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Ebrahimi MN, Banazadeh M, Alitaneh Z, Jaafari Suha A, Esmaeili A, Hasannejad-Asl B, Siahposht-Khachaki A, Hassanshahi A, Bagheri-Mohammadi S. The distribution of neurotransmitters in the brain circuitry: Mesolimbic pathway and addiction. Physiol Behav 2024; 284:114639. [PMID: 39004195 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the central nervous system (CNS) circuitry and its different neurotransmitters that underlie reward is essential to improve treatment for many common health issues, such as addiction. Here, we concentrate on understanding how the mesolimbic circuitry and neurotransmitters are organized and function, and how drug exposure affects synaptic and structural changes in this circuitry. While the role of some reward circuits, like the cerebral dopamine (DA)/glutamate (Glu)/gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic pathways, in drug reward, is well known, new research using molecular-based methods has shown functional alterations throughout the reward circuitry that contribute to various aspects of addiction, including craving and relapse. A new understanding of the fundamental connections between brain regions as well as the molecular alterations within these particular microcircuits, such as neurotrophic factor and molecular signaling or distinct receptor function, that underlie synaptic and structural plasticity evoked by drugs of abuse has been made possible by the ability to observe and manipulate neuronal activity within specific cell types and circuits. It is exciting that these discoveries from preclinical animal research are now being applied in the clinic, where therapies for human drug dependence, such as deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation, are being tested. Therefore, this chapter seeks to summarize the current understanding of the important brain regions (especially, mesolimbic circuitry) and neurotransmitters implicated in drug-related behaviors and the molecular mechanisms that contribute to altered connectivity between these areas, with the postulation that increased knowledge of the plasticity within the drug reward circuit will lead to new and improved treatments for addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Navid Ebrahimi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Banazadeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences and Cosmetic Products Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zahra Alitaneh
- Quantitative and System Biology, Department of Natural Sciences, University of California Merced, USA
| | - Ali Jaafari Suha
- Department of Physiology and Neurophysiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Esmaeili
- Student Research Committee, Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Hasannejad-Asl
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Siahposht-Khachaki
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amin Hassanshahi
- Department of Physiology, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
| | - Saeid Bagheri-Mohammadi
- Department of Paramedicine, Amol School of Paramedical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Immunogenetics Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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2
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Shi W, Li M, Zhang T, Yang C, Zhao D, Bai J. GABA system in the prefrontal cortex involved in psychostimulant addiction. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhae319. [PMID: 39098820 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae319] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronic and relapse brain disorder. Psychostimulants such as cocaine and amphetamine are highly addictive drugs. Abuse drugs target various brain areas in the nervous system. Recent studies have shown that the prefrontal cortex (PFC) plays a key role in regulating addictive behaviors. The PFC is made up of excitatory glutamatergic cells and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAergic) interneurons. Recently, studies showed that GABA level was related with psychostimulant addiction. In this review, we will introduce the role and mechanism of GABA and γ-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABARs) of the PFC in regulating drug addiction, especially in psychostimulant addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Shi
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Minyu Li
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Chunlong Yang
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Dongdong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
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3
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Borruto AM, Calpe-López C, Spanagel R, Bernardi RE. Conditional deletion of the AMPA-GluA1 and NMDA-GluN1 receptor subunit genes in midbrain D1 neurons does not alter cocaine reward in mice. Neuropharmacology 2024; 258:110081. [PMID: 39002853 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110081] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity in the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system contributes to the neural adaptations underlying addictive behaviors and relapse. However, the specific behavioral relevance of glutamatergic excitatory drive onto dopamine D1 receptor (D1R)-expressing neurons in mediating the reinforcing effect of cocaine remains unclear. Here, we investigated how midbrain AMPAR and NMDAR function modulate cocaine reward-related behavior using mutant mouse lines lacking the glutamate receptor genes Gria1 or Grin1 in D1R-expressing neurons (GluA1D1CreERT2 or GluN1D1CreERT2, respectively). We found that conditional genetic deletion of either GluA1 or GluN1 within this neuronal sub-population did not impact the ability of acute cocaine injection to increase intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) ratio or reduced brain reward threshold compared to littermate controls. Additionally, our data demonstrate that deletion of GluA1 and GluN1 receptor subunits within D1R-expressing neurons did not affect cocaine reinforcement in an operant self-administration paradigm, as mutant mice showed comparable cocaine responses and intake to controls. Given the pivotal role of glutamate receptors in mediating relapse behavior, we further explored the impact of genetic deletion of AMPAR and NMDAR onto D1R-expressing neurons on cue-induced reinstatement following extinction. Surprisingly, deletion of AMPAR and NMDAR onto these neurons did not impair cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior. These findings suggest that glutamatergic activity via NMDAR and AMPAR in D1R-expressing neurons may not exclusively mediate the reinforcing effects of cocaine and cue-induced reinstatement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Borruto
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Claudia Calpe-López
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner Site Mannheim, Heidelberg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rick E Bernardi
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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Copenhaver AE, LeGates TA. Sex-Specific Mechanisms Underlie Long-Term Potentiation at Hippocampus→Medium Spiny Neuron Synapses in the Medial Shell of the Nucleus Accumbens. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0100242024. [PMID: 38806250 PMCID: PMC11223474 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0100-24.2024] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Sex differences have complicated our understanding of the neurobiological basis of many behaviors that are key for survival. As such, continued elucidation of the similarities and differences between sexes is necessary to gain insight into brain function and vulnerability. The connection between the hippocampus (Hipp) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a crucial site where modulation of neuronal activity mediates reward-related behavior. Our previous work demonstrated that long-term potentiation (LTP) of Hipp→NAc synapses is rewarding, and mice can establish learned associations between LTP of these synapses and the contextual environment in which LTP occurred. Here, we investigated sex differences in the mechanisms underlying Hipp→NAc LTP using whole-cell electrophysiology and pharmacology. We observed similarities in basal synaptic strength between males and females and found that LTP occurs postsynaptically with similar magnitudes in both sexes. However, key sex differences emerged as LTP in males required NMDA receptors (NMDAR), whereas LTP in females utilized an NMDAR-independent mechanism involving L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) and estrogen receptor α (ERα). We also uncovered sex-similar features as LTP in both sexes depended on CaMKII activity and occurred independently of dopamine-1 receptor (D1R) activation. Our results have elucidated sex-specific molecular mechanisms for LTP in an integral pathway that mediates reward-related behaviors, emphasizing the importance of considering sex as a variable in mechanistic studies. Continued characterization of sex-specific mechanisms underlying plasticity will offer novel insight into the neurophysiological basis of behavior, with significant implications for understanding how diverse processes mediate behavior and contribute to vulnerability to developing psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley E Copenhaver
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Baltimore, Maryland 21250
| | - Tara A LeGates
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Baltimore, Maryland 21250
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
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5
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Zinchenko VP, Dolgacheva LP, Tuleukhanov ST. Calcium-permeable AMPA and kainate receptors of GABAergic neurons. Biophys Rev 2024; 16:165-171. [PMID: 38737208 PMCID: PMC11078900 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-024-01184-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This Commentary presents a brief discussion of the action of glutamate calcium permeable receptors present with neurons on the release of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In particular, Glutamate sensitive Kainic Acid Receptors (KARs) and α-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-Methyl-4-isoxazole Propionic Acid Receptor (AMPARs) are Na+ channels that typically cause neuronal cells to depolarize and release GABA. Some of these receptors are also permeable to Ca2+ and are hence involved in the calcium-dependent release of GABA neurotransmitters. Calcium-permeable kainate and AMPA receptors (CP-KARs and CP-AMPARs) are predominantly located in GABAergic neurons in the mature brain and their primary role is to regulate GABA release. AMPARs which do not contain the GluA2 subunit are mainly localized in the postsynaptic membrane. CP-KAR receptors are located mainly in the presynapse. GABAergic neurons expressing CP-KARs and CP-AMPARs respond to excitation earlier and faster, suppressing hyperexcitation of other neurons by the advanced GABA release due to an early rapid [Ca2+]i increase. CP-AMPARs have demonstrated a more pronounced impact on plasticity compared to NMDARs because of their capacity to elevate intracellular Ca2+ levels independently of voltage. GABAergic neurons that express CP-AMPARs contribute to the disinhibition of glutamatergic neurons by suppressing GABAergic neurons that express CP-KARs. Hence, the presence of glutamate CP-KARs and CP-AMPARs is crucial in governing hyperexcitation and synaptic plasticity in GABAergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. P. Zinchenko
- Federal Research Center “Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences”, Institute of Cell Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Russia 142290
| | - L. P. Dolgacheva
- Federal Research Center “Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences”, Institute of Cell Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Russia 142290
| | - S. T. Tuleukhanov
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 050040 Al-Farabi Avenue 71, Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan
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Khayat A, Yaka R. Activation of nucleus accumbens projections to the ventral tegmental area alters molecular signaling and neurotransmission in the reward system. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1271654. [PMID: 38528956 PMCID: PMC10962329 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1271654] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA) are integral brain regions involved in reward processing and motivation, including responses to drugs of abuse. Previously, we have demonstrated that activation of NAc-VTA afferents during the acquisition of cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP) reduces the rewarding properties of cocaine and diminished the activity of VTA dopamine neurons. In the current study, we examined the impact of enhancing these inhibitory inputs on molecular changes and neurotransmission associated with cocaine exposure. Our results unveiled significant reductions in extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) levels in the VTA and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of both cocaine-treated groups compared with the saline control group. Furthermore, optic stimulation of NAc-VTA inputs during cocaine exposure decreased the expression of GluA1 subunit of AMPA receptor in the VTA and mPFC. Notably, in the NAc, cocaine exposure paired with optic stimulation increased ERK levels and reduced GluA1 phosphorylation at Ser845 as compared with all other groups. Additionally, both cocaine-treated groups exhibited decreased levels of GluA1 phosphorylation at Ser831 in the NAc compared with the saline control group. Moreover, cocaine exposure led to reduced ERK, GluA1, and GluA1 phosphorylation at Ser845 and Ser831 in the mPFC. Augmentation of GABAergic tone from the NAc during cocaine conditioning mitigated changes in GluA1 phosphorylation at Ser845 in the mPFC but reduced ERK, GluA1, and GluA1 phosphorylation at Ser831 compared with the saline control group. Interestingly, enhancing GABAergic tone during saline conditioning decreased GluA1 phosphorylation at Ser831 compared with the saline control group in the mPFC. Our findings highlight the influence of modulating inhibitory inputs from the NAc to the VTA on molecular signaling and glutamatergic neurotransmission in cocaine-exposed animals. Activation of these inhibitory inputs during cocaine conditioning induced alterations in key signaling molecules and AMPA receptor, providing valuable insights into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying cocaine reward and cocaine use disorder. Further exploration of these pathways may offer potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of substance use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rami Yaka
