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Aghajani M, Aghajani M, Moghaddam EK, Faghihi M, Imani A. Acute sleep deprivation (ASD) and cardioprotection: Impact of ASD on oxytocin-mediated sympathetic nervous activation preceding myocardial infarction. Neuropeptides 2024; 107:102453. [PMID: 38959559 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2024.102453] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study explored how acute sleep deprivation (ASD) before myocardial ischemia influences oxytocin release from paraventricular (PVN) neurons and its correlation with sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity post-acute sleep loss, impacting subsequent left ventricular (LV) remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI). METHODS The study was conducted in two phases: induction of ASD, inducing MI, blood sampling, euthanizing animals and collecting their heart and brain for histological and gene expression evaluations. The animals in first and second phase were euthanized 24 h and 14 days after MI, respectively. RESULTS Pre-MI ASD, accompanied by increased serum epinephrine levels within 24 h of MI, upregulated oxytocin and cFos expression in the PVN. Also, pre-MI ASD resulted in decreased serum PAB levels 14 days post-MI (P < 0.001). While notable echocardiographic changes were seen in MI versus sham groups, ASD demonstrated protective effects. This was evidenced by reduced infarct size, elevated TIMP1, MMP2, and MMP9 in the LV of SD + MI animals versus MI alone (P < 0.05). Additionally, histological analysis showed reduced LV fibrosis in pre-MI ASD subjects (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our study supports the notion that activation of oxytocin neurons within the PVN subsequent to ASD interacts with autonomic centers in the central nervous system. This enhanced sympathetic outflow to the heart prior to MI triggers a preconditioning response, thereby mediating cardioprotection through decreased oxidative stress biomarkers and regulated extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Aghajani
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Aghajani
- Rasoole-Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mahdieh Faghihi
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Imani
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Sleep Breathing Disorders Research Center (SBDRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Occupational Sleep Research Center, Baharloo Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Sanson A, Krieg P, Schramm MM, Kellner K, Maloumby R, Klampfl SM, Brunton PJ, Bosch OJ. CRF binding protein activity in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus is essential for stress adaptations and normal maternal behaviour in lactating rats. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 30:100631. [PMID: 38601362 PMCID: PMC11004997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To ensure the unrestricted expression of maternal behaviour peripartum, activity of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system needs to be minimised. CRF binding protein (CRF-BP) might be crucial for this adaptation, as its primary function is to sequester freely available CRF and urocortin1, thereby dampening CRF receptor (CRF-R) signalling. So far, the role of CRF-BP in the maternal brain has barely been studied, and a potential role in curtailing activation of the stress axis is unknown. We studied gene expression for CRF-BP and both CRF-R within the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus. In lactating rats, Crh-bp expression in the parvocellular PVN was significantly higher and Crh-r1 expression in the PVN significantly lower compared to virgin rats. Acute CRF-BP inhibition in the PVN with infusion of CRF(6-33) increased basal plasma corticosterone concentrations under unstressed conditions in dams. Furthermore, while acute intra-PVN infusion of CRF increased corticosterone secretion in virgin rats, it was ineffective in vehicle (VEH)-pre-treated lactating rats, probably due to a buffering effect of CRF-BP. Indeed, pre-treatment with CRF(6-33) reinstated a corticosterone response to CRF in lactating rats, highlighting the critical role of CRF-BP in maintaining attenuated stress reactivity in lactation. To our knowledge, this is the first study linking hypothalamic CRF-BP activity to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulation in lactation. In terms of behaviour, acute CRF-BP inhibition in the PVN under non-stress conditions reduced blanket nursing 60 min and licking/grooming 90 min after infusion compared to VEH-treated rats, while increasing maternal aggression towards an intruder. Lastly, chronic intra-PVN inhibition of CRF-BP strongly reduced maternal aggression, with modest effects on maternal motivation and care. Taken together, intact activity of the CRF-BP in the PVN during the postpartum period is essential for the dampened responsiveness of the stress axis, as well as for the full expression of appropriate maternal behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Sanson
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Paula Krieg
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Milena M. Schramm
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kellner
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rodrigue Maloumby
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie M. Klampfl
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Paula J. Brunton
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Oliver J. Bosch
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Uvnäs-Moberg K, Gross MM, Calleja-Agius J, Turner JD. The Yin and Yang of the oxytocin and stress systems: opposites, yet interdependent and intertwined determinants of lifelong health trajectories. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1272270. [PMID: 38689729 PMCID: PMC11058227 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1272270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
During parturition and the immediate post-partum period there are two opposite, yet interdependent and intertwined systems that are highly active and play a role in determining lifelong health and behaviour in both the mother and her infant: the stress and the anti-stress (oxytocin) system. Before attempting to understand how the environment around birth determines long-term health trajectories, it is essential to understand how these two systems operate and how they interact. Here, we discuss together the hormonal and neuronal arms of both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the oxytocinergic systems and how they interact. Although the HPA axis and glucocorticoid stress axis are well studied, the role of oxytocin as an extremely powerful anti-stress hormone deserves more attention. It is clear that these anti-stress effects depend on oxytocinergic nerves emanating from the supraoptic nucleus (SON) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN), and project to multiple sites at which the stress system is regulated. These, include projections to corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) neurons within the PVN, to the anterior pituitary, to areas involved in sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous control, to NA neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC), and to CRH neurons in the amygdala. In the context of the interaction between the HPA axis and the oxytocin system birth is a particularly interesting period as, for both the mother and the infant, both systems are very strongly activated within the same narrow time window. Data suggest that the HPA axis and the oxytocin system appear to interact in this early-life period, with effects lasting many years. If mother-child skin-to-skin contact occurs almost immediately postpartum, the effects of the anti-stress (oxytocin) system become more prominent, moderating lifelong health trajectories. There is clear evidence that HPA axis activity during this time is dependent on the balance between the HPA axis and the oxytocin system, the latter being reinforced by specific somatosensory inputs, and this has long-term consequences for stress reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Section of Anthrozoology and Applied Ethology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skara, Sweden
| | - Mechthild M. Gross
- Midwifery Research and Education Unit, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Jonathan D. Turner
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch sur Alzette, Luxembourg
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4
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Menon R, Neumann ID. Detection, processing and reinforcement of social cues: regulation by the oxytocin system. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:761-777. [PMID: 37891399 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00759-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Many social behaviours are evolutionarily conserved and are essential for the healthy development of an individual. The neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) is crucial for the fine-tuned regulation of social interactions in mammals. The advent and application of state-of-the-art methodological approaches that allow the activity of neuronal circuits involving OXT to be monitored and functionally manipulated in laboratory mammals have deepened our understanding of the roles of OXT in these behaviours. In this Review, we discuss how OXT promotes the sensory detection and evaluation of social cues, the subsequent approach and display of social behaviour, and the rewarding consequences of social interactions in selected reproductive and non-reproductive social behaviours. Social stressors - such as social isolation, exposure to social defeat or social trauma, and partner loss - are often paralleled by maladaptations of the OXT system, and restoring OXT system functioning can reinstate socio-emotional allostasis. Thus, the OXT system acts as a dynamic mediator of appropriate behavioural adaptations to environmental challenges by enhancing and reinforcing social salience and buffering social stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Menon
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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5
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Zhang S, Zhang YD, Shi DD, Wang Z. Therapeutic uses of oxytocin in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:216. [PMID: 38017588 PMCID: PMC10683256 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01173-6] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT), produced and secreted in the paraventricular nucleus and supraoptic nucleus of magnocellular and parvocellular neurons. The diverse presence and activity of oxytocin suggests a potential for this neuropeptide in the pathogenesis and treatment of stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders (anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)). For a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of OXT's anti-stress action, the signaling cascade of OXT binding to targeting stress were summarized. Then the advance of OXT treatment in depression, anxiety, PTSD and the major projection region of OXT neuron were discussed. Further, the efficacy of endogenous and exogenous OXT in stress responses were highlighted in this review. To augment the level of OXT in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders, current biological strategies were summarized to shed a light on the treatment of stress-induced psychiatric disorders. We also conclude some of the major puzzles in the therapeutic uses of OXT in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. Although some questions remain to be resolved, OXT has an enormous potential therapeutic use as a hormone that regulates stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Zhang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
