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Ruiz A, Ramos L. Genetic Variants in KNDy Pathway Lack Association with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency in Mexican Women: A Sequencing-Based Cohort Study. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:788. [PMID: 38927724 PMCID: PMC11203232 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060788] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated the essential role of the Kisspeptin/Neurokinin B/Dynorphin A (KNDy) pathway in female reproductive biology by regulating the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Identified loss-of-function mutations in these genes are linked to various reproductive disorders. This study investigated genetic disorders linked to mutations in the KNDy genes related to premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). A cohort of 14 Mexican POI patients underwent genetic screening using PCR-SSCP and Sanger sequencing, assessing the genetic variations' impact on protein function thereafter using multiple in silico tools. The PCR excluded extensive deletions, insertions, and duplications, while SSCP detected five genetic variants. Variations occurred in the KISS1 (c.58G>A and c.242C>G), KISS1R (c.1091A>T), PDYN (c.600C>T), and OPRK1 (c.36G>T) genes, whereas no genetic anomalies were found in NK3/NK3R genes. Each single-nucleotide variant underwent genotyping using PCR-SSCP in 100 POI-free subjects. Their allelic frequencies paralleled the patient group. These observations indicate that allelic variations in the KNDy genes may not contribute to POI etiology. Hence, screening for mutations in KNDy genes should not be a part of the diagnostic protocol for POI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luis Ramos
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga #15, Tlalpan, México City C.P. 14080, Mexico
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Fanfarillo F, Ferraguti G, Lucarelli M, Fuso A, Ceccanti M, Terracina S, Micangeli G, Tarani L, Fiore M. The Impact of Alcohol-Induced Epigenetic Modifications in the Treatment of Alcohol use Disorders. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:5837-5855. [PMID: 37828672 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673256937231004093143] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorders are responsible for 5.9% of all death annually and 5.1% of the global disease burden. It has been suggested that alcohol abuse can modify gene expression through epigenetic processes, namely DNA and histone methylation, histone acetylation, and microRNA expression. The alcohol influence on epigenetic mechanisms leads to molecular adaptation of a wide number of brain circuits, including the hypothalamus-hypophysis-adrenal axis, the prefrontal cortex, the mesolimbic-dopamine pathways and the endogenous opioid pathways. Epigenetic regulation represents an important level of alcohol-induced molecular adaptation in the brain. It has been demonstrated that acute and chronic alcohol exposure can induce opposite modifications in epigenetic mechanisms: acute alcohol exposure increases histone acetylation, decreases histone methylation and inhibits DNA methyltransferase activity, while chronic alcohol exposure induces hypermethylation of DNA. Some studies investigated the chromatin status during the withdrawal period and the craving period and showed that craving was associated with low methylation status, while the withdrawal period was associated with elevated activity of histone deacetylase and decreased histone acetylation. Given the effects exerted by ethanol consumption on epigenetic mechanisms, chromatin structure modifiers, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, might represent a new potential strategy to treat alcohol use disorder. Further investigations on molecular modifications induced by ethanol might be helpful to develop new therapies for alcoholism and drug addiction targeting epigenetic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giampiero Ferraguti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Lucarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Fuso
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Ceccanti
- SITAC, Società Italiana per il Trattamento dell'Alcolismo e le sue Complicanze, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Terracina
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ginevra Micangeli
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC-CNR, Rome, Italy
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Pina MM, Pati D, Neira S, Taxier LR, Stanhope CM, Mahoney AA, D'Ambrosio S, Kash TL, Navarro M. Insula Dynorphin and Kappa Opioid Receptor Systems Regulate Alcohol Drinking in a Sex-Specific Manner in Mice. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5158-5171. [PMID: 37217307 PMCID: PMC10342226 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0406-22.2023] [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: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder is complex and multifaceted, involving the coordination of multiple signaling systems across numerous brain regions. Previous work has indicated that both the insular cortex and dynorphin (DYN)/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) systems contribute to excessive alcohol use. More recently, we identified a microcircuit in the medial aspect of the insular cortex that signals through DYN/KOR. Here, we explored the role of insula DYN/KOR circuit components on alcohol intake in a long-term intermittent access (IA) procedure. Using a combination of conditional knock-out strategies and site-directed pharmacology, we discovered distinct and sex-specific roles for insula DYN and KOR in alcohol drinking and related behavior. Our findings show that insula DYN deletion blocked escalated consumption and decreased the overall intake of and preference for alcohol in male and female mice. This effect was specific to alcohol in male mice, as DYN deletion did not impact sucrose intake. Further, insula KOR antagonism reduced alcohol intake and preference during the early phase of IA in male mice only. Alcohol consumption was not affected by insula KOR knockout in either sex. In addition, we found that long-term IA decreased the intrinsic excitability of DYN and deep layer pyramidal neurons (DLPNs) in the insula of male mice. Excitatory synaptic transmission was also impacted by IA, as it drove an increase in excitatory synaptic drive in both DYN neurons and DLPNs. Combined, our findings suggest there is a dynamic interplay between excessive alcohol consumption and insula DYN/KOR microcircuitry.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The insular cortex is a complex region that serves as an integratory hub for sensory inputs. In our previous work, we identified a microcircuit in the insula that signals through the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) and its endogenous ligand dynorphin (DYN). Both the insula and DYN/KOR systems have been implicated in excessive alcohol use and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Here, we use converging approaches to determine how insula DYN/KOR microcircuit components contribute to escalated alcohol consumption. Our findings show that insula DYN/KOR systems regulate distinct phases of alcohol consumption in a sex-specific manner, which may contribute to the progression to AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie M Pina
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, and Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Dipanwita Pati
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Sofia Neira
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Lisa R Taxier
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Christina M Stanhope
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Alexandra A Mahoney
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Shannon D'Ambrosio
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Thomas L Kash
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Montserrat Navarro
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, College of Arts and Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
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4
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Özkan-Kotiloğlu S, Kaya-Akyüzlü D, Yurdakul R, Yıldırım MA, Özgür-İlhan İ. Effect of PDYN and OPRK1 polymorphisms on the risk of alcohol use disorder and the intensity of depressive symptoms. Alcohol Alcohol 2023:7161013. [PMID: 37177778 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agad036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The dynorphin (DYN)/Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR) system has been suggested to be involved in both negative affective states and the action of alcohol. The present study was undertaken to explore whether the DYN/KOR system genes, PDYN and OPRK1, influence on individual differences in the intensity of depressive symptoms at admission as well as the risk of alcohol use disorder (AUD) risk in a sample of 101 individuals with AUD and 100 controls. METHODS PDYN (rs2281285, rs2225749 and rs910080) and OPRK1 (rs6473797, rs963549 and rs997917) polymorphisms were analyzed by PCR-RFLP. The intensity of depressive and anxiety symptoms and craving were measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Penn Alcohol Craving Scale, respectively. RESULTS A significant association between the risk of AUD and OPRK1 rs6473797 (P < 0.05) at the gene level. OPRK1 rs6473797 CC genotype was found to lead to a 3.11 times greater alcohol dependence risk. In addition, the BDI-II score of the OPRK1 rs963549 CC genotype was found to be significantly lower (20.9 ± 11.2, min: 1.0, max: 48.0) than that of the CT + TT genotypes (27.04 ± 12.7, min: 0.0, max: 49.0) (t: -2.332, P = 0.022). None of the PDYN polymorphisms were associated with BDI-II score. CONCLUSION Variations in the KOR are associated with the risk of AUD and the intensity of depressive symptoms at admission at the gene level in Turkish males. On the other hand, PDYN gene seemed not to be associated with AUD, depression, anxiety, and craving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selin Özkan-Kotiloğlu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science and Art, Kırşehir Ahi Evran University, Kırşehir, 40100, Turkey
