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Dayal S, Chaubey D, Joshi DC, Ranmale S, Pillai B. Noncoding RNAs: Emerging regulators of behavioral complexity. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1847. [PMID: 38702948 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
The mammalian genome encodes thousands of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), ranging in size from about 20 nucleotides (microRNAs or miRNAs) to kilobases (long non-coding RNAs or lncRNAs). ncRNAs contribute to a layer of gene regulation that could explain the evolution of massive phenotypic complexity even as the number of protein-coding genes remains unaltered. We propose that low conservation, poor expression, and highly restricted spatiotemporal expression patterns-conventionally considered ncRNAs may affect behavior through direct, rapid, and often sustained regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, or translational levels. Besides these direct roles, their effect during neurodevelopment may manifest as behavioral changes later in the organism's life, especially when exposed to environmental cues like stress and seasonal changes. The lncRNAs affect behavior through diverse mechanisms like sponging of miRNAs, recruitment of chromatin modifiers, and regulation of alternative splicing. We highlight the need for synthesis between rigorously designed behavioral paradigms in model organisms and the wide diversity of behaviors documented by ethologists through field studies on organisms exquisitely adapted to their environmental niche. Comparative genomics and the latest advancements in transcriptomics provide an unprecedented scope for merging field and lab studies on model and non-model organisms to shed light on the role of ncRNAs in driving the behavioral responses of individuals and groups. We touch upon the technical challenges and contentious issues that must be resolved to fully understand the role of ncRNAs in regulating complex behavioral traits. This article is categorized under: Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanovar Dayal
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Divya Chaubey
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Dheeraj Chandra Joshi
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Samruddhi Ranmale
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
| | - Beena Pillai
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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2
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Chen HS, Wang F, Chen JG. Epigenetic mechanisms in depression: Implications for pathogenesis and treatment. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2024; 85:102854. [PMID: 38401316 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2024.102854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
The risk of depression is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. It has been suggested that epigenetic mechanisms may mediate the risk of depression following exposure to adverse life events. Epigenetics encompasses stable alterations in gene expression that are controlled through transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, or post-translational processes, including DNA modifications, chromatin remodeling, histone modifications, RNA modifications, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation, without any changes in the DNA sequence. In this review, we explore recent research advancements in the realm of epigenetics concerning depression. Furthermore, we evaluate the potential of epigenetic changes as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430030, China; The Research Center for Depression, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430030, China; The Research Center for Depression, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science, Wuhan 430030, China; The Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jian-Guo Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430030, China; The Research Center for Depression, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science, Wuhan 430030, China; The Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan 430030, China.
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3
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Srinivas T, Siqueira E, Guil S. Techniques for investigating lncRNA transcript functions in neurodevelopment. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:874-890. [PMID: 38145986 PMCID: PMC11176085 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02377-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are sequences of 200 nucleotides or more that are transcribed from a large portion of the mammalian genome. While hypothesized to have a variety of biological roles, many lncRNAs remain largely functionally uncharacterized due to unique challenges associated with their investigation. For example, some lncRNAs overlap with other genomic loci, are expressed in a cell-type-specific manner, and/or are differentially processed at the post-transcriptional level. The mammalian CNS contains a vast diversity of lncRNAs, and lncRNAs are highly abundant in the mammalian brain. However, interrogating lncRNA function in models of the CNS, particularly in vivo, can be complex and challenging. Here we review the breadth of methods used to investigate lncRNAs in the CNS, their merits, and the understanding they can provide with respect to neurodevelopment and pathophysiology. We discuss remaining challenges in the field and provide recommendations to assay lncRNAs based on current methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Srinivas
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Edilene Siqueira
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Sonia Guil
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
- Germans Trias i Pujol Health Science Research Institute, 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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4
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Ai H, Li M, Fang W, Wang X, Liu X, Wu L, Zhang B, Lu W. Disruption of Cdk5-GluN2B complex by a small interfering peptide attenuates social isolation-induced escalated intermale attack behavior and hippocampal oxidative stress in mice. Free Radic Biol Med 2024; 210:54-64. [PMID: 37979890 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Social isolation has emerged as a significant issue during the COVID-19 pandemic that can adversely impact human mental health and potentially lead to pathological aggression. Given the lack of effective therapeutic interventions for aggressive behavior, alternative approaches are necessary. In this study, we utilized a genetic method combined with a pharmacological approach to identify and demonstrate the crucial role of Cdk5 in escalated intermale attack behavior induced by 2-week social isolation. Moreover, we developed a small peptide that effectively disrupts the interaction between Cdk5 and GluN2B, given the known involvement of this complex in various neuropsychiatric disorders. Administration of the peptide, either systemically or via intrahippocampal injection, significantly reduced oxidative stress in the hippocampus and attenuated intermale attack behavior induced by 2-week social isolation. These findings highlight the previously unknown role of the hippocampal Cdk5-GluN2B complex in social isolation-induced aggressive behavior in mice and propose the peptide as a promising therapeutic strategy for regulating attack behavior and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Ai
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Minghao Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weiqing Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuemeng Wang
- Department of the First Clinical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- Department of the First Clinical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Lihui Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, China.