- College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying-Dan Zhang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Dong-Dong Shi
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhen Wang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Institute of Psychological and Behavioral Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Neumann ID. Monitoring oxytocin signaling in the brain: More than a love story. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2023; 16:100206. [PMID: 38108033 PMCID: PMC10724740 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2023.100206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
More than any other neuropeptide, oxytocin (OXT) is attracting the attention of neurobiologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, evolutionary biologists and even economists. It is often called a "love hormone" due to its many prosocial functions described in vertebrates including mammals and humans, especially its ability to support "bonding behaviour". Oxytocin plays an important role in female reproduction, as it promotes labour during parturition, enables milk ejection in lactation and is essential for related reproductive behaviours. Therefore, it particularly attracts the interest of many female researchers. In this short narrative review I was invited to provide a personal overview on my scientific journey closely linked to my research on the brain OXT system and the adventures associated with starting my research career behind the Iron Curtain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga D. Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Centre of Neurosciences, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Marazziti D, Baroni S, Mucci F, Palego L, Arone A, Betti L, Palermo S, Giannaccini G, Carbone MG, Dell’Osso L. Relationship between BDNF and oxytocin. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2023; 16:100207. [PMID: 37868112 PMCID: PMC10585630 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2023.100207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Converging, albeit scattered data mainly gathered in animals indicate that the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the nonapeptide oxytocin (OT) interact in a cooperative way. Data in humans are really limited and indirect. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the possible existence of a link between OT and BDNF in humans, by means of two peripheral markers, the platelet-poor-plasmatic-BDNF (PPP-BDNF) and the platelet BDNF (PLT-BDNF) and OT levels. Twenty-six young healthy controls of both sexes who volunteered for the study were included in the study. Fifty ml of peripheral venous blood were drawn from one-night fasting subjects between 8.00 and 9.00 a.m. The BDNF and OT assays were carried out according to common methods. Comparisons for continuous variables were performed by the Student's t-test for variables that follow a normal distribution, and by the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test for variables not normally distributed. The correlations between biological markers were explored by calculating the Pearson's correlation coefficient or Spearman's rank correlation. The results showed that PLT-BDNF (pg/mg proteins, mean ± SD) and PPP-BDNF (pg/ml, mean ± SD) were 1546 ± 1844 and 10111 ± 1892, respectively. The OT levels (pg/ml, mean ± SD) were 13.92 ± 4.54. The OT levels were significantly higher in women than in men. The Spearman's analysis revealed a statistically significant and negative correlation between OT levels and PLT-BDNF (R = -0.543, p = 0.004). The findings of this study highlight the presence of a significant and negative correlation between OT and PLT-BDNF in a small group of healthy controls of both sexes. In any case, despite all the limits of peripheral biomarkers, they suggest that this reciprocal influence might have a downstream homeostatic function dampening one activity when the other is activated or no longer necessary, maybe at the level of the stress and/or immune systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Marazziti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences – UniCamillus, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Baroni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Mucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Lionella Palego
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arone
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Betti
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Palermo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Manuel Glauco Carbone
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Division of Psychiatry, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Liliana Dell’Osso
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy
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Takahashi J, Yamada D, Nagano W, Saitoh A. The Role of Oxytocin in Alzheimer's Disease and Its Relationship with Social Interaction. Cells 2023; 12:2426. [PMID: 37887270 PMCID: PMC10604997 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202426] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD)-the most common cause of dementia in the elderly-is characterized by progressive memory loss and β-amyloid protein (Aβ) accumulation in the brain. Recently, loneliness was found to be a high risk factor for AD, and social isolation has become a major cause of AD. AD. Oxytocin (OXT), the main hormone involved in social bonding, has been implicated in social interactions, notably in building trust and relationships. Moreover, social isolation or social enrichment modulates the activation of neurons related to OXT. Recently, we reported that OXT reverses learning and memory impairment in AD animal models. Based on the limited number of studies currently available, OXT might be a therapeutic target for AD. Further studies are necessary in order to better understand the role of oxytocin in AD. In this review, we described the relationships between OXT, AD, and social interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Akiyoshi Saitoh
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda 278-8510, Chiba, Japan; (J.T.); (D.Y.); (W.N.)
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Schimmer J, Patwell R, Küppers S, Grinevich V. The Relationship Between Oxytocin and Alcohol Dependence. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 37697074 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2023_444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) is well known for its prosocial, anxiolytic, and ameliorating effects on various psychiatric conditions, including alcohol use disorder (AUD). In this chapter, we will first introduce the basic neurophysiology of the OT system and its interaction with other neuromodulatory and neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Next, we provide an overview over the current state of research examining the effects of acute and chronic alcohol exposure on the OT system as well as the effects of OT system manipulation on alcohol-related behaviors in rodents and humans. In rodent models of AUD, OT has been repeatedly shown to reduce ethanol consumption, particularly in models of acute alcohol exposure. In humans however, the results of OT administration on alcohol-related behaviors are promising but not yet conclusive. Therefore, we further discuss several physiological and methodological limitations to the effective application of OT in the clinic and how they may be mitigated by the application of synthetic OT receptor (OTR) agonists. Finally, we discuss the potential efficacy of cutting-edge pharmacology and gene therapies designed to specifically enhance endogenous OT release and thereby rescue deficient expression of OT in the brains of patients with severe forms of AUD and other incurable mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Schimmer
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ryan Patwell
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stephanie Küppers
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Valery Grinevich
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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Becker HC, Lopez MF, King CE, Griffin WC. Oxytocin Reduces Sensitized Stress-Induced Alcohol Relapse in a Model of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder Comorbidity. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 94:215-225. [PMID: 36822933 PMCID: PMC10247903 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is high comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder with few effective treatment options. Animal models of PTSD have shown increases in alcohol drinking, but effects of stress history on subsequent vulnerability to alcohol relapse have not been examined. Here we present a mouse model of PTSD involving chronic multimodal stress exposure that resulted in long-lasting sensitization to stress-induced alcohol relapse, and this sensitized stress response was blocked by oxytocin (OT) administration. METHODS Male and female mice trained to self-administer alcohol were exposed to predator odor (TMT) + yohimbine over 5 consecutive days or left undisturbed. After reestablishing stable alcohol responding/intake, mice were tested under extinction conditions, and then all mice were exposed to TMT or context cues previously associated with TMT before a reinstatement test session. Separate studies examined messenger RNA expression of Oxt and Oxtr in hypothalamus following chronic stress exposure. A final study examined the effects of systemic administration of OT on stress-induced alcohol relapse in mice with and without a history of chronic stress experience. RESULTS Chronic stress exposure produced long-lasting sensitization to subsequent stress-induced alcohol relapse that also generalized to stress-related context cues and transcriptional changes in hypothalamic OT system. OT injected before the reinstatement test session completely blocked the sensitized stress-induced alcohol relapse effect. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these results provide support for the therapeutic potential of OT, along with highlighting the value of utilizing this model in evaluating other pharmacological interventions for treatment of PTSD/alcohol use disorder comorbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard C Becker
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Ralph H. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina.
