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Göver T, Slezak M. Targeting glucocorticoid receptor signaling pathway for treatment of stress-related brain disorders. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:1333-1345. [PMID: 39361217 PMCID: PMC11582215 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00654-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] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a central role in governing stress-related disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Chronic stress or early life trauma, known risk factors of disease, alter HPA axis activity and pattern of glucocorticoid (GC) secretion. These changes have consequences for physiological processes controlled by glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling, such as immune response and metabolism. In the brain, the aberrant GR signaling translates to altered behavior, making the GR pathway a viable target for therapies of stress-related disorders. One of the crucial elements of the pathway is FKBP5, a regulator of GR sensitivity and feedback control within the HPA axis, in which genetic variants were shown to moderate the risk of developing psychiatric conditions. The difficulty in targeting the GR-FKBP5 pathway stems from tailoring the intervention to specific brain regions and cell types, in the context of personalized genetic variations in GR and GR-associated genes, like FKBP5. The development of selective inhibitors, antagonists, and approaches based on targeted protein degradation offer insights into mechanistic aspects of disease and pave the way for improved therapy. These strategies can be employed either independently or in conjunction with conventional medications. Concomitant advancements in personalized drug screening (e.g. in vitro models exploiting induced pluripotent stem cells, iPSCs) bring the potential for optimization of therapy aiming to rescue central deficits originating from the HPA imbalance. In this mini-review, we discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting GR signaling in stress-related disorders, with a focus on personalized approaches and advancements in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tansu Göver
- Lukasiewicz Research Network - PORT Polish Center for Technology Development, ul. Stabłowicka 147, 54-066, Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Biophysics and Neuroscience, Wroclaw Medical University, ul. Chałubińskiego 3A, 50-368, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Michal Slezak
- Lukasiewicz Research Network - PORT Polish Center for Technology Development, ul. Stabłowicka 147, 54-066, Wroclaw, Poland.
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2
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Frame AK, Sinka JL, Courchesne M, Muhammad RA, Grahovac-Nemeth S, Bernards MA, Bartha R, Cumming RC. Altered neuronal lactate dehydrogenase A expression affects cognition in a sex- and age-dependent manner. iScience 2024; 27:110342. [PMID: 39055955 PMCID: PMC11269950 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110342] [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] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle (ANLS) model posits that astrocyte-generated lactate is transported to neurons to fuel memory processes. However, neurons express high levels of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), the rate-limiting enzyme of lactate production, suggesting a cognitive role for neuronally generated lactate. It was hypothesized that lactate metabolism in neurons is critical for learning and memory. Here transgenic mice were generated to conditionally induce or knockout (KO) the Ldha gene in CNS neurons of adult mice. High pattern separation memory was enhanced by neuronal Ldha induction in young females, and by neuronal Ldha KO in aged females. In older mice, Ldha induction caused cognitive deficits whereas Ldha KO caused cognitive improvements. Genotype-associated cognitive changes were often only observed in one sex or oppositely in males and females. Thus, neuronal-generated lactate has sex-specific cognitive effects, is largely indispensable at young age, and may be detrimental to learning and memory with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel K. Frame
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Jessica L. Sinka
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Marc Courchesne
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | | | | | - Mark A. Bernards
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Robert Bartha
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Robert C. Cumming
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
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Verma C, Jain K, Saini A, Mani I, Singh V. Exploring the potential of drug repurposing for treating depression. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 207:79-105. [PMID: 38942546 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Researchers are interested in drug repurposing or drug repositioning of existing pharmaceuticals because of rising costs and slower rates of new medication development. Other investigations that authorized these treatments used data from experimental research and off-label drug use. More research into the causes of depression could lead to more effective pharmaceutical repurposing efforts. In addition to the loss of neurotransmitters like serotonin and adrenaline, inflammation, inadequate blood flow, and neurotoxins are now thought to be plausible mechanisms. Because of these other mechanisms, repurposing drugs has resulted for treatment-resistant depression. This chapter focuses on therapeutic alternatives and their effectiveness in drug repositioning. Atypical antipsychotics, central nervous system stimulants, and neurotransmitter antagonists have investigated for possible repurposing. Nonetheless, extensive research is required to ensure their formulation, effectiveness, and regulatory compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaitenya Verma
- Department of Pathology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kritika Jain
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashok Saini
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Indra Mani
- Department of Microbiology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India.
| | - Vijai Singh
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, India.
