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Peña JE, Corbett BF, Tamminga CA, Bhatnagar S, Hitti FL. Investigating Resistance to Antidepressants in Animal Models. Neuroscience 2024; 548:69-80. [PMID: 38697464 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is one of the most prevalent psychiatric diseases, and up to 30-40% of patients remain symptomatic despite treatment. Novel therapies are sorely needed, and animal models may be used to elucidate fundamental neurobiological processes that contribute to human disease states. We conducted a systematic review of current preclinical approaches to investigating treatment resistance with the goal of describing a path forward for improving our understanding of treatment resistant depression. We conducted a broad literature search to identify studies relevant to the preclinical investigation of treatment resistant depression. We followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and included all relevant studies. We identified 467 studies in our initial search. Of these studies, we included 69 in our systematic review after applying our inclusion/exclusion criteria. We identified 10 broad strategies for investigating treatment resistance in animal models. Stress hormone administration was the most commonly used model, and the most common behavioral test was the forced swim test. We systematically identified and reviewed current approaches for gaining insight into the neurobiology underlying treatment resistant depression using animal models. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, but all require careful consideration of their potential limitations regarding therapeutic translation. An enhanced understanding of treatment resistant depression is sorely needed given the burden of disease and lack of effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianna E Peña
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States; Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Brian F Corbett
- Department of Biology, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ, United States
| | - Carol A Tamminga
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Seema Bhatnagar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Frederick L Hitti
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States; Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.
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2
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Tseilikman VE, Shatilov VA, Zhukov MS, Buksha IA, Epitashvily AE, Lipatov IA, Aristov MR, Koshelev AG, Karpenko MN, Traktirov DS, Maistrenko VA, Kamel M, Buhler AV, Kovaleva EG, Kalinina TS, Pashkov AA, Kon’kov VV, Novak J, Tseilikman OB. Limited Cheese Intake Paradigm Replaces Patterns of Behavioral Disorders in Experimental PTSD: Focus on Resveratrol Supplementation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14343. [PMID: 37762647 PMCID: PMC10532287 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, the efficacy of drug therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD leaves much to be desired, making nutraceutical support a promising avenue for treatment. Recent research has identified the protective effects of resveratrol in PTSD. Here, we tested the behavioral and neurobiological effects of combining cheese consumption with resveratrol supplements in an experimental PTSD model. Using the elevated plus maze test, we observed that cheese intake resulted in a shift from anxiety-like behavior to depressive behavior, evident in increased freezing acts. However, no significant changes in the anxiety index value were observed. Interestingly, supplementation with cheese and resveratrol only led to the elimination of freezing behavior in half of the PTSD rats. We further segregated the rats into two groups based on freezing behavior: Freezing+ and Freezing0 phenotypes. Resveratrol ameliorated the abnormalities in Monoamine Oxidize -A and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor gene expression in the hippocampus, but only in the Freezing0 rats. Moreover, a negative correlation was found between the number of freezing acts and the levels of Monoamine Oxidize-A and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor mRNAs in the hippocampus. The study results show promise for resveratrol supplementation in PTSD treatment. Further research is warranted to better understand the underlying mechanisms and optimize the potential benefits of resveratrol supplementation for PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim E. Tseilikman
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
| | - Vladislav A. Shatilov
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Maxim S. Zhukov
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Irina A. Buksha
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Alexandr E. Epitashvily
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Ilya A. Lipatov
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Maxim R. Aristov
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Alexandr G. Koshelev
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
| | - Marina N. Karpenko
- Pavlov Department of Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (M.N.K.); (D.S.T.)
| | - Dmitrii S. Traktirov
- Pavlov Department of Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (M.N.K.); (D.S.T.)
| | - Viktoriya A. Maistrenko
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Pavlov Department of Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (M.N.K.); (D.S.T.)
| | - Mustapha Kamel
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Research, Educational and Innovative Center of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Technologies Chemical Technology Institute, Ural Federal University Named after the First President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, 620002 Ekaterinburg, Russia;
| | - Alexey V. Buhler
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Research, Educational and Innovative Center of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Technologies Chemical Technology Institute, Ural Federal University Named after the First President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, 620002 Ekaterinburg, Russia;
| | - Elena G. Kovaleva
- Research, Educational and Innovative Center of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Technologies Chemical Technology Institute, Ural Federal University Named after the First President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, 620002 Ekaterinburg, Russia;
| | - Tatyana S. Kalinina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Anton A. Pashkov
- Federal Neurosurgical Center, 630048 Novosibirsk, Russia;
- Department of Data Collection and Processing Systems, Novosibirsk State Technical University, 630087 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Vadim V. Kon’kov
- Zelman Institute of Medicine and Psychology, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Jurica Novak
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
- Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Olga B. Tseilikman
- Scientific and Educational Center ‘Biomedical Technologies’, School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (V.A.S.); (M.S.Z.); (M.R.A.); (V.A.M.); (A.V.B.)