| | - Marcelo F Lopez
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Courtney E King
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - William C Griffin
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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11
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Liu Y, Li A, Bair-Marshall C, Xu H, Jee HJ, Zhu E, Sun M, Zhang Q, Lefevre A, Chen ZS, Grinevich V, Froemke RC, Wang J. Oxytocin promotes prefrontal population activity via the PVN-PFC pathway to regulate pain. Neuron 2023; 111:1795-1811.e7. [PMID: 37023755 PMCID: PMC10272109 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurons in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) can provide top-down regulation of sensory-affective experiences such as pain. Bottom-up modulation of sensory coding in the PFC, however, remains poorly understood. Here, we examined how oxytocin (OT) signaling from the hypothalamus regulates nociceptive coding in the PFC. In vivo time-lapse endoscopic calcium imaging in freely behaving rats showed that OT selectively enhanced population activity in the prelimbic PFC in response to nociceptive inputs. This population response resulted from the reduction of evoked GABAergic inhibition and manifested as elevated functional connectivity involving pain-responsive neurons. Direct inputs from OT-releasing neurons in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus are crucial to maintaining this prefrontal nociceptive response. Activation of the prelimbic PFC by OT or direct optogenetic stimulation of oxytocinergic PVN projections reduced acute and chronic pain. These results suggest that oxytocinergic signaling in the PVN-PFC circuit constitutes a key mechanism to regulate cortical sensory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaling Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anna Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chloe Bair-Marshall
- Skirball Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Helen Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hyun Jung Jee
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elaine Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mengqi Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Qiaosheng Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Arthur Lefevre
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Zhe Sage Chen
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Valery Grinevich
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Robert C Froemke
- Skirball Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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12
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Kozlakidis Z, Shi P, Abarbanel G, Klein C, Sfera A. Recent Developments in Protein Lactylation in PTSD and CVD: Novel Strategies and Targets. BIOTECH 2023; 12:38. [PMID: 37218755 PMCID: PMC10204439 DOI: 10.3390/biotech12020038] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In 1938, Corneille Heymans received the Nobel Prize in physiology for discovering that oxygen sensing in the aortic arch and carotid sinus was mediated by the nervous system. The genetics of this process remained unclear until 1991 when Gregg Semenza while studying erythropoietin, came upon hypoxia-inducible factor 1, for which he obtained the Nobel Prize in 2019. The same year, Yingming Zhao found protein lactylation, a posttranslational modification that can alter the function of hypoxia-inducible factor 1, the master regulator of cellular senescence, a pathology implicated in both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The genetic correlation between PTSD and CVD has been demonstrated by many studies, of which the most recent one utilizes large-scale genetics to estimate the risk factors for these conditions. This study focuses on the role of hypertension and dysfunctional interleukin 7 in PTSD and CVD, the former caused by stress-induced sympathetic arousal and elevated angiotensin II, while the latter links stress to premature endothelial cell senescence and early vascular aging. This review summarizes the recent developments and highlights several novel PTSD and CVD pharmacological targets. They include lactylation of histone and non-histone proteins, along with the related biomolecular actors such as hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, erythropoietin, acid-sensing ion channels, basigin, and Interleukin 7, as well as strategies to delay premature cellular senescence by telomere lengthening and resetting the epigenetic clock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zisis Kozlakidis
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization (IARC/WHO), 69372 Lyon, France
| | - Patricia Shi
- Department of Psychiatry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Ganna Abarbanel
- Patton State Hospital, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | | | - Adonis Sfera
- Patton State Hospital, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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13
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Szewczyk AK, Ulutas S, Aktürk T, Al-Hassany L, Börner C, Cernigliaro F, Kodounis M, Lo Cascio S, Mikolajek D, Onan D, Ragaglini C, Ratti S, Rivera-Mancilla E, Tsanoula S, Villino R, Messlinger K, Maassen Van Den Brink A, de Vries T. Prolactin and oxytocin: potential targets for migraine treatment. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:31. [PMID: 36967387 PMCID: PMC10041814 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01557-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a severe neurovascular disorder of which the pathophysiology is not yet fully understood. Besides the role of inflammatory mediators that interact with the trigeminovascular system, cyclic fluctuations in sex steroid hormones are involved in the sex dimorphism of migraine attacks. In addition, the pituitary-derived hormone prolactin and the hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin have been reported to play a modulating role in migraine and contribute to its sex-dependent differences. The current narrative review explores the relationship between these two hormones and the pathophysiology of migraine. We describe the physiological role of prolactin and oxytocin, its relationship to migraine and pain, and potential therapies targeting these hormones or their receptors.In summary, oxytocin and prolactin are involved in nociception in opposite ways. Both operate at peripheral and central levels, however, prolactin has a pronociceptive effect, while oxytocin appears to have an antinociceptive effect. Therefore, migraine treatment targeting prolactin should aim to block its effects using prolactin receptor antagonists or monoclonal antibodies specifically acting at migraine-pain related structures. This action should be local in order to avoid a decrease in prolactin levels throughout the body and associated adverse effects. In contrast, treatment targeting oxytocin should enhance its signalling and antinociceptive effects, for example using intranasal administration of oxytocin, or possibly other oxytocin receptor agonists. Interestingly, the prolactin receptor and oxytocin receptor are co-localized with estrogen receptors as well as calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptor, providing a positive perspective on the possibilities for an adequate pharmacological treatment of these nociceptive pathways. Nevertheless, many questions remain to be answered. More particularly, there is insufficient data on the role of sex hormones in men and the correct dosing according to sex differences, hormonal changes and comorbidities. The above remains a major challenge for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Szewczyk
- Doctoral School, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Samiye Ulutas
- Department of Neurology, Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tülin Aktürk
- Department of Neurology, Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Linda Al-Hassany
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Corinna Börner
- Department of Pediatrics - Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, LMU Hospital, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, Lindwurmstr. 4, 80337, Munich, Germany
- LMU Center for Children with Medical Complexity - iSPZ Hauner, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Lindwurmstr. 4, 80337, Munich, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Federica Cernigliaro
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit Department, Pro.M.I.S.E. "G D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Michalis Kodounis
- First Department of Neurology, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Salvatore Lo Cascio
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit Department, Pro.M.I.S.E. "G D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - David Mikolajek
- Department of Neurology, City Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Dilara Onan
- Spine Health Unit, Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Ragaglini
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Susanna Ratti
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Eduardo Rivera-Mancilla
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sofia Tsanoula
- Department of Neurology, 401 Military Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Rafael Villino
- Department of Neurology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Karl Messlinger
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Antoinette Maassen Van Den Brink
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa de Vries
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Felintro V, Trujillo V, dos-Santos RC, da Silva-Almeida C, Reis LC, Rocha FF, Mecawi AS. Water deprivation induces hypoactivity in rats independently of oxytocin receptor signaling at the central amygdala. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1062211. [PMID: 36817576 PMCID: PMC9928579 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1062211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OXT) are neuropeptides produced by magnocellular neurons (MCNs) of the hypothalamus and secreted through neurohypophysis to defend mammals against dehydration. It was recently demonstrated that MCNs also project to limbic structures, modulating several behavioral responses. METHODS AND RESULTS We found that 24 h of water deprivation (WD) or salt loading (SL) did not change exploration or anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze (EPM) test. However, rats deprived of water for 48 h showed reduced exploration of open field and the closed arms of EPM, indicating hypoactivity during night time. We evaluated mRNA expression of glutamate decarboxylase 1 (Gad1), vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (Slc17a6), AVP (Avpr1a) and OXT (Oxtr) receptors in the lateral habenula (LHb), basolateral (BLA) and central (CeA) amygdala after 48 h of WD or SL. WD, but not SL, increased Oxtr mRNA expression in the CeA. Bilateral pharmacological inhibition of OXTR function in the CeA with the OXTR antagonist L-371,257 was performed to evaluate its possible role in regulating the EPM exploration or water intake induced by WD. The blockade of OXTR in the CeA did not reverse the hypoactivity response in the EPM, nor did it change water intake induced in 48-h water-deprived rats. DISCUSSION We found that WD modulates exploratory activity in rats, but this response is not mediated by oxytocin receptor signaling to the CeA, despite the upregulated Oxtr mRNA expression in that structure after WD for 48 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Felintro
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Verónica Trujillo
- Department of Physiology, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Department of Biophysics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raoni C. dos-Santos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Claudio da Silva-Almeida
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Luís C. Reis
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Fábio F. Rocha
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - André S. Mecawi
- Department of Biophysics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: André S. Mecawi,
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15
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Meng X, Grandjean J, Sbrini G, Schipper P, Hofwijks N, Stoop J, Calabrese F, Homberg J. Tryptophan Hydroxylase 2 Knockout Male Rats Exhibit a Strengthened Oxytocin System, Are Aggressive, and Are Less Anxious. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:2974-2981. [PMID: 36197033 PMCID: PMC9585586 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The central serotoninergic system is critical for stress responsivity and social behavior, and its dysregulations have been centrally implicated in virtually all neuropsychiatric disorders. Genetic serotonin depletion animal models could provide a tool to elucidate the causes and mechanisms of diseases and to develop new treatment approaches. Previously, mice lacking tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (Tph2) have been developed, showing altered behaviors and neurotransmission. However, the effect of congenital serotonin deficiency on emotional and social behavior in rats is still largely unknown, as are the underlying mechanisms. In this study, we used a Tph2 knockout (Tph2-/-) male rat model to study how the lack of serotonin in the rat brain affects anxiety-like and social behaviors. Since oxytocin is centrally implicated in these behaviors, we furthermore explored whether the effects of Tph2 knockout on behavior would relate to changes in the oxytocin system. We show that Tph2-/- rats display reduced anxiety-like behavior and a high level of aggression in social interactions. In addition, oxytocin receptor expression was increased in the infralimbic and prelimbic cortices, paraventricular nucleus, dorsal raphe nucleus, and some subregions of the hippocampus, which was paralleled by increased levels of oxytocin in the medial frontal cortex and paraventricular nucleus but not the dorsal raphe nucleus, central amygdala, and hippocampus. In conclusion, our study demonstrated reduced anxiety but exaggerated aggression in Tph2-/- male rats and reveals for the first time a potential involvement of altered oxytocin system function. Meanwhile, the research of oxytocin could be distinguished in almost any psychiatric disorder including anxiety and mental disorders. This research potentially proposes a new target for the treatment of such disorders, from a genetic serotonin deficiency aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianzong Meng
- Department
of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition,
and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joanes Grandjean
- Department
of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition,
and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department
of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Giulia Sbrini
- Department
of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Pieter Schipper
- Department
of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition,
and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nita Hofwijks
- Department
of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition,
and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jesse Stoop
- Department
of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition,
and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Francesca Calabrese
- Department
of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Judith Homberg
- Department
of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition,
and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical
Centre, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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16
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Florea T, Palimariciuc M, Cristofor AC, Dobrin I, Chiriță R, Bîrsan M, Dobrin RP, Pădurariu M. Oxytocin: Narrative Expert Review of Current Perspectives on the Relationship with Other Neurotransmitters and the Impact on the Main Psychiatric Disorders. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58070923. [PMID: 35888641 PMCID: PMC9318841 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58070923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Is a cyclic neuropeptide produced primarily in the hypothalamus and plays an important neuromodulatory role for other neurotransmitter systems, with an impact on behavior, response to danger, stress, and complex social interactions, such as pair bonding and child care. This narrative expert review examines the literature on oxytocin as a brain hormone. We focused on oxytocin structure, distribution, genetics, and the oxytocin receptor system, as well as the relationship of oxytocin with other neurotransmitters and the resulting impacts on the main psychiatric disorders. Oxytocin levels have been correlated over time with mental illness, with numerous studies focusing on oxytocin and the pathophysiology of the main psychiatric disorders, such as autism, schizophrenia, personality disorders, mood, and eating disorders. We highlight the role oxytocin plays in improving symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and social behavior, as the literature suggests. Risk factors and causes for psychiatric disorders range from genetic to environmental and social factors. Oxytocin could impact the latter, being linked with other neurotransmitter systems that are responsible for integrating different situations during the development phases of individuals. Also, these systems have an important role in how the body responds to stressors or bonding with others, helping with the creation of social support groups that could speed up recovery in many situations. Oxytocin has the potential to become a key therapeutic agent for future treatment and prevention strategies concerning the main psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tudor Florea
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, 16 Universității Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (T.F.); (M.P.); (A.C.C.); (I.D.); (R.C.)
| | - Matei Palimariciuc
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, 16 Universității Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (T.F.); (M.P.); (A.C.C.); (I.D.); (R.C.)