| | - Dilek Kaya-Akyüzlü
- Department of Forensic Biology, Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, 06590, Turkey
| | - Rabia Yurdakul
- Department of Forensic Biology, Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, 06590, Turkey
- Department of Interdisciplinary Forensic Sciences, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, 06110, Turkey
| | - Mukaddes Asena Yıldırım
- Department of Forensic Biology, Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, 06590, Turkey
- Department of Interdisciplinary Forensic Sciences, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, 06110, Turkey
| | - İnci Özgür-İlhan
- Department of Mental Health and Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, 06590, Turkey
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Kaya-Akyüzlü D, Özkan-Kotiloğlu S, Danışman M, Bal C, Oğur B, İspir GZ. OPRD1 rs569356 polymorphism has an effect on plasma norbuprenorphine levels and dose/kg-normalized norbuprenorphine values in individuals with opioid use disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 100:104143. [PMID: 37146669 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effects of nine OPRM1, OPRD1 and OPRK1 polymorphisms on plasma BUP and norbuprenorphine (norBUP) concentrations and various treatment responses in a sample of 122 patients receiving BUP/naloxone. Plasma concentrations of BUP and norBUP were detected by LC-MS/MS. PCR-RFLP method was used to genotype polymorphisms. OPRD1 rs569356 GG had significantly lower plasma norBUP concentration (p=0.018), dose- (p=0.049) and dose/kg-normalized norBUP values (p=0.036) compared with AA. Craving and withdrawal symptoms were significantly higher in OPRD1 rs569356 AG+GG relative to AA. There was a statistically significant difference between the OPRD1 rs678849 genotypes in the intensity of anxiety (13.5 for CT+TT and 7.5 for TT). OPRM1 rs648893 TT (18.8±10.8) was significantly different to CC+CT (14.82±11.3; p=0.049) in view of the intensity of depression. This current study provides the first data on a prominent effect of the OPRD1 rs569356 variation on BUP pharmacology due to its metabolite norBUP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Selin Özkan-Kotiloğlu
- Kırşehir Ahi Evran University, Faculty of Science and Art, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Kırşehir, Türkiye
| | - Mustafa Danışman
- Ankara Training and Research Hospital AMATEM Clinic, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Ceylan Bal
- Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Begüm Oğur
- Ankara Training and Research Hospital AMATEM Clinic, Ankara, Türkiye
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Farahbakhsh ZZ, Song K, Branthwaite HE, Erickson KR, Mukerjee S, Nolan SO, Siciliano CA. Systemic kappa opioid receptor antagonism accelerates reinforcement learning via augmentation of novelty processing in male mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:857-868. [PMID: 36804487 PMCID: PMC10156709 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01547-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Selective inhibition of kappa opioid receptors (KORs) is highly anticipated as a pharmacotherapeutic intervention for substance use disorders and depression. The accepted explanation for KOR antagonist-induced amelioration of aberrant behaviors posits that KORs globally function as a negative valence system; antagonism thereby blunts the behavioral influence of negative internal states such as anhedonia and negative affect. While effects of systemic KOR manipulations have been widely reproduced, explicit evaluation of negative valence as an explanatory construct is lacking. Here, we tested a series of falsifiable hypotheses generated a priori based on the negative valence model by pairing reinforcement learning tasks with systemic pharmacological KOR blockade in male C57BL/6J mice. The negative valence model failed to predict multiple experimental outcomes: KOR blockade accelerated contingency learning during both positive and negative reinforcement without altering innate responses to appetitive or aversive stimuli. We next proposed novelty processing, which influences learning independent of valence, as an alternative explanatory construct. Hypotheses based on novelty processing predicted subsequent observations: KOR blockade increased exploration of a novel, but not habituated, environment and augmented the reinforcing efficacy of novel visual stimuli in a sensory reinforcement task. Together, these results revise and extend long-standing theories of KOR system function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Z Farahbakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Keaton Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Hannah E Branthwaite
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Kirsty R Erickson
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Snigdha Mukerjee
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Suzanne O Nolan
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Cody A Siciliano
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
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7
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Parker CC, Philip VM, Gatti DM, Kasparek S, Kreuzman AM, Kuffler L, Mansky B, Masneuf S, Sharif K, Sluys E, Taterra D, Taylor WM, Thomas M, Polesskaya O, Palmer AA, Holmes A, Chesler EJ. Genome-wide association mapping of ethanol sensitivity in the Diversity Outbred mouse population. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:941-960. [PMID: 35383961 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A strong predictor for the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is altered sensitivity to the intoxicating effects of alcohol. Individual differences in the initial sensitivity to alcohol are controlled in part by genetic factors. Mice offer a powerful tool to elucidate the genetic basis of behavioral and physiological traits relevant to AUD, but conventional experimental crosses have only been able to identify large chromosomal regions rather than specific genes. Genetically diverse, highly recombinant mouse populations make it possible to observe a wider range of phenotypic variation, offer greater mapping precision, and thus increase the potential for efficient gene identification. METHODS We have taken advantage of the Diversity Outbred (DO) mouse population to identify and precisely map quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with ethanol sensitivity. We phenotyped 798 male J:DO mice for three measures of ethanol sensitivity: ataxia, hypothermia, and loss of the righting response. We used high-density MegaMUGA and GigaMUGA to obtain genotypes ranging from 77,808 to 143,259 SNPs. We also performed RNA sequencing in striatum to map expression QTLs and identify gene expression-trait correlations. We then applied a systems genetic strategy to identify narrow QTLs and construct the network of correlations that exists between DNA sequence, gene expression values, and ethanol-related phenotypes to prioritize our list of positional candidate genes. RESULTS We observed large amounts of phenotypic variation with the DO population and identified suggestive and significant QTLs associated with ethanol sensitivity on chromosomes 1, 2, and 16. The implicated regions were narrow (4.5-6.9 Mb in size) and each QTL explained ~4-5% of the variance. CONCLUSIONS Our results can be used to identify alleles that contribute to AUD in humans, elucidate causative biological mechanisms, or assist in the development of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa C Parker
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Vivek M Philip
- Center for Computational Sciences, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
| | - Daniel M Gatti
- Center for Computational Sciences, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
| | - Steven Kasparek
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Andrew M Kreuzman
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Lauren Kuffler
- Center for Mammalian Genetics, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
| | - Benjamin Mansky
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Sophie Masneuf
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, NIAAA, NIH, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Kayvon Sharif
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Erica Sluys
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, NIAAA, NIH, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Dominik Taterra
