1
|
Lalonde R, Strazielle C. Neurochemical Anatomy of Cushing's Syndrome. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1945-1964. [PMID: 38833089 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04172-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The neurochemical anatomy underlying Cushing's syndrome is examined for regional brain metabolism as well as neurotransmitter levels and receptor binding of biogenic amines and amino acids. Preliminary studies generally indicate that glucose uptake, blood flow, and activation on fMRI scans decreased in neocortical areas and increased in subcortical areas of patients with Cushing's syndrome or disease. Glucocorticoid-mediated increases in hippocampal metabolism occurred despite in vitro evidence of glucocorticoid-induced decreases in glucose uptake or consumption, indicating that in vivo increases are the result of indirect, compensatory, or preliminary responses. In animal studies, glucocorticoid administration decreased 5HT levels and 5HT1A receptor binding in several brain regions while adrenalectomy increased such binding. Region-specific effects were also obtained in regard to the dopaminergic system, with predominant actions of glucocorticoid-induced potentiation of reuptake blockers and releasing agents. More in-depth neuroanatomical analyses are warranted of these and amino acid-related neurotransmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Lalonde
- Laboratory of Stress, Immunity, Pathogens (UR SIMPA), University of Lorraine, Campus Santé, Bât A/B 9, avenue de la Forêt de Haye, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, 54500, France.
| | - Catherine Strazielle
- Laboratory of Stress, Immunity, Pathogens (UR SIMPA), University of Lorraine, Campus Santé, Bât A/B 9, avenue de la Forêt de Haye, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, 54500, France
- CHRU Nancy, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Long Y, Ren J, Cheng F, Duan Y, Wang B, Sun Y, Sun Q, Bian L, Yi J, Qin Y, Huang R, Guo W, Jiang H, Liu C, Feng X, Qin L. Identifying gray matter alterations in Cushing's disease using machine learning: An interpretable approach. Med Phys 2024. [PMID: 38558279 DOI: 10.1002/mp.17032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cushing's Disease (CD) is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by excessive secretion of adrenocorticotrophic hormone, leading to significant functional and structural brain alterations as observed in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). While traditional statistical analysis has been widely employed to investigate these MRI changes in CD, it has lacked the ability to predict individual-level outcomes. PURPOSE To address this problem, this paper has proposed an interpretable machine learning (ML) framework, including model-level assessment, feature-level assessment, and biology-level assessment to ensure a comprehensive analysis based on structural MRI of CD. METHODS The ML framework has effectively identified the changes in brain regions in the stage of model-level assessment, verified the effectiveness of these altered brain regions to predict CD from normal controls in the stage of feature-level assessment, and carried out a correlation analysis between altered brain regions and clinical symptoms in the stage of biology-level assessment. RESULTS The experimental results of this study have demonstrated that the Insula, Fusiform gyrus, Superior frontal gyrus, Precuneus, and the opercular portion of the Inferior frontal gyrus of CD showed significant alterations in brain regions. Furthermore, our study has revealed significant correlations between clinical symptoms and the frontotemporal lobes, insulin, and olfactory cortex, which also have been confirmed by previous studies. CONCLUSIONS The ML framework proposed in this study exhibits exceptional potential in uncovering the intricate pathophysiological mechanisms underlying CD, with potential applicability in diagnosing other diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Long
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - FuChao Cheng
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - YuMei Duan
- Department of Computer and Software, Chengdu Jincheng College, Chengdu, China
| | - BaoFeng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - QingFang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - LiuGuan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - JunChen Yi
- International Foundation ProgramInternational CollegeGuangxi University, Guangxi, China
| | - Ying Qin
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | | | - WeiTong Guo
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Liu
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Feng
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ling Qin
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Eachus H, Ryu S. Glucocorticoid effects on the brain: from adaptive developmental plasticity to allostatic overload. J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb246128. [PMID: 38449327 PMCID: PMC10949071 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to stress during early life may alter the developmental trajectory of an animal by a mechanism known as adaptive plasticity. For example, to enhance reproductive success in an adverse environment, it is known that animals accelerate their growth during development. However, these short-term fitness benefits are often associated with reduced longevity, a phenomenon known as the growth rate-lifespan trade-off. In humans, early life stress exposure compromises health later in life and increases disease susceptibility. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are major stress hormones implicated in these processes. This Review discusses the evidence for GC-mediated adaptive plasticity in development, leading to allostatic overload in later life. We focus on GC-induced effects on brain structure and function, including neurogenesis; highlight the need for longitudinal studies; and discuss approaches to identify molecular mechanisms mediating GC-induced alteration of the brain developmental trajectory leading to adult dysfunctions. Further understanding of how stress and GC exposure can alter developmental trajectories at the molecular and cellular level is of critical importance to reduce the burden of mental and physical ill health across the life course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helen Eachus
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Soojin Ryu
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ramalho D, Araújo A, Correia S, Rocha G, Alves H, Oliveira MJ. Deleterious effects of endogenous hypercortisolism on brain structure: What do we know? ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2024; 85:85-88. [PMID: 37722975 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2023.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Ramalho
- Endocrinology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, s/n, 4434-502, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.
