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Cecerska-Heryć E, Polikowska A, Serwin N, Michalczyk A, Stodolak P, Goszka M, Zoń M, Budkowska M, Tyburski E, Podwalski P, Waszczuk K, Rudkowski K, Kucharska-Mazur J, Mak M, Samochowiec A, Misiak B, Sagan L, Samochowiec J, Dołęgowska B. The importance of oxidative biomarkers in diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring schizophrenia patients. Schizophr Res 2024; 270:44-56. [PMID: 38851167 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2024.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The etiology of schizophrenia (SCZ), an incredibly complex disorder, remains multifaceted. Literature suggests the involvement of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathophysiology of SCZ. OBJECTIVES Determination of selected OS markers and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in patients with chronic SCZ and those in states predisposing to SCZ-first episode psychosis (FP) and ultra-high risk (UHR). MATERIALS AND METHODS Determination of OS markers and BDNF levels by spectrophotometric methods and ELISA in 150 individuals (116 patients diagnosed with SCZ or in a predisposed state, divided into four subgroups according to the type of disorder: deficit schizophrenia, non-deficit schizophrenia, FP, UHR). The control group included 34 healthy volunteers. RESULTS Lower activities of analyzed antioxidant enzymes and GSH and TAC concentrations were found in all individuals in the study group compared to controls (p < 0.001). BDNF concentration was also lower in all groups compared to controls except in the UHR subgroup (p = 0.01). Correlations were observed between BDNF, R-GSSG, GST, GPx activity, and disease duration (p < 0.02). A small effect of smoking on selected OS markers was also noted (rho<0.06, p < 0.03). CONCLUSIONS OS may play an important role in the pathophysiology of SCZ before developing the complete clinical pattern of the disorder. The redox imbalance manifests itself with such severity in individuals with SCZ and in a state predisposing to the development of this psychiatric disease that natural antioxidant systems become insufficient to compensate against it completely. The discussed OS biomarkers may support the SCZ diagnosis and predict its progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Cecerska-Heryć
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Polikowska
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Natalia Serwin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Michalczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Patrycja Stodolak
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Goszka
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Martyn Zoń
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Budkowska
- Department of Analytical Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Ernest Tyburski
- Department of Health Psychology, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Piotr Podwalski
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Waszczuk
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Rudkowski
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Kucharska-Mazur
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Monika Mak
- Department of Health Psychology, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Błażej Misiak
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Consultation Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Leszek Sagan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jerzy Samochowiec
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Barbara Dołęgowska
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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Rißmayer M, Kambeitz J, Javelle F, Lichtenstein TK. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Exercise Interventions for Psychotic Disorders: The Impact of Exercise Intensity, Mindfulness Components, and Other Moderators on Symptoms, Functioning, and Cardiometabolic Health. Schizophr Bull 2024; 50:615-630. [PMID: 38394386 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbae015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS Exercise therapy has been shown to be an effective complementary treatment for patients with psychotic disorders. However, the specific impacts of different training modalities remain poorly understood. This article aims to quantitatively review the moderating influence of different exercise modalities, hypothesizing that higher exercise intensity as well as utilization of mindfulness-based exercise (MBE) components, will improve intervention outcomes. STUDY DESIGN PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched from 2010 to March 2022 for randomized controlled trials investigating exercise interventions in patients with psychotic disorders (preregistration: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/J8QNS). Outcomes considered were positive/negative symptoms, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) General Psychopathology/Total scores, depressive symptoms, psychosocial functioning, quality of life, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body mass index. Separate meta-analyses, including moderator analyses, were performed to evaluate the moderating influence of different training modalities. STUDY RESULTS Of 6653 studies, 40 (n = 2111 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. The effects of moderate-intensity exercise exceed low-intensity approaches for PANSS Total scores (P = .02) and depressive symptoms (P = .04). The presence of MBE components was associated with improvements in positive symptoms (P = .04) and PANSS General Psychopathology subscores (P = .04) but also with higher error and between-study heterogeneity. Our analysis also shows improved intervention effects on depression in younger patients (P = .012) and improved psychosocial functioning scores following more frequent sessions (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS A minimum of moderate intensity should be considered. More frequent training sessions per week also seem to be beneficial. While adding mindfulness elements is promising, it increases heterogeneity and requires caution in terms of generalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Rißmayer
- Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, NeuroPsychoImmunology Research Unit, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Joseph Kambeitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Florian Javelle
- Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, NeuroPsychoImmunology Research Unit, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Theresa Katharina Lichtenstein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Qi X, Yu X, Wei L, Jiang H, Dong J, Li H, Wei Y, Zhao L, Deng W, Guo W, Hu X, Li T. Novel α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) potentiator LT-102: A promising therapeutic agent for treating cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14713. [PMID: 38615362 PMCID: PMC11016348 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14713] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to evaluate the potential of a novel selective α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) potentiator, LT-102, in treating cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) and elucidating its mechanism of action. METHODS The activity of LT-102 was examined by Ca2+ influx assays and patch-clamp in rat primary hippocampal neurons. The structure of the complex was determined by X-ray crystallography. The selectivity of LT-102 was evaluated by hERG tail current recording and kinase-inhibition assays. The electrophysiological characterization of LT-102 was characterized by patch-clamp recording in mouse hippocampal slices. The expression and phosphorylation levels of proteins were examined by Western blotting. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. RESULTS LT-102 is a novel and selective AMPAR potentiator with little agonistic effect, which binds to the allosteric site formed by the intradimer interface of AMPAR's GluA2 subunit. Treatment with LT-102 facilitated long-term potentiation in mouse hippocampal slices and reversed cognitive deficits in a phencyclidine-induced mouse model. Additionally, LT-102 treatment increased the protein level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the phosphorylation of GluA1 in primary neurons and hippocampal tissues. CONCLUSION We conclude that LT-102 ameliorates cognitive impairments in a phencyclidine-induced model of schizophrenia by enhancing synaptic function, which could make it a potential therapeutic candidate for CIAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyu Qi
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xueli Yu
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Long Wei
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Han Jiang
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Jiangwen Dong
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Hongxing Li
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Yingying Wei
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Liansheng Zhao
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Wei Deng
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Wanjun Guo
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xun Hu
- The Clinical Research Center and Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangHangzhouChina
| | - Tao Li
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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Isayeva U, Manchia M, Collu R, Primavera D, Deriu L, Caboni E, Iaselli NM, Sundas D, Tusconi M, Pinna F, Paribello P, Scherma M, Pisanu C, Meloni A, Zai CC, Congiu D, Squassina A, Fratta W, Fadda P, Carpiniello B. Symptomatic remission and recovery in major psychosis: Is there a role for BDNF? A secondary analysis of the LABSP cohort data. Schizophr Res 2024; 266:197-204. [PMID: 38422890 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Remission, relapse prevention, and clinical recovery are crucial areas of interest in schizophrenia (SCZ) research. Although SCZ is a chronic disorder with poor overall outcomes, years of research demonstrated that recovery is possible. There are considerable data linking brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to SCZ, however, evidence on the role of BDNF in remission in SCZ is scarce. This secondary analysis of the Longitudinal Assessment of BDNF in Sardinian patients (LABSP) data aimed to investigate the relationship between serum BDNF levels and symptomatic remission, simultaneous clinical and functional remission, and recovery in patients with SCZ. A total of 105 patients with SCZ or schizoaffective disorder were recruited for a longitudinal assessment of BDNF levels over 24 months. Longitudinal data were analyzed using mixed-effects linear regression models. The study found significant associations between use of long acting injectables (χ2 = 7.075, df = 1, p = 0.008), baseline serum BDNF levels (U = 701, z = -2.543, p = 0.011), and "childhood" (U = 475, z = -2.124, p = 0.034) and "general" (U = 55, z = -2.014, p = 0.044) subscales of the Premorbid Adjustment Scale (PAS) with patients maintaining remission and recovery. The diagnosis of SCZ was significantly associated with lower BDNF levels for patients with simultaneous clinical and functional remission (Z = 2.035, p = 0.0419) and recovery (Z = 2.009, p = 0.0445) compared to those without. There were no significant associations between remission in the entire sample and longitudinal serum BDNF levels or genetic variants within the BDNF gene. These findings provide further insight into the complex relationship between BDNF and SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulker Isayeva
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mirko Manchia
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
| | - Roberto Collu
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Diego Primavera
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luca Deriu
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Edoardo Caboni
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Novella Maria Iaselli
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Sundas
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Massimo Tusconi
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Pinna
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Paribello
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Scherma
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Claudia Pisanu
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Anna Meloni
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Clement C Zai
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Medical Science, Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Donatella Congiu
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessio Squassina
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Walter Fratta
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence", University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence", University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Bernardo Carpiniello