| | - Wen Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
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5
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Saha P, Andersen RE, Hong SJ, Gil E, Simms J, Lim DA. Sex-specific role for the long noncoding RNA Pnky in mouse behavior. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.05.569777. [PMID: 38105981 PMCID: PMC10723355 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.05.569777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The human brain expresses thousands of different long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and aberrant expression of specific lncRNAs has been associated with cognitive and psychiatric disorders. While a growing number of lncRNAs are now known to regulate neural cell development and function, relatively few have been shown to underlie animal behavior, particularly with genetic strategies that establish lncRNA function in trans. Pnky is an evolutionarily conserved, neural lncRNA that regulates brain development. Using mouse genetic strategies, we show that Pnky has sex-specific roles in mouse behavior and that this lncRNA underlies specific behavior by functioning in trans. Male Pnky-knockout (KO) mice have deficits in cued fear recall, a type of Pavlovian associative memory. In female Pnky-KO mice, the acoustic startle response (ASR) is increased and accompanied by a decrease in prepulse inhibition (PPI), both of which are behaviors altered in affective disorders. Remarkably, expression of Pnky from a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgene reverses the ASR phenotype of female Pnky-KO mice, demonstrating that Pnky underlies specific animal behavior by functioning in trans. More broadly, these data provide genetic evidence that a lncRNA gene and its function in trans can play a key role in the behavior of adult mammals, contributing fundamental knowledge to our growing understanding of the association between specific lncRNAs and disorders of cognition and mood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parna Saha
- Department of Neurological Surgery; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Rebecca E. Andersen
- Department of Neurological Surgery; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Sung Jun Hong
- Department of Neurological Surgery; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Eugene Gil
- Department of Neurological Surgery; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Jeffrey Simms
- Behavioral Core, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Daniel A. Lim
- Department of Neurological Surgery; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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6
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Fritz M, Soravia SM, Dudeck M, Malli L, Fakhoury M. Neurobiology of Aggression-Review of Recent Findings and Relationship with Alcohol and Trauma. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12030469. [PMID: 36979161 PMCID: PMC10044835 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Aggression can be conceptualized as any behavior, physical or verbal, that involves attacking another person or animal with the intent of causing harm, pain or injury. Because of its high prevalence worldwide, aggression has remained a central clinical and public safety issue. Aggression can be caused by several risk factors, including biological and psychological, such as genetics and mental health disorders, and socioeconomic such as education, employment, financial status, and neighborhood. Research over the past few decades has also proposed a link between alcohol consumption and aggressive behaviors. Alcohol consumption can escalate aggressive behavior in humans, often leading to domestic violence or serious crimes. Converging lines of evidence have also shown that trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could have a tremendous impact on behavior associated with both alcohol use problems and violence. However, although the link between trauma, alcohol, and aggression is well documented, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms and their impact on behavior have not been properly discussed. This article provides an overview of recent advances in understanding the translational neurobiological basis of aggression and its intricate links to alcoholism and trauma, focusing on behavior. It does so by shedding light from several perspectives, including in vivo imaging, genes, receptors, and neurotransmitters and their influence on human and animal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fritz
- School of Health and Social Sciences, AKAD University of Applied Sciences, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Sarah-Maria Soravia
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Manuela Dudeck
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Layal Malli
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
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7