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Huang N, Cui J, Fan G, Pan T, Han K, Xu K, Jiang C, Liu X, Wang F, Ma L, Le Q. Transcriptomic effects of paternal cocaine-seeking on the reward circuitry of male offspring. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:120. [PMID: 38409093 PMCID: PMC10897445 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02839-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
It has been previously established that paternal development of a strong incentive motivation for cocaine can predispose offspring to develop high cocaine-seeking behavior, as opposed to sole exposure to the drug that results in drug resistance in offspring. However, the adaptive changes of the reward circuitry have not been fully elucidated. To infer the key nuclei and possible hub genes that determine susceptibility to addiction in offspring, rats were randomly assigned to three groups, cocaine self-administration (CSA), yoked administration (Yoke), and saline self-administration (SSA), and used to generate F1. We conducted a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of the male F1 offspring across seven relevant brain regions, both under drug-naïve conditions and after cocaine self-administration. Pairwise differentially expressed gene analysis revealed that the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) exhibited more pronounced transcriptomic changes in response to cocaine exposure, while the dorsal hippocampus (dHip), dorsal striatum (dStr), and ventral tegmental area (VTA) exhibited changes that were more closely associated with the paternal voluntary cocaine-seeking behavior. Consistently, these nuclei showed decreased dopamine levels, elevated neuronal activation, and elevated between-nuclei correlations, indicating dopamine-centered rewiring of the midbrain circuit in the CSA offspring. To determine if possible regulatory cascades exist that drive the expression changes, we constructed co-expression networks induced by paternal drug addiction and identified three key clusters, primarily driven by transcriptional factors such as MYT1L, POU3F4, and NEUROD6, leading to changes of genes regulating axonogenesis, synapse organization, and membrane potential, respectively. Collectively, our data highlight vulnerable neurocircuitry and novel regulatory candidates with therapeutic potential for disrupting the transgenerational inheritance of vulnerability to cocaine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jian Cui
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guangyuan Fan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Tao Pan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Kunxiu Han
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Kailiang Xu
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Changyou Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Research Unit of Addiction Memory, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU009), Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xing Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Research Unit of Addiction Memory, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU009), Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Feifei Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Research Unit of Addiction Memory, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU009), Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lan Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Research Unit of Addiction Memory, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU009), Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Qiumin Le
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Research Unit of Addiction Memory, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU009), Shanghai, 200032, China.
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8
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Yang H, Zhang X, Zhang M, Lu Y, Xie B, Sun S, Yu H, Cong B, Luo Y, Ma C, Wen D. Roles of lncLingo2 and its derived miR-876-5p in the acquisition of opioid reinforcement. Addict Biol 2024; 29:e13375. [PMID: 38380802 PMCID: PMC10898844 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13375] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies found that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) played crucial roles in drug addiction through epigenetic regulation of gene expression and underlying drug-induced neuroadaptations. In this study, we characterized lncRNA transcriptome profiles in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of mice exhibiting morphine-conditioned place preference (CPP) and explored the prospective roles of novel differentially expressed lncRNA, lncLingo2 and its derived miR-876-5p in the acquisition of opioids-associated behaviours. We found that the lncLingo2 was downregulated within the NAc core (NAcC) but not in the NAc shell (NAcS). This downregulation was found to be associated with the development of morphine CPP and heroin intravenous self-administration (IVSA). As Mfold software revealed that the secondary structures of lncLingo2 contained the sequence of pre-miR-876, transfection of LV-lncLingo2 into HEK293 cells significantly upregulated miR-876 expression and the changes of mature miR-876 are positively correlated with lncLingo2 expression in NAcC of morphine CPP trained mice. Delivering miR-876-5p mimics into NAcC also inhibited the acquisition of morphine CPP. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase assay confirmed that miR-876-5p binds to its target gene, Kcnn3, selectively and regulates morphine CPP training-induced alteration of Kcnn3 expression. Lastly, the electrophysiological analysis indicated that the currents of small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channel was increased, which led to low neuronal excitability in NAcC after CPP training, and these changes were reversed by lncLingo2 overexpression. Collectively, lncLingo2 may function as a precursor of miR-876-5p in NAcC, hence modulating the development of opioid-associated behaviours in mice, which may serve as an underlying biomarker and therapeutic target of opioid addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Yang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Xiuning Zhang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Minglong Zhang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
- Department of GeneticsQiqihar Medical UniversityQiqiharHeilongjiang ProvinceChina
| | - Yun Lu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Bing Xie
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Shaoguang Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei ProvinceHebei Medical UniversityShijiazhuangChina
- Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular BiologyMinistry of EducationShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Hailei Yu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Bin Cong
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Yixiao Luo
- Hunan Province People's HospitalThe First‐Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Chunling Ma
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
- Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular BiologyMinistry of EducationShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Di Wen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
- Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular BiologyMinistry of EducationShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
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9
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Khayat A, Yaka R. Activation of RMTg projections to the VTA reverse cocaine-induced molecular adaptation in the reward system. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:40. [PMID: 38242878 PMCID: PMC10799078 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02763-9] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) plays a crucial role in regulating reward-related behavior by exerting inhibitory control over the ventral tegmental area (VTA). This modulation of dopamine neuron activity within the VTA is essential for maintaining homeostasis in the reward system. Recently we have shown that activation of RMTg projections to the VTA during the acquisition of cocaine-conditioned place preference (CPP) reduces the rewarding properties of cocaine and decreases VTA dopamine neuron activity. By inhibiting dopamine neurons in the VTA, we hypothesized that RMTg projections hold the potential to restore reward system homeostasis disrupted by repeated cocaine use, and attenuate molecular adaptations in the reward system, including alterations in signaling pathways. Our study demonstrates that enhancing the GABAergic inputs from the RMTg to the VTA can mitigate cocaine-induced molecular changes in key regions, namely the VTA, nucleus accumbens (NAc), and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Specifically, we found that cocaine-induced alteration in the phosphorylation state of ERK (pERK) and GluA1 on serine 845 (S845) and serine 831 (S831), that play a major role in plasticity by controlling the activity and trafficking of AMPA receptors, were significantly reversed following optic stimulation of RMTg afferents to the VTA. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting the RMTg-VTA circuitry for mitigating cocaine reward. Ultimately, this research may pave the way for novel therapeutic interventions that restore balance in the reward system and alleviate the detrimental effects of cocaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Khayat
- Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - R Yaka
- Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
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10
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Copenhaver AE, LeGates TA. Sex-specific mechanisms underlie long-term potentiation at hippocampus-nucleus accumbens synapses. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.15.575709. [PMID: 38293132 PMCID: PMC10827060 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.15.575709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Sex differences have complicated our understanding of the neurobiological basis of many behaviors that are key for survival. As such, continued elucidation of the similarities and differences between sexes is necessary in order to gain insight into brain function and vulnerability. The connection between the hippocampus (Hipp) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a crucial site where modulation of neuronal activity mediates reward-related behavior. Our previous work demonstrated that long-term potentiation (LTP) of Hipp-NAc synapses is rewarding, and that mice can make learned associations between LTP of these synapses and the contextual environment in which LTP occurred. Here, we investigate sex differences in the mechanisms underlying Hipp-NAc LTP using whole-cell electrophysiology and pharmacology. We found that males and females display similar magnitudes of Hipp-NAc LTP which occurs postsynaptically. However, LTP in females requires L-type voltage-gated Ca 2+ channels (VGCC) for postsynaptic Ca 2+ influx, while males rely on NMDA receptors (NMDAR). Additionally, females require estrogen receptor α (ERα) activity for LTP while males do not. These differential mechanisms converge as LTP in both sexes depends on CAMKII activity and occurs independently of dopamine-1 receptor (D1R) activation. Our results have elucidated sex-specific molecular mechanisms for LTP in an integral excitatory pathway that mediates reward-related behaviors, emphasizing the importance of considering sex as a variable in mechanistic studies. Continued characterization of sex-specific mechanisms underlying plasticity will offer novel insight into the neurophysiological basis of behavior, with significant implications for understanding how diverse processes mediate behavior and contribute to vulnerability to developing psychiatric disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Strengthening of Hipp-NAc synapses drives reward-related behaviors. Male and female mice have similar magnitudes of long-term potentiation (LTP) and both sexes have a predicted postsynaptic locus of plasticity. Despite these similarities, we illustrate here that sex-specific molecular mechanisms are used to elicit LTP. Given the bidirectional relationship between Hipp-NAc synaptic strength in mediating reward-related behaviors, the use of distinct molecular mechanisms may explain sex differences observed in stress susceptibility or response to rewarding stimuli. Discovery and characterization of convergent sex differences provides mechanistic insight into the sex-specific function of Hipp-NAc circuitry and has widespread implications for circuits mediating learning and reward-related behavior.