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Xenaki LA, Dimitrakopoulos S, Selakovic M, Stefanis N. Stress, Environment and Early Psychosis. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:437-460. [PMID: 37592817 PMCID: PMC10845077 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230817153631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing literature provides extended evidence of the close relationship between stress dysregulation, environmental insults, and psychosis onset. Early stress can sensitize genetically vulnerable individuals to future stress, modifying their risk for developing psychotic phenomena. Neurobiological substrate of the aberrant stress response to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, disrupted inflammation processes, oxidative stress increase, gut dysbiosis, and altered brain signaling, provides mechanistic links between environmental risk factors and the development of psychotic symptoms. Early-life and later-life exposures may act directly, accumulatively, and repeatedly during critical neurodevelopmental time windows. Environmental hazards, such as pre- and perinatal complications, traumatic experiences, psychosocial stressors, and cannabis use might negatively intervene with brain developmental trajectories and disturb the balance of important stress systems, which act together with recent life events to push the individual over the threshold for the manifestation of psychosis. The current review presents the dynamic and complex relationship between stress, environment, and psychosis onset, attempting to provide an insight into potentially modifiable factors, enhancing resilience and possibly influencing individual psychosis liability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lida-Alkisti Xenaki
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72 Vas. Sophias Ave., Athens, 115 28, Greece
| | - Stefanos Dimitrakopoulos
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72 Vas. Sophias Ave., Athens, 115 28, Greece
| | - Mirjana Selakovic
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72 Vas. Sophias Ave., Athens, 115 28, Greece
| | - Nikos Stefanis
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72 Vas. Sophias Ave., Athens, 115 28, Greece
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Shafiee A, Rafiei MA, Jafarabady K, Eskandari A, Abhari FS, Sattari MA, Amini MJ, Bakhtiyari M. Effect of cannabis use on blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF): A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3340. [PMID: 38376038 PMCID: PMC10757895 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of cannabis uses on blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) remains uncertain, with conflicting findings reported in the literature. BDNF and NGF both are essential proteins for neuron's growth, and their dysregulation is seen in various mental disorders. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between cannabis usage and BDNF and NGF levels due to their potential implications for mental health. METHODS A comprehensive search of electronic databases was performed using appropriate MeSH terms and keywords. Inclusion criteria comprised human studies investigating the relationship between cannabis use and BDNF and NGF levels. RESULTS A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. The pooled analysis revealed a nonsignificant association between cannabis use and dysregulated blood levels of BDNF (random-effects model, standardized mean differences [SMD] = .26, 95% CI -.34 to .76, p = .40). The results of our subgroup analysis based on BDNF source showed a nonsignificant between-group difference. For NGF levels, four studies were included, the pooled analysis revealed a nonsignificant association between cannabis use and dysregulated blood levels of NGF (random-effects model, SMD = -.60, 95% CI -1.43 to -.23, p = .16). In both analyses, high heterogeneity was observed among the included studies which is a notable limitation to current meta-analysis. CONCLUSION This systematic review highlights the need for further research to elucidate the relationship between cannabis use and these neurotrophic factors. A better understanding of these associations can contribute to our knowledge of the neurobiological effects of cannabis and inform potential implications for mental health, cognitive function, and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arman Shafiee
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
- Student Research Committee, School of MedicineAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
| | | | - Kyana Jafarabady
- Student Research Committee, School of MedicineAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
| | - Alireza Eskandari
- Student Research Committee, School of MedicineAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
| | | | - Mohammad Amin Sattari
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
| | - Mohammad Javad Amini
- Student Research Committee, School of MedicineAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
| | - Mahmood Bakhtiyari
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
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Zakowicz P, Skibińska M, Waśniewski F, Skulimowski B, Pawlak J. Plasma biomarkers in adolescents with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder. Early Interv Psychiatry 2023; 17:1154-1161. [PMID: 37041682 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
AIM Schizophrenia onset in the developmental age has a strong neurodevelopmental burden and is associated with a poorer prognosis. The approach to diagnosis is still based on symptomatic description without objective validation. In this study, we aimed to compare the peripheral blood levels of hypothesized biomarker proteins: brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), proBDNF, p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR ) and S100B between early-onset schizophrenia-spectrum adolescents (n = 45) and healthy controls (n = 34). METHODS Clinical assessment of the participants encompassed symptomatic description with the use of structured interviews and executive function objective measurement. Plasma levels of BDNF protein were significantly lower in schizophrenia patients than in controls both at admission (p = .003) and 6-8 weeks follow-up (p = .007). RESULTS We observed significant correlations between BDNF, proBDNF and p75NTR levels and positive and negative symptoms scale (PANSS) scores, p75NTR and S100B levels and suicidal parameters, as well as a correlation of BDNF plasma level with the risky decision-making style in Iowa Gambling Task (IGT). CONCLUSIONS The results indicate a potential value of studied proteins as a biomarker in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease's course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław Zakowicz
- Department of Genetics in Psychiatry, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Children and Adolescent Treatment Centre in Zabór, University of Zielona Góra, Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Maria Skibińska
- Department of Genetics in Psychiatry, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Filip Waśniewski
- Department of Genetics in Psychiatry, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Bartosz Skulimowski
- Department of Genetics in Psychiatry, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Joanna Pawlak
- Department of Genetics in Psychiatry, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Jafarabady K, Shafiee A, Bahri RA, Rajai Firouzabadi S, Mohammadi I, Amini MJ. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in perinatal depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2023. [PMID: 37974390 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize the available evidence and determine the overall brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in individuals diagnosed with perinatal depression (PND). METHODS We performed a thorough search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, from their start until April 30, 2023. Our search strategy involved using specific keywords and medical subject headings (MeSH) terms related to BDNF, perinatal, post-partum, and antepartum depression. In the meta-analysis, we employed a random-effects model, and subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate any variations in the results. RESULTS A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 10 were used in the quantitative analysis. The meta-analysis demonstrated a significant decrease in BDNF levels in both individuals with antepartum depression (SMD: -0.31; 95% CI: -0.48 to -0.13; p-value = 0.0008; I2 = 71%), and post-partum depression (SMD: -0.61; 95% CI: -0.99 to -0.22; p-value = 0.0002 I2 = 77%). Furthermore, a significantly higher rate of PND among individuals in the lowest BDNF quartile (OR: 2.64; 95% CI: 1.01 to 6.89; p-value = 0.05; I2 = 90%) was seen. The results of subgroup analyses showed a statistically significant effect of the depression assessment tool on overall heterogeneity between studies. CONCLUSION This systematic review and meta-analysis provide evidence of lower BDNF protein levels in individuals diagnosed with PND. The results indicate that BDNF dysregulation may play a part in the development of PND. More research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind this and explore potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyana Jafarabady
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Arman Shafiee
- School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | | | | | - Ida Mohammadi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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9
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Bang-Kittilsen G, Egeland J, Ueland T, Andersen E, Bigseth TT, Holmen TL, Mordal J, Holst R, Engh JA. The relationship between the brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurocognitive response to physical exercise in individuals with schizophrenia. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 157:106356. [PMID: 37562099 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Physical exercise can improve neurocognition in individuals with schizophrenia, presumably by facilitating neuroplasticity. There is, however, large inter-individual variation in response. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been proposed to mediate these effects. The current aim was to investigate the sparsely studied relationship between peripheral resting BDNF and neurocognitive response to physical exercise in individuals with schizophrenia. METHOD The current study reports secondary analyses of data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT), ClinicalTrials.gov number 02205684, recently reported according to the CONSORT guidelines. Eighty-two individuals with schizophrenia (mean age 37 ± 14 years old, 61% men) were randomly allocated to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or a comparison group performing low-intensity active video gaming (AVG). Both interventions consisted of 2 sessions/week for 12 weeks. In previously published primary RCT analyses, HIIT and AVG showed comparable small to moderate improvements in neurocognition. We now address the inter-individual variability in neurocognitive response. We apply mediation and moderation analyses for repeated measures designs (MEMORE) and mixed effects models. RESULTS Baseline neurocognition was not significantly correlated with baseline levels of mature BDNF (baseline-mBDNF) or the precursor proBDNF. Nonetheless, baseline-mBDNF, but not baseline proBDNF, moderated the effect of exercise on neurocognition (p = 0.025) and explained 7% of the variance. The neurocognitive improvement increased with increasing baseline-mBDNF values. The moderating effect of baseline-mBDNF remained significant in a more complex model adding the moderating effects of exercise mode, sex, age, duration of illness and baseline VO2max on the outcome (neurocognition). Mean baseline-mBDNF significantly decreased from baseline to post-intervention (p = 0.036), regardless of exercise mode, differing by sex and associated with improved VO2max but not with change in neurocognition. A mediating role of mBDNF on the effect of physical exercise on neurocognition was not supported. Values of proBDNF mainly remained stable from baseline to post-intervention. CONCLUSION We found that baseline-mBDNF moderated the effect of physical exercise on neurocognition in individuals with schizophrenia and explained a small part of the inter-individual variation in neurocognitive response. Mean mBDNF decreased from baseline to post-intervention, regardless of exercise mode. A mediating role of mBDNF on the effect of exercise on neurocognition was not supported. The inter-individual variation in neurocognitive response and the complex role of peripheral BDNF in physical exercise is still to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gry Bang-Kittilsen
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway.