| | - André Araújo
- Neuroradiology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, s/n, 4434-502, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Sara Correia
- Endocrinology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, s/n, 4434-502, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Gustavo Rocha
- Endocrinology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, s/n, 4434-502, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Helena Alves
- Endocrinology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, s/n, 4434-502, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Maria João Oliveira
- Endocrinology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, s/n, 4434-502, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jiang H, Li Z, Sun Y, Ren J, Yan F, Sun Q, Wei H, Bian L. Irreversible Alterations of Susceptibility in Cushing's Disease: A Longitudinal QSM Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2007-2015. [PMID: 36722202 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chronic exposure to hypercortisolism is associated with accelerated aging and neurodegenerative diseases, while Cushing's disease (CD) is the most common form of endogenous hypercortisolism exposure. This study aimed to assess longitudinal susceptibility changes in CD using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) before and after resolution of hypercortisolism. METHODS In this study, 24 CD patients and 24 healthy controls underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with QSM. All CD patients underwent MRI scans before and after the curative operation. RESULTS After resolution of hypercortisolism, irreversibly altered susceptibility values were found in the anterior cingulate cortex, frontal lobe, caudate, and red nucleus. These alterations were significantly correlated with the changes in gray matter/white matter volumes and clinical features. Additionally, decreased susceptibility was found in several regions in CD patients. CONCLUSION Chronic exposure to hypercortisolism may be related to susceptibility alterations and significantly correlated with altered brain volumes and clinical features. in CD patients. The decrease of susceptibility might suggest the involvement of the calcium deregulation in these alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghao Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuhua Yan
- Department of Radiology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingfang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongjiang Wei
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liuguan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Eviz E, Yesiltepe Mutlu G, Arduc Akcay A, Erbey F, Guran T, Hatun S. An Overlooked Manifestation of Hypercortisolism: Cerebral Cortical Atrophy and Challenges in Identifying the Etiology of Hypercortisolism - A Report of 2 Pediatric Cases. Horm Res Paediatr 2023; 97:172-179. [PMID: 36972563 DOI: 10.1159/000530391] [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: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare, severe disease that can cause multiple systemic involvements and behavioral problems due to excessive cortisol production. Structural changes can be noted in the brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of these cases. CASES A 9-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy were admitted with hypercortisolism. In the female patient, altered consciousness was prominent along with cerebral and cerebellar brain atrophy, and findings indicating posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome were detected in the brain MRI. Although the male patient's neurological examination was normal, significant cerebral atrophy was seen in the brain MRI. Case 1 was diagnosed as having ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS) due to a thymic carcinoid tumor. Case 2 underwent a pulmonary lobectomy upon detection of a bronchial lesion in the Ga-68 DOTATATE PET/CT scan while being examined for EAS due to a lack of suppression in the high-dose dexamethasone suppression test. However, hypercortisolism persisted despite the removal of the bronchial lesion, and subsequently, a diagnosis of Cushing's disease was established following bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling. DISCUSSION Endogenous hypercortisolism may cause brain atrophy of varying severity. The central nervous system findings can be overlooked in children with CS. More comprehensive studies are needed to better understand the behavioral changes caused by the effects on the brain and to evaluate whether these changes are reversible. In addition, identifying the source of hypercortisolism can be difficult due to a lack of experience related to the rarity of the disease in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elif Eviz
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey,
- Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey,
| | - Gul Yesiltepe Mutlu
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
- Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Fatih Erbey
- Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tulay Guran
- Pediatric Endocrinology Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sukru Hatun
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
- Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Dekkers AJ, Amaya JM, van der Meulen M, Biermasz NR, Meijer OC, Pereira AM. Long-term effects of glucocorticoid excess on the brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13142. [PMID: 35980208 PMCID: PMC9541651 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The metabolic and cardiovascular clinical manifestations in patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) are generally well known. However, recent studies have broadened the perspective of the effects of hypercortisolism, showing that both endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoid excess alter brain functioning on several time scales. Consequently, cognitive deficits and neuropsychological symptoms are highly prevalent during both active CS and CS in remission, as well as during glucocorticoid treatment. In this review, we discuss the effects of endogenous hypercortisolism and exogenously induced glucocorticoid excess on the brain, as well as the prevalence of cognitive and neuropsychological deficits and their course after biochemical remission. Furthermore, we propose possible mechanisms that may underly neuronal changes, based on experimental models and in vitro studies. Finally, we offer recommendations for future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alies J. Dekkers
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Pituitary Center and Center for Endocrine TumorsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Medicine, Center for Endocrine Tumours LeidenLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Jorge Miguel Amaya
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Pituitary Center and Center for Endocrine TumorsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Merel van der Meulen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Pituitary Center and Center for Endocrine TumorsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Medicine, Center for Endocrine Tumours LeidenLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Nienke R. Biermasz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Pituitary Center and Center for Endocrine TumorsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Medicine, Center for Endocrine Tumours LeidenLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Pituitary Center and Center for Endocrine TumorsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Alberto M. Pereira
- Department of Endocrinology & MetabolismAmsterdam UMC (AMC)AmsterdamThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Muncy NM, Kimbler A, Hedges-Muncy AM, McMakin DL, Mattfeld AT. General additive models address statistical issues in diffusion MRI: An example with clinically anxious adolescents. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 33:102937. [PMID: 35033812 PMCID: PMC8762458 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.102937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Statistical models employed to test for group differences in quantized diffusion-weighted MRI white matter tracts often fail to account for the large number of data points per tract in addition to the distribution, type, and interdependence of the data. To address these issues, we propose the use of Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) and supply code and examples to aid in their implementation. Specifically, using diffusion data from 73 periadolescent clinically anxious and no-psychiatric-diagnosis control participants, we tested for group tract differences and show that a GAM allows for the identification of differences within a tract while accounting for the nature of the data as well as covariates and group factors. Further, we then used these tract differences to investigate their association with performance on a memory test. When comparing our high versus low anxiety groups, we observed a positive association between the left uncinate fasciculus and memory overgeneralization for negatively valenced stimuli. This same association was not evident in the right uncinate or anterior forceps. These findings illustrate that GAMs are well-suited for modeling diffusion data while accounting for various aspects of the data, and suggest that the adoption of GAMs will be a powerful investigatory tool for diffusion-weighted analyses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Muncy
- Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA.
| | - Adam Kimbler
- Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | - Dana L McMakin
- Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Aaron T Mattfeld
- Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
So SY, Savidge TC. Gut feelings: the microbiota-gut-brain axis on steroids. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2022; 322:G1-G20. [PMID: 34730020 PMCID: PMC8698538 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00294.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The intricate connection between central and enteric nervous systems is well established with emerging evidence linking gut microbiota function as a significant new contributor to gut-brain axis signaling. Several microbial signals contribute to altered gut-brain communications, with steroids representing an important biological class that impacts central and enteric nervous system function. Neuroactive steroids contribute pathologically to neurological disorders, including dementia and depression, by modulating the activity of neuroreceptors. However, limited information is available on the influence of neuroactive steroids on the enteric nervous system and gastrointestinal function. In this review, we outline how steroids can modulate enteric nervous system function by focusing on their influence on different receptors that are present in the intestine in health and disease. We also highlight the potential role of the gut microbiota in modulating neuroactive steroid signaling along the gut-brain axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sik Yu So
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Tor C Savidge