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Zhong T, Lin Y, Zhuge R, Lin Y, Huang B, Zeng R. Reviewing the mechanism of propofol addiction. ALL LIFE 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2023.2174708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tianhao Zhong
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuyan Lin
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruohuai Zhuge
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yujie Lin
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bingwu Huang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruifeng Zeng
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Gupta SC, Taugher-Hebl RJ, Hardie JB, Fan R, LaLumiere RT, Wemmie JA. Effects of acid-sensing ion channel-1A (ASIC1A) on cocaine-induced synaptic adaptations. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1191275. [PMID: 37389125 PMCID: PMC10300415 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1191275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic drug abuse is thought to induce synaptic changes in nucleus accumbens medium spiny neurons (MSNs) that promote subsequent craving and drug-seeking behavior. Accumulating data suggest acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) may play a critical role. In drug naïve mice, disrupting the ASIC1A subunit produced a variety of synaptic changes reminiscent of wild-type mice following cocaine withdrawal, including increased AMPAR/NMDAR ratio, increased AMPAR rectification, and increased dendrite spine density. Importantly, these changes in Asic1a -/- mice were normalized by a single dose of cocaine. Here we sought to understand the temporal effects of cocaine exposure in Asic1a -/- mice and the cellular site of ASIC1A action. Six hours after cocaine exposure, there was no effect. However, 15 h, 24 h and 4 days after cocaine exposure there was a significant reduction in AMPAR/NMDAR ratio in Asic1a -/- mice. Within 7 days the AMPAR/NMDAR ratio had returned to baseline levels. Cocaine-evoked changes in AMPAR rectification and dendritic spine density followed a similar time course with significant reductions in rectification and dendritic spines 24 h after cocaine exposure in Asic1a -/- mice. To test the cellular site of ASIC1A action on these responses, we disrupted ASIC1A specifically in a subpopulation of MSNs. We found that effects of ASIC1A disruption were cell autonomous and restricted to neurons in which the channels are disrupted. We further tested whether ASIC1A disruption differentially affects MSNs subtypes and found AMPAR/NMDAR ratio was elevated in dopamine receptor 1-expressing MSNs, suggesting a preferential effect for these cells. Finally, we tested if protein synthesis was involved in synaptic adaptations that occurred after ASIC1A disruption, and found the protein synthesis inhibitor anisomycin normalized AMPAR-rectification and AMPAR/NMDAR ratio in drug-naïve Asic1a -/- mice to control levels, observed in wild-type mice. Together, these results provide valuable mechanistic insight into the effects of ASICs on synaptic plasticity and drug-induced effects and raise the possibility that ASIC1A might be therapeutically manipulated to oppose drug-induced synaptic changes and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhash C. Gupta
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Rebecca J. Taugher-Hebl
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Jason B. Hardie
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Rong Fan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Ryan T. LaLumiere
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - John A. Wemmie
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
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Emerson SD, Chevée M, Mews P, Calipari ES. The transcriptional response to acute cocaine is inverted in male mice with a history of cocaine self-administration and withdrawal throughout the mesocorticolimbic system. Mol Cell Neurosci 2023; 125:103823. [PMID: 36868542 PMCID: PMC10247534 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2023.103823] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A large body of work has demonstrated that cocaine-induced changes in transcriptional regulation play a central role in the onset and maintenance of cocaine use disorder. An underappreciated aspect of this area of research, however, is that the pharmacodynamic properties of cocaine can change depending on an organism's previous drug-exposure history. In this study, we utilized RNA sequencing to characterize how the transcriptome-wide effects of acute cocaine exposure were altered by a history of cocaine self-administration and long-term withdrawal (30 days) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and prefrontal cortex (PFC) in male mice. First, we found that the gene expression patterns induced by a single cocaine injection (10 mg/kg) were discordant between cocaine-naïve mice and mice in withdrawal from cocaine self-administration. Specifically, the same genes that were upregulated by acute cocaine in cocaine-naïve mice were downregulated by the same dose of cocaine in mice undergoing long-term withdrawal; the same pattern of opposite regulation was observed for the genes downregulated by initial acute cocaine exposure. When we analyzed this dataset further, we found that the gene expression patterns that were induced by long-term withdrawal from cocaine self-administration showed a high degree of overlap with the gene expression patterns of acute cocaine exposure - even though animals had not consumed cocaine in 30 days. Interestingly, cocaine re-exposure at this withdrawal time point reversed this expression pattern. Finally, we found that this pattern was similar across the VTA, PFC, NAc, and within each brain region the same genes were induced by acute cocaine, re-induced during long-term withdrawal, and reversed by cocaine re-exposure. Together, we identified a longitudinal pattern of gene regulation that is conserved across the VTA, PFC, and NAc, and characterized the genes constituting this pattern in each brain region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soren D Emerson
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Maxime Chevée
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Philipp Mews
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Erin S Calipari
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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14
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Domi A, Lucente E, Cadeddu D, Adermark L. Nicotine but not saline self-administering or yoked control conditions produces sustained neuroadaptations in the accumbens shell. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1105388. [PMID: 36760603 PMCID: PMC9907443 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1105388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Using yoked animals as the control when monitoring operant drug-self-administration is considered the golden standard. However, instrumental learning per se recruits several neurocircuits that may produce distinct or overlapping neuroadaptations with drugs of abuse. The aim of this project was to assess if contingent responding for nicotine or saline in the presence of a light stimulus as a conditioned reinforcer is associated with sustained neurophysiological adaptations in the nucleus accumbens shell (nAcS), a brain region repeatedly associated with reward related behaviors. Methods To this end, nicotine-or saline-administrating rats and yoked-saline stimulus-unpaired training conditions were assessed in operant boxes over four consecutive weeks. After four additional weeks of home cage forced abstinence and subsequent cue reinforced responding under extinction conditions, ex vivo electrophysiology was performed in the nAcS medium spiny neurons (MSNs). Results Whole cell recordings conducted in voltage and current-clamp mode showed that excitatory synapses in the nAcS were altered after prolonged forced abstinence from nicotine self-administration. We observed an increase in sEPSC amplitude in animals with a history of contingent nicotine SA potentially indicating higher excitability of accumbal MSNs, which was further supported by current clamp recordings. Interestingly no sustained neuroadaptations were elicited in saline exposed rats from nicotine associated visual cues compared to the yoked controls. Conclusion The data presented here indicate that nicotine self-administration produces sustained neuroadaptations in the nAcS while operant responding driven by nicotine visual stimuli has no long-term effects on MSNs in nAcS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Domi
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,*Correspondence: Ana Domi, ✉
| | - Erika Lucente
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Davide Cadeddu
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Louise Adermark
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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15
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Slivicki RA, Earnest T, Chang YH, Pareta R, Casey E, Li JN, Tooley J, Abiraman K, Vachez YM, Wolf DK, Sackey JT, Kumar Pitchai D, Moore T, Gereau RW, Copits BA, Kravitz AV, Creed MC. Oral oxycodone self-administration leads to features of opioid misuse in male and female mice. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13253. [PMID: 36577735 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Use of prescription opioids, particularly oxycodone, is an initiating factor driving the current opioid epidemic. There are several challenges with modelling oxycodone abuse. First, prescription opioids including oxycodone are orally self-administered and have different pharmacokinetics and dynamics than morphine or fentanyl, which have been more commonly used in rodent research. This oral route of administration determines the pharmacokinetic profile, which then influences the establishment of drug-reinforcement associations in animals. Moreover, the pattern of intake and the environment in which addictive drugs are self-administered are critical determinants of the levels of drug intake, of behavioural sensitization and of propensity to relapse behaviour. These are all important considerations when modelling prescription opioid use, which is characterized by continuous drug access in familiar environments. Thus, to model features of prescription opioid use and the transition to abuse, we designed an oral, homecage-based oxycodone self-administration paradigm. Mice voluntarily self-administer oxycodone in this paradigm without any taste modification such as sweeteners, and the majority exhibit preference for oxycodone, escalation of intake, physical signs of dependence and reinstatement of seeking after withdrawal. In addition, a subset of animals demonstrate drug taking that is resistant to aversive consequences. This model is therefore translationally relevant and useful for studying the neurobiological substrates of prescription opioid abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Slivicki
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Tom Earnest
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yu-Hsuan Chang
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Rajesh Pareta
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Eric Casey
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jun-Nan Li
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jessica Tooley
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kavitha Abiraman
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yvan M Vachez
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Drew K Wolf
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jason T Sackey
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | | | - Robert W Gereau
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bryan A Copits
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Alexxai V Kravitz
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Meaghan C Creed
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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16
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Kawa AB, Hwang EK, Funke JR, Zhou H, Costa-Mattioli M, Wolf ME. Positive Allosteric Modulation of mGlu 1 Reverses Cocaine-Induced Behavioral and Synaptic Plasticity Through the Integrated Stress Response and Oligophrenin-1. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 92:871-879. [PMID: 35871097 PMCID: PMC10656746 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.05.008] [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] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cue-induced cocaine craving progressively intensifies (incubates) during abstinence from cocaine self-administration. Expression of incubated cocaine craving depends on elevated calcium-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) on medium spiny neurons in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core. After incubation has occurred, stimulation of NAc metabotropic glutamate 1 (mGlu1) receptors or systemic administration of mGlu1 positive allosteric modulators removes CP-AMPARs from NAc synapses via dynamin-dependent internalization (mGlu1 long-term depression [LTD]) and thereby reduces incubated cocaine craving. Because mGlu1 positive allosteric modulators are potential therapeutics for cocaine craving, it is important to further define the mechanism triggering this mGlu1-LTD. METHODS Male and female rats self-administered saline or cocaine (10 days) using a long access regimen (6 h/day). Following ≥40 days of abstinence, we assessed the ability of an mGlu1 positive allosteric modulator to inhibit expression of incubated craving and remove CP-AMPARs from NAc synapses under control conditions, after blocking the integrated stress response (ISR), or after knocking down oligophrenin-1, a mediator of the ISR that can promote AMPAR endocytosis. AMPAR transmission in NAc medium spiny neurons was assessed with ex vivo slice recordings. RESULTS mGlu1 stimulation reduced cue-induced craving and removed synaptic CP-AMPARs. When the ISR was blocked prior to mGlu1 stimulation, there was no reduction in cue-induced craving, nor were CP-AMPARs removed from the synapse. Further, selective knockdown of oligophrenin-1 blocked mGlu1-LTD. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that mGlu1-LTD in the NAc and consequently the reduction of cue-induced seeking occur through activation of the ISR, which induces translation of oligophrenin-1. We also demonstrate CP-AMPAR accumulation and mGlu1 reversal in female rats, as previously shown in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex B Kawa
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Eun-Kyung Hwang
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Jonathan R Funke
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Hongyi Zhou
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Marina E Wolf
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.