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Investigating the Clinical Profile of Suicide Attempters Who Used a Violent Suicidal Means. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11237170. [PMID: 36498743 PMCID: PMC9735514 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11237170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In our study, we aimed to explore the profile of the high-risk subgroup of suicide attempters that used a violent means compared to suicide attempters that chose a non-violent suicide means. Therefore, we recruited a sample of inpatients with recent suicide attempts in three psychiatric hospitals in Thuringia, Germany. We used a structured clinical interview to assess the psychiatric diagnoses, sociodemographic data, and characteristics of the suicide attempt. Furthermore, we used several validated clinical questionnaires to measure suicidal ideations, suicide intent, depression severity, hopelessness, impulsivity, aggression, anger expression, and childhood trauma. We compared 41 individuals using violent means to 59 using non-violent means with univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. We found significantly (corrected for multiple comparisons) higher levels of impulsivity-related sensation-seeking in violent suicide attempters in univariate and multivariate analyses, and additionally in anger expression directed inward at an uncorrected statistical threshold. Besides that, there were no significant differences between the two groups. We assume that underlying neurocognitive mechanisms, such as impaired decision-making processes and/or differences in risk/loss assessment, could explain the higher levels of questionnaire-based sensation-seeking in subjects who use violent suicide means. Further research is needed, including neuroimaging and biochemical techniques, to gain more insight into the mechanisms underlying the choice of a suicidal means.
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8
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Zakutansky PM, Feng Y. The Long Non-Coding RNA GOMAFU in Schizophrenia: Function, Disease Risk, and Beyond. Cells 2022; 11:1949. [PMID: 35741078 PMCID: PMC9221589 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric diseases are among the most common brain developmental disorders, represented by schizophrenia (SZ). The complex multifactorial etiology of SZ remains poorly understood, which reflects genetic vulnerabilities and environmental risks that affect numerous genes and biological pathways. Besides the dysregulation of protein-coding genes, recent discoveries demonstrate that abnormalities associated with non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), also contribute to the pathogenesis of SZ. lncRNAs are an actively evolving family of non-coding RNAs that harbor greater than 200 nucleotides but do not encode for proteins. In general, lncRNA genes are poorly conserved. The large number of lncRNAs specifically expressed in the human brain, together with the genetic alterations and dysregulation of lncRNA genes in the SZ brain, suggests a critical role in normal cognitive function and the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric diseases. A particular lncRNA of interest is GOMAFU, also known as MIAT and RNCR2. Growing evidence suggests the function of GOMAFU in governing neuronal development and its potential roles as a risk factor and biomarker for SZ, which will be reviewed in this article. Moreover, we discuss the potential mechanisms through which GOMAFU regulates molecular pathways, including its subcellular localization and interaction with RNA-binding proteins, and how interruption to GOMAFU pathways may contribute to the pathogenesis of SZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Zakutansky
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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9
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Wei W, Zhao Q, Wang Z, Liau WS, Basic D, Ren H, Marshall PR, Zajaczkowski EL, Leighton LJ, Madugalle SU, Musgrove M, Periyakaruppiah A, Shi J, Zhang J, Mattick JS, Mercer TR, Spitale RC, Li X, Bredy TW. ADRAM is an experience-dependent long noncoding RNA that drives fear extinction through a direct interaction with the chaperone protein 14-3-3. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110546. [PMID: 35320727 PMCID: PMC9015815 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we used RNA capture-seq to identify a large population of lncRNAs that are expressed in the infralimbic prefrontal cortex of adult male mice in response to fear-related learning. Combining these data with cell-type-specific ATAC-seq on neurons that had been selectively activated by fear extinction learning, we find inducible 434 lncRNAs that are derived from enhancer regions in the vicinity of protein-coding genes. In particular, we discover an experience-induced lncRNA we call ADRAM (activity-dependent lncRNA associated with memory) that acts as both a scaffold and a combinatorial guide to recruit the brain-enriched chaperone protein 14-3-3 to the promoter of the memory-associated immediate-early gene Nr4a2 and is required fear extinction memory. This study expands the lexicon of experience-dependent lncRNA activity in the brain and highlights enhancer-derived RNAs (eRNAs) as key players in the epigenomic regulation of gene expression associated with the formation of fear extinction memory. Wei et al. use targeted RNA capture sequencing to examine experience-dependent long noncoding RNA activity in the infralimbic prefrontal cortex of adult mice. They discover a gene, which they call ADRAM, that is directly involved in the epigenomic regulation of gene expression underlying memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Brain Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Qiongyi Zhao
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Wei-Siang Liau
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Dean Basic
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Haobin Ren
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Paul R Marshall
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Esmi L Zajaczkowski
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Laura J Leighton
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sachithrani U Madugalle