- Institute of Psychiatry “Socola”, 36 Bucium Street, 700282 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Ana Caterina Cristofor
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, 16 Universității Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (T.F.); (M.P.); (A.C.C.); (I.D.); (R.C.)
- Institute of Psychiatry “Socola”, 36 Bucium Street, 700282 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Irina Dobrin
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, 16 Universității Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (T.F.); (M.P.); (A.C.C.); (I.D.); (R.C.)
- Institute of Psychiatry “Socola”, 36 Bucium Street, 700282 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Roxana Chiriță
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, 16 Universității Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (T.F.); (M.P.); (A.C.C.); (I.D.); (R.C.)
- Institute of Psychiatry “Socola”, 36 Bucium Street, 700282 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Magdalena Bîrsan
- Department of Drug Industry and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iaşi, 16 Universităţii Street, 700115 Iaşi, Romania;
| | - Romeo Petru Dobrin
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, 16 Universității Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (T.F.); (M.P.); (A.C.C.); (I.D.); (R.C.)
- Institute of Psychiatry “Socola”, 36 Bucium Street, 700282 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence:
| | - Manuela Pădurariu
- Institute of Psychiatry “Socola”, 36 Bucium Street, 700282 Iasi, Romania;
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17
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McParlin Z, Cerritelli F, Friston KJ, Esteves JE. Therapeutic Alliance as Active Inference: The Role of Therapeutic Touch and Synchrony. Front Psychol 2022; 13:783694. [PMID: 35250723 PMCID: PMC8892201 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.783694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Recognizing and aligning individuals' unique adaptive beliefs or "priors" through cooperative communication is critical to establishing a therapeutic relationship and alliance. Using active inference, we present an empirical integrative account of the biobehavioral mechanisms that underwrite therapeutic relationships. A significant mode of establishing cooperative alliances-and potential synchrony relationships-is through ostensive cues generated by repetitive coupling during dynamic touch. Established models speak to the unique role of affectionate touch in developing communication, interpersonal interactions, and a wide variety of therapeutic benefits for patients of all ages; both neurophysiologically and behaviorally. The purpose of this article is to argue for the importance of therapeutic touch in establishing a therapeutic alliance and, ultimately, synchrony between practitioner and patient. We briefly overview the importance and role of therapeutic alliance in prosocial and clinical interactions. We then discuss how cooperative communication and mental state alignment-in intentional communication-are accomplished using active inference. We argue that alignment through active inference facilitates synchrony and communication. The ensuing account is extended to include the role of (C-) tactile afferents in realizing the beneficial effect of therapeutic synchrony. We conclude by proposing a method for synchronizing the effects of touch using the concept of active inference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe McParlin
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Clinical-Based Human Research Department, Pescara, Italy
| | - Francesco Cerritelli
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Clinical-Based Human Research Department, Pescara, Italy
| | - Karl J. Friston
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge E. Esteves
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Clinical-Based Human Research Department, Pescara, Italy
- Malta ICOM Educational Ltd., Gzira, Malta
- Research Department, University College of Osteopathy, London, United Kingdom
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18
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Almeida D, Fiori LM, Chen GG, Aouabed Z, Lutz PE, Zhang TY, Mechawar N, Meaney MJ, Turecki G. Oxytocin receptor expression and epigenetic regulation in the anterior cingulate cortex of individuals with a history of severe childhood abuse. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 136:105600. [PMID: 34839083 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Childhood abuse significantly increases the lifetime risk of negative mental health outcomes. The oxytocinergic system, which plays a role in complex social and emotional behaviors, has been shown to be sensitive to early-life experiences. While previous studies have investigated the relationship between early-life adversity and oxytocin, they did so with peripheral samples. We, therefore, aimed to characterize the relationship between early-life adversity and oxytocin receptor (OXTR) expression in the brain, using post-mortem human samples, as well as a rodent model of naturally occurring variation in early-life environment. Focusing on the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, we compared OXTR expression and epigenetic regulation between MDD suicides with (N = 26) and without history of childhood abuse (N = 24), as well as psychiatrically healthy controls (N = 23). We also compared Oxtr expression in the cingulate cortex of adult rats raised by dams displaying high (N = 13) and low levels (N = 12) of licking and grooming (LG) behavior. Overall, our results indicate that childhood abuse associates with an upregulation of OXTR expression, and that similarly, this relationship is also observed in the cingulate cortex of adult rats raised by low-LG dams. Additionally, we found an effect of rs53576 genotype on expression, showing that carriers of the A variant also show upregulated OXTR expression. The effects of early-life adversity and rs53576 genotype on OXTR expression are, however, not explained by differences in DNA methylation within and around the MT region of the OXTR gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Almeida
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Laura M Fiori
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Gary G Chen
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Zahia Aouabed
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Pierre-Eric Lutz
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR3212, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Tie-Yuan Zhang
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada; Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Naguib Mechawar
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Michael J Meaney
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2T5, Canada; Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore; Department of Pediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada.
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19
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Uvnäs Moberg K, Petersson M. Physiological effects induced by stimulation of cutaneous sensory nerves, with a focus on oxytocin. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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20
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Structure-function relationships of the disease-linked A218T oxytocin receptor variant. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:907-917. [PMID: 34980886 PMCID: PMC9054668 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01241-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Various single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene have been associated with behavioral traits, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other diseases. The non-synonymous SNP rs4686302 results in the OXTR variant A218T and has been linked to core characteristics of ASD, trait empathy and preterm birth. However, the molecular and intracellular mechanisms underlying those associations are still elusive. Here, we uncovered the molecular and intracellular consequences of this mutation that may affect the psychological or behavioral outcome of oxytocin (OXT)-treatment regimens in clinical studies, and provide a mechanistic explanation for an altered receptor function. We created two monoclonal HEK293 cell lines, stably expressing either the wild-type or A218T OXTR. We detected an increased OXTR protein stability, accompanied by a shift in Ca2+ dynamics and reduced MAPK pathway activation in the A218T cells. Combined whole-genome and RNA sequencing analyses in OXT-treated cells revealed 7823 differentially regulated genes in A218T compared to wild-type cells, including 429 genes being associated with ASD. Furthermore, computational modeling provided a molecular basis for the observed change in OXTR stability suggesting that the OXTR mutation affects downstream events by altering receptor activation and signaling, in agreement with our in vitro results. In summary, our study provides the cellular mechanism that links the OXTR rs4686302 SNP with genetic dysregulations associated with aspects of ASD.
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Oxytocin Attenuates the Stress-Induced Reinstatement of Alcohol-Seeking in Male Rats: Role of the Central Amygdala. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121919. [PMID: 34944734 PMCID: PMC8698625 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Factors such as stress and anxiety often contribute to alcohol-dependent behavior and can trigger a relapse of alcohol addiction and use. Therefore, it is important to investigate potential pharmacological interventions that may alleviate the influence of stress on addiction-related behaviors. Previous studies have demonstrated that the neuropeptide oxytocin has promising anxiolytic potential in mammals and may offer a pharmacological target to diminish the emotional impact on reinstatement of alcohol-seeking. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of oxytocin on stress-induced alcohol relapse and identify a neural structure mediating this effect through the use of an ethanol self-administration and yohimbine-induced reinstatement paradigm. While yohimbine administration resulted in the reinstatement of ethanol-seeking behavior, the concurrent administration of yohimbine and oxytocin attenuated this effect, suggesting that oxytocin may disrupt stress-induced ethanol-seeking behavior. The central amygdala (CeA) is a structure that drives emotional responses and robustly expresses oxytocin receptors. Intra-CeA oxytocin similarly attenuated the yohimbine-induced reinstatement of ethanol-seeking behavior. These results demonstrate that oxytocin has the potential to attenuate stress-induced relapse into ethanol-seeking behavior, and that this mechanism occurs specifically within the central amygdala.