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Gupta SC, Ghobbeh A, Taugher-Hebl RJ, Fan R, Hardie JB, LaLumiere RT, Wemmie JA. Carbonic anhydrase 4 disruption decreases synaptic and behavioral adaptations induced by cocaine withdrawal. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq5058. [PMID: 36383659 PMCID: PMC9668291 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq5058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine use followed by withdrawal induces synaptic changes in nucleus accumbens (NAc), which are thought to underlie subsequent drug-seeking behaviors and relapse. Previous studies suggest that cocaine-induced synaptic changes depend on acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs). Here, we investigated potential involvement of carbonic anhydrase 4 (CA4), an extracellular pH-buffering enzyme. We examined effects of CA4 in mice on ASIC-mediated synaptic transmission in medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in NAc, as well as on cocaine-induced synaptic changes and behavior. We found that CA4 is expressed in the NAc and present in synaptosomes. Disrupting CA4 either globally, or locally, increased ASIC-mediated synaptic currents in NAc MSNs and protected against cocaine withdrawal-induced changes in synapses and cocaine-seeking behavior. These findings raise the possibility that CA4 might be a previously unidentified therapeutic target for addiction and relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhash C. Gupta
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Ali Ghobbeh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Rebecca J. Taugher-Hebl
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Rong Fan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jason B. Hardie
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Ryan T. LaLumiere
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - John A. Wemmie
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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18
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Hadizadeh H, Flores JM, Mayerson T, Worhunsky PD, Potenza MN, Angarita GA. Glutamatergic Agents for the Treatment of Cocaine Use Disorder. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40473-022-00252-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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19
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Campbell R, Lobo MK. A short burst of reward curbs the addictiveness of ketamine. Nature 2022; 608:271-272. [PMID: 35896660 PMCID: PMC10342185 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-022-01948-w] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
An analysis of ketamine and cocaine use in mice reveals that the drugs trigger release of the neurotransmitter dopamine through different mechanisms, and indicates that the risk of addiction to ketamine is low.
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20
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Simmler LD, Li Y, Hadjas LC, Hiver A, van Zessen R, Lüscher C. Dual action of ketamine confines addiction liability. Nature 2022; 608:368-373. [PMID: 35896744 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04993-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ketamine is used clinically as an anaesthetic and a fast-acting antidepressant, and recreationally for its dissociative properties, raising concerns of addiction as a possible side effect. Addictive drugs such as cocaine increase the levels of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens. This facilitates synaptic plasticity in the mesolimbic system, which causes behavioural adaptations and eventually drives the transition to compulsion1-4. The addiction liability of ketamine is a matter of much debate, in part because of its complex pharmacology that among several targets includes N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor (NMDAR) antagonism5,6. Here we show that ketamine does not induce the synaptic plasticity that is typically observed with addictive drugs in mice, despite eliciting robust dopamine transients in the nucleus accumbens. Ketamine nevertheless supported reinforcement through the disinhibition of dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). This effect was mediated by NMDAR antagonism in GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) neurons of the VTA, but was quickly terminated by type-2 dopamine receptors on dopamine neurons. The rapid off-kinetics of the dopamine transients along with the NMDAR antagonism precluded the induction of synaptic plasticity in the VTA and the nucleus accumbens, and did not elicit locomotor sensitization or uncontrolled self-administration. In summary, the dual action of ketamine leads to a unique constellation of dopamine-driven positive reinforcement, but low addiction liability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda D Simmler
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lotfi C Hadjas
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Agnès Hiver
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ruud van Zessen
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christian Lüscher
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Service de Neurologie, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland.
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21
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A Novel CaMKII Inhibitory Peptide Blocks Relapse to Morphine Seeking by Influencing Synaptic Plasticity in the Nucleus Accumbens Shell. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12080985. [PMID: 35892425 PMCID: PMC9394410 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12080985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Drugs of abuse cause enduring functional disorders in the brain reward circuits, leading to cravings and compulsive behavior. Although people may rehabilitate by detoxification, there is a high risk of relapse. Therefore, it is crucial to illuminate the mechanisms of relapse and explore the therapeutic strategies for prevention. In this research, by using an animal model of morphine self-administration in rats and a whole-cell patch–clamp in brain slices, we found changes in synaptic plasticity in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell were involved in the relapse to morphine-seeking behavior. Compared to the controls, the amplitude of long-term depression (LTD) induced in the medium spiny neurons increased after morphine self-administration was established, recovered after the behavior was extinguished, and increased again during the relapse induced by morphine priming. Intravenous injection of MA, a new peptide obtained by modifying Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) inhibitor “myr-AIP”, decreased CaMKII activity in the NAc shell and blocked the reinstatement of morphine-seeking behavior without influence on the locomotor activity. Moreover, LTD was absent in the NAc shell of the MA-pretreated rats, whereas it was robust in the saline controls in which morphine-seeking behavior was reinstated. These results indicate that CaMKII regulates morphine-seeking behavior through its involvement in the change of synaptic plasticity in the NAc shell during the relapse, and MA may be of great value in the clinical treatment of relapse to opioid seeking.
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Inbar K, Levi LA, Kupchik YM. Cocaine induces input and cell-type-specific synaptic plasticity in ventral pallidum-projecting nucleus accumbens medium spiny neurons. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:1461-1472. [PMID: 35121830 PMCID: PMC9205871 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01285-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine use and abstinence induce long-term synaptic alterations in the excitatory input to nucleus accumbens (NAc) medium spiny neurons (MSNs). The NAc regulates reward-related behaviors through two parallel projections to the ventral pallidum (VP)-originating in D1 or D2-expressing MSNs (D1-MSNs→VP; D2-MSNs→VP). The activity of these projections depends on their excitatory synaptic inputs, but it is not known whether and how abstinence from cocaine affects the excitatory transmission to D1-MSNs→VP and D2-MSNs→VP. Here we examined different forms of cocaine-induced synaptic plasticity in the inputs from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to NAc D1-MSNs→VP and putative D2-MSNs→VP (pD2-MSNs→VP) in the core and shell subcompartments of the NAc. We used the whole-cell patch-clamp technique to record excitatory postsynaptic currents from D1-tdTomato mice injected with ChR2 in either the BLA or the mPFC and retrograde tracer (RetroBeads) in the VP. We found that cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP) followed by abstinence potentiated the excitatory input from the BLA and mPFC to both D1-MSNs→VP and pD2-MSNs→VP. Interestingly, while the strengthening of the inputs to D1-MSNs→VP was of postsynaptic origin and manifested as increased AMPA to NMDA ratio, in pD2-MSNs→VP plasticity was predominantly presynaptic and was detected as changes in the paired-pulse ratio and coefficient of variation. Lastly, some of the changes were sex-specific. Overall our data show that abstinence from cocaine changes the excitatory inputs to both D1-MSNs→VP and pD2-MSNs→VP but with different mechanisms. This may help understand how circuits converging into the VP change after cocaine exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kineret Inbar
- grid.9619.70000 0004 1937 0538Department of Medical Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9112102 Israel
| | - Liran A. Levi
- grid.9619.70000 0004 1937 0538Department of Medical Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9112102 Israel
| | - Yonatan M. Kupchik
- grid.9619.70000 0004 1937 0538Department of Medical Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9112102 Israel
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23
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Luessen DJ, Conn PJ. Allosteric Modulators of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors as Novel Therapeutics for Neuropsychiatric Disease. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:630-661. [PMID: 35710132 PMCID: PMC9553119 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.121.000540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors, a family of G-protein-coupled receptors, have been identified as novel therapeutic targets based on extensive research supporting their diverse contributions to cell signaling and physiology throughout the nervous system and important roles in regulating complex behaviors, such as cognition, reward, and movement. Thus, targeting mGlu receptors may be a promising strategy for the treatment of several brain disorders. Ongoing advances in the discovery of subtype-selective allosteric modulators for mGlu receptors has provided an unprecedented opportunity for highly specific modulation of signaling by individual mGlu receptor subtypes in the brain by targeting sites distinct from orthosteric or endogenous ligand binding sites on mGlu receptors. These pharmacological agents provide the unparalleled opportunity to selectively regulate neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission, and subsequent behavioral output pertinent to many brain disorders. Here, we review preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the utility of mGlu receptor allosteric modulators as novel therapeutic approaches to treat neuropsychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and stress-related disorders.