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Mason Musgrove
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ambika Periyakaruppiah
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jichun Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Brain Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianjian Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - John S Mattick
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Timothy R Mercer
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Robert C Spitale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, USA
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Brain Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Timothy W Bredy
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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Irwin AB, Bahabry R, Lubin FD. A putative role for lncRNAs in epigenetic regulation of memory. Neurochem Int 2021; 150:105184. [PMID: 34530054 PMCID: PMC8552959 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The central dogma of molecular genetics is defined as encoded genetic information within DNA, transcribed into messenger RNA, which contain the instructions for protein synthesis, thus imparting cellular functionality and ultimately life. This molecular genetic theory has given birth to the field of neuroepigenetics, and it is now well established that epigenetic regulation of gene transcription is critical to the learning and memory process. In this review, we address a potential role for a relatively new player in the field of epigenetic crosstalk - long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). First, we briefly summarize epigenetic mechanisms in memory formation and examine what little is known about the emerging role of lncRNAs during this process. We then focus discussions on how lncRNAs interact with epigenetic mechanisms to control transcriptional programs under various conditions in the brain, and how this may be applied to regulation of gene expression necessary for memory formation. Next, we explore how epigenetic crosstalk in turn serves to regulate expression of various individual lncRNAs themselves. To highlight the importance of further exploring the role of lncRNA in epigenetic regulation of gene expression, we consider the significant relationship between lncRNA dysregulation and declining memory reserve with aging, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy, as well as the promise of novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of the critical questions that remain to be answered regarding a role for lncRNA in memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh B Irwin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rudhab Bahabry
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Farah D Lubin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
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11
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Ibrahim P, Almeida D, Nagy C, Turecki G. Molecular impacts of childhood abuse on the human brain. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 15:100343. [PMID: 34141833 PMCID: PMC8187840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood abuse (CA) is a prevalent global health concern, increasing the risk of negative mental health outcomes later in life. In the literature, CA is commonly defined as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect. Several mental disorders have been associated with CA, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder, along with an increased risk of suicide. It is thought that traumatic life events occurring during childhood and adolescence may have a significant impact on essential brain functions, which may persist throughout adulthood. The interaction between the brain and the external environment can be mediated by epigenetic alterations in gene expression, and there is a growing body of evidence to show that such changes occur as a function of CA. Disruptions in the HPA axis, myelination, plasticity, and signaling have been identified in individuals with a history of CA. Understanding the molecular impact of CA on the brain is essential for the development of treatment and prevention measures. In this review, we will summarize studies that highlight the molecular changes associated with CA in the human brain, along with supporting evidence from peripheral studies and animal models. We will also discuss some of the limitations surrounding the study of CA and propose extracellular vesicles as a promising future approach in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Ibrahim
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel Almeida
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, Quebec, Canada
| | - Corina Nagy
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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12