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4
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Holt LM, Nestler EJ. Astrocytic transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of drug addiction. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:409-424. [PMID: 37940687 PMCID: PMC11066772 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02716-4] [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] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Addiction is a leading cause of disease burden worldwide and remains a challenge in current neuroscience research. Drug-induced lasting changes in gene expression are mediated by transcriptional and epigenetic regulation in the brain and are thought to underlie behavioral adaptations. Emerging evidence implicates astrocytes in regulating drug-seeking behaviors and demonstrates robust transcriptional response to several substances of abuse. This review focuses on the astrocytic transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of drug action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne M Holt
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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Cui L, Li S, Wang S, Wu X, Liu Y, Yu W, Wang Y, Tang Y, Xia M, Li B. Major depressive disorder: hypothesis, mechanism, prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:30. [PMID: 38331979 PMCID: PMC10853571 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01738-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, the incidence of major depressive disorder (MDD) is increasing annually, resulting in greater economic and social burdens. Moreover, the pathological mechanisms of MDD and the mechanisms underlying the effects of pharmacological treatments for MDD are complex and unclear, and additional diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for MDD still are needed. The currently widely accepted theories of MDD pathogenesis include the neurotransmitter and receptor hypothesis, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hypothesis, cytokine hypothesis, neuroplasticity hypothesis and systemic influence hypothesis, but these hypothesis cannot completely explain the pathological mechanism of MDD. Even it is still hard to adopt only one hypothesis to completely reveal the pathogenesis of MDD, thus in recent years, great progress has been made in elucidating the roles of multiple organ interactions in the pathogenesis MDD and identifying novel therapeutic approaches and multitarget modulatory strategies, further revealing the disease features of MDD. Furthermore, some newly discovered potential pharmacological targets and newly studied antidepressants have attracted widespread attention, some reagents have even been approved for clinical treatment and some novel therapeutic methods such as phototherapy and acupuncture have been discovered to have effective improvement for the depressive symptoms. In this work, we comprehensively summarize the latest research on the pathogenesis and diagnosis of MDD, preventive approaches and therapeutic medicines, as well as the related clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Cui
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Siman Wang
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiafang Wu
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Yingyu Liu
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Weiyang Yu
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong Tang
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling/Key Laboratory of Acupuncture for Senile Disease (Chengdu University of TCM), Ministry of Education/School of Health and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture and Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Maosheng Xia
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Baoman Li
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-evidence Sciences, Shenyang, China.
- China Medical University Centre of Forensic Investigation, Shenyang, China.
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Chen W, Zhang Y, Liang J, Zhang Z, Zhang L, Huang E, Zhang G, Lu L, Han Y, Shi J. Disrupting astrocyte-neuron lactate transport prevents cocaine seeking after prolonged withdrawal. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi4462. [PMID: 37878699 PMCID: PMC10599624 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi4462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Energy supply, especially the transfer of lactate from astrocytes to neurons, is critical for neuronal plasticity. However, its role in the incubation of cocaine craving remains largely unknown. Using an extended-access self-administration model and in vivo 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we found that lactate synthesis in the central amygdala (CeA) is required for the intensified cocaine craving after prolonged withdrawal. Furthermore, incubated cocaine seeking was associated with a selective increase in monocarboxylate transporter 2 (MCT2) and MCT4 expression levels. Down-regulation of astrocytic MCT4 or neuronal MCT2 using targeted antisense oligonucleotides or cell type-specific shRNA attenuated cocaine craving and reduced the expression of plasticity-related proteins and excitatory synaptic transmission. Meanwhile, lactate administration rescued MCT4 but not MCT2 disruption-induced behavioral changes due to the inability of lactate to be transported into neurons. Together, our study highlights the critical role of astrocyte-neuron lactate transport in the CeA in the incubation of cocaine craving and suggests a potential therapeutic target for drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Chen
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Liang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhongyu Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Libo Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Enze Huang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guipeng Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Lin Lu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ying Han
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- The Key Laboratory for Neuroscience of the Ministry of Education and Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
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7
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Shigetomi E, Koizumi S. The role of astrocytes in behaviors related to emotion and motivation. Neurosci Res 2023; 187:21-39. [PMID: 36181908 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are present throughout the brain and intimately interact with neurons and blood vessels. Three decades of research have shown that astrocytes reciprocally communicate with neurons and other non-neuronal cells in the brain and dynamically regulate cell function. Astrocytes express numerous receptors for neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and cytokines and receive information from neurons, other astrocytes, and other non-neuronal cells. Among those receptors, the main focus has been G-protein coupled receptors. Activation of G-protein coupled receptors leads to dramatic changes in intracellular signaling (Ca2+ and cAMP), which is considered a form of astrocyte activity. Methodological improvements in measurement and manipulation of astrocytes have advanced our understanding of the role of astrocytes in circuits and have begun to reveal unexpected functions of astrocytes in behavior. Recent studies have suggested that astrocytic activity regulates behavior flexibility, such as coping strategies for stress exposure, and plays an important role in behaviors related to emotion and motivation. Preclinical evidence suggests that impairment of astrocytic function contributes to psychiatric diseases, especially major depression. Here, we review recent progress on the role of astrocytes in behaviors related to emotion and motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan; Yamanashi GLIA Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan.