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22
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Oxytocin, Erectile Function and Sexual Behavior: Last Discoveries and Possible Advances. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910376. [PMID: 34638719 PMCID: PMC8509000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A continuously increasing amount of research shows that oxytocin is involved in numerous central functions. Among the functions in which oxytocin is thought to be involved are those that play a role in social and sexual behaviors, and the involvement of central oxytocin in erectile function and sexual behavior was indeed one of the first to be discovered in laboratory animals in the 1980s. The first part of this review summarizes the results of studies done in laboratory animals that support a facilitatory role of oxytocin in male and female sexual behavior and reveal mechanisms through which this ancient neuropeptide participates in concert with other neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in this complex function, which is fundamental for the species reproduction. The second part summarizes the results of studies done mainly with intranasal oxytocin in men and women with the aim to translate the results found in laboratory animals to humans. Unexpectedly, the results of these studies do not appear to confirm the facilitatory role of oxytocin found in male and female sexual behavior in animals, both in men and women. Possible explanations for the failure of oxytocin to improve sexual behavior in men and women and strategies to attempt to overcome this impasse are considered.
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Tsushima H, Zhang Y, Muratsubaki T, Kanazawa M, Fukudo S. Oxytocin antagonist induced visceral pain and corticotropin-releasing hormone neuronal activation in the central nucleus of the amygdala during colorectal distention in mice. Neurosci Res 2021; 168:41-53. [PMID: 33932549 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2021.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Activation of neurons containing oxytocin and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) during colorectal distention (CRD) is likely to play a crucial role in animal models of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Earlier studies in rodents showed that the microbiome is involved in social behavior via oxytocin expression in the brain. However, the detailed mechanism of visceral sensation and oxytocin is largely unknown. We tested the following hypotheses: (1) that oxytocin neurons in the PVN are activated by CRD, and (2) that the activation of oxytocin neurons by CRD is related to anxiety-like behavior, visceral perception, and an activation of CRH CeA neurons or ACC neurons. Oxytocin antagonist caused visceral hypersensitivity and anxiety-like behavior. In the PVN, oxytocin neurons were activated by CRD. Noxious CRD activated the CeA, basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA), and ACC. High-dose oxytocin antagonist suppressed ACC activity and activated CRH CeA neurons. These results support our hypotheses. Oxytocin likely regulates CRH CeA neurons in an inhibitory manner and the ACC in an excitatory manner. Further research into the interaction of oxytocin and CRH in visceral pain and anxiety is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Tsushima
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan; Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tomohiko Muratsubaki
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Motoyori Kanazawa
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shin Fukudo
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.
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Abstract
Alcohol dependence is a chronically relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking, loss of control in limiting intake, and the emergence of a withdrawal syndrome in the absence of the drug. Accumulating evidence suggests an important role for synaptic transmission in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) in mediating alcohol-related behaviors and neuroadaptive mechanisms associated with alcohol dependence. Acute alcohol facilitates γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic transmission in the CeA via both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms, and chronic alcohol increases baseline GABAergic transmission. Acute alcohol inhibits glutamatergic transmission via effects at N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in the CeA, whereas chronic alcohol up-regulates NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated transmission. Pro- (e.g., corticotropin-releasing factor [CRF]) and antistress (e.g., nociceptin/orphanin FQ, oxytocin) neuropeptides affect alcohol- and anxiety-related behaviors, and also alter the alcohol-induced effects on CeA neurotransmission. Alcohol dependence produces plasticity in these neuropeptide systems, reflecting a recruitment of those systems during the transition to alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Roberto
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Dean Kirson
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Sophia Khom
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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Limbic Neuropeptidergic Modulators of Emotion and Their Therapeutic Potential for Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. J Neurosci 2021; 41:901-910. [PMID: 33472824 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1647-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by hypervigilance, increased reactivity to unpredictable versus predictable threat signals, deficits in fear extinction, and an inability to discriminate between threat and safety. First-line pharmacotherapies for psychiatric disorders have limited therapeutic efficacy in PTSD. However, recent studies have advanced our understanding of the roles of several limbic neuropeptides in the regulation of defensive behaviors and in the neural processes that are disrupted in PTSD. For example, preclinical studies have shown that blockers of tachykinin pathways, such as the Tac2 pathway, attenuate fear memory consolidation in mice and thus might have unique potential as early post-trauma interventions to prevent PTSD development. Targeting this pathway might also be beneficial in regulating other symptoms of PTSD, including trauma-induced aggressive behavior. In addition, preclinical and clinical studies have shown the important role of angiotensin receptors in fear extinction and the promise of using angiotensin II receptor blockade to reduce PTSD symptom severity. Additional preclinical studies have demonstrated that the oxytocin receptors foster accurate fear discrimination by facilitating fear responses to predictable versus unpredictable threats. Complementary human imaging studies demonstrate unique neural targets of intranasal oxytocin and compare its efficacy with well-established anxiolytic treatments. Finally, promising data from human subjects have demonstrated that a selective vasopressin 1A receptor antagonist reduces anxiety induced by unpredictable threats. This review highlights these novel promising targets for the treatment of unique core elements of PTSD pathophysiology.
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Althammer F, Eliava M, Grinevich V. Central and peripheral release of oxytocin: Relevance of neuroendocrine and neurotransmitter actions for physiology and behavior. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 180:25-44. [PMID: 34225933 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-820107-7.00003-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) is critically involved in the modulation of socio-emotional behavior, sexual competence, and pain perception and anticipation. While intracellular signaling of OT and its receptor (OTR), as well as the functional connectivity of hypothalamic and extra-hypothalamic OT projections, have been recently explored, it remains elusive how one single molecule has pleotropic effects from cell proliferation all the way to modulation of complex cognitive processes. Moreover, there are astonishing species-dependent differences in the way OT regulates various sensory modalities such as touch, olfaction, and vision, which can be explained by differences in OTR expression in brain regions processing sensory information. Recent research highlights a small subpopulation of OT-synthesizing cells, namely, parvocellular cells, which merely constitute 1% of the total number of OT cells but act as "master cells' that regulate the activity of the entire OT system. In this chapter, we summarize the latest advances in the field of OT research with a particular focus on differences between rodents, monkeys and humans and highlight the main differences between OT and its "sister" peptide arginine-vasopressin, which often exerts opposite effects on physiology and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdinand Althammer
- Neuroscience Department, Center for Neuroinflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Marina Eliava
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Valery Grinevich
- Department of Neuropeptide Research in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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27
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Brain oxytocin: how puzzle stones from animal studies translate into psychiatry. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:265-279. [PMID: 32514104 PMCID: PMC7278240 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0802-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin has attracted great attention of the general public, basic neuroscience researchers, psychologists, and psychiatrists due to its profound pro-social, anxiolytic, and "anti-stress" behavioral and physiological effects, and its potential application for treatment of mental diseases associated with altered socio-emotional competence. During the last decade, substantial progress has been achieved in understanding the complex neurobiology of the oxytocin system, including oxytocinergic pathways, local release patterns, and oxytocin receptor distribution in the brain, as well as intraneuronal oxytocin receptor signaling. However, the picture of oxytocin actions remains far from being complete, and the central question remains: "How does a single neuropeptide exert such pleotropic actions?" Although this phenomenon, typical for many of about 100 identified neuropeptides, may emerge from the anatomical divergence of oxytocin neurons, their multiple central projections, distinct oxytocin-sensitive cell types in different brain regions, and multiple intraneuronal signaling pathways determining the specific cellular response, further basic studies are required. In conjunction, numerous reports on positive effects of intranasal application of oxytocin on human brain networks controlling socio-emotional behavior in health and disease require harmonic tandems of basic researchers and clinicians. During the COVID-19 crisis in 2020, oxytocin research seems central as question of social isolation-induced inactivation of the oxytocin system, and buffering effects of either activation of the endogenous system or intranasal application of synthetic oxytocin need to be thoroughly investigated.