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Walter M Taylor
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Mary Thomas
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont, USA
| | - Oksana Polesskaya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.,Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Abraham A Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.,Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Andrew Holmes
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, NIAAA, NIH, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Elissa J Chesler
- Center for Mammalian Genetics, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
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8
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Nosova O, Bazov I, Karpyak V, Hallberg M, Bakalkin G. Epigenetic and Transcriptional Control of the Opioid Prodynorphine Gene: In-Depth Analysis in the Human Brain. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113458. [PMID: 34200173 PMCID: PMC8201134 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides serve as neurohormones and local paracrine regulators that control neural networks regulating behavior, endocrine system and sensorimotor functions. Their expression is characterized by exceptionally restricted profiles. Circuit-specific and adaptive expression of neuropeptide genes may be defined by transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms controlled by cell type and subtype sequence-specific transcription factors, insulators and silencers. The opioid peptide dynorphins play a critical role in neurological and psychiatric disorders, pain processing and stress, while their mutations cause profound neurodegeneration in the human brain. In this review, we focus on the prodynorphin gene as a model for the in-depth epigenetic and transcriptional analysis of expression of the neuropeptide genes. Prodynorphin studies may provide a framework for analysis of mechanisms relevant for regulation of neuropeptide genes in normal and pathological human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Nosova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden; (I.B.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence: (O.N.); (G.B.)
| | - Igor Bazov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden; (I.B.); (M.H.)
| | | | - Mathias Hallberg
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden; (I.B.); (M.H.)
| | - Georgy Bakalkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, 75124 Uppsala, Sweden; (I.B.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence: (O.N.); (G.B.)
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9
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Drug addiction co-morbidity with alcohol: Neurobiological insights. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2021; 157:409-472. [PMID: 33648675 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Addiction is a chronic disorder that consists of a three-stage cycle of binge/intoxication, withdrawal/negative affect, and preoccupation/anticipation. These stages involve, respectively, neuroadaptations in brain circuits involved in incentive salience and habit formation, stress surfeit and reward deficit, and executive function. Much research on addiction focuses on the neurobiology underlying single drug use. However, alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be co-morbid with substance use disorder (SUD), called dual dependence. The limited epidemiological data on dual dependence indicates that there is a large population of individuals suffering from addiction who are dependent on more than one drug and/or alcohol, yet dual dependence remains understudied in addiction research. Here, we review neurobiological data on neurotransmitter and neuropeptide systems that are known to contribute to addiction pathology and how the involvement of these systems is consistent or divergent across drug classes. In particular, we highlight the dopamine, opioid, corticotropin-releasing factor, norepinephrine, hypocretin/orexin, glucocorticoid, neuroimmune signaling, endocannabinoid, glutamate, and GABA systems. We also discuss the limited research on these systems in dual dependence. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that the use of multiple drugs can produce neuroadaptations that are distinct from single drug use. Further investigation into the neurobiology of dual dependence is necessary to develop effective treatments for addiction to multiple drugs.
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10
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Alcohol. Alcohol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816793-9.00001-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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11
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Randesi M, Rotrosen J, Nunes EV, Lee JD, Novo P, Levran O, Ott J, Pavlicova M, Scodes J, Kreek MJ. Variants of opioid genes and response to treatment of opioid use disorder with buprenorphine-naloxone versus extended-release naltrexone in Caucasians. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2020; 46:761-768. [PMID: 32851876 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2020.1797064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Background: Sublingual buprenorphine-naloxone (BUP-NX), an FDA-approved treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), combines buprenorphine (a partial mu/kappa agonist) with naloxone (a mu/ kappa antagonist). Extended-release injection naltrexone (XR-NTX; a mu receptor antagonist and kappa receptor partial agonist) is also an FDA-approved treatment for OUD. However, while some patients respond well to these medications, many others leave treatment and relapse. Objectives: Determine whether gene variants in the opioid gene system are associated with better or worse treatment response. Methods: In a 24-week, multisite, randomized, comparative effectiveness trial of daily, sublingual self-administration of BUP-NX versus monthly injection of XR-NTX conducted in the National Drug Abuse Clinical Trials Network, DNA was collected and four opioid gene variants were evaluated: (1) mu opioid receptor 118A>G; (2) 68-bp repeat in prodynorphin; (3) prodynorphin SNP rs910080; and (4) kappa opioid receptor SNP rs6473797. In non-Hispanic Caucasians (N = 334), two outcomes measures were assessed: received first dose (yes/no) and received last dose (yes/no). Separate logistic regressions were used to model each outcome measure as a function of treatment (XR-NTX vs BUP-NX), each gene variant, and their interaction. Results: There were no significant main effects of gene variant on receiving first dose or last dose. There were also no significant gene variant by treatment interactions. Conclusions: The outcome of treatment of OUD with medications is likely a complex function of multiple factors, including environmental, psychosocial, and possibly genetic, such that major effects of genetic variants may be unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Randesi
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, the Rockefeller University , New York, NY, USA
| | - John Rotrosen
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine , New York, NY, USA
| | - Edward V Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua D Lee
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine , New York, NY, USA
| | - Patricia Novo
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine , New York, NY, USA
| | - Orna Levran
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, the Rockefeller University , New York, NY, USA
| | - Jurg Ott
- Laboratory of Statistical Genetics, the Rockefeller University , New York, NY, USA
| | - Martina Pavlicova
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health , New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Scodes
- Division of Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute , New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary Jeanne Kreek
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, the Rockefeller University , New York, NY, USA
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12
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Şenormancı G, Turan Ç, Çelik SK, Çelik A, Edgünlü TG, Akbaş D, Akca ASD, Şenormancı Ö. Prodynorphin (PDYN) gene polymorphisms in Turkish patients with methamphetamine use disorder, changes in PDYN serum levels in withdrawal and the relationship between PDYN, temperament and depression. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2020; 21:522-537. [PMID: 32597371 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2020.1785361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Aim of the study is to compare prodynorphin (PDYN) rs1997794, rs1022563, rs6045819, rs2235749 polymorphisms in individuals with methamphetamine use disorder (MD) to that of healthy controls (HC), and to investigate the differences in serum PDYN levels in methamphetamine withdrawal. It is also aimed to explore the temperament characteristics and depression and their relationship with PDYN polymorphisms and PDYN serum levels in MD group. PDYN gene and serum levels were studied in 134 patients with MD and 97 HC. Patients with MD were administered Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A). For rs1022563 polymorphism, TT and CT genotype frequency and T allele frequency were significantly higher in the MD group than the frequencies in HC. It was found that rs2235749 polymorphism AA genotype was associated with increased risk of MD. PDYN rs1997794 CT genotypes had significantly higher scores of TEMPS-A irritable than CC genotypes and PDYN rs1022563 CC genotypes had significantly higher scores of TEMPS-A irritable than TT genotypes. PDYN levels among persons with MD were significantly higher than among the HC group when the withdrawal level increased and withdrawal symptoms improved. During the period in which the withdrawal level increased, there was a negative correlation between PDYN level and BDI and a positive relationship between PDYN level and TEMPS-A hyperthymic. It may be beneficial to screen temperament characteristics associated with increased risk of addiction in patients with MD and develop interventions based on temperament characteristics and the effects of PDYN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Güliz Şenormancı