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Duclot F, Kabbaj M. Epigenetics of Aggression. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2021; 54:283-310. [PMID: 34595741 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2021_252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Aggression is a complex behavioral trait modulated by both genetic and environmental influences on gene expression. By controlling gene expression in a reversible yet potentially lasting manner in response to environmental stimulation, epigenetic mechanisms represent prime candidates in explaining both individual differences in aggression and the development of elevated aggressive behaviors following life adversity. In this manuscript, we review the evidence for an epigenetic basis in the development and expression of aggression in both humans and related preclinical animal models. In particular, we discuss reports linking DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, as well as non-coding RNA, to the regulation of a variety of genes implicated in the neurobiology of aggression including neuropeptides, the serotoninergic and dopaminergic systems, and stress response related systems. While clinical reports do reveal interesting patterns of DNA methylation underlying individual differences and experience-induced aggressive behaviors, they do, in general, face the challenge of linking peripheral observations to central nervous system regulations. Preclinical studies, on the other hand, provide detailed mechanistic insights into the epigenetic reprogramming of gene expression following life adversities. Although the functional link to aggression remains unclear in most, these studies together do highlight the involvement of epigenetic events driven by DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA in the neuroadaptations underlying the development and expression of aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Duclot
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
| | - Mohamed Kabbaj
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
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13
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Li Z, Qian Z, Chen F, Jiang S, Meng L, Chen J. Identification of Key lncRNA-mRNA Pairs and Functional lncRNAs in Breast Cancer by Integrative Analysis of TCGA Data. Front Genet 2021; 12:709514. [PMID: 34490040 PMCID: PMC8417727 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.709514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in many diseases and are involved in the post-transcriptional regulatory network of tumors. The purpose of this study is to mine new lncRNA–mRNA regulatory pairs and analyze the new mechanism of lncRNA involvement in breast cancer progression. Using breast cancer miRNA and mRNA expression profiling from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we identified 59 differentially expressed lncRNAs, 88 differentially expressed miRNAs, and 1,465 differentially expressed mRNAs between breast cancer tissue and adjacent normal breast cancer. Whereafter, four candidate lncRNAs (FGF14-AS2, LINC01235, AC055854.1, and AC124798.1) were identified by the Kaplan–Meier (K–M) plotter. Furthermore, we screened the hub lncRNA (LINC01235) through univariate Cox analysis, multivariate Cox analysis, and qPCR validation, which was significantly correlated with breast cancer stage, ER status, and pathological N. Subsequently, 107 LINC01235-related mRNAs were obtained by combining differentially expressed miRNAs, differentially expressed mRNAs, and LINC01235 targeting miRNAs and mRNAs. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was established by Cytoscape software, and 53 key genes were screened. Function and pathway enrichment showed that LINC01235-related key genes might be involved in the process of cell differentiation, cell proliferation, and p53 signal pathway. In addition, LINC01235 has been confirmed to regulate the proliferation, migration, and invasion of MCF-7 cells in in vitro experiments. Furthermore, we screened three mRNAs (ESR1, ADRA2A, and DTL) associated with breast cancer drug resistance from key genes. Through RNA interference experiments in vitro and correlation analysis, we found that there was a negative feedback mechanism between LINC01235 and ESR1/ADRA2A. In conclusion, our results suggest that LINC01235-ESR1 and LINC01235-ADRA2A could serve as important co-expression pairs in the progression of breast cancer, and LINC01235 plays a key role as an independent prognostic factor in patients with breast cancer. The findings of this work greatly increase our understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Qian
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shujun Jiang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingjia Meng
- Department of General Surgery, Putuo Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinzhong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Neuroepigenetics of psychiatric disorders: Focus on lncRNA. Neurochem Int 2021; 149:105140. [PMID: 34298078 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the pathology of psychiatric disorders is challenging due to their complexity and multifactorial origin. However, development of high-throughput technologies has allowed for better insight into their molecular signatures. Advancement of sequencing methodologies have made it possible to study not only the protein-coding but also the noncoding genome. It is now clear that besides the genetic component, different epigenetic mechanisms play major roles in the onset and development of psychiatric disorders. Among them, examining the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is a relatively new field. Here, we present an overview of what is currently known about the involvement of lncRNAs in schizophrenia, major depressive and bipolar disorders, as well as suicide. The diagnosis of psychiatric disorders mainly relies on clinical evaluation without using measurable biomarkers. In this regard, lncRNA may open new opportunities for development of molecular tests. However, so far only a small set of known lncRNAs have been characterized at molecular level, which means they have a long way to go before clinical implementation. Understanding how changes in lncRNAs affect the appearance and development of psychiatric disorders may lead to a more classified and objective diagnostic system, but also open up new therapeutic targets for these patients.