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001 Chelyabinsk, Russia; (I.A.B.); (I.A.L.); (A.G.K.)
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Roets M, Brand L, Steyn SF. Increased depressive-like behaviour of postpartum Flinders sensitive and resistant line rats is reversed by a predictable postpartum stressor. Behav Brain Res 2023; 442:114321. [PMID: 36720349 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
During the peripartum period, women are at an increased risk to develop perinatal distress, presenting as symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Yet, due to practical and ethical restrictions, our understanding of this condition remains limited. Animal studies that focus on the neuropsychiatric mechanisms associated with the postpartum period, often ignore the genetical predisposition factor. We therefore investigated whether pregnancy could alter the bio-behavioural profile of the Flinders sensitive and resistant line rats, and whether these effects are exacerbated by a postpartum stressor. Postpartum dams were compared to nulliparous controls in behavioural tests, analysing depressive- and anxiety-like behaviours. Next, postpartum dams were subjected to a maternal separation and early weaning (MSEW) regimen, with their behaviour and serotonergic and noradrenergic concentrations compared to rats not separated from their pups. Regardless of strain, pregnancy decreased time spent in the open arms of the elevated plus maze and hippocampal serotonin concentrations. Time spent immobile in the forced swim test was also increased, with a significant effect in the FRL and a strong trend in the FSL rats. MSEW reversed these behaviours in both strains and increased social interaction with a male counterpart in the FSL rats, without influencing hippocampal or cortical serotonin or norepinephrine. Taken together, these results suggest that pregnancy influences postpartum behaviour, in a strain-dependent manner. Contrary to what we expected, MSEW overall decreased depressive- and anxiety-like behaviours, with strain specific differences, indicating that a chronic, predictable stressor may not necessarily adversely affect postpartum behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareli Roets
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Linda Brand
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Stephan F Steyn
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
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4
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Bio-behavioural changes in treatment-resistant socially isolated FSL rats show variable or improved response to combined fluoxetine-olanzapine versus olanzapine treatment. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 13:284-298. [PMID: 36204253 PMCID: PMC9529672 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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5
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Jansen van Vuren E, Steyn SF, Brink CB, Möller M, Viljoen FP, Harvey BH. The neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19: Interactions with psychiatric illness and pharmacological treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 135:111200. [PMID: 33421734 PMCID: PMC7834135 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent outbreak of the corona virus disease (COVID-19) has had major global impact. The relationship between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection and psychiatric diseases is of great concern, with an evident link between corona virus infections and various central and peripheral nervous system manifestations. Unmitigated neuro-inflammation has been noted to underlie not only the severe respiratory complications of the disease but is also present in a range of neuro-psychiatric illnesses. Several neurological and psychiatric disorders are characterized by immune-inflammatory states, while treatments for these disorders have distinct anti-inflammatory properties and effects. With inflammation being a common contributing factor in SARS-CoV-2, as well as psychiatric disorders, treatment of either condition may affect disease progression of the other or alter response to pharmacological treatment. In this review, we elucidate how viral infections could affect pre-existing psychiatric conditions and how pharmacological treatments of these conditions may affect overall progress and outcome in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. We address whether any treatment-induced benefits and potential adverse effects may ultimately affect the overall treatment approach, considering the underlying dysregulated neuro-inflammatory processes and potential drug interactions. Finally, we suggest adjunctive treatment options for SARS-CoV-2-associated neuro-psychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmé Jansen van Vuren
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Stephan F Steyn
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Christiaan B Brink
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Marisa Möller
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Francois P Viljoen
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; South African MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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6
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Mncube K, Möller M, Harvey BH. Post-weaning Social Isolated Flinders Sensitive Line Rats Display Bio-Behavioural Manifestations Resistant to Fluoxetine: A Model of Treatment-Resistant Depression. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:688150. [PMID: 34867504 PMCID: PMC8635751 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.688150] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) complicates the management of major depression (MD). The underlying biology of TRD involves interplay between genetic propensity and chronic and/or early life adversity. By combining a genetic animal model of MD and post-weaning social isolation rearing (SIR), we sought to produce an animal that displays more severe depressive- and social anxiety-like manifestations resistant to standard antidepressant treatment. Flinders Sensitive Line (FSL) pups were social or isolation reared from weaning [postnatal day (PND) 21], receiving fluoxetine (FLX) from PND 63 (10 mg/kg × 14 days), and compared to Sprague Dawley (SD) controls. Depressive-, anxiety-like, and social behaviour were assessed from PND 72 in the forced swim test (FST) and social interaction test (SIT). Post-mortem cortico-hippocampal norepinephrine (NE), serotonin (5-HT), and dopamine (DA), as well as plasma interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), corticosterone (CORT), and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) levels were assayed. FSL rats displayed significant cortico-hippocampal monoamine disturbances, and depressive- and social anxiety-like behaviour, the latter two reversed by FLX. SIR-exposed FSL rats exhibited significant immobility in the FST and social impairment which were, respectively, worsened by or resistant to FLX. In SIR-exposed FSL rats, FLX significantly raised depleted NE and 5-HT, significantly decreased DBH and caused a large effect size increase in DA and decrease in CORT and TNF-α. Concluding, SIR-exposed FSL rats display depressive- and social anxiety-like symptoms that are resistant to, or worsened by, FLX, with reduced plasma DBH and suppressed cortico-hippocampal 5-HT, NE and DA, all variably altered by FLX. Exposure of a genetic animal model of MD to post-weaning SIR results in a more intractable depressive-like phenotype as well as changes in TRD-related biomarkers, that are resistant to traditional antidepressant treatment. Given the relative absence of validated animal models of TRD, these findings are especially promising and warrant study, especially further predictive validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khulekani Mncube
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmaCen), Division of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Marisa Möller
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmaCen), Division of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmaCen), Division of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health and Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Steyn SF, Harvey BH, Brink CB. Pre-pubertal, low-intensity exercise does not require concomitant venlafaxine to induce robust, late-life antidepressant effects in Flinders sensitive line rats. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 52:3979-3994. [PMID: 32320518 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A significant number of adolescents are considered insufficiently active. This is of concern considering the negative association between physical activity and major depressive disorder (MDD). There is a lack of approved pharmacological treatment options in this population partly due to limited information on the risks associated with lasting effects during early life. Therefore, interest in non-pharmacological strategies is gaining popularity with low- to moderate-intensity exercise being especially attractive for its antidepressant-like effects and augmentation properties in combination with antidepressants. Early-life development might present a unique "window of opportunity" to induce long-term beneficial effects in individuals treated with central acting drugs, such as antidepressants. Therefore, we investigated the bio-behavioural effects of pre-pubertal, low-intensity exercise (EXE) and/or venlafaxine (VEN) on depressive-like behaviour in juvenile (postnatal day 35 (PND35)) and young adult (PND60) stress-sensitive Flinders sensitive line (FSL) rats. Interventions were introduced during pre-pubertal development, that is PND21-34, followed by a 26-day washout/sedentary period, when bio-behavioural analyses were performed in the early adulthood group. VEN, alone or in combination with EXE, proved ineffective in inducing any bio-behavioural changes in either age group. EXE did not induce early-life antidepressant-like effects, despite increasing frontal serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline (NA) levels. Later in life (PND60), pre-pubertal exercise reduced immobility and increased coping behaviours, together with increased cortical 5-HT levels, despite a significant reduction in locomotor activity. These findings emphasize a strong serotonergic basis to the observed delayed antidepressant effects of EXE later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan F Steyn
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Christiaan B Brink
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Esketamine and rapastinel, but not imipramine, have antidepressant-like effect in a treatment-resistant animal model of depression. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2019; 31:258-265. [PMID: 31230597 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2019.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Treatment-resistance to antidepressants is a major problem in the pharmacotherapy of major depressive disorder (MDD). Unfortunately, only a few animal models are suitable for studying treatment-resistant depression, among them repeated treatment with Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) appears to be useful to mimic treatment-resistance to monoaminergic antidepressants. Therefore, the present work aimed to investigate the effectiveness of s-ketamine and rapastinel (formerly GLYX13), modulators of the glutamatergic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor in ACTH-treated animals. METHODS Naïve male Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to repeated subcutaneous injections with ACTH (100 µg/0.1 ml/rat/day) for 14 days and drug treatment on the test day (open field and forced swim test) with imipramine, s-ketamine or rapastinel. In addition, assessment of plasma levels of corticosterone and ACTH was carried out. RESULTS We found that rats repeatedly treated with ACTH for 14 days responded to single injections with s-ketamine (15 mg/kg) and rapastinel (10 mg/kg), but failed to respond to imipramine (15 mg/kg). In the plasma, the levels of corticosterone and ACTH were increased after 14 days of daily treatment with ACTH, independently of the treatment. CONCLUSION The present data confirm development of a resistance to treatment following chronic ACTH administration. In addition, the study confirms the possible effectiveness of s-ketamine and rapastinel as treatment options in treatment-resistant depression. Moreover, it highlights the importance of the glutamatergic system in the neurobiology of depression. Further studies are necessary to evaluate how repeated treatment with ACTH leads to a depressed condition resistant to monoaminergic antidepressants.