| | - Schuichi Koizumi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan; Yamanashi GLIA Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan.
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8
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Miguel-Hidalgo JJ. Role of stress-related glucocorticoid changes in astrocyte-oligodendrocyte interactions that regulate myelin production and maintenance. Histol Histopathol 2023; 38:1-8. [PMID: 35652516 PMCID: PMC9843868 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Repeated activation of stress responses and elevated corticosteroids result in alterations of neuronal physiology and metabolism, and lead to disturbances of normal connectivity between neurons in various brain regions. In addition, stress responses are also associated with anomalies in the function of glial cells, particularly astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, which in turn may further contribute to the mechanisms of neuronal dysfunction. The actions of corticosteroids on astrocytes are very likely mediated by the presence of intracellular and cell membrane-bound CORT receptors. Although apparently less abundant than in astrocytes, activation of CORT receptors in oligodendrocytes also leads to structural changes that are reflected in myelin maintenance and plasticity. The close interactions between astrocytes and oligodendrocytes through extracellular matrix molecules, soluble factors and astrocyte-oligodendrocyte gap junctions very likely mediate part of the disturbances in myelin structure, leading to plastic myelin adaptations or pathological myelin disruptions that may significantly influence brain connectivity. Likewise, the intimate association of the tips of some astrocytes processes with a majority of nodes of Ranvier in the white matter suggest that stress and overexposure to corticosteroids may lead to remodeling of node of Ranvier and their specific extracellular milieu.
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Liu J, Mo JW, Wang X, An Z, Zhang S, Zhang CY, Yi P, Leong ATL, Ren J, Chen LY, Mo R, Xie Y, Feng Q, Chen W, Gao TM, Wu EX, Feng Y, Cao X. Astrocyte dysfunction drives abnormal resting-state functional connectivity in depression. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo2098. [PMID: 36383661 PMCID: PMC9668300 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo2098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a devastating mental disorder that affects up to 17% of the population worldwide. Although brain-wide network-level abnormalities in MDD patients via resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) exist, the mechanisms underlying these network changes are unknown, despite their immense potential for depression diagnosis and management. Here, we show that the astrocytic calcium-deficient mice, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-type-2 receptor knockout mice (Itpr2-/- mice), display abnormal rsfMRI functional connectivity (rsFC) in depression-related networks, especially decreased rsFC in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC)-related pathways. We further uncover rsFC decreases in MDD patients highly consistent with those of Itpr2-/- mice, especially in mPFC-related pathways. Optogenetic activation of mPFC astrocytes partially enhances rsFC in depression-related networks in both Itpr2-/- and wild-type mice. Optogenetic activation of the mPFC neurons or mPFC-striatum pathway rescues disrupted rsFC and depressive-like behaviors in Itpr2-/- mice. Our results identify the previously unknown role of astrocyte dysfunction in driving rsFC abnormalities in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaming Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Wen Mo
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xunda Wang
- Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Signal Processing, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ziqi An
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuangyang Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Can-Yuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Peiwei Yi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Alex T. L. Leong
- Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Signal Processing, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jing Ren
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Liang-Yu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ran Mo
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yuanyao Xie
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianjin Feng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wufan Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Ming Gao
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ed X. Wu
- Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Signal Processing, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yanqiu Feng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Image Processing, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Medical Imaging and Diagnostic Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Department of Radiology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde, Foshan), Foshan, China
| | - Xiong Cao
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
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Glucocorticoid-Regulated Kinase CAMKIγ in the Central Amygdala Controls Anxiety-like Behavior in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012328. [PMID: 36293185 PMCID: PMC9604347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012328] [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] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase I gamma (encoded by the Camk1g gene) depends on the activation of glucocorticoid receptors (GR) and is strongly regulated by stress. Since Camk1g is primarily expressed in neuronal cells of the limbic system in the brain, we hypothesized that it could be involved in signaling mechanisms that underlie the adaptive or maladaptive responses to stress. Here, we find that restraint-induced stress and the GR agonist dexamethasone robustly increase the expression of Camk1g in neurons of the amygdalar nuclei in the mouse brain. To assess the functional role of Camk1g expression, we performed a virally induced knock-down of the transcript. Mice with bilateral amygdala-specific Camk1g knock-down showed increased anxiety-like behaviors in the light-dark box, and an increase in freezing behavior after fear-conditioning, but normal spatial working memory during exploration of a Y-maze. Thus, we confirm that Camk1g is a neuron-specific GR-regulated transcript, and show that it is specifically involved in behaviors related to anxiety, as well as responses conditioned by aversive stimuli.