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15
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Sanfilippo C, Castrogiovanni P, Imbesi R, Lazzarino G, Di Pietro V, Li Volti G, Tibullo D, Barbagallo I, Lazzarino G, Avola R, Musumeci G, Fazio F, Vinciguerra M, Di Rosa M. Sex-dependent monoamine oxidase isoforms expression patterns during human brain ageing. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 197:111516. [PMID: 34097937 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111516] [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: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Human behavior is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) is among the most investigated genetic determinants of violent behaviors, while the monoamine oxidase B (MAOB) is explored in Parkinson's disease. We collected twenty-four post-mortem brain tissue datasets of 3871 and 1820 non-demented males and females, respectively, who died from causes not attributable to neurodegenerative diseases. The gene expressions of MAOA and MAOB (MAO genes) were analyzed in these subjects, who were further stratified according to age into eleven groups ranging from late Infancy (5-9 months) to centenarians (>100 years). MAO genes were differently expressed in brains during the entire life span. In particular, maximal and minimal expression levels were found in early life and around the teen years. Females tended to have higher MAO gene levels throughout their lives than those found in age-matched males, even when expressions were separately measured in different brain regions. We demonstrated the existence of age- and sex- related variations in the MAO transcript levels in defined brain regions. More in-depth protein studies are needed to confirm our preliminary results obtained only on messenger RNAs in order to establish the role played by MAO genes in human development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Sanfilippo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Strada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Paola Castrogiovanni
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Rosa Imbesi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Aging, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Ignazio Barbagallo
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus - Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Avola
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- University of California San Diego, Department of Psychiatry, Health Science, San Diego La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Manlio Vinciguerra
- International Clinical Research Center (FNUSA-ICRC), St' Anne University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Italy.
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16
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Mentis AFA, Dardiotis E, Katsouni E, Chrousos GP. From warrior genes to translational solutions: novel insights into monoamine oxidases (MAOs) and aggression. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:130. [PMID: 33602896 PMCID: PMC7892552 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01257-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The pervasive and frequently devastating nature of aggressive behavior calls for a collective effort to understand its psychosocial and neurobiological underpinnings. Regarding the latter, diverse brain areas, neural networks, neurotransmitters, hormones, and candidate genes have been associated with antisocial and aggressive behavior in humans and animals. This review focuses on the role of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) and the genes coding for them, in the modulation of aggression. During the past 20 years, a substantial number of studies using both pharmacological and genetic approaches have linked the MAO system with aggressive and impulsive behaviors in healthy and clinical populations, including the recent discovery of MAALIN, a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) regulating the MAO-A gene in the human brain. Here, we first provide an overview of the MAOs and their physiological functions, we then summarize recent key findings linking MAO-related enzymatic and gene activity and aggressive behavior, and, finally, we offer novel insights into the mechanisms underlying this association. Using the existing experimental evidence as a foundation, we discuss the translational implications of these findings in clinical practice and highlight what we believe are outstanding conceptual and methodological questions in the field. Ultimately, we propose that unraveling the specific role of MAO in aggression requires an integrated approach, where this question is pursued by combining psychological, radiological, and genetic/genomic assessments. The translational benefits of such an approach include the discovery of novel biomarkers of aggression and targeting the MAO system to modulate pathological aggression in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios-Fotios A Mentis
- Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Vas. Sofias Avenue 127, 115 21, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University of Thessaly, Panepistimiou 3, Viopolis, 41 500, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Katsouni
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - George P Chrousos
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Livadias 8, 115 27, Athens, Greece.