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Panopoulou M, Schlüter OM. Ca 2+-permeable AMPA receptors set the threshold for retrieval of drug memories. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:2868-2878. [PMID: 35296806 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01505-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Frequent relapse prevents the successful treatment of substance use disorders and is triggered in part by retrieval of drug-associated memories. Drug-conditioned behaviours in rodents are reinstated upon drug memory retrieval following re-exposure to cues previously associated with the drug, or the drug itself. Therapies based on mechanistic insights from rodent studies have focused on amnesic procedures of cue-drug associations but with so far limited success. Conversely, more recent studies propose that inhibiting drug memory retrieval offers improved anti-relapse efficacy. However, mechanisms of memory retrieval are poorly understood. Here, we used a conditioned place preference (CPP) procedure in mice to investigate the cellular and molecular underpinnings of drug-induced memory retrieval. After extinction training of CPP, Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) accumulated at drug-generated silent synapses of nucleus accumbens (NAc) medium spiny neurons. The NAc CP-AMPARs regulated the retrieval mechanism of drug memories after extinction. Specifically, we used different priming doses of cocaine, fentanyl, or a cue associated with drug exposure to reinstate CPP, providing different memory retrieval conditions. Although both high and low doses of these two drugs induced CPP reinstatement, compromising CP-AMPAR accumulation impaired CPP reinstatement, induced by low doses of each drug or the cue. This threshold effect was mediated by NAc CP-AMPARs as region specific knock-down of PSD-95 prevented low-dose cocaine-induced retrieval selectively. These results demonstrate the NAc as a brain region and CP-AMPARs as key synaptic substrates that govern the threshold for drug-induced retrieval and behavioural expression of drug memories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Panopoulou
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, D-37075, Göttingen, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School for Neurosciences, D-37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver M Schlüter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, D-37075, Göttingen, Germany. .,Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
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25
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Tian G, Hui M, Macchia D, Derdeyn P, Rogers A, Hubbard E, Liu C, Vasquez JJ, Taniguchi L, Bartas K, Carroll S, Beier KT. An extended amygdala-midbrain circuit controlling cocaine withdrawal-induced anxiety and reinstatement. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110775. [PMID: 35508124 PMCID: PMC9225486 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although midbrain dopamine (DA) circuits are central to motivated behaviors, our knowledge of how experience modifies these circuits to facilitate subsequent behavioral adaptations is limited. Here we demonstrate the selective role of a ventral tegmental area DA projection to the amygdala (VTADA→amygdala) for cocaine-induced anxiety but not cocaine reward or sensitization. Our rabies virus-mediated circuit mapping approach reveals a persistent elevation in spontaneous and task-related activity of inhibitory GABAergic cells from the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and downstream VTADA→amygdala cells that can be detected even after a single cocaine exposure. Activity in BNSTGABA→midbrain cells is related to cocaine-induced anxiety but not reward or sensitization, and silencing this projection prevents development of anxiety during protracted withdrawal after cocaine administration. Finally, we observe that VTADA→amygdala cells are strongly activated after a challenge exposure to cocaine and that activity in these cells is necessary and sufficient for reinstatement of cocaine place preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilian Tian
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - May Hui
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Desiree Macchia
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Pieter Derdeyn
- Program in Mathematical, Computational, and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Alexandra Rogers
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hubbard
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Chengfeng Liu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Jose J Vasquez
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Lara Taniguchi
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Katrina Bartas
- Program in Mathematical, Computational, and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Sean Carroll
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Kevin T Beier
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA; UCI Mind, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA.
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Alegre-Zurano L, Berbegal-Sáez P, Luján MÁ, Cantacorps L, Martín-Sánchez A, García-Baos A, Valverde O. Cannabidiol decreases motivation for cocaine in a behavioral economics paradigm but does not prevent incubation of craving in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 148:112708. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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27
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Addiction-induced plasticity in underlying neural circuits. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:1605-1615. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05778-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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28
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Poisson CL, Engel L, Saunders BT. Dopamine Circuit Mechanisms of Addiction-Like Behaviors. Front Neural Circuits 2021; 15:752420. [PMID: 34858143 PMCID: PMC8631198 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.752420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Addiction is a complex disease that impacts millions of people around the world. Clinically, addiction is formalized as substance use disorder (SUD), with three primary symptom categories: exaggerated substance use, social or lifestyle impairment, and risky substance use. Considerable efforts have been made to model features of these criteria in non-human animal research subjects, for insight into the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. Here we review evidence from rodent models of SUD-inspired criteria, focusing on the role of the striatal dopamine system. We identify distinct mesostriatal and nigrostriatal dopamine circuit functions in behavioral outcomes that are relevant to addictions and SUDs. This work suggests that striatal dopamine is essential for not only positive symptom features of SUDs, such as elevated intake and craving, but also for impairments in decision making that underlie compulsive behavior, reduced sociality, and risk taking. Understanding the functional heterogeneity of the dopamine system and related networks can offer insight into this complex symptomatology and may lead to more targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carli L. Poisson
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Liv Engel
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Benjamin T. Saunders
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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29
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Duan Y, Meng Y, Du W, Li M, Zhang J, Liang J, Li Y, Sui N, Shen F. Increased cocaine motivation in tree shrews is modulated by striatal dopamine D1 receptor-mediated upregulation of Ca v 1.2. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e13053. [PMID: 33987939 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The progressively increased motivation for cocaine during abstinence is closely associated with the dysfunction of dopamine (DA) system. As DA receptors also dynamically regulate L-type calcium channels (LTCCs), in this study we examined how DA receptors (D1R or D2R) and LTCCs (Cav 1.2 or Cav 1.3) exert their influences on cocaine-seeking in a tree shrew (Tupaia belangeri chinensis) model. First, we demonstrated the 'incubation' effect by showing tree shrews exhibited a significantly higher seeking behaviour on withdrawal day (WD) 45 than on WD1. Then, we confirmed that longer abstinence period induced higher D1R expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Next, we showed that LTCCs in the NAc participated in drug seeking. Moreover, Cav 1.2 expression in the NAc was increased on WD45, and disruption of the Cav 1.2 inhibited drug seeking. Finally, we found that D1R antagonist blocked the increase of Cav 1.2 on drug-seeking test. Collectively, these findings suggest that D1R-mediated upregulation of Cav 1.2 is involved in the incubation of cocaine craving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Duan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Yiming Meng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Wenjie Du
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Psychology University of Nebraska‐Lincoln Lincoln Nebraska USA
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Jing Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Yonghui Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Nan Sui
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Fang Shen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Psychology University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
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30
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Campbell RR, Chen S, Beardwood JH, López AJ, Pham LV, Keiser AM, Childs JE, Matheos DP, Swarup V, Baldi P, Wood MA. Cocaine induces paradigm-specific changes to the transcriptome within the ventral tegmental area. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:1768-1779. [PMID: 34155331 PMCID: PMC8357835 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01031-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
During the initial stages of drug use, cocaine-induced neuroadaptations within the ventral tegmental area (VTA) are critical for drug-associated cue learning and drug reinforcement processes. These neuroadaptations occur, in part, from alterations to the transcriptome. Although cocaine-induced transcriptional mechanisms within the VTA have been examined, various regimens and paradigms have been employed to examine candidate target genes. In order to identify key genes and biological processes regulating cocaine-induced processes, we employed genome-wide RNA-sequencing to analyze transcriptional profiles within the VTA from male mice that underwent one of four commonly used paradigms: acute home cage injections of cocaine, chronic home cage injections of cocaine, cocaine-conditioning, or intravenous-self administration of cocaine. We found that cocaine alters distinct sets of VTA genes within each exposure paradigm. Using behavioral measures from cocaine self-administering mice, we also found several genes whose expression patterns corelate with cocaine intake. In addition to overall gene expression levels, we identified several predicted upstream regulators of cocaine-induced transcription shared across all paradigms. Although distinct gene sets were altered across cocaine exposure paradigms, we found, from Gene Ontology (GO) term analysis, that biological processes important for energy regulation and synaptic plasticity were affected across all cocaine paradigms. Coexpression analysis also identified gene networks that are altered by cocaine. These data indicate that cocaine alters networks enriched with glial cell markers of the VTA that are involved in gene regulation and synaptic processes. Our analyses demonstrate that transcriptional changes within the VTA depend on the route, dose and context of cocaine exposure, and highlight several biological processes affected by cocaine. Overall, these findings provide a unique resource of gene expression data for future studies examining novel cocaine gene targets that regulate drug-associated behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rianne R Campbell
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- UC Irvine Center for Addiction Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Siwei Chen
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Joy H Beardwood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- UC Irvine Center for Addiction Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Alberto J López
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Lilyana V Pham
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- UC Irvine Center for Addiction Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ashley M Keiser
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jessica E Childs
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- UC Irvine Center for Addiction Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Dina P Matheos
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- UC Irvine Center for Addiction Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Vivek Swarup
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Pierre Baldi
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Marcelo A Wood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- UC Irvine Center for Addiction Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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31
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Early life adversity promotes resilience to opioid addiction-related phenotypes in male rats and sex-specific transcriptional changes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2020173118. [PMID: 33593913 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2020173118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Experiencing some early life adversity can have an "inoculating" effect that promotes resilience in adulthood. However, the mechanisms underlying stress inoculation are unknown, and animal models are lacking. Here we used the limited bedding and nesting (LBN) model of adversity to evaluate stress inoculation of addiction-related phenotypes. In LBN, pups from postnatal days 2 to 9 and their dams were exposed to a low-resource environment. In adulthood, they were tested for addiction-like phenotypes and compared to rats raised in standard housing conditions. High levels of impulsivity are associated with substance abuse, but in males, LBN reduced impulsive choice compared to controls. LBN males also self-administered less morphine and had a lower breakpoint on a progressive ratio reinforcement schedule than controls. These effects of LBN on addiction-related behaviors were not found in females. Because the nucleus accumbens (NAc) mediates these behaviors, we tested whether LBN altered NAc physiology in drug-naïve and morphine-exposed rats. LBN reduced the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents in males, but a similar effect was not observed in females. Only in males did LBN prevent a morphine-induced increase in the AMPA/NMDA ratio. RNA sequencing was performed to delineate the molecular signature in the NAc associated with LBN-derived phenotypes. LBN produced sex-specific changes in transcription, including in genes related to glutamate transmission. Collectively, these studies reveal that LBN causes a male-specific stress inoculation effect against addiction-related phenotypes. Identifying factors that promote resilience to addiction may reveal novel treatment options for patients.