- University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Çetin Turan
- University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | | | - Aycan Çelik
- Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | | | - Dilek Akbaş
- Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | | | - Ömer Şenormancı
- University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
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13
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Correlations between sex-related hormones, alcohol dependence and alcohol craving. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 197:183-190. [PMID: 30840924 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex-related differences in the susceptibility, progression, and treatment response in alcohol-dependent subjects have been repeatedly reported. In this study, we aimed to investigate the associations of the sex-related hormone/protein levels with alcohol dependence (AD) and alcohol craving in male and female subjects. METHODS Plasma sex-related hormones (estradiol, estrone, total testosterone, progesterone, follicle stimulated hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone), and sex hormone binding globulin were measured by mass spectrometry or automated immunoassays from 44 recently-abstained subjects (29 males and 15 females; mean age = 45.9 ± 15.6) meeting DSM-IV-TR criteria for AD and 44 age-, sex- and race-matched non-AD controls. Conditional logistic regression was conducted to examine the association of sex-related hormone and protein levels with AD risk, accounting for matching variables. Their associations with alcohol craving scales (Penn Alcohol Craving Scale and Inventory of Drug-Taking Situations) were assessed in AD subjects. RESULTS Plasma FSH level was significantly higher in AD males (10.3 ± 9.8 IU/L) than control males (8.0 ± 15.9 IU/L; p = 0.005, pcorrected = 0.035). We also found a significant inverse correlation of FSH level with propensity to drink in negative emotional situations (Spearman's rho=-.540; p = 0.021) and positive correlations between progesterone level and craving intensity (Spearman's rho=.464; p = 0.020) and between total testosterone level and propensity to drink under temptations (adjusted for no-drinking days; β=6.496; p = 0.041) in AD males. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that FSH, progesterone, and testosterone levels may be associated with AD and alcohol craving in AD males. Future research is needed to replicate these findings and investigate the underlying biological mechanisms.
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14
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Kolla BP, Schneekloth TD, Biernacka J, Shah V, Lazaridis KN, Geske J, Karpyak V. PNPLA3 Association with Alcoholic Liver Disease in a Cohort of Heavy Drinkers. Alcohol Alcohol 2018; 53:357-360. [PMID: 29474507 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agy007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Prior studies have established variation at the PNPLA3 gene to be associated with a risk of developing alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We attempt to replicate this finding and other potential genetic variations previously associated with ALD utilizing a case-control design in a cohort of subjects with alcohol use disorders. Short summary This case-control study performed in a US clinical sample of heavy drinkers, replicates the previously reported association between ALD and rs738409 polymorphism in the PNPLA3 gene in heavy drinkers. This association persisted after accounting for the subject's diabetes status. Methods Patients of European ancestry with a history of ALD were identified (n = 169). Controls consisted of patients without ALD who were from the same cohorts and were ≥ 30 years of age, had lifetime total years drinking ≥20 and lifetime maximum drinks per day ≥12 (n = 259). Patients were genotyped for 40 candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) selected for the purpose of testing their association with ALD. The association of each SNP with ALD was tested using a logistic regression model, assuming log-additive allele effects. Bonferroni correction was applied and multivariable logistic regression models were used to account for relevant covariates. Results Age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) distributions were similar between cases and controls. Diabetes was more prevalent in the ALD cases. Three SNPs were associated with ALD at the nominal significance level (rs738409 in PNPLA3, P = 0.00029; rs3741559 in AQP2, P = 0.0185; rs4290029 in NVL, P = 0.0192); only PNPLA3 rs738409 SNP was significant at the Bonferroni-corrected P-value threshold of 0.00125. Association results remained significant after adjustment for diabetes status. Conclusion Our case-control study confirmed that PNPLA3 rs738409 SNP is associated with ALD. This is an important replication in a US clinical sample with control subjects who had long histories of alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhanu Prakash Kolla
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Terry D Schneekloth
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Joanna Biernacka
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Vijay Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Geske
- Department of Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Victor Karpyak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN, USA
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15
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Erikson CM, Wei G, Walker BM. Maladaptive behavioral regulation in alcohol dependence: Role of kappa-opioid receptors in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Neuropharmacology 2018; 140:162-173. [PMID: 30075159 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is an important emerging role for the endogenous opioid dynorphin (DYN) and the kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Evidence suggests that the DYN/KOR system in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) contributes to maladaptive behavioral regulation during withdrawal in alcohol dependence. The current experiments were designed to assess dysregulation of the BNST DYN/KOR system by evaluating alcohol dependence-induced changes in DYN/KOR gene expression (Pdyn and Oprk1, respectively), and the sensitivity of alcohol self-administration, negative affective-like behavior and physiological withdrawal to intra-BNST KOR antagonism during acute withdrawal. Wistar rats trained to self-administer alcohol, or not trained, were subjected to an alcohol dependence induction procedure (14 h alcohol vapor/10 h air) or air-exposure. BNST micropunches from air- and vapor-exposed animals were analyzed using RT-qPCR to quantify dependence-induced changes in Pdyn and Oprk1 mRNA expression. In addition, vapor- and air-exposed groups received an intra-BNST infusion of a KOR antagonist or vehicle prior to measurement of alcohol self-administration. A separate cohort of vapor-exposed rats was assessed for physiological withdrawal and negative affective-like behavior signs following intra-BNST KOR antagonism. During acute withdrawal, following alcohol dependence induction, there was an upregulation in Oprk1 mRNA expression in alcohol self-administering animals, but not non-alcohol self-administering animals, that confirmed dysregulation of the KOR/DYN system within the BNST. Furthermore, intra-BNST KOR antagonism attenuated escalated alcohol self-administration and negative affective-like behavior during acute withdrawal without reliably impacting physiological symptoms of withdrawal. The results confirm KOR system dysregulation in the BNST in alcohol dependence, illustrating the therapeutic potential of targeting the KOR to treat alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe M Erikson
- Laboratory of Alcoholism and Addictions Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Program, Translational Addiction Research Center, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4820, USA
| | - Gengze Wei
- Laboratory of Alcoholism and Addictions Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Program, Translational Addiction Research Center, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4820, USA
| | - Brendan M Walker
- Laboratory of Alcoholism and Addictions Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Program, Translational Addiction Research Center, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4820, USA.