- UNESCO Chair on Adolescent Health Care, Athens, Greece.
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17
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Xie L, Hu Y, Yan D, McQuillan P, Liu Y, Zhu S, Zhu Z, Jiang Y, Hu Z. The relationship between exposure to general anesthetic agents and the risk of developing an impulse control disorder. Pharmacol Res 2021; 165:105440. [PMID: 33493656 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Most studies examining the effect of extended exposure to general anesthetic agents (GAAs) have demonstrated that extended exposure induces both structural and functional changes in the central nervous system. These changes are frequently accompanied by neurobehavioral changes that include impulse control disorders that are generally characterized by deficits in behavioral inhibition and executive function. In this review, we will.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linghua Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuhan Hu
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dandan Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - P McQuillan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Penn State Hershey Medical Centre, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Yue Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengmei Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhirui Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Children Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yilei Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Children Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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18
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Liau WS, Samaddar S, Banerjee S, Bredy TW. On the functional relevance of spatiotemporally-specific patterns of experience-dependent long noncoding RNA expression in the brain. RNA Biol 2021; 18:1025-1036. [PMID: 33397182 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1868165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of transcriptionally active RNA derived from the mammalian genome does not code for protein. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is the most abundant form of noncoding RNA found in the brain and is involved in many aspects of cellular metabolism. Beyond their fundamental role in the nucleus as decoys for RNA-binding proteins associated with alternative splicing or as guides for the epigenetic regulation of protein-coding gene expression, recent findings indicate that activity-induced lncRNAs also regulate neural plasticity. In this review, we discuss how lncRNAs may exert molecular control over brain function beyond their known roles in the nucleus. We propose that subcellular localization is a critical feature of experience-dependent lncRNA activity in the brain, and that lncRNA-mediated control over RNA metabolism at the synapse serves to regulate local mRNA stability and translation, thereby influencing neuronal function, learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Siang Liau
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | | | - Timothy W Bredy
- Cognitive Neuroepigenetics Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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19
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Xu H, Brown AN, Waddell NJ, Liu X, Kaplan GJ, Chitaman JM, Stockman V, Hedinger RL, Adams R, Abreu K, Shen L, Neve R, Wang Z, Nestler EJ, Feng J. Role of Long Noncoding RNA Gas5 in Cocaine Action. Biol Psychiatry 2020; 88:758-766. [PMID: 32711952 PMCID: PMC7584769 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of transcribed RNA molecules greater than 200 nucleotides in length. Although lncRNAs do not encode proteins, they play numerous functional roles in gene expression regulation. lncRNAs are notably abundant in brain; however, their neural functions remain largely unknown. METHODS We examined the expression of the lncRNA Gas5 in nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key brain reward region, of adult male mice after cocaine administration. We then performed viral-mediated overexpression of Gas5 in NAc neurons to determine its role in addiction-related behaviors. We also carried out RNA sequencing to investigate Gas5-mediated transcriptomic changes. RESULTS We demonstrated that repeated short-term or long-term cocaine administration decreased expression of Gas5 in NAc. Viral-mediated overexpression of Gas5 in NAc neurons decreased cocaine-induced conditioned place preference. Likewise, Gas5 overexpression led to decreased cocaine intake, decreased motivation, and compulsive-like behavior to acquire cocaine, and it facilitated extinction of cocaine-seeking behavior. Transcriptome profiling identified numerous Gas5-mediated gene expression changes that are enriched in relevant neural function categories. Interestingly, these Gas5-regulated gene expression changes significantly overlap with chronic cocaine-induced transcriptome alterations, suggesting that Gas5 may serve as an important regulator of transcriptional responses to cocaine. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our study demonstrates a novel lncRNA-based molecular mechanism of cocaine action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyang Xu
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306;,Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, FL 32306
| | - Amber N. Brown
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306
| | - Nicholas J. Waddell
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306
| | - Xiaochuan Liu
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Graham J. Kaplan
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306;,Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, FL 32306
| | - Javed M. Chitaman
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306;,Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, FL 32306
| | - Victoria Stockman
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Rachel L. Hedinger
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306;,Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, FL 32306
| | - Ryan Adams
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306
| | - Kristen Abreu
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306
| | - Li Shen
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Rachael Neve
- Gene Delivery Technology Core, Massachusetts General Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Zuoxin Wang
- Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, FL 32306;,Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306
| | - Eric J. Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Jian Feng
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida; Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida.