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32
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Ge Y, Wang YT. GluA1-homomeric AMPA receptor in synaptic plasticity and neurological diseases. Neuropharmacology 2021; 197:108708. [PMID: 34274350 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic transmission is one of the fundamental processes that all brain functions are based on. Changes in the strength of synaptic transmission among neurons are crucial for information processing in the central nervous system. The α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediate the majority of the fast excitatory synaptic transmission in the mammalian brain. Rapid trafficking of AMPARs in and out of the postsynaptic membrane is proposed to be a major mechanism for synaptic plasticity, and learning and memory. Defects in the regulated AMPAR trafficking have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of certain psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. Studies accumulated in the past 30 years have provided a detailed molecular insight on how the trafficking of AMPARs is modulated in a subunit-specific manner. In particular, emerging evidence supports that the regulated expression and trafficking of Ca2+-permeable, GluA1-homomeric subtype of AMPARs mediates diverse types of synaptic plasticity, thereby playing critical roles in brain function and dysfunction. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge of AMPAR subunit-specific trafficking, with a particular emphasis on the involvement of GluA1-homomeric receptor trafficking in synaptic plasticity and brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Ge
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Yu Tian Wang
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada.
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33
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Weitz M, Khayat A, Yaka R. GABAergic projections to the ventral tegmental area govern cocaine-conditioned reward. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e13026. [PMID: 33638301 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Elevated dopamine (DA) levels in the reward system underlie various drug-related behaviors, including addiction. As a major DA source in the reward system, the ventral tegmental area (VTA) is highly regulated by GABAergic inputs projected from different brain regions. It was previously shown that cocaine exposure reduces GABAA -mediated inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in VTA DA neurons; however, the specific GABAergic input underlying this inhibitory effect remains unknown. Here, using optogenetics, we separately activate and characterize different GABAergic afferents innervating the VTA, focusing on the rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) and the nucleus accumbens (NAc). GABAA -mediated IPSCs were recorded from VTA DA neurons, and the effect of DA-induced inhibition was measured in an afferent-specific manner. In addition, to examine the effect of enhanced GABAergic tone on the rewarding properties of cocaine, we exogenously activated the different GABAergic inputs during the acquisition phase of cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP). We found that acute cocaine exposure strongly attenuates GABAA -mediated IPSCs in VTA DA neurons from both inhibitory sources. Furthermore, exogenous light activation of both RMTg and NAc afferents in the VTA during the acquisition of cocaine-CPP significantly reduced the rewarding properties of cocaine. This behavioral observation was correlated with the reduction in the neuronal activity of VTA DA neurons as measured by the expression of c-fos. Together, these results emphasize the critical role of these GABAergic inputs to the VTA in modulating and potentially interrupting cocaine reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moriya Weitz
- Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem Israel
| | - Alaa Khayat
- Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem Israel
| | - Rami Yaka
- Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem Israel
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Su LD, Wang N, Han J, Shen Y. Group 1 Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases: Mechanisms and Prospective. Neuroscientist 2021; 28:453-468. [PMID: 34088252 PMCID: PMC9449437 DOI: 10.1177/10738584211021018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are G-protein coupled receptors
that are activated by glutamate in the central nervous system (CNS).
Basically, mGluRs contribute to fine-tuning of synaptic efficacy and
control the accuracy and sharpness of neurotransmission. Among eight
subtypes, mGluR1 and mGluR5 belong to group 1 (Gp1) family, and are
implicated in multiple CNS disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease,
autism, Parkinson’s disease, and so on. In the present review, we
systematically discussed underlying mechanisms and prospective of Gp1
mGluRs in a group of neurological and psychiatric diseases, including
Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, autism spectrum disorder,
epilepsy, Huntington’s disease, intellectual disability, Down’s
syndrome, Rett syndrome, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder,
addiction, anxiety, nociception, schizophrenia, and depression, in
order to provide more insights into the therapeutic potential of Gp1
mGluRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Da Su
- Neuroscience Care Unit, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Na Wang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junhai Han
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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35
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NMDA Receptors in Accumbal D1 Neurons Influence Chronic Sugar Consumption and Relapse. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0029-21.2021. [PMID: 33906970 PMCID: PMC8143023 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0029-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamatergic input via NMDA and AMPA receptors within the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) pathway plays a critical role in the development of addictive behavior and relapse toward drugs of abuse. Although well-established for drugs of abuse, it is not clear whether glutamate receptors within the mesolimbic system are involved in mediating chronic consumption and relapse following abstinence from a non-drug reward. Here, we evaluated the contribution of mesolimbic glutamate receptors in mediating chronic sugar consumption and the sugar-deprivation effect (SDE), which is used as a measure of relapse-like behavior following abstinence. We studied four inducible mutant mouse lines lacking the GluA1 or GluN1 subunit in either DA transporter (DAT) or D1R-expressing neurons in an automated monitoring system for free-choice sugar drinking in the home cage. Mice lacking either GluA1 or GluN1 in D1R-expressing neurons (GluA1D1CreERT2 or GluN1D1CreERT2mice) have altered sugar consumption in both sexes, whereas GluA1DATCreERT2 and GluN1DATCreERT2do not differ from their respective littermate controls. In terms of relapse-like behavior, female GluN1D1CreERT2mice show a more pronounced SDE. Given that glutamate receptors within the mesolimbic system play a critical role in mediating relapse behavior of alcohol and other drugs of abuse, it is surprising that these receptors do not mediate the SDE, or in the case of female GluN1D1CreERT2 mice, show an opposing effect. We conclude that a relapse-like phenotype of sugar consumption differs from that of drugs of abuse on the molecular level, at least with respect to the contribution of mesolimbic glutamate receptors.
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36
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Medrano M, Hurel I, Mesguich E, Redon B, Stevens C, Georges F, Melis M, Marsicano G, Chaouloff F. Exercise craving potentiates excitatory inputs to ventral tegmental area dopaminergic neurons. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12967. [PMID: 33021007 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Physical exercise, which can be addictogenic on its own, is considered a therapeutic alternative for drug craving. Exercise might thus share with drugs the ability to strengthen excitatory synapses onto ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopaminergic neurones, as assessed by the ratio of AMPA receptor (AMPAR)-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) to NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated EPSCs. As did acute cocaine, amphetamine, or Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) pretreatments, an acute 1-h wheel-running session increased the AMPAR/NMDAR ratio in VTA dopaminergic neurones. To dissect the respective influences of wheel-running seeking and performance, mice went through an operant protocol wherein wheel-running was conditioned by nose poking under fixed ratio schedules of reinforcement. Conditioned wheel-running increased the AMPAR/NMDAR ratio to a higher extent than free wheel-running, doing so although running performance was lower in the former paradigm than in the latter. Thus, the cue-reward association, rather than reward consumption, played a major role in this increase. The AMPAR/NMDAR ratio returned to baseline levels in mice that had extinguished the cued-running motivated task, but it increased after a cue-induced reinstatement session. The amplitude of this increase correlated with the intensity of exercise craving, as assessed by individual nose poke scores. Finally, cue-induced reinstatement of running seeking proved insensitive to acute cocaine or THC pretreatments. Our study reveals for the first time that the drive for exercise bears synaptic influences on VTA dopaminergic neurones which are reminiscent of drug actions. Whether these influences play a role in the therapeutic effects of exercise in human drug craving remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria‐Carmen Medrano
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Imane Hurel
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Emma Mesguich
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Bastien Redon
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Christopher Stevens
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Pathophysiology of Declarative Memory NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
| | - François Georges
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Institut de Neurosciences Cognitives et Intégratives d'Aquitaine CNRS UMR 5293 Bordeaux France
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology University of Cagliari Cagliari Italy
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Francis Chaouloff
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation NeuroCentre INSERM U1215 Bordeaux France
- Université de Bordeaux Bordeaux France
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37
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Cocaine use disorder: A look at metabotropic glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 221:107797. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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38
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Drug-Evoked Synaptic Plasticity of Excitatory Transmission in the Ventral Tegmental Area. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2021; 11:cshperspect.a039701. [PMID: 32341062 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a039701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine leads to a strong euphoria, which is at the origin of its recreational use. Past the acute effects, the drug leaves traces in the brain that persist long after it has been cleared from the body. These traces eventually shape behavior such that drug use may become compulsive, and addiction develops. Here, we discuss cocaine-evoked synaptic plasticity of glutamatergic transmission onto dopamine (DA) neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) as one of the earliest traces after a first injection of cocaine. We review the literature that has examined the induction requirements, as well as the expression mechanism of this form of plasticity, and ask the question about its functional significance.