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Tertil M, Skupio U, Kudla L, Wiktorowska L, Przewlocki R. Astroglial Knockout of Glucocorticoid Receptor Attenuates Morphine Withdrawal Symptoms, but Not Antinociception and Tolerance in Mice. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 42:2423-2426. [PMID: 33821329 PMCID: PMC9418269 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01086-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The development of tolerance and drug dependence limit the clinical application of opioids for the treatment of severe pain. Glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) are among molecular substrates involved in these processes. Most studies focus on the role of neuronal GR, while the involvement of GR on glial cells is not fully understood. To address this issue, we used a transgenic model of conditional GR knockout mice, targeted to connexin 30-expressing astrocytes, treated with repeated doses of morphine. We observed no difference between control mice and astrocytic GR knockouts in the development of antinociceptive tolerance. Nevertheless, when animals were subjected to precipitated withdrawal, knockouts presented some attenuated symptoms, including jumping. Taken together, our data suggest that hippocampal and spinal astrocytic GRs appear to be involved in opioid withdrawal, and drugs targeting the GR may relieve some symptoms of morphine withdrawal without influencing its antinociceptive properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Tertil
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Urszula Skupio
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Smetna 12, 31-343, Krakow, Poland
| | - Lucja Kudla
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Smetna 12, 31-343, Krakow, Poland
| | - Lucja Wiktorowska
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Smetna 12, 31-343, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ryszard Przewlocki
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Smetna 12, 31-343, Krakow, Poland.
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12
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Single nucleus transcriptomic analysis of rat nucleus accumbens reveals cell type-specific patterns of gene expression associated with volitional morphine intake. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:374. [PMID: 36075888 PMCID: PMC9458645 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02135-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid exposure is known to cause transcriptomic changes in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). However, no studies to date have investigated cell type-specific transcriptomic changes associated with volitional opioid taking. Here, we use single nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) to comprehensively characterize cell type-specific alterations of the NAc transcriptome in rats self-administering morphine. One cohort of male Brown Norway rats was injected with acute morphine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline. A second cohort of rats was allowed to self-administer intravenous morphine (1.0 mg/kg/infusion) for 10 consecutive days. Each morphine-experienced rat was paired with a yoked saline control rat. snRNAseq libraries were generated from NAc punches and used to identify cell type-specific gene expression changes associated with volitional morphine taking. We identified 1106 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the acute morphine group, compared to 2453 DEGs in the morphine self-administration group, across 27 distinct cell clusters. Importantly, we identified 1329 DEGs that were specific to morphine self-administration. DEGs were identified in novel clusters of astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and D1R- and D2R-expressing medium spiny neurons in the NAc. Cell type-specific DEGs included Rgs9, Celf5, Oprm1, and Pde10a. Upregulation of Rgs9 and Celf5 in D2R-expressing neurons was validated by RNAscope. Approximately 85% of all oligodendrocyte DEGs, nearly all of which were associated with morphine taking, were identified in two subtypes. Bioinformatic analyses identified cell type-specific upstream regulatory mechanisms of the observed transcriptome alterations and downstream signaling pathways, including both novel and previously identified molecular pathways. These findings show that volitional morphine taking is associated with distinct cell type-specific transcriptomic changes in the rat NAc and highlight specific striatal cell populations and novel molecular substrates that could be targeted to reduce compulsive opioid taking.