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16
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Wille-Bille A, Miranda-Morales RS, Pucci M, Bellia F, D'Addario C, Pautassi RM. Prenatal ethanol induces an anxiety phenotype and alters expression of dynorphin & nociceptin/orphanin FQ genes. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 85:77-88. [PMID: 29678771 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Animal models have suggested that prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) alters the κ opioid receptor system. The present study investigated the brain expression of dynorphin and nociceptin/orphanin FQ related genes and assessed anxiety-like behavior in the light-dark box (LDB), shelter-seeking and risk-taking behaviors in the concentric square field (CSF) test, and ethanol-induced locomotion in the open field (OF), in infant or adolescent Wistar rats that were exposed to PEE (0.0 or 2.0 g/kg, intragastrically, gestational days 17-20). We measured brain mRNA levels of prodynorphin (PDYN), κ opioid receptors (KOR), the nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide precursor prepronociceptin (ppN/OFQ) and nociceptine/orphanin FQ receptors (NOR). Prenatal ethanol exposure upregulated PDYN and KOR mRNA levels in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in infant and adolescent rats and KOR mRNA levels in the prefrontal cortex in infant rats. The changes in gene expression in the VTA were accompanied by a reduction of DNA methylation at the PDYN gene promoter, and by a reduction of DNA methylation at the KOR gene promoter. The PEE-induced upregulation of PDYN/KOR in the VTA was accompanied by lower NOR gene expression in the VTA, and lower PDYN gene expression in the nucleus accumbens. PEE rats exhibited hypolocomotion in the OF, greater avoidance of the white and brightly lit areas in the LDB and CSF, and greater preference for the sheltered area in the CSF test. These results suggest that PEE upregulates the dynorphin system, resulting in an anxiety-prone phenotype and triggering compensatory responses in the nociceptin/orphanin FQ system. These findings may help elucidate the mechanisms that underlie the effects of PEE and suggest that the dynorphin and nociceptin/orphanin FQ systems may be possible targets for the prevention and treatment of PEE-induced alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aranza Wille-Bille
- Instituto de Investigación Médica M. y M. Ferreyra (INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Córdoba C.P. 5000, Argentina
| | - Roberto Sebastián Miranda-Morales
- Instituto de Investigación Médica M. y M. Ferreyra (INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Córdoba C.P. 5000, Argentina; Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | | | - Claudio D'Addario
- Università degli Studi di Teramo, Teramo, Italy; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ricardo Marcos Pautassi
- Instituto de Investigación Médica M. y M. Ferreyra (INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Córdoba C.P. 5000, Argentina; Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
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17
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Anderson RI, Becker HC. Role of the Dynorphin/Kappa Opioid Receptor System in the Motivational Effects of Ethanol. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2017; 41:1402-1418. [PMID: 28425121 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Evidence has demonstrated that dynorphin (DYN) and the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system contribute to various psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. More recently, this endogenous opioid system has received increased attention as a potential therapeutic target for treating alcohol use disorders. In this review, we provide an overview and synthesis of preclinical studies examining the influence of alcohol (ethanol [EtOH]) exposure on DYN/KOR expression and function, as well as studies examining the effects of DYN/KOR manipulation on EtOH's rewarding and aversive properties. We then describe work that has characterized effects of KOR activation and blockade on EtOH self-administration and EtOH dependence/withdrawal-related behaviors. Finally, we address how the DYN/KOR system may contribute to stress-EtOH interactions. Despite an apparent role for the DYN/KOR system in motivational effects of EtOH, support comes from relatively few studies. Nevertheless, review of this literature reveals several common themes: (i) rodent strains genetically predisposed to consume more EtOH generally appear to have reduced DYN/KOR tone in brain reward circuitry; (ii) acute and chronic EtOH exposure typically up-regulate the DYN/KOR system; (iii) KOR antagonists reduce behavioral indices of negative affect associated with stress and chronic EtOH exposure/withdrawal; and (iv) KOR antagonists are effective in reducing EtOH consumption, but are often more efficacious under conditions that engender high levels of consumption, such as dependence or stress exposure. These results support the contention that the DYN/KOR system plays a significant role in contributing to dependence- and stress-induced elevation in EtOH consumption. Overall, more comprehensive analyses (on both behavioral and mechanistic levels) are needed to provide additional insight into how the DYN/KOR system is engaged and adapts to influence the motivation effects of EtOH. This information will be critical for the development of new pharmacological agents targeting KORs as promising novel therapeutics for alcohol use disorders and comorbid affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel I Anderson
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Howard C Becker
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.,Department of Neuroscience , Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.,RHJ Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Charleston, South Carolina
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18
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D'Addario C, Shchetynsky K, Pucci M, Cifani C, Gunnar A, Vukojević V, Padyukov L, Terenius L. Genetic variation and epigenetic modification of the prodynorphin gene in peripheral blood cells in alcoholism. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 76:195-203. [PMID: 28336495 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Dynorphins are critically involved in the development, maintenance and relapse of alcoholism. Alcohol-induced changes in the prodynorphin gene expression may be influenced by both gene polymorphisms and epigenetic modifications. The present study of human alcoholics aims to evaluate DNA methylation patterns in the prodynorphin gene (PDYN) promoter and to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with alcohol dependence and with altered DNA methylation. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood cells of alcoholics and healthy controls, and DNA methylation was studied in the PDYN promoter by bisulfite pyrosequencing. In alcoholics, DNA methylation increased in three of the seven CpG sites investigated, as well as in the average of the seven CpG sites. Data stratification showed lower increase in DNA methylation levels in individuals reporting craving and with higher levels of alcohol consumption. Association with alcoholism was observed for rs2235751 and the presence of the minor allele G was associated with reduced DNA methylation at PDYN promoter in females and younger subjects. Genetic and epigenetic factors within PDYN are related to risk for alcoholism, providing further evidence of its involvement on ethanol effects. These results might be of relevance for developing new biomarkers to predict disease trajectories and therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Addario
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden; Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy.