| | - Jens Egeland
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thor Ueland
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo, Norway; K.G. Jebsen TREC, University of Tromso, Tromso, Norway
| | - Eivind Andersen
- Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, University of Southeast Norway, Horten, Norway
| | | | - Tom Langerud Holmen
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway
| | - Jon Mordal
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway
| | - René Holst
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - John Abel Engh
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway
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Ju S, Shin Y, Han S, Kwon J, Choi TG, Kang I, Kim SS. The Gut-Brain Axis in Schizophrenia: The Implications of the Gut Microbiome and SCFA Production. Nutrients 2023; 15:4391. [PMID: 37892465 PMCID: PMC10610543 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia, a severe mental illness affecting about 1% of the population, manifests during young adulthood, leading to abnormal mental function and behavior. Its multifactorial etiology involves genetic factors, experiences of adversity, infection, and gene-environment interactions. Emerging research indicates that maternal infection or stress during pregnancy may also increase schizophrenia risk in offspring. Recent research on the gut-brain axis highlights the gut microbiome's potential influence on central nervous system (CNS) function and mental health, including schizophrenia. The gut microbiota, located in the digestive system, has a significant role to play in human physiology, affecting immune system development, vitamin synthesis, and protection against pathogenic bacteria. Disruptions to the gut microbiota, caused by diet, medication use, environmental pollutants, and stress, may lead to imbalances with far-reaching effects on CNS function and mental health. Of interest are short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), metabolic byproducts produced by gut microbes during fermentation. SCFAs can cross the blood-brain barrier, influencing CNS activity, including microglia and cytokine modulation. The dysregulation of neurotransmitters produced by gut microbes may contribute to CNS disorders, including schizophrenia. This review explores the potential relationship between SCFAs, the gut microbiome, and schizophrenia. Our aim is to deepen the understanding of the gut-brain axis in schizophrenia and to elucidate its implications for future research and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhyun Ju
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (S.J.); (Y.S.); (S.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonhwa Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (S.J.); (Y.S.); (S.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunhee Han
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (S.J.); (Y.S.); (S.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Juhui Kwon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (S.J.); (Y.S.); (S.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Gyu Choi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Insug Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (S.J.); (Y.S.); (S.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Soo Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (S.J.); (Y.S.); (S.H.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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11
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Farcas A, Hindmarch C, Iftene F. BDNF gene Val66Met polymorphisms as a predictor for clinical presentation in schizophrenia - recent findings. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1234220. [PMID: 37886115 PMCID: PMC10598753 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1234220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a highly heritable, severe psychiatric disorder that involves dysfunctions in thinking, emotions, and behavior, with a profound impact on a person's ability to function normally in their daily life. Research efforts continue to focus on elucidating possible genetic underlying mechanisms of the disorder. Although the genetic loci identified to date to be significantly associated with schizophrenia risk do not represent disease-causing factors, each one of them could be seen as a possible incremental contributor. Considering the importance of finding new and more efficient pharmacological approaches to target the complex symptomatology of this disorder, in this scoping review, we are focusing on the most recent findings in studies aiming to elucidate the contribution of one of the genetic factors involved - the BDNF gene Val66Met polymorphisms. Here we performed a systematic search in Pubmed, Embase, and Web of Science databases with the search terms: (BDNF gene polymorphism) AND (schizophrenia) for articles published in the last 5 years. To be selected for this review, articles had to report on studies where genotyping for the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism was performed in participants diagnosed with schizophrenia (or schizophrenia spectrum disorders or first-episode psychosis). The search provided 35 results from Pubmed, 134 results from Embase, and 118 results from the Web of Science database. Twenty-two articles were selected to be included in this review, all reporting on studies where an implication of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms in the disorder's pathophysiology was sought to be elucidated. These studies looked at BDNF gene Val66Met polymorphism variants, their interactions with other genes of interest, and different facets of the illness. The Met/Met genotype was found to be associated with higher PANSS positive scores. Furthermore, Met/Met homozygous individuals appear to present with worse cognitive function and lower levels of serum BDNF. In the Val/Val genotype carriers, increased BDNF levels were found to correlate with weight gain under Risperidone treatment. However, due to heterogeneous results, the diversity in study populations and studies' small sample sizes, generalizations cannot be made. Our findings emphasize the need for further research dedicated to clarifying the role of gene polymorphisms in antipsychotic treatment to enhance specificity and efficacy in the treatment of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Farcas
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Charles Hindmarch
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Queen’s Cardiopulmonary Unit, Translational Institute of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Felicia Iftene
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada
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12
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Szota AM, Kowalewska B, Ćwiklińska-Jurkowska M, Dróżdż W. The Influence of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Plasma Level in Patients with Schizophrenia-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5728. [PMID: 37685795 PMCID: PMC10488522 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12175728] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to establish whether there is a correlation between the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment and the reduction in psychotic symptoms in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. A systematic search of PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus and Embase was conducted up to March 2023. Inclusion criteria: studies in which adult patients with schizophrenia treated with antipsychotic medication received ECT therapy and had the BDNF level measured before and after ECT treatment. Exclusion criteria: animal and in vitro studies or studies not involving complete information about the treatment and concentration of BDNF in plasma. The risk of bias was assessed using Egger's regression-based test for meta-analysis with continuous outcomes. Six studies comprising 248 individuals with schizophrenia were included. A statistically significant increase in BDNF levels after ECT treatment was observed only in two studies (p < 0.001 and p < 0.027, respectively), whereas in four other studies, an upward trend without statistical significance was noticed. The estimated overall size effect revealed that ECT therapy caused a slight change in the BDNF level but without statistical significance (ES = -0.328). Different numbers of ECT procedures (4-10), final measurement of the BDNF level made at a different time point, using bilateral or unilateral electrode positioning during ECT and treatment with different combinations of typical or atypical antipsychotic medications may be potential reasons for the lack of statistical significance in the changes in BDNF levels after treatment. Data regarding the measurement of BDNF levels pre and post ECT therapy in patients with schizophrenia are very limited without an extended follow-up period and evaluation of mental health change. Our meta-analysis showed that treatment with ECT therapy and antipsychotic medication increases serum BDNF levels in patients with drug-resistant schizophrenia compared to patients treated with medication only; however, this effect is not statistically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Szota
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Curie-Skłodowskiej Street 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (B.K.); (W.D.)
| | - Beata Kowalewska
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Curie-Skłodowskiej Street 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (B.K.); (W.D.)
| | - Małgorzata Ćwiklińska-Jurkowska
- Department of Biostatistics and Biomedical Systems Theory, Ludwig Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Jagiellońska Street 13-15, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Wiktor Dróżdż
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Curie-Skłodowskiej Street 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (B.K.); (W.D.)
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13
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Loch AA, Pinto MTC, Andrade JC, de Jesus LP, de Medeiros MW, Haddad NM, Bilt MTVD, Talib LL, Gattaz WF. Plasma levels of neurotrophin 4/5, NGF and pro-BDNF influence transition to mental disorders in a sample of individuals at ultra-high risk for psychosis. Psychiatry Res 2023; 327:115402. [PMID: 37544089 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurotrophins (NTs) and their precursors (pro-NTs) are polypeptides with important roles in neuronal development, differentiation, growth, survival and plasticity, as well as apoptosis and neuronal death. Imbalance in NT levels were observed in schizophrenia spectrum disorders, but evidence in ultra-high risk for psychosis (UHR) samples is scarce. METHODS A naturalistic sample of 87 non-help-seeking UHR subjects and 55 healthy controls was drawn from the general population. Blood samples were collected and NT-3, NT-4/5, BDNF, pro-BDNF, NGF, pro-NGF were analyzed through enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Information on cannabis and tobacco use was also collected. Logistic regression models and path analysis were used to control for confounders (tobacco, age, cannabis use). RESULTS NT-4/5 was significantly decreased, and pro-BDNF was significantly increased in UHR individuals compared to controls. Cannabis use and higher NGF levels were significantly related to transition to psychiatric disorders among UHR subjects. Increased pro-BDNF and decreased NT-4/5 influenced transition by the mediation of perceptual abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows for the first time that NTs are altered in UHR compared to healthy control individuals, and that they can be a predictor of transition to psychiatric illnesses in this population. Future studies should employ larger naturalistic samples to confirm the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Andrade Loch
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR; Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brazil.
| | - Marcel Tavares Camilo Pinto
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Julio Cesar Andrade
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Leonardo Peroni de Jesus
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Matheus Wanderley de Medeiros
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Natalia Mansur Haddad
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Martinus Theodorus van de Bilt
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR; Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brazil
| | - Leda Leme Talib
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR; Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brazil
| | - Wagner Farid Gattaz
- Laboratório de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR; Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brazil
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14
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Dai J, Zhang MZ, He QQ, Chen R. The emerging role of exosomes in Schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2023; 327:115394. [PMID: 37536144 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ), a serious mental disorder, is one of the leading causes of disease burden worldwide. Exosomes, as a natural nanocarrier, are able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and play a key bridging role in central nervous system (CNS) communication, participating in important physiological processes such as neural regeneration, prominent plasticity, axonal support, and neuroinflammation. In recent years, exosomes have received widespread attention in the field of neurodegenerative diseases and mental disorders, especially Alzheimer's disease. However, there are few reviews on exosomes and SCZ. Therefore, we conducted a literature search in PubMed and Web of Science using the following search terms: "schizophrenia", "mental disorder", "central system", "exosome", "extracellular vesicles" to identify publications from January 2010 to December 2022. Our review summarized exosomes secreted by different cell types in the CNS and the double-edged role of exosomes in the development of SCZ, and discussed their future potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. In conclusion, this article provides an up-to-date overview of the current research on the involvement of exosomes in SCZ, while also highlighting the challenges that are currently faced in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Dai
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min-Zhe Zhang
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi-Qiang He
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Biomass-Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology Key Laboratory, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Chen
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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Moreno I, Stojanovic-Pérez A, Bulduk B, Sánchez-Gistau V, Algora MJ, Ortega L, Muntané G, Vilella E, Labad J, Martorell L. High blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA in early psychosis are associated with inflammatory markers. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 164:440-446. [PMID: 37429187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs6265C > T, Val66Met, affects BDNF secretion and has been related to inflammatory processes. Both the rs6265 and BDNF protein levels have been widely investigated in neuropsychiatric disorders with conflicting results. In the present study we examined BDNF mRNA expression in blood considering the SNP rs6265 and its relationship with inflammatory markers in the early stages of psychosis. The rs6265 genotype and blood BDNF mRNA levels were measured in 34 at-risk mental states (ARMS) individuals, 37 patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP) and 42 healthy controls (HCs) by quantitative PCR and reverse transcription (RT)-qPCR using validated TaqMan assays. We also obtained measures of interleukin-6 (IL6) mRNA levels, fibrinogen, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. We identified that BDNF mRNA levels were associated with the rs6265 genotype in an allele-dose-dependent manner, with low expression levels associated with the T allele (Met substitution). Thus, we controlled for the rs6265 genotype in all analyses. Blood BDNF mRNA levels differed between diagnostic groups: patients with FEP exhibited higher blood BDNF mRNA levels than ARMS individuals, and the lowest levels were observed in HC. In addition, we observed significant correlations between BDNF mRNA levels and inflammatory markers (IL6 mRNA levels and NLR), controlled by the rs6265 genotype, in ARMS and FEP groups. This exploratory study suggests that the rs6265 genotype is associated with differential blood mRNA expression of BDNF that increases with illness progression and correlated with inflammation in the early stages of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Moreno