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13
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Looking to the stars for answers: Strategies for determining how astrocytes influence neuronal activity. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:4146-4156. [PMID: 36016711 PMCID: PMC9379862 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are critical components of neural circuits positioned in close proximity to the synapse, allowing them to rapidly sense and respond to neuronal activity. One repeatedly observed biomarker of astroglial activation is an increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels. These astroglial Ca2+ signals are often observed spreading throughout various cellular compartments from perisynaptic astroglial processes, to major astrocytic branches and on to the soma or cell body. Here we review recent evidence demonstrating that astrocytic Ca2+ events are remarkably heterogeneous in both form and function, propagate through the astroglial syncytia, and are directly linked to the ability of astroglia to influence local neuronal activity. As many of the cellular functions of astroglia can be linked to intracellular Ca2+ signaling, and the diversity and heterogeneity of these events becomes more apparent, there is an increasing need for novel experimental strategies designed to better understand the how these signals evolve in parallel with neuronal activity. Here we review the recent advances that enable the characterization of both subcellular and population-wide astrocytic Ca2+ dynamics. Additionally, we also outline the experimental design required for simultaneous in vivo Ca2+ imaging in the context of neuronal or astroglial manipulation, highlighting new experimental strategies made possible by recent advances in viral vector, imaging, and quantification technologies. Through combined usage of these reagents and methodologies, we provide a conceptual framework to study how astrocytes functionally integrate into neural circuits and to what extent they influence and direct the synaptic activity underlying behavioral responses.
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14
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Chen W, Meng S, Han Y, Shi J. Astrocytes: the neglected stars in the central nervous system and drug addiction. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:417-426. [PMID: 37724324 PMCID: PMC10388769 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of improved tools to examine the astrocytes, which have been believed to play a supportive role in the central nervous system (CNS) for years, their participation in the operation of the CNS and drug addiction was unveiled. Assisting the formation and function of the CNS, astrocytes are involved in physiological and pathological brain activities. Drug addiction is a pervasive psychiatric disorder, characterized by compulsive drug-taking behavior and high rate of relapse, impacting individual health and society stability and safety. When exposed to drugs of abuse, astrocytes go through a series of alterations, contributing to the development of addiction. Here we review how astrocytes contribute to the CNS and drug addiction. We hope that understanding the interaction between addictive drugs and astrocytes may help discover new mechanisms underlying the addiction and produce novel therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Chen
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shiqiu Meng
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Han
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- The Key Laboratory for Neuroscience of the Ministry of Education and Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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15
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Becker-Krail DD, Ketchesin KD, Burns JN, Zong W, Hildebrand MA, DePoy LM, Vadnie CA, Tseng GC, Logan RW, Huang YH, McClung CA. Astrocyte Molecular Clock Function in the Nucleus Accumbens Is Important for Reward-Related Behavior. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 92:68-80. [PMID: 35461698 PMCID: PMC9232937 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use disorders are associated with disruptions in circadian rhythms. Both human and animal work have shown the integral role for circadian clocks in the modulation of reward behaviors. Astrocytes have emerged as key regulators of circadian rhythmicity. However, no studies to date have identified the role of circadian astrocyte function in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a hub for reward regulation, or determined the importance of these rhythms for reward-related behavior. METHODS Using astrocyte-specific RNA sequencing across time of day, we first characterized diurnal variation of the NAc astrocyte transcriptome. We then investigated the functional significance of this circadian regulation through viral-mediated disruption of molecular clock function in NAc astrocytes, followed by assessment of reward-related behaviors, metabolic-related molecular assays, and whole-cell electrophysiology in the NAc. RESULTS Strikingly, approximately 43% of the astrocyte transcriptome has a diurnal rhythm, and key metabolic pathways were enriched among the top rhythmic genes. Moreover, mice with a viral-mediated loss of molecular clock function in NAc astrocytes show a significant increase in locomotor response to novelty, exploratory drive, operant food self-administration, and motivation. At the molecular level, these animals also show disrupted metabolic gene expression, along with significant downregulation of both lactate and glutathione levels in the NAc. Loss of NAc astrocyte clock function also significantly altered glutamatergic signaling onto neighboring medium spiny neurons, alongside upregulated glutamate-related gene expression. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these findings demonstrate a novel role for astrocyte circadian molecular clock function in the regulation of the NAc and reward-related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darius D Becker-Krail
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kyle D Ketchesin
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer N Burns
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wei Zong
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Mariah A Hildebrand
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lauren M DePoy
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Chelsea A Vadnie
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - George C Tseng
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ryan W Logan
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yanhua H Huang