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Department of Pathology, Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lansdell TA, Dorrance AM. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in male rats results in sustained HPA activation and hyperinsulinemia. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 322:E24-E33. [PMID: 34747203 PMCID: PMC8721904 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00233.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) is a spectrum of cognitive deficits caused by cerebrovascular disease, for which insulin resistance is a major risk factor. A major cause of VCID is chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH). Under stress, sustained hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) activation can result in insulin resistance. Little is known about the effects of CCH on the HPA axis. We hypothesized that CCH causes sustained HPA activation and insulin resistance. Male rats were subjected to bilateral carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) for 12 wk to induce CCH and VCID. BCAS reduced cerebral blood flow and caused memory impairment. Plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone was increased in the BCAS rats (117.2 ± 9.6 vs. 88.29 ± 9.1 pg/mL, BCAS vs. sham, P = 0.0236), as was corticosterone (220 ± 21 vs. 146 ± 18 ng/g feces, BCAS vs. sham, P = 0.0083). BCAS rats were hypoglycemic (68.1 ± 6.1 vs. 76.5 ± 5.9 mg/dL, BCAS vs. sham, P = 0.0072), with increased fasting insulin (481.6 ± 242.6 vs. 97.94 ± 40.02 pmol/L, BCAS vs. sham, P = 0.0003) indicating that BCAS rats were insulin resistant [homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR): 11.71 ± 6.47 vs. 2.62 ± 0.93; BCAS vs. control, P = 0.0008]. Glucose tolerance tests revealed that BCAS rats had lower blood glucose areas under the curve (AUCs) than controls (250 ± 12 vs. 326 ± 20 mg/dL/h, BCAS vs. sham, P = 0.0075). These studies indicate that CCH causes sustained activation of the HPA and results in insulin resistance, a condition that is expected to worsen VCID.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cerebrovascular disease and insulin resistance are two major risk factors for the development of dementia. Here, we demonstrate that chronic cerebral hypoperfusion results in glucocorticoid excess and hyperinsulinemia. This study indicates that chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, glucocorticoid excess, and insulin resistance participate in a detrimental cycle that could exacerbate cerebral vascular disease and dementia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theresa A Lansdell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Anne M Dorrance
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Brain Volume Loss, Astrocyte Reduction, and Inflammation in Anorexia Nervosa. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2021; 26:283-313. [PMID: 34888839 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77375-5_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa is the third most common chronic disease in adolescence and is characterized by low body weight, body image distortion, weight phobia, and severe somatic consequences. Among the latter, marked brain volume reduction has been linked to astrocyte cell count reduction of about 50% in gray and white matter, while neuronal and other glial cell counts remain normal. Exact underlying mechanisms remain elusive; however, first results point to important roles of the catabolic state and the very low gonadal steroid hormones in these patients. They also appear to involve inflammatory states of "hungry astrocytes" and interactions with the gut microbiota. Functional impairments could affect the role of astrocytes in supporting neurons metabolically, neurotransmitter reuptake, and synapse formation, among others. These could be implicated in reduced learning, mood alterations, and sleep disturbances often seen in patients with AN and help explain their rigidity and difficulties in relearning processes in psychotherapy during starvation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Jiang H, Yang W, Sun Q, Liu C, Bian L. Trends in regional morphological changes in the brain after the resolution of hypercortisolism in Cushing's disease: a complex phenomenon, not mere partial reversibility. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:1377-1386. [PMID: 34596577 PMCID: PMC8558890 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The adverse effects of hypercortisolism on the human brain have been highlighted in previous studies of Cushing's disease (CD). However, the relative alterations in regional hypercortisolism in the brain remain unclear. Thus, we investigated regional volumetric alterations in CD patients. We also analyzed the associations between these volumetric changes and clinical characteristics. The study participants comprised of active CD (n = 60), short-term-remitted CD (n = 28), and long-term-remitted CD (n = 32) patients as well as healthy control subjects (n = 66). Gray matter volumes (GMVs) were measured via voxel-based morphometry. The GMVs of substructures were defined using the automated anatomical labeling (AAL) atlas. Trends toward normalization in GMV were found in most brain substructures of CD patients. Different trends, including enlarged, irreversible, and unaffected, were observed in the other subregions, such as the amygdala, thalamus, and caudate. Morphological changes in GMVs after the resolution of hypercortisolism are a complex phenomenon; the characteristics of these changes significantly differ within the brain substructures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Lu-Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - WenJie Yang
- Department of Radiology, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - QingFang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Lu-Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Liu
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for Neuroinformation, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- College of Information Technology and Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