| | - Klementy Shchetynsky
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mariangela Pucci
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Italy
| | - Agneta Gunnar
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vladana Vukojević
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Leonid Padyukov
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Terenius
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
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Berkel TDM, Pandey SC. Emerging Role of Epigenetic Mechanisms in Alcohol Addiction. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2017; 41:666-680. [PMID: 28111764 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a complex brain disorder with an array of persistent behavioral and neurochemical manifestations. Both genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to the development of AUD, and recent studies on alcohol exposure and subsequent changes in gene expression suggest the importance of epigenetic mechanisms. In particular, histone modifications and DNA methylation have emerged as important regulators of gene expression and associated phenotypes of AUD. Given the therapeutic potential of epigenetic targets, this review aims to summarize the role of epigenetic regulation in our current understanding of AUD by evaluating known epigenetic signatures of brain regions critical to addictive behaviors in both animal and human studies throughout various stages of AUD. More specifically, the effects of acute and chronic alcohol exposure, tolerance, and postexposure withdrawal on epigenetically induced changes to gene expression and synaptic plasticity within key brain regions and the associated behavioral phenotypes have been discussed. Understanding the contribution of epigenetic regulation to crucial signaling pathways may prove vital for future development of novel biomarkers and treatment agents in ameliorating or preventing AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffani D M Berkel
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.,Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Subhash C Pandey
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.,Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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20
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Reilly MT, Noronha A, Goldman D, Koob GF. Genetic studies of alcohol dependence in the context of the addiction cycle. Neuropharmacology 2017; 122:3-21. [PMID: 28118990 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Family, twin and adoption studies demonstrate clearly that alcohol dependence and alcohol use disorders are phenotypically complex and heritable. The heritability of alcohol use disorders is estimated at approximately 50-60% of the total phenotypic variability. Vulnerability to alcohol use disorders can be due to multiple genetic or environmental factors or their interaction which gives rise to extensive and daunting heterogeneity. This heterogeneity makes it a significant challenge in mapping and identifying the specific genes that influence alcohol use disorders. Genetic linkage and (candidate gene) association studies have been used now for decades to map and characterize genomic loci and genes that underlie the genetic vulnerability to alcohol use disorders. These approaches have been moderately successful in identifying several genes that contribute to the complexity of alcohol use disorders. Recently, genome-wide association studies have become one of the major tools for identifying genes for alcohol use disorders by examining correlations between millions of common single-nucleotide polymorphisms with diagnosis status. Genome-wide association studies are just beginning to uncover novel biology; however, the functional significance of results remains a matter of extensive debate and uncertainty. In this review, we present a select group of genome-wide association studies of alcohol dependence, as one example of a way to generate functional hypotheses, within the addiction cycle framework. This analysis may provide novel directions for validating the functional significance of alcohol dependence candidate genes. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "Alcoholism".
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Reilly
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, 5635 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA.
| | - Antonio Noronha
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, 5635 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA
| | - David Goldman
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Chief, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, 5635 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA
| | - George F Koob
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Director NIAAA, 5635 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA
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21
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Hauser KF, Knapp PE. Opiate Drugs with Abuse Liability Hijack the Endogenous Opioid System to Disrupt Neuronal and Glial Maturation in the Central Nervous System. Front Pediatr 2017; 5:294. [PMID: 29410949 PMCID: PMC5787058 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2017.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The endogenous opioid system, comprised of multiple opioid neuropeptide and receptor gene families, is highly expressed by developing neural cells and can significantly influence neuronal and glial maturation. In many central nervous system (CNS) regions, the expression of opioid peptides and receptors occurs only transiently during development, effectively disappearing with subsequent maturation only to reemerge under pathologic conditions, such as with inflammation or injury. Opiate drugs with abuse liability act to modify growth and development by mimicking the actions of endogenous opioids. Although typically mediated by μ-opioid receptors, opiate drugs can also act through δ- and κ-opioid receptors to modulate growth in a cell-type, region-specific, and developmentally regulated manner. Opioids act as biological response modifiers and their actions are highly contextual, plastic, modifiable, and influenced by other physiological processes or pathophysiological conditions, such as neuro-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. To date, most studies have considered the acute effects of opiates on cellular maturation. For example, activating opioid receptors typically results in acute growth inhibition in both neurons and glia. However, with sustained opioid exposure, compensatory factors become operative, a concept that has been largely overlooked during CNS maturation. Accordingly, this article surveys prior studies on the effects of opiates on CNS maturation, and also suggests new directions for future research in this area. Identifying the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptive responses to chronic opiate exposure (e.g., tolerance) during maturation is crucial toward understanding the consequences of perinatal opiate exposure on the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt F Hauser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Pamela E Knapp
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
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22
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Van't Veer A, Smith KL, Cohen BM, Carlezon WA, Bechtholt AJ. Kappa-opioid receptors differentially regulate low and high levels of ethanol intake in female mice. Brain Behav 2016; 6:e00523. [PMID: 27688945 PMCID: PMC5036438 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies in laboratory animals and humans indicate that endogenous opioids play an important role in regulating the rewarding value of various drugs, including ethanol (EtOH). Indeed, opioid antagonists are currently a front-line treatment for alcoholism in humans. Although roles for mu- and delta-opioid receptors have been characterized, the contribution of kappa-opioid receptors (KORs) is less clear. There is evidence that changes in KOR system function can decrease or increase EtOH drinking, depending on test conditions. For example, female mice lacking preprodynorphin - the precursor to the endogenous KOR ligand dynorphin - have reduced EtOH intake. Considering that KORs can regulate dopamine (DA) transmission, we hypothesized that KORs expressed on DA neurons would play a prominent role in EtOH intake in females. METHODS We used a Cre/loxP recombination strategy to ablate KORs throughout the body or specifically on dopamine uptake transporter (DAT)-expressing neurons to investigate the role of KORs on preference for and intake of EtOH (2-bottle choice), the transition from moderate to excessive EtOH drinking (intermittent EtOH access), and binge EtOH drinking (drinking in the dark [DID]). RESULTS KOR deletion decreased preference for EtOH, although this effect was less pronounced when EtOH intake increased beyond relatively low levels. DISCUSSION Our findings indicate that KOR activation increases EtOH drinking via effects mediated, at least in part, by KORs on DA neurons. While the mechanisms of this regulation remain unknown, previous work suggests that alterations in negative reinforcement processes or sensitivity to the sensory properties of EtOH can affect preference and intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee Van't Veer