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28
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Lapp HE, Bartlett AA, Zup SL, Hunter RG, Moore CL. Early experience alters developmental trajectory of central oxytocin systems involved in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulation in Long-Evans rats. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104822. [PMID: 32730760 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is important for postnatal developmental experiences for mothers, infants, and transactions between them. Oxytocin is also implicated in adult affiliative behaviors, including social buffering of stress. There is evidence for connections between early life experience and adult oxytocin system functioning, but effects of early experience on behavioral, endocrine, and neurophysiological outcomes related to adult social buffering are not well explored. We use a limited bedding and nesting (LBN) material paradigm as an environmental disruption of early experiences and assessed central oxytocin systems in brain regions related to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation (paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, hippocampus). We also assessed developmentally-appropriate social behaviors and HPA reactivity during social buffering testing in adulthood. LBN litters had larger huddles and more pups visible compared to control litters during the first two weeks of life. LBN also altered the developmental trajectory of oxytocin-expressing cells and oxytocin receptor cells, with increases in oxytocin receptor cells at P15 in LBN pups. By adulthood, LBN females had more and LBN males had fewer oxytocin and oxytocin receptor cells in these areas compared to sex-matched controls. Adult LBN females, but not LBN males, had behavioral changes during social interaction and social buffering testing. The sex-specific effects of early experience on central oxytocin systems and social behavior may contribute to female resilience to early life adversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E Lapp
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America.
| | - Andrew A Bartlett
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Susan L Zup
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Richard G Hunter
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Celia L Moore
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
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29
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McKay EC, Counts SE. Oxytocin Receptor Signaling in Vascular Function and Stroke. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:574499. [PMID: 33071746 PMCID: PMC7544744 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.574499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) is a G protein-coupled receptor with a diverse repertoire of intracellular signaling pathways, which are activated in response to binding oxytocin (OXT) and a similar nonapeptide, vasopressin. This review summarizes the cell and molecular biology of the OXTR and its downstream signaling cascades, particularly focusing on the vasoactive functions of OXTR signaling in humans and animal models, as well as the clinical applications of OXTR targeting cerebrovascular accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C McKay
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Scott E Counts
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.,Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Hauenstein Neurosciences Center, Mercy Health Saint Mary's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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30
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Olivera-Pasilio V, Dabrowska J. Oxytocin Promotes Accurate Fear Discrimination and Adaptive Defensive Behaviors. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:583878. [PMID: 33071751 PMCID: PMC7538630 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.583878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The nonapeptide, oxytocin (OT), known for its role in social bonding and attachment formation, has demonstrated anxiolytic properties in animal models and human studies. However, its role in the regulation of fear responses appears more complex, brain site-specific, sex-specific, and dependent on a prior stress history. Studies have shown that OT neurons in the hypothalamus are activated during cued and contextual fear conditioning and during fear recall, highlighting the recruitment of endogenous oxytocin system in fear learning. OT is released into the extended amygdala, which contains the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), both critical for the regulation of fear and anxiety-like behaviors. Behavioral studies report that OT in the CeA reduces contextual fear responses; whereas in the BNST, OT receptor (OTR) neurotransmission facilitates cued fear and reduces fear responses to un-signaled, diffuse threats. These ostensibly contrasting behavioral effects support growing evidence that OT works to promote fear discrimination by reducing contextual fear or fear of diffuse threats, yet strengthening fear responses to imminent and predictable threats. Recent studies from the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA) support this notion and show that activation of OTR in the BLA facilitates fear discrimination by increasing fear responses to discrete cues. Also, OTR transmission in the CeA has been shown to mediate a switch from passive freezing to active escape behaviors in confrontation with an imminent, yet escapable threat but reduce reactivity to distant threats. Therefore, OT appears to increase the salience of relevant threat-signaling cues yet reduce fear responses to un-signaled, distant, or diffuse threats. Lastly, OTR signaling has been shown to underlie emotional discrimination between conspecifics during time of distress, social transmission of fear, and social buffering of fear. As OT has been shown to enhance salience of both positive and negative social experiences, it can also serve as a warning system against potential threats in social networks. Here, we extend the social salience hypothesis by proposing that OT enhances the salience of relevant environmental cues also in non-social contexts, and as such promotes active defensive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Olivera-Pasilio
- Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joanna Dabrowska
- Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
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31
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van den Burg EH, Hegoburu C. Modulation of expression of fear by oxytocin signaling in the central amygdala: From reduction of fear to regulation of defensive behavior style. Neuropharmacology 2020; 173:108130. [PMID: 32389750 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Many studies in preclinical animal models have described fear-reducing effects of the neuropeptide oxytocin in the central nucleus of the amygdala. However, recent studies have refined the role of oxytocin in the central amygdala, which may extend to the selection of an active defensive coping style in the face of immediate threat, and also fear-enhancing effects have been reported. On top of this, oxytocin enables the discrimination of unfamiliar conspecifics on the basis of their emotional state, which could allow for the selection of an appropriate coping style. This is in line with many observations that support the hypothesis that the precise outcome of oxytocin signaling in the central amygdala or other brain regions depends on the emotional or physiological state of an animal. In this review, we highlight a number of studies to exemplify the diverse effects oxytocin exerts on fear in the central amygdala of rodents. These are discussed in the context of the organization of the neural network within the central amygdala and in relation to the oxytocin-synthesizing neurons in the hypothalamus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin H van den Burg
- Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital Center (CHUV), Prilly, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Chloé Hegoburu
- Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital Center (CHUV), Prilly, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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32
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Marazziti D, Stahl SM, Simoncini M, Baroni S, Mucci F, Palego L, Betti L, Massimetti G, Giannaccini G, Dell'Osso L. Psychopharmacology and ethnicity: A comparative study on Senegalese and Italian men. World J Biol Psychiatry 2020; 21:300-307. [PMID: 31012797 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2019.1583373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Ethnicity represents a crucial factor in influencing response to psychotropic drugs. Some data indicate that functional polymorphisms of two candidate genes of the serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT) may affect the response to selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The present study aimed to compare the platelet SERT, through the specific [3H]paroxetine ([3H]Par) binding, and plasma oxytocin (OT) levels in 20 Senegalese and in 20 Italian men.Methods: No subjects had family or personal history of any major psychiatric disorder, or had ever regularly taken psychotropic drugs, or were suffering from any physical illness.Results: Senegalese men showed statistically significant higher density (Bmax, fmol/mg protein, mean ± SD) of [3H]Par binding sites (2105.00 ± 473.15 vs 1139.85 ± 213.58, P < 0.001), as well as more elevated plasma OT levels (pg/ml, mean ± SD) (OT: 18.08 ± 4.46 vs 6.62 ± 2.91) than Italian men.Conclusions: These differences, possibly due to genetic or dietary reasons, or even to gender, might affect the response to psychopharmacological compounds. Our findings would suggest specific caution when administering psychotropic compounds to non-European individuals, and the need of further studies in this emerging field of neuropsychopharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Marazziti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stephen M Stahl
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marly Simoncini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Baroni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Mucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Laura Betti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Massimetti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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33
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Neugebauer V, Mazzitelli M, Cragg B, Ji G, Navratilova E, Porreca F. Amygdala, neuropeptides, and chronic pain-related affective behaviors. Neuropharmacology 2020; 170:108052. [PMID: 32188569 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides play important modulatory roles throughout the nervous system, functioning as direct effectors or as interacting partners with other neuropeptide and neurotransmitter systems. Limbic brain areas involved in learning, memory and emotions are particularly rich in neuropeptides. This review will focus on the amygdala, a limbic region that plays a key role in emotional-affective behaviors and pain modulation. The amygdala is comprised of different nuclei; the basolateral (BLA) and central (CeA) nuclei and in between, the intercalated cells (ITC), have been linked to pain-related functions. A wide range of neuropeptides are found in the amygdala, particularly in the CeA, but this review will discuss those neuropeptides that have been explored for their role in pain modulation. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a key peptide in the afferent nociceptive pathway from the parabrachial area and mediates excitatory drive of CeA neurons. CeA neurons containing corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and/or somatostatin (SOM) are a source of long-range projections and serve major output functions, but CRF also acts locally to excite neurons in the CeA and BLA. Neuropeptide S (NPS) is associated with inhibitory ITC neurons that gate amygdala output. Oxytocin and vasopressin exert opposite (inhibitory and excitatory, respectively) effects on amygdala output. The opioid system of mu, delta and kappa receptors (MOR, DOR, KOR) and their peptide ligands (β-endorphin, enkephalin, dynorphin) have complex and partially opposing effects on amygdala function. Neuropeptides therefore serve as valuable targets to regulate amygdala function in pain conditions. This article is part of the special issue on Neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA; Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA; Garrison Institute on Aging, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
| | - Mariacristina Mazzitelli
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Bryce Cragg
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Guangchen Ji
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA; Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Washio H, Takeshita D, Sakata S. Parasympathetic nervous activity is associated with oxytocin in multiparous, but not primiparous, women during the perinatal period. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2020; 47:955-965. [PMID: 31995646 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is thought to have antidepressant/anxiolytic effects in postpartum women. Primiparous women tend toward an attenuated lactation compared with multiparous women. However, so far, little is known about the relationship between OXT and autonomic nervous activity (ANA) in perinatal women and whether it may be different in primiparous and multiparous women. Therefore, the objective of this study was to answer this question by determining both ANA and salivary OXT levels in primiparous and multiparous perinatal women. In 18 primiparous and 18 multiparous women, who underwent a physical and physiological examination, ANA measurement by heart rate variability and saliva sampling were performed during the perinatal period. Saliva OXT concentration was determined by a highly sensitive ELISA. OXT release into saliva was obtained from multiplying saliva OXT concentration by saliva flow rate. In the postpartum period, multiparous women had higher parasympathetic nervous activity (PNA) and lower physical stress index (PSI) compared with primiparous women. Furthermore, multiparous postpartal women had higher OXT compared with primiparous or multiparous prepartal women. In addition, in multiparous perinatal women, OXT correlated positively with PNA, but negatively with PSI. These results suggest that after parturition, multiparous mothers may switch over to the "feed and breed" system more quickly due to increased OXT compared with primiparous mothers. Our findings support antidepressant/anxiolytic and anti-stress effects of OXT. In postpartal women exposed to synthetic OXT, ANA measurement may provide a clue to clarify the effects of exogenous OXT on postpartum psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroe Washio