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Bengisu Bulduk
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Vanessa Sánchez-Gistau
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Algora
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Ortega
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Departament d'Infermeria, URV, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Gerard Muntané
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Institut de Biologia Evolutiva, IBE, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Elisabet Vilella
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Labad
- Hospital de Mataró, Consorci Sanitari del Maresme, Fundació Parc Taulí, Mataró, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Innovació i Investigació Parc Taulí (I3PT), Translational Neuroscience Research Unit I3PT-Inc-UAB, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Lourdes Martorell
- Hospital Universitari Institut Pere Mata (HUIPM), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili-CERCA (IISPV-CERCA), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Abbas MS, Nassar ST, Tasha T, Desai A, Bajgain A, Ali A, Dutta C, Pasha K, Paul S, Venugopal S. Exercise as an Adjuvant Treatment of Schizophrenia: A Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e42084. [PMID: 37602139 PMCID: PMC10434720 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic debilitating condition associated with impaired social functioning, memory, and executive functioning. To date, we are still unsure about the exact etiology of schizophrenia, but there are many factors, such as genetics, diminished hippocampal volume, and imbalance of neurotransmitters, that lead to the pathogenies of the disease. Antipsychotics are the most effective treatment option for schizophrenia so far, yet they are associated with a wide array of side effects, ranging from extrapyramidal side effects to conditions, such as metabolic syndrome. Exercise has been shown to increase neural connections in the brain, which can improve cognition and memory. This literature review focuses on the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia, its treatment options, and how exercise can help with some of the symptoms of schizophrenia, especially the negative symptoms that are least effectively treated by antipsychotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad S Abbas
- Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sondos T Nassar
- Medicine and Surgery, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Tasniem Tasha
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Anjali Desai
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Anjana Bajgain
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Asna Ali
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Chandrani Dutta
- Family Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Khadija Pasha
- Pediatrics, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Salomi Paul
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sathish Venugopal
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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17
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Nieto RR, Silva H, Armijo A, Nachar R, González A, Castañeda CP, Montes C, Kukuljan M. BDNF and Cognitive Function in Chilean Schizophrenic Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10569. [PMID: 37445746 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite cognitive symptoms being very important in schizophrenia, not every schizophrenic patient has a significant cognitive deficit. The molecular mechanisms underlying the different degrees of cognitive functioning in schizophrenic patients are not sufficiently understood. We studied the relation between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cognitive functioning in two groups of schizophrenic patients with different cognitive statuses. According to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) results, the schizophrenic patients were classified into two subgroups: normal cognition (26 or more) and cognitive deficit (25 or less). We measured their plasma BDNF levels using ELISAs. The statistical analyses were performed using Spearman's Rho and Kruskal-Wallis tests. We found a statistically significant positive correlation between the plasma BDNF levels and MoCA score (p = 0.04) in the subgroup of schizophrenic patients with a cognitive deficit (n = 29). However, this correlation was not observed in the patients with normal cognition (n = 11) and was not observed in the total patient group (n = 40). These results support a significant role for BDNF in the cognitive functioning of schizophrenics with some degree of cognitive deficit, but suggest that BDNF may not be crucial in patients with a normal cognitive status. These findings provide information about the molecular basis underlying cognitive deficits in this illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo R Nieto
- Clínica Psiquiátrica Universitaria, Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental Norte, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Hernán Silva
- Clínica Psiquiátrica Universitaria, Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental Norte, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Alejandra Armijo
- Hospital Dr. José Horwitz Barak, Servicio de Salud Metropolitano Norte, Santiago 8431621, Chile
| | - Rubén Nachar
- Hospital Dr. José Horwitz Barak, Servicio de Salud Metropolitano Norte, Santiago 8431621, Chile
| | - Alfonso González
- Hospital Dr. José Horwitz Barak, Servicio de Salud Metropolitano Norte, Santiago 8431621, Chile
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Finis Terrae, Santiago 7501015, Chile
| | - Carmen Paz Castañeda
- Hospital Dr. José Horwitz Barak, Servicio de Salud Metropolitano Norte, Santiago 8431621, Chile
| | - Cristián Montes
- Clínica Psiquiátrica Universitaria, Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental Norte, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Manuel Kukuljan
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
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18
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Bulnes S, Picó-Gallardo M, Bengoetxea H, Lafuente JV. Effects of curcumin nanodelivery on schizophrenia and glioblastoma. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 171:163-203. [PMID: 37783555 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Curcumin is a natural polyphenol, which has a variety of pharmacological activities, including, antineoplastic, antioxidative and neuroprotective effects. Recent studies provided evidence for the bioactive role of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of various central nervous system (CNS)-related diseases including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Schizophrenia disease and glioma neoplasia. Schizophrenia is a disabling psychiatric disorder related with an aberrant functional coupling between hippocampus and prefrontal cortex that might be crucial for cognitive dysfunction. Animal studies have lent support to the hypothesis that curcumin could improve cognitive functioning and enhance cell proliferation of dentate gyrus. In relation to brain tumors, specifically gliomas, the antineoplastic action of curcumin is based on the inhibition of cell growth promoting apoptosis or autophagy and preventing angiogenesis. However, one of the main impediments for the application of curcumin to patients is its low bioavailability. In intracranial lesions, curcumin has problems to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Currently nano-based drug delivery systems are opening a new horizon to tackle this problem. The bioavailability and effective release of curcumin can be made possible in the form of nanocurcumin. This nanoformulation preserves the properties of curcumin and makes it reach tissues with pathology. This review try to study the beneficial effects of the curcumin nanodelivery in central nervous pathologies such us schizophrenia and glioma disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Bulnes
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena s/n, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - Marina Picó-Gallardo
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena s/n, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Harkaitz Bengoetxea
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena s/n, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - José Vicente Lafuente
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena s/n, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
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19
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Mohammed SM, Hashim ZH, Hussein MM, Al-Mayah QS. Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in patients with schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction: correlation with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). J Med Life 2023; 16:799-805. [PMID: 37520481 PMCID: PMC10375342 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine use can induce psychosis resembling acute schizophrenia spectrum psychosis, making it challenging to differentiate between the two based on symptoms alone. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) exerts a critical role in hippocampal neural plasticity, influencing critical cognitive functions such as memory and learning. This study aimed to determine the role of serum BDNF levels in schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction. A case-control study was conducted involving 50 patients with schizophrenia, 50 patients with methamphetamine addiction, and 50 healthy control subjects recruited from Ibn-Rushed Psychiatric Teaching Hospital in Baghdad. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), while serum BDNF levels were measured using ELISA following standardized protocols. The findings revealed significantly lower median levels of BDNF (0.36 pg/ml) in patients with schizophrenia compared to both the control group (0.51 pg/ml) and the methamphetamine group (0.72 pg/ml). Moreover, there was a significant difference observed between the methamphetamine group and the control group. At a cut-off value of BDNF=0.37 pg/ml, the sensitivity and specificity of BDNF in differentiating between schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction were 84% and 70%, respectively. Serum level of BDNF could be used to differentiate between schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction when clinical distinctions are challenging to detect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zainab Hassan Hashim
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
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20
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van den Oord EJCG, Xie LY, Zhao M, Campbell TL, Turecki G, Kähler AK, Dean B, Mors O, Hultman CM, Staunstrup NH, Aberg KA. Genes implicated by a methylome-wide schizophrenia study in neonatal blood show differential expression in adult brain samples. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:2088-2094. [PMID: 37106120 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02080-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a disabling disorder involving genetic predisposition in combination with environmental influences that likely act via dynamic alterations of the epigenome and the transcriptome but its detailed pathophysiology is largely unknown. We performed cell-type specific methylome-wide association study of neonatal blood (N = 333) from individuals who later in life developed schizophrenia and controls. Suggestively significant associations (P < 1.0 × 10-6) were detected in all cell-types and in whole blood with methylome-wide significant associations in monocytes (P = 2.85 × 10-9-4.87 × 10-9), natural killer cells (P = 1.72 × 10-9-7.82 × 10-9) and B cells (P = 3.8 × 10-9). Validation of methylation findings in post-mortem brains (N = 596) from independent schizophrenia cases and controls showed significant enrichment of transcriptional differences (enrichment ratio = 1.98-3.23, P = 2.3 × 10-3-1.0 × 10-5), with specific highly significant differential expression for, for example, BDNF (t = -6.11, P = 1.90 × 10-9). In addition, expression difference in brain significantly predicted schizophrenia (multiple correlation = 0.15-0.22, P = 3.6 × 10-4-4.5 × 10-8). In summary, using a unique design combining pre-disease onset (neonatal) blood methylomic data and post-disease onset (post-mortem) brain transcriptional data, we have identified genes of likely functional relevance that are associated with schizophrenia susceptibility, rather than confounding disease associated artifacts. The identified loci may be of clinical value as a methylation-based biomarker for early detection of increased schizophrenia susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin J C G van den Oord
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Lin Y Xie
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Min Zhao
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Thomas L Campbell
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute and McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anna K Kähler
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brian Dean
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ole Mors
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital - Psychiatry, Risskov, Denmark
- Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christina M Hultman
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicklas H Staunstrup
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Aarhus, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Karolina A Aberg
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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21
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Rabiee R, Hosseini Hooshiar S, Ghaderi A, Jafarnejad S. Schizophrenia, Curcumin and Minimizing Side Effects of Antipsychotic Drugs: Possible Mechanisms. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:713-724. [PMID: 36357748 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03798-4] [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: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by episodes of psychosis; major symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. More recent theories focus on particular disorders of interneurons, dysfunctions in the immune system, abnormalities in the formation of myelin, and augmented oxidative stress that lead to alterations in brain structure. Decreased dopaminergic activity and increased phospholipid metabolism in the prefrontal cortex might be involved in schizophrenia. Antipsychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia have many side effects. Alternative therapy such as curcumin (CUR) can reduce the severity of symptoms without significant side effects. CUR has important therapeutic properties such as antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial functions and protection of the nervous system. Also, the ability of CUR to pass the blood-brain barrier raises new hopes for neuroprotection. CUR can improve and prevent further probable neurological and behavioral disorders in patients with schizophrenia. It decreases the side effects of neuroleptics and retains lipid homeostasis. CUR increases the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and improves hyperkinetic movement disorders. CUR may act as an added counteraction mechanism to retain cell integrity and defense against free radical injury. Thus it appears to have therapeutic potential for improvement of schizophrenia. In this study, we review several properties of CUR and its ability to improve schizophrenia and minimize the side effects of antipsychotic drugs, and we explore the underlying mechanisms by which CUR affects schizophrenia and its symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhaneh Rabiee
- Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Hosseini Hooshiar
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Amir Ghaderi
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medicine and Clinical Research Development Unit, Matini/Kargarnejad Hospital, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Sadegh Jafarnejad
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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22
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Mosiołek A, Mosiołek J. The Effects of Treatment in Psychotic Disorders-Changes in BDNF Levels and Clinical Outcomes: Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2111. [PMID: 36767478 PMCID: PMC9915041 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Psychotic disorders are associated with significant impairment in functioning, and their treatment remains a great therapeutic challenge. Patients are at a higher risk of suicide and premature mortality. Biomarkers, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), play a vital role in neurotransmission and neurodevelopment. Decreased levels of BDNF alter neuronal signaling and cause the appearance of symptoms such as the impairment of working memory. A literature search was performed using the PubMed data base. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 24 original articles were selected. We collected available data showcasing the influence of antipsychotic and non-pharmacological treatments, in patients suffering from psychotic disorders, on clinical conditions and BDNF levels in serum or plasma. In this review, we outline emerging data regarding the influence of different antipsychotic drugs and non-pharmacological treatment methods on BDNF and discuss their role as predictors of treatment outcome. Most studies conducted with antipsychotics saw an increase in BDNF levels; however, no positive correlation between change in BDNF and PANSS scores was observed. Studies based on non-pharmacological methods varied based on the treatment applied. Therefore, it is difficult to draw definite conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mosiołek
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 61 Street, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Jadwiga Mosiołek
- John Paul II Western Hospital in Grodzisk Mazowiecki, Daleka 11 Street, 05-825 Grodzisk Mazowiecki, Poland
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23
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Gliwińska A, Czubilińska-Łada J, Więckiewicz G, Świętochowska E, Badeński A, Dworak M, Szczepańska M. The Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Diagnosis and Treatment of Epilepsy, Depression, Schizophrenia, Anorexia Nervosa and Alzheimer's Disease as Highly Drug-Resistant Diseases: A Narrative Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13020163. [PMID: 36831706 PMCID: PMC9953867 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) belongs to the family of neurotrophins, which are growth factors with trophic effects on neurons. BDNF is the most widely distributed neurotrophin in the central nervous system (CNS) and is highly expressed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus. Its distribution outside the CNS has also been demonstrated, but most studies have focused on its effects in neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite the advances in medicine in recent decades, neurological and psychiatric diseases are still characterized by high drug resistance. This review focuses on the use of BDNF in the developmental assessment, treatment monitoring, and pharmacotherapy of selected diseases, with a particular emphasis on epilepsy, depression, anorexia, obesity, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. The limitations of using a molecule with such a wide distribution range and inconsistent method of determination are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Gliwińska
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-32-370-43-05; Fax: +48-32-370-42-92
| | - Justyna Czubilińska-Łada
- Department of Neonatal Intensive Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Gniewko Więckiewicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Świętochowska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Andrzej Badeński
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Marta Dworak
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology with Dialysis Division for Children, Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 1, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Maria Szczepańska
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
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Castillo-Navarrete JL, Guzmán-Castillo A, Bustos C, Rojas R. Peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and salivary cortisol levels in college students with different levels of academic stress. Study protocol. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282007. [PMID: 36812175 PMCID: PMC9946253 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential for brain physiological processes influencing memory and learning. BDNF levels can be affected by many factors, including stress. Stress increase serum and salivary cortisol levels. Academic stress is of the chronic type. BDNF levels can be measure from serum, plasma or platelets, and there is still no standard methodology, which is relevant to ensure reproducibility and comparability between studies. HYPOTHESIS (i) BDNF concentrations in serum show greater variability than in plasma. (ii) In college students with academic stress, peripheral BDNF decreases and salivary cortisol increases. GENERAL OBJECTIVE To standardize plasma and serum collection for BDNF levels and to determine whether academic stress affects peripheral BDNF and salivary cortisol levels. DESIGN Quantitative research, with a non-experimental cross-sectional descriptive design. PARTICIPANTS Student volunteers. Under convenience sampling, 20 individuals will be included for standardization of plasma and serum collection and between 70 and 80 individuals to determine the effect of academic stress on BDNF and salivary cortisol. PERIPHERAL BLOOD AND SALIVARY CORTISOL SAMPLING, MEASUREMENTS 12 mL of peripheral blood (with and without anticoagulant) will be drawn per participant, separated from plasma or serum and cryopreserved at -80°C. Additionally, they will be instructed in the collection of 1 mL of saliva samples, which will be centrifuged. Val66Met polymorphism will be performed by allele-specific PCR, while BDNF and salivary cortisol levels will be determined by ELISA. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS (i) descriptive analysis of the variables, through measures of central tendency and dispersion, and the categorical variables through their frequency and percentage. (ii) Then a bivariate analysis will be performed comparing groups using each variable separately. EXPECTED RESULTS We expect to (i) determine the analytical factors that allow a better reproducibility in the measurement of peripheral BDNF, and (ii) the effect of academic stress on BDNF and salivary cortisol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Luis Castillo-Navarrete
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Programa de Neurociencia, Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, NEPSAM (http://nepsam.udec.cl), Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- * E-mail: (JLCN); (AGC)
| | - Alejandra Guzmán-Castillo
- Programa de Neurociencia, Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, NEPSAM (http://nepsam.udec.cl), Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Programme in Mental Health, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas y Morfología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- * E-mail: (JLCN); (AGC)
| | - Claudio Bustos
- Programa de Neurociencia, Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, NEPSAM (http://nepsam.udec.cl), Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Romina Rojas
- Programa de Neurociencia, Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, NEPSAM (http://nepsam.udec.cl), Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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25
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BDNF Levels According to Variations in the CACNA1C Gene: Sex-Based Disparity. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:357-366. [PMID: 35128618 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01189-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The CACNA1C gene encodes the pore-forming alpha-1c subunit of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels. The calcium influx through these channels regulates the transcription of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Polymorphisms in this gene have been consistently associated with psychiatric disorders, and alterations in BDNF levels are a possible biological mechanism to explain such associations. Here, we sought to investigate the effect of the CACNA1C rs1006737 and rs4765913 polymorphisms and their haplotypes on serum BDNF concentration. We further aim to investigate the regulatory function of these SNPs and the ones linked to them. The study enrolled 641 young adults (362 women and 279 men) in a cross-sectional population-based survey. Linear regression was used to test the effects of polymorphisms and haplotypes on BDNF levels adjusted for potential confounders. Moreover, regulatory putative functional roles were assessed using in silico approach. BDNF levels were not associated with CACNA1C polymorphisms/haplotype in the total sample. When the sample was stratified by sex, checking the effect of polymorphisms on men and women separately, the A-allele of rs4765913 was associated with lower BDNF levels in women compared with the TT genotype (p = 0.010). The AA (rs1006737-rs4765913) haplotype was associated with BDNF levels in opposite directions regarding sex, with lower levels of BDNF in women (p = 0.040) compared to those without this haplotype, while with higher levels in men (p = 0.027). These findings were supported by the presence of regulatory marks only on the male fetal brain. Our results suggest that the BDNF levels regulation may be a potential mechanism underpinning the association between CACNA1C and psychiatric disorders, with a differential role in women and men.
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Yu X, Qi X, Wei L, Zhao L, Deng W, Guo W, Wang Q, Ma X, Hu X, Ni P, Li T. Fingolimod ameliorates schizophrenia-like cognitive impairments induced by phencyclidine in male rats. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:161-173. [PMID: 36106568 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Improvement of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia remains an unmet need owing to the lack of new therapies and drugs. Recent studies have reported that fingolimod, an immunomodulatory drug for treating multiple sclerosis, demonstrates anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in several neurological disease models. This suggests its usefulness for ameliorating cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. Herein, we assessed the efficacy profile and mechanism of fingolimod in a rat model of phencyclidine (PCP)-induced schizophrenia. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with PCP for 14 days. The therapeutic effect of fingolimod on cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze and fear conditioning tests. Hippocampal neurogenesis and the expression of astrocytes and microglia were evaluated using immunostaining. Cytokine expression was quantified using multiplexed flow cytometry. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase were determined using western blot analysis. KEY RESULTS Fingolimod attenuated cognitive deficits and restored hippocampal neurogenesis in a dose-dependent manner in PCP-treated rats. Fingolimod treatment exerted anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting microglial activation and IL-6 and IL-1β pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. The underlying mechanism involves the upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein expression and activation of the ERK signalling pathway. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS This is the first preclinical assessment of the effects of fingolimod on cognitive function in a model for schizophrenia. Our results suggest the immune system plays an crucial role in cognitive alterations in schizophrenia and highlight the potential of immunomodulatory strategies to improve cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueli Yu
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueyu Qi
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Long Wei
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liansheng Zhao
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Deng
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wanjun Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaohong Ma
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xun Hu
- The Clinical Research Center and Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peiyan Ni
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Haque SS. Biomarkers in the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases. RUDN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.22363/2313-0245-2022-26-4-431-440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers are molecules that behave as of biological states. Ideally, they should have high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in reflecting the total disease burden. The review discusses the current status of biomarkers used in neurological disorders. Neurodegenerative diseases are a heterogeneous group disorders characterized by progressive loss of structure and function of the central nervous system or peripheral nervous system. The review discusses the main biomarkers that have predictive value for describing clinical etiology, pathophysiology, and intervention strategies. Preciseness and reliability are one of important requirement for good biomarker. As a result of the analysis of literature data, it was revealed that beta-amyloid, total tau protein and its phosphorylated forms are the first biochemical biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases measured in cerebrospinal fluid, but these markers are dependent upon invasive lumbar puncture and therefore it’s a cumbersome process for patients. Among the various biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases, special attention is paid to miRNAs. MicroRNAs, important biomarkers in many disease states, including neurodegenerative disorders, make them promising candidates that may lead to identify new therapeutic targets. Conclusions. Biomarkers of neurological disease are present optimal amount in the cerebrospinal fluid but they are also present in blood at low levels. The data obtained reveal the predictive value of molecular diagnostics of neurodegenerative disorders and the need for its wider use.
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Converging Evidence Points to BDNF as Biomarker of Depressive Symptoms in Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121666. [PMID: 36552127 PMCID: PMC9775399 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key modulator of neuroplasticity and has an important role in determining the susceptibility to severe psychiatric disorder with a significant neurodevelopmental component such as major psychoses. Indeed, a potential association between BDNF serum levels and schizophrenia (SCZ) and schizoaffective disorder (SAD) has been tested in diverse studies and a considerable amount of them found reduced BDNF levels in these disorders. Here, we aimed at testing the association of BDNF serum levels with several demographic, clinical, and psychometric measures in 105 patients with SCZ and SAD, assessing the moderating effect of genetic variants within the BDNF gene. We also verified whether peripheral BDNF levels differed between patients with SCZ and SAD. Our findings revealed that BDNF serum levels are significantly lower in patients affected by SCZ and SAD presenting more severe depressive symptomatology. This finding awaits replication in future independent studies and points to BDNF as a possible prognostic indicator in major psychoses.