- College of Computer Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - LiuGuan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to L Bian:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Green C, Stolicyn A, Harris MA, Shen X, Romaniuk L, Barbu MC, Hawkins EL, Wardlaw JM, Steele JD, Waiter GD, Sandu AL, Campbell A, Porteous DJ, Seckl JR, Lawrie SM, Reynolds RM, Cavanagh J, McIntosh AM, Whalley HC. Hair glucocorticoids are associated with childhood adversity, depressive symptoms and reduced global and lobar grey matter in Generation Scotland. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:523. [PMID: 34642301 PMCID: PMC8511057 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01644-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation has been commonly reported in major depressive disorder (MDD), but with considerable heterogeneity of results; potentially due to the predominant use of acute measures of an inherently variable/phasic system. Chronic longer-term measures of HPA-axis activity have yet to be systematically examined in MDD, particularly in relation to brain phenotypes, and in the context of early-life/contemporaneous stress. Here, we utilise a temporally stable measure of cumulative HPA-axis function (hair glucocorticoids) to investigate associations between cortisol, cortisone and total glucocorticoids with concurrent measures of (i) lifetime-MDD case/control status and current symptom severity, (ii) early/current-life stress and (iii) structural neuroimaging phenotypes, in N = 993 individuals from Generation Scotland (mean age = 59.1 yrs). Increased levels of hair cortisol were significantly associated with reduced global and lobar brain volumes with reductions in the frontal, temporal and cingulate regions (βrange = -0.057 to -0.104, all PFDR < 0.05). Increased levels of hair cortisone were significantly associated with MDD (lifetime-MDD status, current symptoms, and severity; βrange = 0.071 to 0.115, all PFDR = < 0.05), with early-life adversity (β = 0.083, P = 0.017), and with reduced global and regional brain volumes (global: β = -0.059, P = 0.043; nucleus accumbens: β = -0.075, PFDR = 0.044). Associations with total glucocorticoids followed a similar pattern to the cortisol findings. In this large community-based sample, elevated glucocorticoids were significantly associated with MDD, with early, but not later-life stress, and with reduced global and regional brain phenotypes. These findings provide important foundations for future mechanistic studies to formally explore causal relationships between early adversity, chronic rather than acute measures of glucocorticoids, and neurobiological associations relevant to the aetiology of MDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Green
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Aleks Stolicyn
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mathew A Harris
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Xueyi Shen
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Liana Romaniuk
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Miruna C Barbu
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emma L Hawkins
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Joanna M Wardlaw
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J Douglas Steele
- Division of Imaging Science and Technology, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Gordon D Waiter
- Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Anca-Larisa Sandu
- Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Archie Campbell
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David J Porteous
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jonathan R Seckl
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Rebecca M Reynolds
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jonathan Cavanagh
- Institute of Infection, Immunity & Inflammation, College of Medical and Veterinary Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Andrew M McIntosh
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dream Recall/Affect and the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis. Clocks Sleep 2021; 3:403-408. [PMID: 34449575 PMCID: PMC8395463 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep3030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In this concise review, we present an overview of research on dream recall/affect and of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, discussing caveats regarding the action of hormones of the HPA axis (mainly cortisol and its free form, cortisol-binding globulin and glucocorticoid receptors). We present results of studies regarding dream recall/affect and the HPA axis under physiological (such as waking) or pathological conditions (such as in Cushing’s syndrome or stressful situations). Finally, we try to integrate the effect of the current COVID-19 situation with dream recall/affect vis-à-vis the HPA axis.
Collapse
|
15
|
Achar A, Ghosh C. Multiple hurdle mechanism and blood-brain barrier in epilepsy: glucocorticoid receptor-heat shock proteins on drug regulation. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:2427-2428. [PMID: 33907029 PMCID: PMC8374577 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.313046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aneesha Achar
- Cerebrovascular Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chaitali Ghosh
- Cerebrovascular Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic; Department of Biomedical Engineering and Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Garg MK, Mittal M. Structural and Functional Consequences of Hypercortisolism on Brain: Are the Brain and Psycho-neuro-cognitive Manifestations Reversible? Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2020; 24:507-508. [PMID: 33643865 PMCID: PMC7906096 DOI: 10.4103/ijem.ijem_542_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mahendra Kumar Garg
- Department of Medicine and Endocrinology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Madhukar Mittal
- Department of Endocrinology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| |
Collapse
|