- Division of Health Science, Graduate School of Health Science, Kio University, Nara, Japan
| | - Daisuke Takeshita
- Department of Artificial Organs, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Japan
| | - Susumu Sakata
- Department of Physiology I, Nara Medical University School of Medicine, Kashihara, Japan
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Wsol A, Wojno O, Puchalska L, Wrzesien R, Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska A. Impaired hypotensive effects of centrally acting oxytocin in SHR and WKY rats exposed to chronic mild stress. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 318:R160-R172. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00050.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The present study was designed to determine the role of centrally acting oxytocin (OT) in the regulation of blood pressure during chronic mild stress (CMS) in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR; n = 36) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY; n = 38) rats. The rats were implanted with osmotic minipumps for intracerebroventricular infusions of 0.9% NaCl, OT, and oxytocin receptor antagonist (OTANT) and divided into two groups: SHR and WKY 1) exposed to 4-wk CMS and 2) not exposed to stress (controls). After 4 wk, hemodynamic parameters were recorded at rest and after an application of acute stressor [air-jet stress (AJS)]. Resting mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was significantly lower in CMS-exposed SHR and WKY infused with OT than in the corresponding groups receiving saline. Exposure to CMS exaggerated the AJS-dependent pressor response in WKY receiving saline but not in the corresponding group of SHR. OT infusion reduced the AJS-dependent pressor response in both CMS-exposed and not exposed SHR and in CMS-exposed WKY. Intracerebroventricular infusion of OTANT potentiated the AJS-dependent pressor response in both stressed and not stressed WKY rats but not in SHR. The results show that centrally delivered OT decreases resting MAP during CMS in both SHR and WKY rats and that in SHR it reduces pressor responses to AJS under control and CMS conditions, whereas in WKY this effect is significant only after CMS exposure. The study indicates that endogenous centrally acting OT may play an essential role in buffering pressor responses to AJS in CMS-exposed and not exposed WKY rats and that this function is significantly impaired in SHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Wsol
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - O. Wojno
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - L. Puchalska
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - R. Wrzesien
- Department of Animal Breeding, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E. Szczepanska-Sadowska
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A. Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska
- Chair and Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Yang Y, Yu H, Babygirija R, Shi B, Sun W, Zheng X, Zheng J. Intranasal Administration of Oxytocin Attenuates Stress Responses Following Chronic Complicated Stress in Rats. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2019; 25:611-622. [PMID: 31587552 PMCID: PMC6786441 DOI: 10.5056/jnm19065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms may develop when we fail to adapt to various stressors of our daily life. Central oxytocin (OXT) can counteract the biological actions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), and in turn attenuates stress responses. Administration (intracerebroventricular) of OXT significantly antagonized the inhibitory effects of chronic complicated stress (CCS) on GI dysmotility in rats. However, intracerebroventricular administration is an invasive pathway. Intranasal administration can rapidly deliver peptides to the brain avoiding stress response. The effects of intranasal OXT on hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis and GI motility in CCS conditions have not been investigated. Methods A CCS rat model was set up, OXT 5, 10, or 20 μg were intranasal administered, 30 minutes prior to stress loading. Central CRF and OXT expression levels were analyzed, serum corticosterone and OXT concentrations were measured, and gastric and colonic motor functions were evaluated by gastric emptying, fecal pellet output, and motility recording system. Results Rats in CCS condition showed significantly increased CRF expression and corticosterone concentration, which resulted in delayed gastric emptying and increased fecal pellet output, attenuated gastric motility and enhanced colonic motility were also recorded. OXT 10 μg or 20 μg significantly reduced CRF mRNA expression and the corticosterone concentration, OXT 20 μg also helped to restore GI motor dysfunction induced by CCS. Conclusion Intranasal administration of OXT has an anxiolytic effect and attenuates the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis in response to CCS, and gave effects which helped to restore GI dysmotility, and might be a new approach for the treatment of stress-induced GI motility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Yang
- Department of Physiology, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Haijie Yu
- Department of Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Reji Babygirija
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin and Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Bei Shi
- Department of Physiology, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Weinan Sun
- Department of Physiology, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiaojiao Zheng
- Department of Physiology, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Department of Physiology, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
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Lo Iacono L, Ielpo D, Accoto A, Di Segni M, Babicola L, D’Addario SL, Ferlazzo F, Pascucci T, Ventura R, Andolina D. MicroRNA-34a Regulates the Depression-like Behavior in Mice by Modulating the Expression of Target Genes in the Dorsal Raphè. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 57:823-836. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-01750-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Kanitz E, Tuchscherer M, Otten W, Tuchscherer A, Zebunke M, Puppe B. Coping Style of Pigs Is Associated With Different Behavioral, Neurobiological and Immune Responses to Stressful Challenges. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:173. [PMID: 31417378 PMCID: PMC6686684 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on the animal’s reaction to environmental challenges, consistent but different coping styles can be identified, which in turn may have consequences for health and welfare. Therefore, profound knowledge of the complex interrelationships between individual behavioral response patterns, underlying neurobiological mechanisms and immunological effects is required. The aim of this study was to examine whether pigs with different coping styles exhibit distinct behavioral, neurobiological and immune responses to stressful situations. Therefore, pigs (n = 40) were classified as proactive, reactive or intermediate animals according to a repeatedly-performed backtest, and behavioral, neuroendocrine and immune alterations were analyzed without any stress before weaning on day 28 and after a stress treatment on day 32. Our results show that the behavioral responses in an open-field/novel-object test characterized proactive pigs as more active. There were no significant differences in adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol concentrations between pigs with different coping characteristics. However, we found that proactive pigs displayed significantly increased plasma noradrenaline levels in response to stress, which may reflect a higher sympathetic reactivity of these animals. Furthermore, the present study revealed coping style differences in mRNA expression of mineralocorticoid, glucocorticoid, oxytocin and arginine vasopressin receptors and the immediate early gene c-fos in stress-related brain regions. While proactive pigs responded to stress with higher mRNA expression of arginine vasopressin, mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors, reactive pigs displayed higher oxytocin receptor and c-fos mRNA expression, indicating different neurobiological mechanisms of distinct coping styles in response to stressful challenges. Moreover, we also found humoral immune differences between proactive, intermediate and reactive animals. Proactive pigs had a higher total serum IgA concentration before and after stress treatment, with a significant increase in response to stress compared to reactive and intermediate pigs. In contrast, stress-induced IgM concentrations only increased in reactive and intermediate animals, suggesting that the effects of coping style on humoral immunity may differ depending on the specific function of the immunoglobulin classes. In conclusion, this multidisciplinary study expands the concept of coping style in farm animals, particularly in terms of individual stress reactivity and disease susceptibility, and thus contributes to the understanding of the biology of animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Kanitz
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Margret Tuchscherer
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Winfried Otten
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Armin Tuchscherer
- Institute of Genetics and Biometry, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Manuela Zebunke
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Birger Puppe
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany.,Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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Estes MK, Freels TG, Prater WT, Lester DB. Systemic oxytocin administration alters mesolimbic dopamine release in mice. Neuroscience 2019; 408:226-238. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Martinon D, Lis P, Roman AN, Tornesi P, Applebey SV, Buechner G, Olivera V, Dabrowska J. Oxytocin receptors in the dorsolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) bias fear learning toward temporally predictable cued fear. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:140. [PMID: 31000694 PMCID: PMC6472379 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0474-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The inability to discriminate between threat and safety is a hallmark of stress-induced psychiatric disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Dorsolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNSTdl) is critically involved in the modulation of fear and anxiety, and has been proposed to regulate discrimination between signaled (cued, predictable) and unsignaled (unpredictable) threats. We recently showed that oxytocin receptors (OTRs) in the BNSTdl facilitate acquisition of cued fear measured in a fear-potentiated startle (FPS). In the current study, using in vivo microdialysis in awake male Sprague-Dawley rats, a double immunofluorescence approach with confocal microscopy, as well as retrograde tracing of hypothalamic BNST-projecting OT neurons, we investigated whether fear conditioning activates OT system and modulates OT release. To determine the role of OTR in fear memory formation, we also infused OTR antagonist or OT into the BNSTdl before fear conditioning and measured rats' ability to discriminate between cued (signaled) and non-cued (unsignaled) fear using FPS. In contrast to acute stress (exposure to forced swim stress or foot shocks alone), cued fear conditioning increases OT content in BNSTdl microdialysates. In addition, fear conditioning induces moderate activation of OT neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and robust activation in the supraoptic and accessory nuclei of the hypothalamus. Application of OT into the BNSTdl facilitates fear learning toward signaled, predictable threats, whereas blocking OTR attenuates this effect. We conclude that OTR neurotransmission in the BNSTdl plays a pivotal role in strengthening fear learning of temporally predictable, signaled threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Martinon
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Paulina Lis
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Alexandra N. Roman
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Patricio Tornesi
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Sarah V. Applebey
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Garrett Buechner
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Valentina Olivera
- 0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA ,0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA ,0000 0004 0388 7807grid.262641.5School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Joanna Dabrowska
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA. .,Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA. .,School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA.