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Colleen A McClung
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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16
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Duttke SH, Montilla-Perez P, Chang MW, Li H, Chen H, Carrette LLG, de Guglielmo G, George O, Palmer AA, Benner C, Telese F. Glucocorticoid Receptor-Regulated Enhancers Play a Central Role in the Gene Regulatory Networks Underlying Drug Addiction. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:858427. [PMID: 35651629 PMCID: PMC9149415 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.858427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Substance abuse and addiction represent a significant public health problem that impacts multiple dimensions of society, including healthcare, the economy, and the workforce. In 2021, over 100,000 drug overdose deaths were reported in the US, with an alarming increase in fatalities related to opioids and psychostimulants. Understanding the fundamental gene regulatory mechanisms underlying addiction and related behaviors could facilitate more effective treatments. To explore how repeated drug exposure alters gene regulatory networks in the brain, we combined capped small (cs)RNA-seq, which accurately captures nascent-like initiating transcripts from total RNA, with Hi-C and single nuclei (sn)ATAC-seq. We profiled initiating transcripts in two addiction-related brain regions, the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the nucleus accumbens (NAc), from rats that were never exposed to drugs or were subjected to prolonged abstinence after oxycodone or cocaine intravenous self-administration (IVSA). Interrogating over 100,000 active transcription start regions (TSRs) revealed that most TSRs had hallmarks of bonafide enhancers and highlighted the KLF/SP1, RFX, and AP1 transcription factors families as central to establishing brain-specific gene regulatory programs. Analysis of rats with addiction-like behaviors versus controls identified addiction-associated repression of transcription at regulatory enhancers recognized by nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C (NR3C) factors, including glucocorticoid receptors. Cell-type deconvolution analysis using snATAC-seq uncovered a potential role of glial cells in driving the gene regulatory programs associated with addiction-related phenotypes. These findings highlight the power of advanced transcriptomics methods to provide insight into how addiction perturbs gene regulatory programs in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha H. Duttke
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | | | - Max W. Chang
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Hairi Li
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Addiction Science and Toxicology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | | | - Giordano de Guglielmo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Olivier George
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Abraham A. Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Christopher Benner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Francesca Telese
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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17
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Recent behavioral findings of pathophysiological involvement of lactate in the central nervous system. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2022; 1866:130137. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2022.130137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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18
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Involvement of Hippocampal Astrocytic Connexin-43 in Morphine dependence. Physiol Behav 2022; 247:113710. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.113710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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19
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Lundquist AJ, Llewellyn GN, Kishi SH, Jakowec NA, Cannon PM, Petzinger GM, Jakowec MW. Knockdown of Astrocytic Monocarboxylate Transporter 4 in the Motor Cortex Leads to Loss of Dendritic Spines and a Deficit in Motor Learning. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 59:1002-1017. [PMID: 34822124 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02651-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) shuttle molecules, including L-lactate, involved in metabolism and cell signaling of the central nervous system. Astrocyte-specific MCT4 is a key component of the astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle (ANLS) and is important for neuroplasticity and learning of the hippocampus. However, the importance of astrocyte-specific MCT4 in neuroplasticity of the M1 primary motor cortex remains unknown. In this study, we investigated astrocyte-specific MCT4 in motor learning and neuroplasticity of the M1 primary motor cortex using a cell-type specific shRNA knockdown of MCT4. Knockdown of astrocyte-specific MCT4 resulted in impaired motor performance and learning on the accelerating rotarod. In addition, MCT4 knockdown was associated with a reduction of neuronal dendritic spine density and spine width and decreased protein expression of PSD95, Arc, and cFos. Using near-infrared-conjugated 2-deoxyglucose uptake as a surrogate marker for neuronal activity, MCT4 knockdown was also associated with decreased neuronal activity in the M1 primary motor cortex and associated motor regions including the dorsal striatum and ventral thalamus. Our study supports a potential role for astrocyte-specific MCT4 and the ANLS in the neuroplasticity of the M1 primary motor cortex. Targeting MCT4 may serve to enhance neuroplasticity and motor repair in several neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Lundquist
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA. .,Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, 1333 San Pablo St, MCA-241, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
| | - George N Llewellyn
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Susan H Kishi
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, 1333 San Pablo St, MCA-241, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Nicolaus A Jakowec
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.,Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Paula M Cannon
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Giselle M Petzinger
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, 1333 San Pablo St, MCA-241, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Michael W Jakowec
