesion of the dopamine (DA) nigrostriatal pathway in animals with 1-methyl 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) provides a model of PD and this is based on its use in humans as side-product of a drug abuse. Presently treatment of PD is mainly symptomatic. The MPTP mouse is used to study the neuroprotective roles of estrogenic drugs on the DA system. Estrogens, but not androgens, are active neuroprotectants as well as progesterone and dehydroepiandrosterone. An estrogen receptor agonist PPT and the selective estrogen receptor modulator raloxifene are also neuroprotective. Striatal DA neurons of estrogen receptor alpha knockout mice are more susceptible to MPTP toxicity than wild-type mice and neuroprotection by estradiol is associated with the activation of the PI3-K pathway involving Akt, GSK3beta, Bcl2 and BAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Morissette
- Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology Research Center, Laval University Medical Center (CHUL), Quebec, QC, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Küppers E, Krust A, Chambon P, Beyer C. Functional alterations of the nigrostriatal dopamine system in estrogen receptor-alpha knockout (ERKO) mice. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2008; 33:832-8. [PMID: 18472350 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2008.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2007] [Revised: 03/19/2008] [Accepted: 03/24/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen represents an important factor for the development and function of the nigrostriatal dopamine system. Estrogen also controls sex-specific differentiation and activity of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system. We used an estrogen receptor-alpha knockout (-/-) model (ERKO) to study the influence of this particular receptor subtype on the regulation of functional characteristics of the male and female nigrostriatal dopamine system. On the striatal level, we found a sex-specific regulation of dopamine D1 receptors (D1) and dopamine receptor-interacting protein 78 (Drip78). In female (-/-) mice D1 receptor expression levels were increased compared to wild type (wt) animals, whereas in male (-/-) mice Drip78 mRNA levels were decreased compared to wt. In the midbrain, expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was reduced in (-/-) mice of both sexes. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) expression was not affected. These data demonstrate that the integrity of estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) signalling is necessary for the regulation of gene expression of proteins known to be important for the function of the nigrostriatal system at the postsynaptic striatal and presynaptic midbrain level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Küppers
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Tübingen, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Morissette M, Le Saux M, D'Astous M, Jourdain S, Al Sweidi S, Morin N, Estrada-Camarena E, Mendez P, Garcia-Segura LM, Di Paolo T. Contribution of estrogen receptors alpha and beta to the effects of estradiol in the brain. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2008; 108:327-38. [PMID: 17936613 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2007.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Clinical and experimental studies show a modulatory role of estrogens in the brain and suggest their beneficial action in mental and neurodegenerative diseases. The estrogen receptors ERalpha and ERbeta are present in the brain and their targeting could bring selectivity and reduced risk of cancer. Implication of ERs in the effect of estradiol on dopamine, opiate and glutamate neurotransmission is reviewed. The ERalpha agonist, PPT, is shown as estradiol to modulate hippocampal NMDA receptors and AMPA receptors in cortex and striatum of ovariectomized rats whereas the ERbeta agonist DPN is inactive. Striatal DPN activity suggests implication of ERbeta in estradiol modulation of D2 receptors and transporters in ovariectomized rats and is supported by the lack of effect of estradiol in ERbeta knockout (ERKObeta) mice. Both ERalpha and ERbeta agonists modulate striatal preproenkephalin (PPE) gene expression in ovariectomized rats. In male mice PPT protects against MPTP toxicity to striatal dopamine; this implicates Akt/GSK3beta signaling and the apoptotic regulators Bcl2 and Bad. This suggests a role for ERalpha in striatal dopamine neuroprotection. ERKOalpha mice are more susceptible to MPTP toxicity and not protected by estradiol; differences in ERKObeta mice are subtler. These results suggest therapeutic potential for the brain of ER specific agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Morissette
- Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology Research Center, Medical Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Sainte-Foy, Québec, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Bourque M, Liu B, Dluzen DE, Di Paolo T. Tamoxifen protects male mice nigrostriatal dopamine against methamphetamine-induced toxicity. Biochem Pharmacol 2007; 74:1413-23. [PMID: 17825264 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2007.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2007] [Revised: 07/06/2007] [Accepted: 07/09/2007] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The selective estrogen receptor modulator tamoxifen and estradiol were shown to protect nigrostriatal dopamine concentration loss by methamphetamine in female mice whereas male mice were protected only by tamoxifen. The present study examined the protective properties of tamoxifen in male mice on several nigrostriatal dopaminergic markers and body temperature. Intact male mice were administered 12.5 or 50 microg tamoxifen 24 h before methamphetamine treatment. Basal body temperatures of male mice remained unchanged by the tamoxifen treatment. Methamphetamine reduced striatal dopamine and its metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanillic acid concentrations, striatal and substantia nigra dopamine and vesicular monoamine transporter specific binding as well substantia nigra dopamine and vesicular monoamine transporter mRNA levels and increased striatal preproenkephalin mRNA levels. These methamphetamine effects were not altered by 12.5 microg tamoxifen except for increased striatal dopamine metabolites and turnover. Tamoxifen at 50 microg reduced the methamphetamine effect on striatal dopamine concentration, dopamine transporter specific binding and prevented the increase in preproenkephalin mRNA levels; in the substantia nigra tamoxifen prevented the decrease of dopamine transporter mRNA levels. The present results show a tamoxifen dose-dependent prevention of loss of various dopaminergic markers against methamphetamine-induced toxicity in male mice. Since this is the only known hormonal protection of male mice against methamphetamine toxicity, these findings provide important new information on specific parameters of nigrostriatal dopaminergic function preserved by tamoxifen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology Research Center, Laval University Medical Center, CHUL, Quebec City, Quebec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|