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39
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Clerke J, Preston-Ferrer P, Zouridis IS, Tissot A, Batti L, Voigt FF, Pagès S, Burgalossi A, Mameli M. Output-Specific Adaptation of Habenula-Midbrain Excitatory Synapses During Cocaine Withdrawal. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:643138. [PMID: 33867967 PMCID: PMC8044201 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.643138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Projections from the lateral habenula (LHb) control ventral tegmental area (VTA) neuronal populations' activity and both nuclei shape the pathological behaviors emerging during cocaine withdrawal. However, it is unknown whether cocaine withdrawal modulates LHb neurotransmission onto subsets of VTA neurons that are part of distinct neuronal circuits. Here we show that, in mice, cocaine withdrawal, drives discrete and opposing synaptic adaptations at LHb inputs onto VTA neurons defined by their output synaptic connectivity. LHb axons innervate the medial aspect of VTA, release glutamate and synapse on to dopamine and non-dopamine neuronal populations. VTA neurons receiving LHb inputs project their axons to medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and lateral hypothalamus (LH). While cocaine withdrawal increases glutamate release from LHb onto VTA-mPFC projectors, it reduces presynaptic release onto VTA-NAc projectors, leaving LHb synapses onto VTA-to-LH unaffected. Altogether, cocaine withdrawal promotes distinct adaptations at identified LHb-to-VTA circuits, which provide a framework for understanding the circuit basis of the negative states emerging during abstinence of drug intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Clerke
- The Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, The University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Preston-Ferrer
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Werner-Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ioannis S Zouridis
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Werner-Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, Tübingen, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School, Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Audrey Tissot
- The Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laura Batti
- The Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabian F Voigt
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich & ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephane Pagès
- The Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Burgalossi
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Werner-Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Manuel Mameli
- The Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, The University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,INSERM UMR-S 839, Paris, France
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40
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Abstract
Addiction is a disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and consumption observed in 20-30% of users. An addicted individual will favor drug reward over natural rewards, despite major negative consequences. Mechanistic research on rodents modeling core components of the disease has identified altered synaptic transmission as the functional substrate of pathological behavior. While the initial version of a circuit model for addiction focused on early drug adaptive behaviors observed in all individuals, it fell short of accounting for the stochastic nature of the transition to compulsion. The model builds on the initial pharmacological effect common to all addictive drugs-an increase in dopamine levels in the mesolimbic system. Here, we consolidate this early model by integrating circuits underlying compulsion and negative reinforcement. We discuss the genetic and epigenetic correlates of individual vulnerability. Many recent data converge on a gain-of-function explanation for circuit remodeling, revealing blueprints for novel addiction therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lüscher
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; .,Clinic of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Hospital, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patricia H Janak
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA.,The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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41
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Fischer KD, Knackstedt LA, Rosenberg PA. Glutamate homeostasis and dopamine signaling: Implications for psychostimulant addiction behavior. Neurochem Int 2021; 144:104896. [PMID: 33159978 PMCID: PMC8489281 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine abuse disorders are serious worldwide health problems. To date, there are no FDA-approved medications for the treatment of these disorders. Elucidation of the biochemical underpinnings contributing to psychostimulant addiction is critical for the development of effective therapies. Excitatory signaling and glutamate homeostasis are well known pathophysiological substrates underlying addiction-related behaviors spanning multiple types of psychostimulants. To alleviate relapse behavior to psychostimulants, considerable interest has focused on GLT-1, the major glutamate transporter in the brain. While many brain regions are implicated in addiction behavior, this review focuses on two regions well known for their role in mediating the effects of cocaine and amphetamines, namely the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA). In addition, because many investigators have utilized Cre-driver lines to selectively control gene expression in defined cell populations relevant for psychostimulant addiction, we discuss potential off-target effects of Cre-recombinase that should be considered in the design and interpretation of such experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn D Fischer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Lori A Knackstedt
- Psychology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Paul A Rosenberg
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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42
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Salisbury AJ, Blackwood CA, Cadet JL. Prolonged Withdrawal From Escalated Oxycodone Is Associated With Increased Expression of Glutamate Receptors in the Rat Hippocampus. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:617973. [PMID: 33536871 PMCID: PMC7848144 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.617973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
People suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD) exhibit cognitive dysfunctions. Here, we investigated potential changes in the expression of glutamate receptors in rat hippocampi at 2 h and 31 days after the last session of oxycodone self-administration (SA). RNA extracted from the hippocampus was used in quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses. Rats, given long-access (9 h per day) to oxycodone (LgA), took significantly more drug than rats exposed to short-access (3 h per day) (ShA). In addition, LgA rats could be further divided into higher oxycodone taking (LgA-H) or lower oxycodone taking (LgA-L) groups, based on a cut-off of 50 infusions per day. LgA rats, but not ShA, rats exhibited incubation of oxycodone craving. In addition, LgA rats showed increased mRNA expression of GluA1-3 and GluN2a-c subunits as well as Grm3, Grm5, Grm6, and Grm8 subtypes of glutamate receptors after 31 days but not after 2 h of stopping the SA experiment. Changes in GluA1-3, Grm6, and Grm8 mRNA levels also correlated with increased lever pressing (incubation) after long periods of withdrawal from oxycodone. More studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in altering the expression of these receptors during withdrawal from oxycodone and/or incubation of drug seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jean Lud Cadet
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Molecular Neuropsychiatry Branch, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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43
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Ruan H, Yao WD. Loss of mGluR1-LTD following cocaine exposure accumulates Ca 2+-permeable AMPA receptors and facilitates synaptic potentiation in the prefrontal cortex. J Neurogenet 2021; 35:358-369. [PMID: 34092163 PMCID: PMC9255266 DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2021.1931180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Addiction results from drug-elicited alterations of synaptic plasticity mechanisms in dopaminergic reward circuits. Impaired metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-dependent long-term depression (LTD) and accumulation of synaptic Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) following drug exposure have emerged as important mechanisms underlying drug craving and relapse. Here we show that repeated cocaine exposure in vivo causes transient but complete loss of mGluR1- and mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin)-dependent LTD in layer 5 pyramidal neurons of mouse prefrontal cortex (PFC), a major dopaminergic target in the reward circuitry. This mGluR1-LTD impairment was prevented by in vivo administration of an mGluR1 positive allosteric modulator (PAM) and rescued by inhibition of dopamine D1 receptors, suggesting that impaired mGluR1 tone and excessive D1 signaling underlie this LTD deficit. Concurrently, CP-AMPARs were generated, indicated by increased sensitivity to the CP-AMPAR inhibitor Naspm and rectification of synaptic AMPAR currents, which were reversed by PAM in cocaine-exposed mice. Finally, these CP-AMPARs mediate an abnormal spike-timing-dependent long-term potentiation enabled by cocaine exposure. Our findings reveal a mechanism by which cocaine impairs LTD and remodels synaptic AMPARs to influence Hebbian plasticity in the PFC. Failure to undergo LTD may prevent the reversal of drug-potentiated brain circuits to their baseline states, perpetuating addictive behaviors.HIGHLIGHTSA mGluR1- and mTOR-dependent LTD is present in the mouse medial prefrontal cortex.Repeated cocaine exposure in vivo temporally but completely abolishes prefrontal mGluR1-LTD.Impaired mGluR1 function and excessive D1 DA signaling likely underlie cocaine impairment of mGluR1-LTD.Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors are generated by cocaine exposure, likely resulting from mGluR1-LTD impairment, and contribute to a cocaine-induced extended spike timing LTP.