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Wang Y, Meng W, Liu Z, An Q, Hu X. Cognitive impairment in psychiatric diseases: Biomarkers of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:1046692. [DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1046692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and major depressive disorder, place a huge health burden on society. Cognitive impairment is one of the core characteristics of psychiatric disorders and a vital determinant of social function and disease recurrence in patients. This review thus aims to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of cognitive impairment in major psychiatric disorders and identify valuable biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of patients.
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30
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Long-term effects of prenatal stress on the development of prefrontal cortex in the adolescent offspring. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 125:102169. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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31
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Shahin O, Gohar SM, Ibrahim W, El-Makawi SM, Fakher W, Taher DB, Abdel Samie M, Khalil MA, Saleh AA. Brain-Derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plasma level increases in patients with resistant schizophrenia treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2022; 26:370-375. [PMID: 35192426 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2022.2035770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed to assess the effect of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) on plasma BDNF levels in patients with resistant schizophrenia. METHODS It was a cohort study that included 60 patients with resistant schizophrenia fulfilling the DSM-5 criteria of schizophrenia and APA criteria of resistant schizophrenia. They were divided into two groups, followed over 4 weeks, and compared to their baseline assessment. Group (A) included 45 patients who received 4-10 sessions of ECT while Group (B) included 15 patients who received the usual treatment with antipsychotics without ECT. The assessment included the severity of psychotic symptoms assessed by the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) in addition to plasma BDNF level. RESULTS Patients in Group (A) had an increased level of BDNF after treatment with a statistically significant difference in comparison to their baseline BDNF level (P = 0.027). Meanwhile, patients in group (B) showed a non-significant increase in BDNF. Patients in both groups improved significantly in all PANSS subscales after treatment. CONCLUSIONS It was concluded that plasma BDNF levels in patients with resistant schizophrenia increase after electroconvulsive therapy in association with clinical improvement.Key pointsBDNF increases after ECT treatment of resistant schizophrenia.BDNF is not correlated with the severity of psychotic symptomsPatients treated with ECT showed a better response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola Shahin
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sherif M Gohar
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walaa Ibrahim
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shirin M El-Makawi
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walaa Fakher
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina Badie Taher
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mai Abdel Samie
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Khalil
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alia A Saleh
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, El Saraya street, El Manyal, Cairo, Egypt
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Spironolactone alleviates schizophrenia-related reversal learning in Tcf4 transgenic mice subjected to social defeat. SCHIZOPHRENIA 2022; 8:77. [PMID: 36171421 PMCID: PMC9519974 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-022-00290-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AbstractCognitive deficits are a hallmark of schizophrenia, for which no convincing pharmacological treatment option is currently available. Here, we tested spironolactone as a repurposed compound in Tcf4 transgenic mice subjected to psychosocial stress. In this ‘2-hit’ gene by environment mouse (GxE) model, the animals showed schizophrenia-related cognitive deficits. We had previously shown that spironolactone ameliorates working memory deficits and hyperactivity in a mouse model of cortical excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) dysbalance caused by an overactive NRG1-ERBB4 signaling pathway. In an add-on clinical study design, we used spironolactone as adjuvant medication to the standard antipsychotic drug aripiprazole. We characterized the compound effects using our previously established Platform for Systematic Semi-Automated Behavioral and Cognitive Profiling (PsyCoP). PsyCoP is a widely applicable analysis pipeline based on the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework aiming at facilitating translation into the clinic. In addition, we use dimensional reduction to analyze and visualize overall treatment effect profiles. We found that spironolactone and aripiprazole improve deficits of several cognitive domains in Tcf4tg x SD mice but partially interfere with each other’s effect in the combination therapy. A similar interaction was detected for the modulation of novelty-induced activity. In addition to its strong activity-dampening effects, we found an increase in negative valence measures as a side effect of aripiprazole treatment in mice. We suggest that repurposed drug candidates should first be tested in an adequate preclinical setting before initiating clinical trials. In addition, a more specific and effective NRG1-ERBB4 pathway inhibitor or more potent E/I balancing drug might enhance the ameliorating effect on cognition even further.
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33
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Fountoulakis KN, Panagiotidis P, Tegos T, Kimiskidis V, Nimatoudis I. Paternal age and specific neurological soft signs as reliable and valid neurobiological markers for the diagnosis of patients with schizophrenia. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 272:1087-1096. [PMID: 34842982 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-021-01357-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Advanced parental age at delivery and neurological soft signs (NSS) constitute risk factors for schizophrenia. The aim of the current study was to develop a neurobiological diagnostic index by combining them, and without the contribution of clinical symptomatology. The study sample included 133 patients suffering from schizophrenia according to DSM-IV-TR (77 males and 56 females; aged 33.55 ± 11.22 years old) and 122 normal controls (66 males and 56 females; aged 32.89 ± 9.91 years old). The assessment included the Neurological Evaluation Scale (NES), and a number of scales assessing the clinical symptoms and adverse effects. The statistical analysis included exploratory t-test, Pearson Correlation coefficient (R) and Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA). Exploratory t-tests and Pearson's R suggested that sex, parental age and NSS constitute independent components. On the basis of DFA results, the Psychotic Neurological Index was developed. At the cut-off PNI score of 8.5, sensitivity was equal to 94.74 and specificity to 93.44. The current is probably the first study to report on an easily obtainable diagnostic neurobiological marker with identifiable properties which is absolutely independent from the clinical manifestations and could serve in distinguishing between patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls with high efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos N Fountoulakis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Panagiotis Panagiotidis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Thomas Tegos
- 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasileios Kimiskidis
- 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Nimatoudis
- 3rd Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Association of serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor with hepatic enzymes, AST/ALT ratio, and FIB-4 index in middle-aged and older women. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273056. [PMID: 35998179 PMCID: PMC9398011 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Substantial evidence suggests an important role of liver function in brain health. Liver function is clinically assessed by measuring the activity of hepatic enzymes in the peripheral blood. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an important regulator of brain function. Therefore, we hypothesized that blood BDNF levels are associated with liver function and fibrosis. To test this hypothesis, in this cross-sectional study, we investigated whether serum BDNF concentration is associated with liver enzyme activity, aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/ alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio, and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index in middle-aged and older women. We found that serum BDNF level showed a significant positive association with ALT and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) activity and negative association with FIB-4 index, and a trend of negative association with the AST/ALT ratio after adjustment for age. Additionally, these associations remained statistically significant even after adjustment for body mass index (BMI) and fasting blood glucose level. These results demonstrate associations of serum BDNF levels with liver enzymes and hepatic fibrosis-related indices, which may underlie liver-brain interactions.
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35
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de Bartolomeis A, Barone A, Vellucci L, Mazza B, Austin MC, Iasevoli F, Ciccarelli M. Linking Inflammation, Aberrant Glutamate-Dopamine Interaction, and Post-synaptic Changes: Translational Relevance for Schizophrenia and Antipsychotic Treatment: a Systematic Review. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:6460-6501. [PMID: 35963926 PMCID: PMC9463235 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02976-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Evidence from clinical, preclinical, and post-mortem studies supports the inflammatory/immune hypothesis of schizophrenia pathogenesis. Less evident is the link between the inflammatory background and two well-recognized functional and structural findings of schizophrenia pathophysiology: the dopamine-glutamate aberrant interaction and the alteration of dendritic spines architecture, both believed to be the “quantal” elements of cortical-subcortical dysfunctional network. In this systematic review, we tried to capture the major findings linking inflammation, aberrant glutamate-dopamine interaction, and post-synaptic changes under a direct and inverse translational perspective, a paramount picture that at present is lacking. The inflammatory effects on dopaminergic function appear to be bidirectional: the inflammation influences dopamine release, and dopamine acts as a regulator of discrete inflammatory processes involved in schizophrenia such as dysregulated interleukin and kynurenine pathways. Furthermore, the link between inflammation and glutamate is strongly supported by clinical studies aimed at exploring overactive microglia in schizophrenia patients and maternal immune activation models, indicating impaired glutamate regulation and reduced N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function. In addition, an inflammatory/immune-induced alteration of post-synaptic density scaffold proteins, crucial for downstream NMDAR signaling and synaptic efficacy, has been demonstrated. According to these findings, a significant increase in plasma inflammatory markers has been found in schizophrenia patients compared to healthy controls, associated with reduced cortical integrity and functional connectivity, relevant to the cognitive deficit of schizophrenia. Finally, the link between altered inflammatory/immune responses raises relevant questions regarding potential new therapeutic strategies specifically for those forms of schizophrenia that are resistant to canonical antipsychotics or unresponsive to clozapine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy. .,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Annarita Barone
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Licia Vellucci
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Benedetta Mazza
- Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mark C Austin
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Program, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University (ISU), Pocatello, ID, USA
| | - Felice Iasevoli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Ciccarelli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Szarowicz CA, Steece-Collier K, Caulfield ME. New Frontiers in Neurodegeneration and Regeneration Associated with Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and the rs6265 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148011. [PMID: 35887357 PMCID: PMC9319713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is an extensively studied neurotrophin implicated in the pathology of multiple neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders including, but not limited to, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, traumatic brain injury, major de-pressive disorder, and schizophrenia. Here we provide a brief summary of current knowledge on the role of BDNF and the common human single nucleotide polymorphism, rs6265, in driving the pathogenesis and rehabilitation in these disorders, as well as the status of BDNF-targeted therapies. A common trend has emerged correlating low BDNF levels, either detected within the central nervous system or peripherally, to disease states, suggesting that BDNF replacement therapies may hold clinical promise. In addition, we introduce evidence for a distinct role of the BDNF pro-peptide as a biologically active ligand and the need for continuing studies on its neurological function outside of that as a molecular chaperone. Finally, we highlight the latest research describing the role of rs6265 expression in mechanisms of neurodegeneration as well as paradoxical advances in the understanding of this genetic variant in neuroregeneration. All of this is discussed in the context of personalized medicine, acknowledging there is no “one size fits all” therapy for neurodegenerative or psychiatric disorders and that continued study of the multiple BDNF isoforms and genetic variants represents an avenue for discovery ripe with therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlye A. Szarowicz
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (C.A.S.); (K.S.-C.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Kathy Steece-Collier
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (C.A.S.); (K.S.-C.)