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Demin KA, Sysoev M, Chernysh MV, Savva AK, Koshiba M, Wappler-Guzzetta EA, Song C, De Abreu MS, Leonard B, Parker MO, Harvey BH, Tian L, Vasar E, Strekalova T, Amstislavskaya TG, Volgin AD, Alpyshov ET, Wang D, Kalueff AV. Animal models of major depressive disorder and the implications for drug discovery and development. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2019; 14:365-378. [PMID: 30793996 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2019.1575360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression is a highly debilitating psychiatric disorder that affects the global population and causes severe disabilities and suicide. Depression pathogenesis remains poorly understood, and the disorder is often treatment-resistant and recurrent, necessitating the development of novel therapies, models and concepts in this field. Areas covered: Animal models are indispensable for translational biological psychiatry, and markedly advance the study of depression. Novel approaches continuously emerge that may help untangle the disorder heterogeneity and unclear categories of disease classification systems. Some of these approaches include widening the spectrum of model species used for translational research, using a broader range of test paradigms, exploring new pathogenic pathways and biomarkers, and focusing more closely on processes beyond neural cells (e.g. glial, inflammatory and metabolic deficits). Expert opinion: Dividing the core symptoms into easily translatable, evolutionarily conserved phenotypes is an effective way to reevaluate current depression modeling. Conceptually novel approaches based on the endophenotype paradigm, cross-species trait genetics and 'domain interplay concept', as well as using a wider spectrum of model organisms and target systems will enhance experimental modeling of depression and antidepressant drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Demin
- a Institute of Experimental Medicine , Almazov National Medical Research Centre , St. Petersburg , Russia.,b Institute of Translational Biomedicine , St. Petersburg State University , St. Petersburg , Russia
| | - Maxim Sysoev
- c Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening , Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies , St. Petersburg , Russia.,d Institute of Experimental Medicine , St. Petersburg , Russia
| | - Maria V Chernysh
- b Institute of Translational Biomedicine , St. Petersburg State University , St. Petersburg , Russia
| | - Anna K Savva
- e Faculty of Biology , St. Petersburg State University , St. Petersburg , Russia
| | | | | | - Cai Song
- h Research Institute of Marine Drugs and Nutrition , Guangdong Ocean University , Zhanjiang , China.,i Marine Medicine Development Center, Shenzhen Institute , Guangdong Ocean University , Shenzhen , China
| | - Murilo S De Abreu
- j Bioscience Institute , University of Passo Fundo (UPF) , Passo Fundo , Brazil
| | | | - Matthew O Parker
- l Brain and Behaviour Lab , School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Portsmouth , Portsmouth , UK
| | - Brian H Harvey
- m Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences , Division of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, North-West University , Potchefstroom , South Africa
| | - Li Tian
- n Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine , University of Tartu , Tartu , Estonia
| | - Eero Vasar
- n Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine , University of Tartu , Tartu , Estonia
| | - Tatyana Strekalova
- o Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, and Department of Normal Physiology , Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University , Moscow , Russia.,p Laboratory of Cognitive Dysfunctions , Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology , Moscow , Russia.,q Department of Neuroscience , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | | | - Andrey D Volgin
- g The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC) , Slidell , LA , USA.,r Scientific Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine , Novosibirsk , Russia
| | - Erik T Alpyshov
- s School of Pharmacy , Southwest University , Chongqing , China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- s School of Pharmacy , Southwest University , Chongqing , China
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- s School of Pharmacy , Southwest University , Chongqing , China.,t Almazov National Medical Research Centre , St. Petersburg , Russia.,u Ural Federal University , Ekaterinburg , Russia.,v Granov Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies , St. Petersburg , Russia.,w Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, Institute of Translational Biomedicine , St. Petersburg State University , St. Petersburg , Russia.,x Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry , Scientific Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine , Novosibirsk , Russia.,y ZENEREI Institute , Slidell , LA , USA.,z The International Stress and Behavior Society (ISBS), US HQ , New Orleans , LA , USA
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10