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44
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Cai WT, Han J, Kim WY, Kim JH. Immunohistochemical detection of GluA1 subunit of AMPA receptor in the rat nucleus accumbens following cocaine exposure. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY 2021; 25:79-85. [PMID: 33361540 PMCID: PMC7756536 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2021.25.1.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors are differentially regulated in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) of the brain after cocaine exposure. However, these results are supported only by biochemical and electrophysiological methods, but have not been validated with immunohistochemistry. To overcome the restriction of antigen loss on the postsynaptic target molecules that occurs during perfusion-fixation, we adopted an immersion-fixation method that enabled us to immunohistochemically quantify the expression levels of the AMPA receptor GluA1 subunit in the NAcc. Interestingly, compared to saline exposure, cocaine significantly increased the immunofluorescence intensity of GluA1 in two sub-regions, the core and the shell, of the NAcc on withdrawal day 21 following cocaine exposure, which led to locomotor sensitization. Increases in GluA1 intensity were observed in both the extra-post synaptic density (PSD) and PSD areas in the two sub-regions of the NAcc. These results clearly indicate that AMPA receptor plasticity, as exemplified by GluA1, in the NAcc can be visually detected by immunohistochemistry and confocal imaging. These results expand our understanding of the molecular changes occurring in neuronal synapses by adding a new form of analysis to conventional biochemical and electrophysiological methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Ting Cai
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Joonyeup Han
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Wha Young Kim
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Kim
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
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45
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Wright WJ, Dong Y. Psychostimulant-Induced Adaptations in Nucleus Accumbens Glutamatergic Transmission. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a039255. [PMID: 31964644 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a039255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Carrying different aspects of emotional and motivational signals, glutamatergic synaptic projections from multiple limbic and paralimbic brain regions converge to the nucleus accumbens (NAc), in which these arousing signals are processed and prioritized for behavioral output. In animal models of drug addiction, some key drug-induced alterations at NAc glutamatergic synapses underlie important cellular and circuit mechanisms that promote subsequent drug taking, seeking, and relapse. With the focus of cocaine, we review changes at NAc glutamatergic synapses that occur after different drug procedures and abstinence durations, and the behavioral impact of these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Wright
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
| | - Yan Dong
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
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46
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Rudolph ML, Neve RL, Hammer RP, Nikulina EM. Enhanced psychostimulant response, but not social avoidance, depends on GluA1 AMPA receptors in VTA dopamine neurons following intermittent social defeat stress in rats. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 55:2154-2169. [PMID: 32594591 PMCID: PMC9292348 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Evidence from both human and animal studies demonstrates the importance of social stress in the development of addiction‐related behaviour. In rats, intermittent social defeat stress causes long‐lasting psychostimulant cross‐sensitization. Our recent data reveal heightened expression of AMPA receptor (AMPAR) GluA1 subunit in rat ventral tegmental area (VTA), which occurs concurrently with social stress‐induced amphetamine (AMPH) cross‐sensitization. In addition, social stress in rats induced social avoidance behaviour. The present study evaluated the effects of intermittent social defeat stress on GluA1 expression in VTA dopamine (DA) neurons, then utilized Cre‐dependent virus‐mediated gene transfer to determine the functional role of homomeric GluA1‐AMPARs in these neurons. Social defeat stress exposure induced GluA1 expression in VTA DA neurons, as demonstrated by a greater density of GluA1/tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) double‐labelling in VTA neurons in stressed rats. Additionally, functional inactivation of VTA GluA1 AMPARs in DA neurons prevented stress‐induced cross‐sensitization, or augmented locomotor response to low dose AMPH challenge (1.0 mg/kg, i.p.), but had no effect on social stress‐induced social avoidance behaviour. Furthermore, wild‐type overexpression of GluA1 in VTA DA neurons had the opposite effect; locomotor‐activating effects of AMPH were significantly augmented, even in the absence of stress. Taken together, these results suggest that stress‐induced GluA1 expression in VTA DA neurons is necessary for psychostimulant cross‐sensitization, but not for social avoidance. This differential effect suggests that different neural pathways are implicated in these behaviours. These findings could lead to novel pharmacotherapies to help prevent stress‐induced susceptibility to substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan L Rudolph
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Racheal L Neve
- Gene Delivery Technology Core, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ronald P Hammer
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Ella M Nikulina
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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47
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Barker JS, Hines RM. Regulation of GABA A Receptor Subunit Expression in Substance Use Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124445. [PMID: 32580510 PMCID: PMC7352578 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The modulation of neuronal cell firing is mediated by the release of the neurotransmitter GABA (γ-aminobuytric acid), which binds to two major families of receptors. The ionotropic GABAA receptors (GABAARs) are composed of five distinct subunits that vary in expression by brain region and cell type. The action of GABA on GABAARs is modulated by a variety of clinically and pharmacologically important drugs such as benzodiazepines and alcohol. Exposure to and abuse of these substances disrupts homeostasis and induces plasticity in GABAergic neurotransmission, often via the regulation of receptor expression. Here, we review the regulation of GABAAR subunit expression in adaptive and pathological plasticity, with a focus on substance use. We examine the factors influencing the expression of GABAAR subunit genes including the regulation of the 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions, variations in DNA methylation, immediate early genes and transcription factors that regulate subunit expression, translational and post-translational modifications, and other forms of receptor regulation beyond expression. Advancing our understanding of the factors regulating GABAAR subunit expression during adaptive plasticity, as well as during substance use and withdrawal will provide insight into the role of GABAergic signaling in substance use disorders, and contribute to the development of novel targeted therapies.
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48
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Kuniishi H, Yamada D, Wada K, Yamada M, Sekiguchi M. Stress induces insertion of calcium-permeable AMPA receptors in the OFC-BLA synapse and modulates emotional behaviours in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:154. [PMID: 32424318 PMCID: PMC7235080 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-0837-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress increases the risk of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as major depression. Exposure to stress has been reported to induce various neuronal changes, such as alterations in synaptic transmission and structure. However, a causal link between stress-induced neural circuit alterations and changes in emotional behaviours is not well understood. In the present study, we focused on a projection pathway from the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) to the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA) as a crucial circuit for negative emotions and examined the effect of stress on OFC-BLA excitatory synaptic transmission using optogenetic and whole-cell patch-clamp methods in mice. As a stress-inducing procedure, we used repeated tail-shock, which increased stress-related behaviours. We found greater α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA)/N-methyl-D-aspartate current ratios and insertion of calcium-permeable AMPA receptors (AMPARs) in the OFC-BLA synapse after stress. These stress-induced synaptic and behavioural changes were reduced by a blockade of protein kinase A, which plays a principal role in stress-induced targeting of AMPARs into the synaptic membrane. To examine a possible causal relationship between alterations in synaptic transmission in the OFC-BLA pathway and stress-related behaviour, we performed optogenetic activation or chemogenetic inactivation of OFC-BLA transmission in mice. We found that optogenetic activation and chemogenetic inactivation of OFC-BLA transmission increased and decreased stress-related behaviour, respectively. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that stress altered the postsynaptic properties of the OFC-BLA pathway. These synaptic changes might be one of the underlying mechanisms of stress-induced behavioural alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kuniishi
- grid.419280.60000 0004 1763 8916Department of Degenerative Neurological Diseases, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan ,grid.419280.60000 0004 1763 8916Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Daisuke Yamada
- grid.419280.60000 0004 1763 8916Department of Degenerative Neurological Diseases, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Keiji Wada
- grid.419280.60000 0004 1763 8916Department of Degenerative Neurological Diseases, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Mitsuhiko Yamada
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Sekiguchi
- Department of Degenerative Neurological Diseases, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan.
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49
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Lüscher C, Robbins TW, Everitt BJ. The transition to compulsion in addiction. Nat Rev Neurosci 2020; 21:247-263. [PMID: 32231315 PMCID: PMC7610550 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-0289-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Compulsion is a cardinal symptom of drug addiction (severe substance use disorder). However, compulsion is observed in only a small proportion of individuals who repeatedly seek and use addictive substances. Here, we integrate accounts of the neuropharmacological mechanisms that underlie the transition to compulsion with overarching learning theories, to outline how compulsion develops in addiction. Importantly, we emphasize the conceptual distinctions between compulsive drug-seeking behaviour and compulsive drug-taking behaviour (that is, use). In the latter, an individual cannot stop using a drug despite major negative consequences, possibly reflecting an imbalance in frontostriatal circuits that encode reward and aversion. By contrast, an individual may compulsively seek drugs (that is, persist in seeking drugs despite the negative consequences of doing so) when the neural systems that underlie habitual behaviour dominate goal-directed behavioural systems, and when executive control over this maladaptive behaviour is diminished. This distinction between different aspects of addiction may help to identify its neural substrates and new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lüscher
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Trevor W Robbins
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Barry J Everitt
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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50
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Moretti J, Poh EZ, Rodger J. rTMS-Induced Changes in Glutamatergic and Dopaminergic Systems: Relevance to Cocaine and Methamphetamine Use Disorders. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:137. [PMID: 32210744 PMCID: PMC7068681 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocaine use disorder and methamphetamine use disorder are chronic, relapsing disorders with no US Food and Drug Administration-approved interventions. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation tool that has been increasingly investigated as a possible therapeutic intervention for substance use disorders. rTMS may have the ability to induce beneficial neuroplasticity in abnormal circuits and networks in individuals with addiction. The aim of this review is to highlight the rationale and potential for rTMS to treat cocaine and methamphetamine dependence: we synthesize the outcomes of studies in healthy humans and animal models to identify and understand the neurobiological mechanisms of rTMS that seem most involved in addiction, focusing on the dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems. rTMS-induced changes to neurotransmitter systems include alterations to striatal dopamine release and metabolite levels, as well as to glutamate transporter and receptor expression, which may be relevant for ameliorating the aberrant plasticity observed in individuals with substance use disorders. We also discuss the clinical studies that have used rTMS in humans with cocaine and methamphetamine use disorders. Many such studies suggest changes in network connectivity following acute rTMS, which may underpin reduced craving following chronic rTMS. We suggest several possible future directions for research relating to the therapeutic potential of rTMS in addiction that would help fill current gaps in the literature. Such research would apply rTMS to animal models of addiction, developing a translational pipeline that would guide evidence-based rTMS treatment of cocaine and methamphetamine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Moretti
- Experimental and Regenerative Neurosciences, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Brain Plasticity Group, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Eugenia Z Poh
- Experimental and Regenerative Neurosciences, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Brain Plasticity Group, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Jennifer Rodger
- Experimental and Regenerative Neurosciences, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Brain Plasticity Group, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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