| | - Margaret E. Caulfield
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (C.A.S.); (K.S.-C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-616-234-0969; Fax: +1- 616-234-0991
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Schonfeld L, Jaehne EJ, Ogden AR, Spiers JG, Hogarth S, van den Buuse M. Differential effects of chronic adolescent glucocorticoid or methamphetamine on drug-induced locomotor hyperactivity and disruption of prepulse inhibition in adulthood in mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 117:110552. [PMID: 35337859 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sensitization of dopaminergic activity has been suggested as an underlying mechanism in the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia. Adolescent stress and chronic abuse of methamphetamine (Meth) are well-known risk factors for psychosis and schizophrenia; however it remains unknown how these factors compare in terms of dopaminergic behavioural sensitization in adulthood. In addition, while Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) has been implicated in dopaminergic activity and schizophrenia, its role in behavioural sensitization remains unclear. In this study we therefore compared the effect of chronic adolescent treatment with the stress hormone, corticosterone (Cort), or with Meth, on drug-induced locomotor hyperactivity and disruption of prepulse inhibition in adulthood in BDNF heterozygous mice and their wild-type controls, as well as on dopamine receptor gene expression. Between 6 and 9 weeks of age, the animals either received Cort in the drinking water or were treated with an escalating Meth dose protocol. In adulthood, Cort-pretreated mice showed significantly reduced Meth-induced locomotor hyperactivity compared to vehicle-pretreated mice. In contrast, Meth hyperlocomotion was significantly enhanced in animals pretreated with the drug in adolescence. There were no effects of either pretreatment on prepulse inhibition. BDNF Het mice showed greater Meth-induced hyperlocomotion and lower prepulse inhibition than WT mice. There were no effects of either pretreatment on D1 or D2 gene expression in either the dorsal or ventral striatum, while D3 mRNA was shown to be reduced in male mice only irrespective of genotype. These results suggest that in adolescence, chronically elevated glucocorticoid levels, a component of chronic stress, do not cause dopaminergic sensitization adulthood, in contrast to the effect of chronic Meth treatment in the same age period. BDNF does not appear to be involved in the effects of chronic Cort or chronic Meth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schonfeld
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Emily J Jaehne
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexandra R Ogden
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jereme G Spiers
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Samuel Hogarth
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maarten van den Buuse
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Australia; College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
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38
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Markers of Schizophrenia—A Critical Narrative Update. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11143964. [PMID: 35887728 PMCID: PMC9323796 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11143964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a long-term mental disease, associated with functional impairment. Therefore, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis and implement the proper treatment. Biomarkers may be a potential tool for these purposes. Regarding advances in biomarker studies in psychosis, the current symptom-based criteria seem to be no longer sufficient in clinical settings. This narrative review describes biomarkers of psychosis focusing on the biochemical (peripheral and central), neurophysiological, neuropsychological and neuroimaging findings as well as the multimodal approach related with them. Endophenotype markers (especially neuropsychological and occulomotor disturbances) can be currently used in a clinical settings, whereas neuroimaging glutamate/glutamine and D2/D3 receptor density changes, as well as immunological Th2 and PRL levels, seem to be potential biomarkers that need further accuracy tests. When searching for biochemical/immunological markers in the diagnosis of psychosis, the appropriate time of body fluid collection needs to be considered to minimize the influence of the stress axis on their concentrations. In schizophrenia diagnostics, a multimodal approach seems to be highly recommended.
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Chen Y, Li S, Zhang T, Yang F, Lu B. Corticosterone antagonist or TrkB agonist attenuates schizophrenia-like behavior in a mouse model combining Bdnf-e6 deficiency and developmental stress. iScience 2022; 25:104609. [PMID: 35789832 PMCID: PMC9250029 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Shangjin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Feng Yang
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100084, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Bai Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China
- Corresponding author
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40
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Hao LS, Du Y, Chen L, Jiao YG, Cheng Y. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor as a biomarker for obsessive-compulsive disorder: A meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 151:676-682. [PMID: 35667336 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a growth factor that plays many critical functions in the central nervous system (CNS) and may be involved in the development of a range of psychopathologies, including depression, dementia, and neurodegenerative disorders. METHODS In the present study, we performed the first systematic review with a meta-analysis to quantitatively compare the peripheral blood BDNF levels between patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and healthy controls (HCs). A systematic search was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science databases to identify the relevant articles. RESULTS Nine studies encompassing 474 adults with OCD and 436 HCs were included in this meta-analysis. A random-effects meta-analysis showed that patients with OCD had significantly decreased peripheral blood levels of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) when compared with the HCs (Hedges' g = -0.722, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.152 to -0.292, P = 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed decreased BDNF levels in plasma of patients (Hedges' g = -1.137, 95% CI = -1.463 to -0.810, P = 0.000) and drug-free patients (Hedges' g = -1.269, 95% CI = -1.974 to -0.564, P = 0.000) as compared to patients on active drug therapy and HCs. Meta-regression analyses showed that age, sex, sample size, Y-BOS total score, and publication year had no moderating effects on the outcome. CONCLUSION Although the relationship between our findings and the pathophysiology of OCD and the role BDNF plays in the development of the disease remains to be determined, the outcomes suggest that BDNF may serve as a potential biomarker of OCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Shuai Hao
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China
| | - Yang Du
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine for Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine for Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Guo Jiao
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China.
| | - Yong Cheng
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China.
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Mehterov N, Minchev D, Gevezova M, Sarafian V, Maes M. Interactions Among Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Neuroimmune Pathways Are Key Components of the Major Psychiatric Disorders. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:4926-4952. [PMID: 35657457 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02889-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge regarding the reciprocal associations between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and immune-inflammatory pathways and how these links may explain the involvement of this neurotrophin in the immune pathophysiology of mood disorders and schizophrenia. Toward this end, we delineated the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network centered around BDNF and searched PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct for papers dealing with the involvement of BDNF in the major psychosis, neurodevelopment, neuronal functions, and immune-inflammatory and related pathways. The PPI network was built based on the significant interactions of BDNF with neurotrophic (NTRK2, NTF4, and NGFR), immune (cytokines, STAT3, TRAF6), and cell-cell junction (CTNNB, CDH1) DEPs (differentially expressed proteins). Enrichment analysis shows that the most significant terms associated with this PPI network are the tyrosine kinase receptor (TRKR) and Src homology region two domain-containing phosphatase-2 (SHP2) pathways, tyrosine kinase receptor signaling pathways, positive regulation of kinase and transferase activity, cytokine signaling, and negative regulation of the immune response. The participation of BDNF in the immune response and its interactions with neuroprotective and cell-cell adhesion DEPs is probably a conserved regulatory process which protects against the many detrimental effects of immune activation and hyperinflammation including neurotoxicity. Lowered BDNF levels in mood disorders and schizophrenia (a) are associated with disruptions in neurotrophic signaling and activated immune-inflammatory pathways leading to neurotoxicity and (b) may interact with the reduced expression of other DEPs (CTNNB1, CDH1, or DISC1) leading to multiple aberrations in synapse and axonal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Mehterov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Danail Minchev
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Gevezova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Michael Maes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand. .,Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria. .,Department of Psychiatry, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia.
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Changes in serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor with electroconvulsive therapy and pharmacotherapy and its clinical correlates in male schizophrenia patients. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2022; 34:99-105. [PMID: 34924073 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2021.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES It has been postulated that neurotrophin dysregulation leads to disorganisation in neuronal networks, which results in schizophrenia. The current study sets out to evaluate if the finding of lower brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in schizophrenia patients could be confirmed in an independent cohort and to investigate if the BDNF levels can be altered with different treatment modalities such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and/or antipsychotic pharmacotherapy (PT). METHODS A total of 54 male patients with schizophrenia and 35 healthy controls were included in the study. Schizophrenia patients were subdivided into two groups as the ones who underwent ECT + PT and only PT. Clinical and sociodemographic data questionnaire, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and blood sample collection for BDNF assessment were applied to all patients (on first and last days of admissions) and healthy participants (on the day of the interview). Then, clinical parameters and blood sample outcomes were statistically analysed. RESULTS Mean BDNF levels of healthy individuals were significantly higher than mean pre- and post-treatment BDNF levels in both PT only and ECT + PT groups. While serum BDNF levels did not increase after ECT + PT, there was a trend level increase in the PT only group. There was no significant correlation between the changes in serum BDNF levels with total PANSS scores in either group after treatment. CONCLUSIONS We could confirm previously suggested data of lower serum BDNF levels in schizophrenia patients compared to healthy population but we could not find significant increase in serum BDNF levels with ECT + PT or only PT as some previous studies suggested.
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The role of BDNF and NGF plasma levels in first-episode schizophrenia: A longitudinal study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 57:105-117. [PMID: 35219096 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins have been proposed to be involved in biological mechanisms which might underlie different clinical outcomes in schizophrenia. The aims of the present study were to examine the BDNF/NGF plasma levels in a cohort of first-episode schizophrenia (FES) patients in remission as potential biological predictors of relapse; to study the associations between these neurotrophins and the symptomatology severity through different stages after a FES in two independent cohorts. 2EPs-Cohort: 69 first-episode in clinical remission were included. BDNF/NGF plasma levels and symptom severity were measured at enrollment and at 3-year or at the time of the second episode/relapse. FLAMM-PEPs-Cohort: 65 first-episodes were also included. BDNF/NGF and symptom severity were obtained at enrollment and 2-year follow-up. Symptomatology was assessed with the Marder-PANSS-Factor scores. Plasma neurotrophins did not differ significantly over time and neither BDNF/NGF were predictors of relapse. Besides, in remission stages, baseline BDNF levels showed significant correlations with both positive and negative symptoms (p<0.05); NGF, with negative symptomatology (p<0.01). Similarly, in the FLAMM-PEPs-Cohort, baseline BDNF/NGF levels showed significant correlations with negative symptoms (and not positive symptomatology) at follow-up (p<0.05). In both cohorts, lower levels correlated with higher symptom severity. Findings did not support a role for BDNF/NGF plasma levels as biomarkers of relapse in FES patients. Nevertheless, baseline BDNF/NGF may lead to be considered potentially useful biomarkers of long-term severity in schizophrenia and of the underlying illness traits, specially of negative symptomatology severity. More longitudinal studies in FES samples and adding a control group are warranted to replicate these findings.