- Department of Psychiatry Harvard Medical School McLean Hospital Belmont MA USA; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke National Institutes of Health Bethesda MD USA
| | - Karen L Smith
- Department of Psychiatry Harvard Medical School McLean Hospital Belmont MA USA
| | - Bruce M Cohen
- Department of Psychiatry Harvard Medical School McLean Hospital Belmont MA USA
| | - William A Carlezon
- Department of Psychiatry Harvard Medical School McLean Hospital Belmont MA USA
| | - Anita J Bechtholt
- Department of Psychiatry Harvard Medical School McLean Hospital Belmont MA USA; National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism National Institutes of Health Bethesda MD USA
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Associations of prodynorphin sequence variation with alcohol dependence and related traits are phenotype-specific and sex-dependent. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15670. [PMID: 26502829 PMCID: PMC4621530 DOI: 10.1038/srep15670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that prodynorphin (PDYN) haplotypes and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2281285 are associated with alcohol dependence and the propensity to drink in negative emotional states, and recent studies suggest that PDYN gene effects on substance dependence risk may be sex-related. We examined sex-dependent associations of PDYN variation with alcohol dependence and related phenotypes, including negative craving, time until relapse after treatment and the length of sobriety episodes before seeking treatment, in discovery and validation cohorts of European ancestry. We found a significant haplotype-by-sex interaction (p = 0.03), suggesting association with alcohol dependence in males (p = 1E-4) but not females. The rs2281285 G allele increased risk for alcohol dependence in males in the discovery cohort (OR = 1.49, p = 0.002), with a similar trend in the validation cohort (OR = 1.35, p = 0.086). However, rs2281285 showed a trend towards association with increased negative craving in females in both the discovery (beta = 10.16, p = 0.045) and validation samples (OR = 7.11, p = 0.066). In the discovery cohort, rs2281285 was associated with time until relapse after treatment in females (HR = 1.72, p = 0.037); in the validation cohort, it was associated with increased length of sobriety episodes before treatment in males (beta = 13.49, p = 0.001). Our findings suggest that sex-dependent effects of PDYN variants in alcohol dependence are phenotype-specific.
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Abstract
This paper is the thirty-sixth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2013 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior, and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia; stress and social status; tolerance and dependence; learning and memory; eating and drinking; alcohol and drugs of abuse; sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology; mental illness and mood; seizures and neurologic disorders; electrical-related activity and neurophysiology; general activity and locomotion; gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions; cardiovascular responses; respiration and thermoregulation; and immunological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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25
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Anderson SAR, Michaelides M, Zarnegar P, Ren Y, Fagergren P, Thanos PK, Wang GJ, Bannon M, Neumaier JF, Keller E, Volkow ND, Hurd YL. Impaired periamygdaloid-cortex prodynorphin is characteristic of opiate addiction and depression. J Clin Invest 2013; 123:5334-41. [PMID: 24231353 DOI: 10.1172/jci70395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Negative affect is critical for conferring vulnerability to opiate addiction as reflected by the high comorbidity of opiate abuse with major depressive disorder (MDD). Rodent models implicate amygdala prodynorphin (Pdyn) as a mediator of negative affect; however, evidence of PDYN involvement in human negative affect is limited. Here, we found reduced PDYN mRNA expression in the postmortem human amygdala nucleus of the periamygdaloid cortex (PAC) in both heroin abusers and MDD subjects. Similar to humans, rats that chronically self-administered heroin had reduced Pdyn mRNA expression in the PAC at a time point associated with a negative affective state. Using the in vivo functional imaging technology DREAMM (DREADD-assisted metabolic mapping, where DREADD indicates designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs), we found that selective inhibition of Pdyn-expressing neurons in the rat PAC increased metabolic activity in the extended amygdala, which is a key substrate of the extrahypothalamic brain stress system. In parallel, PAC-specific Pdyn inhibition provoked negative affect-related physiological and behavioral changes. Altogether, our translational study supports a functional role for impaired Pdyn in the PAC in opiate abuse through activation of the stress and negative affect neurocircuitry implicated in addiction vulnerability.
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26
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Preuss UW, Winham SJ, Biernacka JM, Geske JR, Bakalkin G, Koller G, Zill P, Soyka M, Karpyak VM. PDYN rs2281285 variant association with drinking to avoid emotional or somatic discomfort. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78688. [PMID: 24223163 PMCID: PMC3819371 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the proposed psychobiological pathways of craving attributes the desire for drinking in the context of tension, discomfort or unpleasant emotions, to “negative” (or “relief”) craving. The aim of this study was to replicate a previously reported association of the PDYN rs2281285 variant with negative craving using a different phenotyping approach. Methods The TaqMan® Genotyping Assay was used to genotype the rs2281285 variant in 417 German alcohol-dependent subjects. The presence of negative/relief craving was assessed by asking if participants ever ingested alcohol to avoid unwanted emotional or somatic discomfort. Results The minor allele of rs2281285 was associated with an increased risk of drinking to avoid/escape unwanted emotional or somatic events (OR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.08–4.85, p = 0.0298). Discussion Despite the use of a different phenotyping approach to the measurement of negative craving, our results confirm the association between negative craving and PDYN rs2281285. Genetic markers of negative craving may help to identify subgroups of alcohol-dependent individuals vulnerable to relapse in the context of negative emotions or somatic discomfort, leading to the development of specifically tailored treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich W. Preuss
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Martin-Luther-University, Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
| | - Stacey J. Winham
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Joanna M. Biernacka
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Jennifer R. Geske
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Georgy Bakalkin
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gabriele Koller
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Zill
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Soyka
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- Private Hospital Meiringen, Meiringen, Switzerland
| | - Victor M. Karpyak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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27
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Upregulated dynorphin opioid peptides mediate alcohol-induced learning and memory impairment. Transl Psychiatry 2013; 3:e310. [PMID: 24105441 PMCID: PMC3818015 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2013.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The dynorphin opioid peptides control glutamate neurotransmission in the hippocampus. Alcohol-induced dysregulation of this circuit may lead to impairments in spatial learning and memory. This study examines whether changes in the hippocampal dynorphin and glutamate systems are related, and contribute to impairment of spatial learning and memory in a rat model of cognitive deficit associated with alcohol binge drinking. Hippocampal dynorphins (radioimmunoassay) and glutamate (in vivo microdialysis) were analyzed in Wistar rats exposed to repeated moderate-dose ethanol bouts that impair spatial learning and memory in the Water Maze Task (WMT). The highly selective, long-acting κ-opioid receptor (KOR) antagonist nor-binaltorphimine (nor-BNI) was administered systemically or into the hippocampal CA3 region to test a role of dynorphins in alcohol-induced dysregulations in glutamate neurotransmission and behavior in the WMT. The ethanol treatment impaired learning and memory, upregulated dynorphins and increased glutamate overflow in the CA3 region. Administration of nor-BNI after cessation of ethanol exposure reversed ethanol-induced changes in glutamate neurotransmission in animals exposed to ethanol and normalized their performance in the WMT. The findings suggest that impairments of spatial learning and memory by binge-like ethanol exposure are mediated through the KOR activation by upregulated dynorphins resulting in elevation in glutamate levels. Selective KOR antagonists may correct alcohol-induced pathological processes, thus representing a novel pharmacotherapy for treating of ethanol-related cognitive deficits.