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, 1333 San Pablo St, MCA-241, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
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20
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Covelo A, Eraso-Pichot A, Fernández-Moncada I, Serrat R, Marsicano G. CB1R-dependent regulation of astrocyte physiology and astrocyte-neuron interactions. Neuropharmacology 2021; 195:108678. [PMID: 34157362 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in a variety of brain functions, mainly through the activation of the type-1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R). CB1R are highly expressed throughout the brain at different structural, cellular and subcellular locations and its activity and expression levels have a direct impact in synaptic activity and behavior. In the last few decades, astrocytes have arisen as active players of brain physiology through their participation in the tripartite synapse and through their metabolic interaction with neurons. Here, we discuss some of the mechanisms by which astroglial CB1R at different subcellular locations, regulate astrocyte calcium signals and have an impact on gliotransmission and metabolic regulation. In addition, we discuss evidence pointing at astrocytes as potential important sources of endocannabinoid synthesis and release. Thus, we summarize recent findings that add further complexity and establish that the ECS is a fundamental effector of astrocyte functions in the brain. This article is part of the special issue on 'Cannabinoids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Covelo
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, 33077, France
| | - Abel Eraso-Pichot
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, 33077, France
| | - Ignacio Fernández-Moncada
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, 33077, France
| | - Román Serrat
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, 33077, France; INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology, UMR 1286, 33077, Bordeaux, France
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, 33077, France.
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21
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Diaz-Jimenez D, Kolb JP, Cidlowski JA. Glucocorticoids as Regulators of Macrophage-Mediated Tissue Homeostasis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:669891. [PMID: 34079551 PMCID: PMC8165320 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.669891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our immune system has evolved as a complex network of cells and tissues tasked with maintaining host homeostasis. This is evident during the inflammatory responses elicited during a microbial infection or traumatic tissue damage. These responses seek to eliminate foreign material or restore tissue integrity. Even during periods without explicit disturbances, the immune system plays prominent roles in tissue homeostasis. Perhaps one of the most studied cells in this regard is the macrophage. Tissue-resident macrophages are a heterogenous group of sensory cells that respond to a variety of environmental cues and are essential for organ function. Endogenously produced glucocorticoid hormones connect external environmental stress signals with the function of many cell types, producing profound changes in immune cells, including macrophages. Here, we review the current literature which demonstrates specific effects of glucocorticoids in several organ systems. We propose that tissue-resident macrophages, through glucocorticoid signaling, may play an underappreciated role as regulators of organ homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Diaz-Jimenez
- Molecular Endocrinology Group, Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Joseph P Kolb
- Molecular Endocrinology Group, Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - John A Cidlowski
- Molecular Endocrinology Group, Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
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22
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Taylor WW, Imhoff BR, Sathi ZS, Liu WY, Garza KM, Dias BG. Contributions of glucocorticoid receptors in cortical astrocytes to memory recall. Learn Mem 2021; 28:126-133. [PMID: 33723032 PMCID: PMC7970741 DOI: 10.1101/lm.053041.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Dysfunctions in memory recall lead to pathological fear; a hallmark of trauma-related disorders, like posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Both, heightened recall of an association between a cue and trauma, as well as impoverished recall that a previously trauma-related cue is no longer a threat, result in a debilitating fear toward the cue. Glucocorticoid-mediated action via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) influences memory recall. This literature has primarily focused on GRs expressed in neurons or ignored cell-type specific contributions. To ask how GR action in nonneuronal cells influences memory recall, we combined auditory fear conditioning in mice and the knockout of GRs in astrocytes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a brain region implicated in memory recall. We found that knocking out GRs in astrocytes of the PFC disrupted memory recall. Specifically, we found that knocking out GRs in astrocytes in the PFC (AstroGRKO) after fear conditioning resulted in higher levels of freezing to the CS+ tone when compared with controls (AstroGRintact). While we did not find any differences in extinction of fear toward the CS+ between these groups, AstroGRKO female but not male mice showed impaired recall of extinction training. These results suggest that GRs in cortical astrocytes contribute to memory recall. These data demonstrate the need to examine GR action in cortical astrocytes to elucidate the basic neurobiology underlying memory recall and potential mechanisms that underlie female-specific biases in the incidence of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- William W Taylor
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90007, USA
- Developmental Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Program, Division of Research on Children, Youth, and Families, The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA
| | - Barry R Imhoff
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Zakia Sultana Sathi
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Wei Y Liu
- Developmental Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Program, Division of Research on Children, Youth, and Families, The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA
| | - Kristie M Garza
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Brian G Dias