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Han YMY, Yau SY, Chan MMY, Wong CK, Chan AS. Altered Cytokine and BDNF Levels in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040460. [PMID: 35447993 PMCID: PMC9026457 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that immunological factors are involved in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The present study examined whether immunological abnormalities are associated with cognitive and behavioral deficits in children with ASD and whether children with ASD show different immunological biomarkers and brain-derived neurotrophic factor BDNF levels than typically developing (TD) children. Sixteen children with TD and 18 children with ASD, aged 6–18 years, voluntarily participated in the study. Participants’ executive functions were measured using neuropsychological tests, and behavioral measures were measured using parent ratings. Immunological measures were assessed by measuring the participants’ blood serum levels of chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5). Children with ASD showed greater deficits in cognitive functions as well as altered levels of immunological measures when compared to TD children, and their cognitive functions and behavioral deficits were significantly associated with increased CCL5 levels and decreased BDNF levels. These results provide evidence to support the notion that altered immune functions and neurotrophin deficiency are involved in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne M. Y. Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (S.-Y.Y.); (M.M.Y.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-2766-7578
| | - Suk-Yu Yau
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (S.-Y.Y.); (M.M.Y.C.)
| | - Melody M. Y. Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (S.-Y.Y.); (M.M.Y.C.)
| | - Chun-Kwok Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Agnes S. Chan
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
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Peripheral Blood Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients with First Episode Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040414. [PMID: 35447946 PMCID: PMC9027267 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Peripheral blood level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be used as a diagnostic and/or prognostic marker for schizophrenia. Previous studies were inconsistent. A systematic review was conducted to examine whether BDNF level is different in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP) compared to health controls (HC) and whether it changes after treatment. Methods: Literature search was done in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar following standard procedures. Hedges’ g was used as the measure of effect size (ES), which was pooled with random effects model. Publication bias and moderator effects were examined. Results: Search yielded 29 studies with a total sample size of 2912. First meta-analysis included 27 studies with FEP vs. HC comparison. Pooled ES was −0.63, p < 0.001, indicating that BDNF level was lower in FEP than in HC. Studies were heterogeneous, and moderator analysis showed that studies of younger patient, higher symptom severity, and more drug naïve had larger ES. Second meta-analysis examined change in BDNF levels before and after antipsychotic treatment in eight studies. A pooled ES of −0.003 (p = 0.96) showed no change in peripheral BDNF level after treatment. Conclusion: Peripheral BDNF level was decreased in FEP compared to HC, but it did not change after treatment.
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Seoane S, Ezama L, Janssen N. Daily-Life Physical Activity of Healthy Young Adults Associates With Function and Structure of the Hippocampus. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:790359. [PMID: 35360290 PMCID: PMC8963905 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.790359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research on Physical Activity (PA) has been highly valuable in elucidating how PA affects the structure and function of the hippocampus in elderly populations that take part in structured interventions. However, how PA affects the hippocampus in younger populations that perform PA during daily-life activities remains poorly understood. In addition, this research has not examined the impact of PA on the internal structure of the hippocampus. Here, we performed a cross-sectional exploration of the way structural and functional aspects of the hippocampus are associated with habitual PA performed during work, leisure time, and sports in the daily lives of healthy young adults (n = 30; 14 female; mean age = 23.9 y.o.; SD = 7.8 y.o.). We assessed PA in these three different contexts through a validated questionnaire. The results show that PA performed during work time correlated with higher subicular volumes. In addition, we found that PA changed functional connectivity (FC) between a location in the middle/posterior hippocampus and regions of the default mode network, and between a location in the anterior hippocampus and regions of the somatomotor network. No statistical effects of PA performed during leisure time and sports were found. The results generalize the impact of PA on younger populations and show how PA performed in daily-life situations correlates with the precise internal structure and functional connectivity of the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Seoane
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Neurociencias, Universidad de la Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Laura Ezama
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Neurociencias, Universidad de la Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Niels Janssen
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Neurociencias, Universidad de la Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
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Abstract
Most psychiatric illnesses, such as schizophrenia, show profound sex differences in incidence, clinical presentation, course, and outcome. Fortunately, more recently the literature on sex differences and (to a lesser extent) effects of sex steroid hormones is expanding, and in this review we have focused on such studies in psychosis, both from a clinical/epidemiological and preclinical/animal model perspective. We begin by briefly describing the clinical evidence for sex differences in schizophrenia epidemiology, symptomatology, and pathophysiology. We then detail sex differences and sex hormone effects in behavioral animal models of psychosis, specifically psychotropic drug-induced locomotor hyperactivity and disruption of prepulse inhibition. We expand on the preclinical data to include developmental and genetic models of psychosis, such as the maternal immune activation model and neuregulin transgenic animals, respectively. Finally, we suggest several recommendations for future studies, in order to facilitate a better understanding of sex differences in the development of psychosis.
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Chen J, Li G, Qin P, Chen J, Ye N, Waddington JL, Zhen X. Allosteric Modulation of the Sigma-1 Receptor Elicits Antipsychotic-like Effects. Schizophr Bull 2022; 48:474-484. [PMID: 34865170 PMCID: PMC8886599 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbab137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Allosteric modulation represents an important approach in drug discovery because of its advantages in safety and selectivity. SOMCL-668 is the first selective and potent sigma-1 receptor allosteric modulator, discovered in our laboratory. The present work investigates the potential therapeutic effects of SOMCL-668 on phencyclidine (PCP)-induced schizophrenia-related behavior in mice and further elucidates underlying mechanisms for its antipsychotic-like effects. SOMCL-668 not only attenuated acute PCP-induced hyperactivity and PPI disruption, but also ameliorated social deficits and cognitive impairment induced by chronic PCP treatment. Pretreatment with the selective sigma-1 receptor antagonist BD1047 blocked the effects of SOMCL-668, indicating sigma-1 receptor-mediated responses. This was confirmed using sigma-1 receptor knockout mice, in which SOMCL-668 failed to ameliorate PPI disruption and hyperactivity induced by acute PCP and social deficits and cognitive impairment induced by chronic PCP treatment. Additionally, in vitro SOMCL-668 exerted positive modulation of sigma-1 receptor agonist-induced intrinsic plasticity in brain slices recorded by patch-clamp. Furthermore, in vivo lower dose of SOMCL-668 exerted positive modulation of improvement in social deficits and cognitive impairment induced by the selective sigma-1 agonist PRE084. Also, SOMCL-668 reversed chronic PCP-induced down-regulation in expression of frontal cortical p-AKT/AKT, p-CREB/CREB and BDNF in wide-type but not sigma-1 knockout mice. Moreover, administration of the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 abolished amelioration by SOMCL-668 of chronic PCP-induced schizophrenia-related behaviors by inhibition of BDNF expression. The present data provide initial, proof-of-concept evidence that allosteric modulation of the sigma-1 receptor may be a novel approach for the treatment of psychotic illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangying Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pingping Qin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Na Ye
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - John L Waddington
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Xuechu Zhen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Fu X, Liu Y, Baranova A, Zhang F. Deregulatory miRNA-BDNF Network Inferred from Dynamic Expression Changes in Schizophrenia. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020167. [PMID: 35203931 PMCID: PMC8870107 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is one of the promising risk genes for schizophrenia (SZ), a disease with prominent dysregulation of miRNA networks. Here, we present a study of miRNA-BDNF co-expression changes in peripheral blood of SZ patients. (2) Methods: The expression levels of the BDNF mRNA and three validated binding miRNAs—miR-124-3p, miR-132-3p, and miR-206—were quantified in the blood of 48 healthy controls and 32 SZ patients before and after 12 weeks of treatment. The co-expression patterns were evaluated in the three groups. (3) Results: The expression levels of BDNF were significantly downregulated in SZ patients compared to the controls. After the treatment, the expression levels of BDNF were upregulated, while the expression levels of the three miRNAs were downregulated. Co-expression analyses showed positive correlations of this network in the SZ patients, while weak negative correlations were observed in the healthy controls. After the 12-week treatment, the overall correlation between BDNF and the three miRNAs reached the levels comparable to the healthy controls. (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest the involvement of the miRNA-BDNF network in the onset and treatment of SZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Fu
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215137, China; (X.F.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yansong Liu
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215137, China; (X.F.); (Y.L.)
| | - Ancha Baranova
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 20110, USA;
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, 115478 Moscow, Russia
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
- Correspondence:
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Abdelkhalek K, Rhein M, Deest M, Buchholz V, Bleich S, Lichtinghagen R, Vyssoki B, Frieling H, Muschler M, Proskynitopoulos PJ, Glahn A. Dysregulated Methylation Patterns in Exon IV of the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Gene in Nicotine Dependence and Changes in BDNF Plasma Levels During Smoking Cessation. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:897801. [PMID: 35836661 PMCID: PMC9273814 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.897801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several studies reported dysregulated protein levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in smokers and during cessation. However, the epigenetic regulation of the BDNF gene has not yet been investigated. We measured the plasma levels of BDNF and the epigenetic regulation of exon IV of the BDNF gene in smokers compared to healthy controls over a cessation period of 14 days. METHOD We measured BDNF plasma levels and BDNF promoter methylation in 49 smokers and 51 non-smokers at baseline, day 7, and day 14 of smoking cessation. Mean methylation levels of 11 Cytosine Guanosine dinucleotides of exon IV of the BDNF gene were determined via bisulfite sequencing. RESULTS BDNF plasma and methylation levels were significantly lower in healthy controls when compared with smokers across all time points. BDNF levels for smokers decreased significantly during the cessation period. Comparing the sexes, female smokers showed significantly lower plasma BDNF levels than healthy controls at baseline and over 14 days of cessation. Male and female smokers showed significantly higher mean methylation rates than non-smokers at baseline. In male smokers, mean methylation levels decreased significantly during the cessation period. CONCLUSION Our findings replicate the findings of previous studies that BDNF plasma levels are altered in smokers. Furthermore, BDNF expression and gene methylation are altered during the first 14 days of cessation. Our novel findings of dysregulated methylation patterns in exon IV of the BDNF gene further support the thesis that BDNF plays a role in nicotine dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerim Abdelkhalek
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mathias Rhein
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maximilian Deest
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Vanessa Buchholz
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stefan Bleich
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Lichtinghagen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Vyssoki
- Board of Trustees for Psychosocial Services in Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Helge Frieling
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marc Muschler
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Alexander Glahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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