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28
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Watanabe H, Fitting S, Hussain MZ, Kononenko O, Iatsyshyna A, Yoshitake T, Kehr J, Alkass K, Druid H, Wadensten H, Andren PE, Nylander I, Wedell DH, Krishtal O, Hauser KF, Nyberg F, Karpyak VM, Yakovleva T, Bakalkin G. Asymmetry of the endogenous opioid system in the human anterior cingulate: a putative molecular basis for lateralization of emotions and pain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:97-108. [PMID: 23960211 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bht204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Lateralization of the processing of positive and negative emotions and pain suggests an asymmetric distribution of the neurotransmitter systems regulating these functions between the left and right brain hemispheres. By virtue of their ability to selectively mediate euphoria, dysphoria, and pain, the μ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptors and their endogenous ligands may subserve these lateralized functions. We addressed this hypothesis by comparing the levels of the opioid receptors and peptides in the left and right anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a key area for emotion and pain processing. Opioid mRNAs and peptides and 5 "classical" neurotransmitters were analyzed in postmortem tissues from 20 human subjects. Leu-enkephalin-Arg (LER) and Met-enkephalin-Arg-Phe, preferential δ-/μ- and κ-/μ-opioid agonists, demonstrated marked lateralization to the left and right ACC, respectively. Dynorphin B (Dyn B) strongly correlated with LER in the left, but not in the right ACC suggesting different mechanisms of the conversion of this κ-opioid agonist to δ-/μ-opioid ligand in the 2 hemispheres; in the right ACC, Dyn B may be cleaved by PACE4, a proprotein convertase regulating left-right asymmetry formation. These findings suggest that region-specific lateralization of neuronal networks expressing opioid peptides underlies in part lateralization of higher functions, including positive and negative emotions and pain in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Watanabe
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
| | | | - Muhammad Z Hussain
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
| | - Olga Kononenko
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences Key State Laboratory, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna Iatsyshyna
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences Department of Human Genetics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Takashi Yoshitake
- Pharmacological Neurochemistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
| | - Jan Kehr
- Pharmacological Neurochemistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
| | - Kanar Alkass
- Forensic Medicine, Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Druid
- Forensic Medicine, Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Wadensten
- Medical Mass Spectrometry, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per E Andren
- Medical Mass Spectrometry, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Nylander
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
| | - Douglas H Wedell
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA and
| | - Oleg Krishtal
- Key State Laboratory, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Kurt F Hauser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Fred Nyberg
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
| | - Victor M Karpyak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Tatjana Yakovleva
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
| | - Georgy Bakalkin
- Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
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29
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A variant on the kappa opioid receptor gene (OPRK1) is associated with stress response and related drug craving, limbic brain activation and cocaine relapse risk. Transl Psychiatry 2013; 3:e292. [PMID: 23962922 PMCID: PMC3756290 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2013.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress increases drug craving and relapse risk. The kappa opioid receptor gene (OPRK1) mediates stress responses. Here, we examined whether the OPRK1 rs6989250 C>G affects stress-induced cocaine craving and cortisol responses, subsequent cocaine relapse risk and the neural response to stress using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in cocaine dependence. Sixty-seven treatment-engaged, abstinent cocaine-dependent African-Americans were genotyped (CG: N=10; CC: N=57) and participated in a 3-day experiment in which they were exposed to personalized script-driven imagery of stress, drug cues and neutral scenarios, one condition per day, randomly assigned and counterbalanced across subjects. Repeated measures of craving and cortisol were obtained. The subjects were followed prospectively for 90 days to assess relapse risk. A follow-up preliminary fMRI experiment assessed neural responses to stress, drug cue and neutral conditions in matched CG (N=5) and CC (N=8) subgroups. We found greater stress-induced craving (P=0.019), higher cortisol during stress and cue relative to the neutral condition (P's<0.003), and increased cocaine relapse risk (P=0.0075) in the CG compared with the CC group. The CG relative to the CC group also showed greater activation of limbic and midbrain regions during stress and cues relative to the neutral condition with additional stress-induced activation in the right amygdala/hippocampus (P<0.05, whole-brain corrected). These results suggest that OPRK1 is associated with stress-induced craving and cortisol, hyperactive hypothalamus/thalamus-midbrain-cerebellum responses, and also associated with greater subsequent cocaine relapse risk. Future studies to replicate these findings in a larger sample size are warranted.
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30
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Kang-Park M, Kieffer BL, Roberts AJ, Siggins GR, Moore SD. κ-Opioid receptors in the central amygdala regulate ethanol actions at presynaptic GABAergic sites. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2013; 346:130-7. [PMID: 23587526 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.112.202903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human and animal studies indicate that κ-opioid receptors (KORs) are involved in ethanol drinking and dependence (Xuei et al., 2006; Walker and Koob, 2008; Walker et al., 2011). Using in vitro single-cell recording techniques in mouse brain slices, we examined the physiologic effects of KOR activation in the central amygdala (CeA) on GABAergic neurotransmission and its interaction with acute ethanol. A selective KOR agonist (U69593, 1 μM) diminished evoked GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) by 18% (n = 10), whereas blockade of KORs with a selective antagonist (nor-binaltorphimine, 1 μM) augmented the baseline evoked GABAergic IPSCs by 14% (P < 0.01; n = 34), suggesting that the KOR system contributes to tonic inhibition of GABAergic neurotransmission in the CeA. In addition, the enhancement by acute ethanol of GABAergic IPSC amplitudes was further augmented by pharmacologic blockade of KORs, from 14% (n = 36) to 27% (n = 26; P < 0.01), or by genetic deletion of KORs, from 14% in wild-type mice (n = 19) to 34% in KOR knockout mice (n = 13; P < 0.01). Subsequent experiments using tetrodotoxin to block activity-dependent neurotransmission suggest that KORs regulate GABA release at presynaptic sites. Our data support the idea that KORs modulate GABAergic synaptic responses and ethanol effects as one of multiple opioid system-dependent actions of ethanol in the CeA, possibly in a circuit-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maenghee Kang-Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, and Research Service, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27705, USA
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