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20
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Kolla NJ, Bortolato M. The role of monoamine oxidase A in the neurobiology of aggressive, antisocial, and violent behavior: A tale of mice and men. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 194:101875. [PMID: 32574581 PMCID: PMC7609507 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, research has revealed that genetic factors shape the propensity for aggressive, antisocial, and violent behavior. The best-documented gene implicated in aggression is MAOA (Monoamine oxidase A), which encodes the key enzyme for the degradation of serotonin and catecholamines. Congenital MAOA deficiency, as well as low-activity MAOA variants, has been associated with a higher risk for antisocial behavior (ASB) and violence, particularly in males with a history of child maltreatment. Indeed, the interplay between low MAOA genetic variants and early-life adversity is the best-documented gene × environment (G × E) interaction in the pathophysiology of aggression and ASB. Additional evidence indicates that low MAOA activity in the brain is strongly associated with a higher propensity for aggression; furthermore, MAOA inhibition may be one of the primary mechanisms whereby prenatal smoke exposure increases the risk of ASB. Complementary to these lines of evidence, mouse models of Maoa deficiency and G × E interactions exhibit striking similarities with clinical phenotypes, proving to be valuable tools to investigate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying antisocial and aggressive behavior. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the knowledge on the involvement of MAOA in aggression, as defined by preclinical and clinical evidence. In particular, we show how the convergence of human and animal research is proving helpful to our understanding of how MAOA influences antisocial and violent behavior and how it may assist in the development of preventative and therapeutic strategies for aggressive manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Kolla
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Research Imaging Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada; Violence Prevention Neurobiological Research Unit, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada; Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada; Translational Initiative on Antisocial Personality Disorder (TrIAD); Program of Research on Violence Etiology, Neurobiology, and Treatment (PReVENT).
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Translational Initiative on Antisocial Personality Disorder (TrIAD); Program of Research on Violence Etiology, Neurobiology, and Treatment (PReVENT).
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21
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Arzate-Mejía RG, Lottenbach Z, Schindler V, Jawaid A, Mansuy IM. Long-Term Impact of Social Isolation and Molecular Underpinnings. Front Genet 2020; 11:589621. [PMID: 33193727 PMCID: PMC7649797 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.589621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolonged periods of social isolation can have detrimental effects on the physiology and behavior of exposed individuals in humans and animal models. This involves complex molecular mechanisms across tissues in the body which remain partly identified. This review discusses the biology of social isolation and describes the acute and lasting effects of prolonged periods of social isolation with a focus on the molecular events leading to behavioral alterations. We highlight the role of epigenetic mechanisms and non-coding RNA in the control of gene expression as a response to social isolation, and the consequences for behavior. Considering the use of strict quarantine during epidemics, like currently with COVID-19, we provide a cautionary tale on the indiscriminate implementation of such form of social isolation and its potential damaging and lasting effects in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo G Arzate-Mejía
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Medical Faculty of the University of Zurich and Department of Health Science and Technology of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Neuroscience Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Ali Jawaid
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Medical Faculty of the University of Zurich and Department of Health Science and Technology of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Neuroscience Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle M Mansuy
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Medical Faculty of the University of Zurich and Department of Health Science and Technology of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Neuroscience Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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