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Nitric oxide signalling and antidepressant action revisited. Cell Tissue Res 2019; 377:45-58. [PMID: 30649612 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-02987-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Studies about the pathogenesis of mood disorders have consistently shown that multiple factors, including genetic and environmental, play a crucial role on their development and neurobiology. Multiple pathological theories have been proposed, of which several ultimately affects or is a consequence of dysfunction in brain neuroplasticity and homeostatic mechanisms. However, current clinical available pharmacological intervention, which is predominantly monoamine-based, suffers from a partial and lacking response even after weeks of continuous treatment. These issues raise the need for better understanding of aetiologies and brain abnormalities in depression, as well as developing novel treatment strategies. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous unconventional neurotransmitter, which regulates and governs several important physiological functions in the central nervous system, including processes, which can be associated with the development of mood disorders. This review will present general aspects of the NO system in depression, highlighting potential targets that may be utilized and further explored as novel therapeutic targets in the future pharmacotherapy of depression. In particular, the review will link the importance of neuroplasticity mechanisms governed by NO to a possible molecular basis for the antidepressant effects.
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Caraci F, Calabrese F, Molteni R, Bartova L, Dold M, Leggio GM, Fabbri C, Mendlewicz J, Racagni G, Kasper S, Riva MA, Drago F. International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology CIV: The Neurobiology of Treatment-resistant Depression: From Antidepressant Classifications to Novel Pharmacological Targets. Pharmacol Rev 2018; 70:475-504. [PMID: 29884653 DOI: 10.1124/pr.117.014977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is one of the most prevalent and life-threatening forms of mental illnesses and a major cause of morbidity worldwide. Currently available antidepressants are effective for most patients, although around 30% are considered treatment resistant (TRD), a condition that is associated with a significant impairment of cognitive function and poor quality of life. In this respect, the identification of the molecular mechanisms contributing to TRD represents an essential step for the design of novel and more efficacious drugs able to modify the clinical course of this disorder and increase remission rates in clinical practice. New insights into the neurobiology of TRD have shed light on the role of a number of different mechanisms, including the glutamatergic system, immune/inflammatory systems, neurotrophin function, and epigenetics. Advances in drug discovery processes in TRD have also influenced the classification of antidepressant drugs and novel classifications are available, such as the neuroscience-based nomenclature that can incorporate such advances in drug development for TRD. This review aims to provide an up-to-date description of key mechanisms in TRD and describe current therapeutic strategies for TRD before examining novel approaches that may ultimately address important neurobiological mechanisms not targeted by currently available antidepressants. All in all, we suggest that drug targeting different neurobiological systems should be able to restore normal function but must also promote resilience to reduce the long-term vulnerability to recurrent depressive episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Caraci
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - F Calabrese
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - R Molteni
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - L Bartova
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - M Dold
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - G M Leggio
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - C Fabbri
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - J Mendlewicz
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - G Racagni
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - S Kasper
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - M A Riva
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
| | - F Drago
- Departments of Drug Sciences (F.Car.) and Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine (G.M.L., F.D.), University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi-Research-Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy (F.Car.); Departments of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (F.Cal., G.R., M.A.R.) and Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (R.M.), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (L.B., M.D., S.K.); Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy (C.F.); and School of Medicine, Universite' Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (J.M.)