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90007, USA
- Developmental Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Program, Division of Research on Children, Youth, and Families, The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA
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23
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Wiktorowska L, Bilecki W, Tertil M, Kudla L, Szumiec L, Mackowiak M, Przewlocki R. Knockdown of the astrocytic glucocorticoid receptor in the central nucleus of the amygdala diminishes conditioned fear expression and anxiety. Behav Brain Res 2021; 402:113095. [PMID: 33359366 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.113095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The amygdala is a key structure involved in both physiological and behavioural effects of fearful and stressful stimuli. The central stress response is controlled by the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis via glucocorticoid hormones, acting mainly through glucocorticoid receptors (GR), widely expressed among different brain regions, including the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). Although to date, neuronal GR was postulated to be involved in the mediating stress effects, increasing evidence points to the vital role of glial GR. Here, we aimed to evaluate the role of astrocytic GR in CeA in various aspects of the stress response. We used a lentiviral vector to disrupt an astrocytic GR in the CeA of Aldh1l1-Cre transgenic mice. Astrocytic GR knockdown mice (GR KD) exhibited an attenuated expression of fear-related memory in the fear conditioning paradigm. Interestingly, the consolidation of non-stressful memory in the novel object recognition test remained unchanged. Moreover, GR KD group presented reduced anxiety, measured in the open field test. However, knockdown of astrocytic GR in the CeA did not affect an acute response to stress in the tail suspension test. Taken together, obtained results suggest that astrocytic GR in the CeA promotes aversive memory consolidation and some aspects of anxiety behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucja Wiktorowska
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Wiktor Bilecki
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Tertil
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Lucja Kudla
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Lukasz Szumiec
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marzena Mackowiak
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ryszard Przewlocki
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland.
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24
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Peng S, Peng Z, Qin M, Huang L, Zhao B, Wei L, Ning J, Tuo QH, Yuan TF, Shi Z, Liao DF. Targeting neuroinflammation: The therapeutic potential of ω-3 PUFAs in substance abuse. Nutrition 2020; 83:111058. [PMID: 33360033 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2020.111058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Substance abuse is a chronic relapsing disorder that results in serious health and socioeconomic issues worldwide. Addictive drugs induce long-lasting morphologic and functional changes in brain circuits and account for the formation of compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking behaviors. Yet, there remains a lack of reliable therapy. In recent years, accumulating evidence indicated that neuroinflammation was implicated in the development of drug addiction. Findings from both our and other laboratories suggest that ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are effective in treating neuroinflammation-related mental diseases, and indicate that they could exert positive effects in treating drug addiction. Thus, in the present review, we summarized and evaluated recently published articles reporting the neuroinflammation mechanism in drug addiction and the immune regulatory ability of ω-3 PUFAs. We also sought to identify some of the challenges ahead in the translation of ω-3 PUFAs into addiction treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Peng
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, China
| | - Zhuang Peng
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, China
| | - Meng Qin
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Huang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jie Ning
- Department of Metabolic Endocrinology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qin-Hui Tuo
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, China
| | - Ti-Fei Yuan
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhe Shi
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, China.
| | - Duan-Fang Liao
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan, China.
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25
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Abstract
In this issue of Neuron, Corkrum et al. (2020) demonstrate an unexpected role for dopamine D1 receptors on astrocytes located in the nucleus accumbens, a key structure of the brain's reward system. Activation of these receptors mediates dopamine-evoked depression of excitatory synaptic transmission, which contributes to amphetamine's psychomotor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen P H Verharen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Johannes W de Jong
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Stephan Lammel
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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26
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Glial neuroimmune signaling in opioid reward. Brain Res Bull 2019; 155:102-111. [PMID: 31790721 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic is a growing public concern affecting millions of people worldwide. Opioid-induced reward is the initial and key process leading to opioid abuse and addiction. Therefore, a better understanding of opioid reward may be helpful in developing a treatment for opioid addiction. Emerging evidence suggests that glial cells, particularly microglia and astrocytes, play an essential role in modulating opioid reward. Indeed, glial cells and their associated immune signaling actively regulate neural activity and plasticity, and directly modulate opioid-induced rewarding behaviors. In this review, we describe the neuroimmune mechanisms of how glial cells affect synaptic transmission and plasticity as well as how opioids can activate glial cells affecting the glial-neuronal interaction. Last, we summarize current attempts of applying glial modulators in treating opioid reward.
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