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Oberholzer I, Möller M, Holland B, Dean OM, Berk M, Harvey BH. Garcinia mangostana Linn displays antidepressant-like and pro-cognitive effects in a genetic animal model of depression: a bio-behavioral study in the Flinders Sensitive Line rat. Metab Brain Dis 2018; 33:467-480. [PMID: 29101602 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0144-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
There is abundant evidence for both disorganized redox balance and cognitive deficits in major depressive disorder (MDD). Garcinia mangostana Linn (GM) has anti-oxidant activity. We studied the antidepressant-like and pro-cognitive effects of raw GM rind in Flinders Sensitive Line (FSL) rats, a genetic model of depression, following acute and chronic treatment compared to a reference antidepressant, imipramine (IMI). The chemical composition of the GM extract was analysed for levels of α- and γ-mangostin. The acute dose-dependent effects of GM (50, 150 and 200 mg/kg po), IMI (20 mg/kg po) and vehicle were determined in the forced swim test (FST) in FSL rats, versus Flinders Resistant Line (FRL) control rats. Locomotor testing was conducted using the open field test (OFT). Using the most effective dose above coupled with behavioral testing in the FST and cognitive assessment in the novel object recognition test (nORT), a fixed dose 14-day treatment study of GM was performed and compared to IMI- (20 mg/kg/day) and vehicle-treated animals. Chronic treated animals were also assessed with respect to frontal cortex and hippocampal monoamine levels and accumulation of malondialdehyde. FSL rats showed significant cognitive deficits and depressive-like behavior, with disordered cortico-hippocampal 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) and noradrenaline (NA), as well as elevated hippocampal lipid peroxidation. Acute and chronic IMI treatment evoked pronounced antidepressant-like effects. Raw GM extract contained 117 mg/g and 11 mg/g α- and γ-mangostin, respectively, with acute GM demonstrating antidepressant-like effects at 50 mg/kg/day. Chronic GM (50 mg/kg/d) displayed significant antidepressant- and pro-cognitive effects, while demonstrating parity with IMI. Both behavioral and monoamine assessments suggest a more prominent serotonergic action for GM as opposed to a noradrenergic action for IMI, while both IMI and GM reversed hippocampal lipid peroxidation in FSL animals. Concluding, FSL rats present with cognitive deficits and depressive-like behaviors that are reversed by acute and chronic GM treatment, similar to that of IMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Oberholzer
- Division of Pharmacology and Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, North West University, Internal box 16, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Marisa Möller
- Division of Pharmacology and Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, North West University, Internal box 16, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Brendan Holland
- Centre for Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, 3220, Australia
| | - Olivia M Dean
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Kenneth Myer Building, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, 3052, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, Level 1 North, Main Block, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, 3220, Australia
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, the Department of Psychiatry, and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Division of Pharmacology and Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, North West University, Internal box 16, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
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Acta Neuropsychiatrica and social media. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2017; 29:323. [PMID: 29151405 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2017.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Discovery versus implementation research on mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2017; 29:191-192. [PMID: 28793939 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2017.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Uys MM, Shahid M, Harvey BH. Therapeutic Potential of Selectively Targeting the α 2C-Adrenoceptor in Cognition, Depression, and Schizophrenia-New Developments and Future Perspective. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:144. [PMID: 28855875 PMCID: PMC5558054 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
α2A- and α2C-adrenoceptors (ARs) are the primary α2-AR subtypes involved in central nervous system (CNS) function. These receptors are implicated in the pathophysiology of psychiatric illness, particularly those associated with affective, psychotic, and cognitive symptoms. Indeed, non-selective α2-AR blockade is proposed to contribute toward antidepressant (e.g., mirtazapine) and atypical antipsychotic (e.g., clozapine) drug action. Both α2C- and α2A-AR share autoreceptor functions to exert negative feedback control on noradrenaline (NA) release, with α2C-AR heteroreceptors regulating non-noradrenergic transmission (e.g., serotonin, dopamine). While the α2A-AR is widely distributed throughout the CNS, α2C-AR expression is more restricted, suggesting the possibility of significant differences in how these two receptor subtypes modulate regional neurotransmission. However, the α2C-AR plays a more prominent role during states of low endogenous NA activity, while the α2A-AR is relatively more engaged during states of high noradrenergic tone. Although augmentation of conventional antidepressant and antipsychotic therapy with non-selective α2-AR antagonists may improve therapeutic outcome, animal studies report distinct yet often opposing roles for the α2A- and α2C-ARs on behavioral markers of mood and cognition, implying that non-selective α2-AR antagonism may compromise therapeutic utility both in terms of efficacy and side-effect liability. Recently, several highly selective α2C-AR antagonists have been identified that have allowed deeper investigation into the function and utility of the α2C-AR. ORM-13070 is a useful positron emission tomography ligand, ORM-10921 has demonstrated antipsychotic, antidepressant, and pro-cognitive actions in animals, while ORM-12741 is in clinical development for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction and neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease. This review will emphasize the importance and relevance of the α2C-AR as a neuropsychiatric drug target in major depression, schizophrenia, and associated cognitive deficits. In addition, we will present new prospects and future directions of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Monique Uys
- Division of Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | | | - Brian Herbert Harvey
- Division of Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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