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Neumann ID, Landgraf R. Tracking oxytocin functions in the rodent brain during the last 30 years: From push-pull perfusion to chemogenetic silencing. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12695. [PMID: 30748037 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A short overview is provided of the last 30 years of oxytocin (and vasopressin) research performed in our laboratories, starting with attempts to monitor the release of this nonapeptide in the rodent brain during physiological conditions such as suckling in the lactating animal. Using push-pull perfusion and microdialysis approaches, release patterns in hypothalamic and limbic brain regions could be characterised to occur from intact neuronal structures, to be independent of peripheral secretion into blood, and to respond differentially to various stimuli, particularly those related to reproduction and stress. Parallel efforts focused on the functional impact of central oxytocin release, including neuroendocrine and behavioural effects mediated by nonapeptide receptor interactions and subsequent intraneuronal signalling cascades. The use of a variety of sophisticated behavioural paradigms to manipulate central oxytocin release, along with pharmacological, genetic and pharmacogenetic approaches, revealed multiple consequences on social behaviours, particularly social fear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Centre of Neurosciences, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Oxytocin for learning calm and safety. Int J Psychophysiol 2019; 136:5-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Oxytocin release via activation of TRPM2 and CD38 in the hypothalamus during hyperthermia in mice: Implication for autism spectrum disorder. Neurochem Int 2018; 119:42-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Jiang Y, Coleman FH, Kopenhaver Doheny K, Travagli RA. Stress Adaptation Upregulates Oxytocin within Hypothalamo-Vagal Neurocircuits. Neuroscience 2018; 390:198-205. [PMID: 30176320 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Stress plays a pivotal role in the development and/or exacerbation of functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) contains neurons that are part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis as well as preautonomic neurons innervating, among other areas, gastric-projecting preganglionic neurons of the dorsal vagal complex (DVC). The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that stress adaptation upregulates oxytocin (OXT) within PVN-brainstem vagal neurocircuitry. The retrograde tracer cholera toxin B (CTB) was injected into the DVC of rats which, after post-surgical recovery, were pair-housed and exposed to either homo- or heterotypic stress for five consecutive days. Fecal pellets were counted at the end of each stress load. Two hours after the last stressor, the whole brain was excised. Brainstem and hypothalamic nuclei were analyzed immunohistochemically for the presence of both OXT-immunopositive cells in identified preautonomic PVN neurons as well as OXT fibers in the DVC. Rats exposed to chronic homotypic, but not chronic heterotypic stress, had a significant increase in both number of CTB+ OXT co-localized neurons in the PVN as well as density of OXT-positive fibers in the DVC compared to control rats. These data suggest that preautonomic OXT PVN neurons and their projections to the DVC increase following adaptation to stress, and suggest that the possible up-regulation of OXT within PVN-brainstem vagal neurocircuitry may play a role in the adaptation of GI responses to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Jiang
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State - College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - F Holly Coleman
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State - College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | - R Alberto Travagli
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State - College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
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Abstract
Accumulating research indicates oxytocin plays a significant role in regulating the behavioral and neurobiological responses to stress. Evidence from preclinical models suggests the effect of oxytocin on stress-responsivity appears to be dependent on individual characteristics, including sex. Although the interaction between oxytocinergic and stress systems has been widely studied in rodents, recent efforts have been made to examine the interface between these two systems in humans. This brief review examines how administration of oxytocin can influence the neuroendocrine, behavioral, and neural responses to stress, explores how sex may impact these effects, and provides considerations for future work.
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Jurek B, Neumann ID. The Oxytocin Receptor: From Intracellular Signaling to Behavior. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1805-1908. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00031.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 408] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The many facets of the oxytocin (OXT) system of the brain and periphery elicited nearly 25,000 publications since 1930 (see FIGURE 1 , as listed in PubMed), which revealed central roles for OXT and its receptor (OXTR) in reproduction, and social and emotional behaviors in animal and human studies focusing on mental and physical health and disease. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of OXT expression and release, expression and binding of the OXTR in brain and periphery, OXTR-coupled signaling cascades, and their involvement in behavioral outcomes to assemble a comprehensive picture of the central and peripheral OXT system. Traditionally known for its role in milk let-down and uterine contraction during labor, OXT also has implications in physiological, and also behavioral, aspects of reproduction, such as sexual and maternal behaviors and pair bonding, but also anxiety, trust, sociability, food intake, or even drug abuse. The many facets of OXT are, on a molecular basis, brought about by a single receptor. The OXTR, a 7-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor capable of binding to either Gαior Gαqproteins, activates a set of signaling cascades, such as the MAPK, PKC, PLC, or CaMK pathways, which converge on transcription factors like CREB or MEF-2. The cellular response to OXT includes regulation of neurite outgrowth, cellular viability, and increased survival. OXTergic projections in the brain represent anxiety and stress-regulating circuits connecting the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, or the medial prefrontal cortex. Which OXT-induced patterns finally alter the behavior of an animal or a human being is still poorly understood, and studying those OXTR-coupled signaling cascades is one initial step toward a better understanding of the molecular background of those behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Jurek
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D. Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Williams AV, Trainor BC. The impact of sex as a biological variable in the search for novel antidepressants. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 50:107-117. [PMID: 29859882 PMCID: PMC6139050 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A roadblock to successful treatment for anxiety and depression is the high proportion of individuals that do not respond to existing treatments. Different underlying neurobiological mechanisms may drive similar symptoms, so a more personalized approach to treatment could be more successful. There is increasing evidence that sex is an important biological variable modulating efficacy of antidepressants and anxiolytics. We review evidence for sex-specific effects of traditional monoamine based antidepressants and newer pharmaceuticals targeting kappa opioid receptors (KOR), oxytocin receptors (OTR), and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (ketamine). In some cases, similar behavioral effects are observed in both sexes while in other cases strong sex-specific effects are observed. Most intriguing are cases such as ketamine which has similar behavioral effects in males and females, perhaps through sex-specific neurobiological mechanisms. These results show how essential it is to include both males and females in both clinical and preclinical evaluations of novel antidepressants and anxiolytics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia V Williams
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
| | - Brian C Trainor
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
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Bülbül M, Travagli RA. Novel transmitters in brain stem vagal neurocircuitry: new players on the pitch. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2018; 315:G20-G26. [PMID: 29597355 PMCID: PMC6109706 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00059.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The last few decades have seen a major increase in the number of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides recognized as playing a role in brain stem neurocircuits, including those involved in homeostatic functions such as stress responsiveness, gastrointestinal motility, feeding, and/or arousal/wakefulness. This minireview will focus on the known physiological role of three of these novel neuropeptides, i.e., apelin, nesfatin-1, and neuropeptide-S, with a special emphasis on their hypothetical roles in vagal signaling related to gastrointestinal motor functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Bülbül
- 1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Akdeniz UniversityAntalya, Turkey
| | - R. Alberto Travagli
- 2Department of Neural and Behavioral Neurosciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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Martinon D, Dabrowska J. Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptors Modulate Oxytocin Release in the Dorsolateral Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis (BNST) in Male Rats. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:183. [PMID: 29618970 PMCID: PMC5871712 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) plays an important role in the regulation of social and anxiety-like behavior. Our previous studies have shown that OT neurons send projections from the hypothalamus to the dorsolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNSTdl), a forebrain region critically involved in the modulation of anxiety-like behavior. Importantly, these OT terminals in the BNSTdl express presynaptic corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) receptor type 2 (CRFR2). This suggests that CRFR2 might be involved in the modulation of OT release. To test this hypothesis, we measured OT content in microdialysates collected from the BNSTdl of freely-moving male Sprague-Dawley rats following the administration of a selective CRFR2 agonist (Urocortin 3) or antagonist (Astressin 2B, As2B). To determine if type 1 CRF receptors (CRFR1) are also involved, we used selective CRFR1 antagonist (NBI35965) as well as CRF, a putative ligand of both CRFR1 and CRFR2. All compounds were delivered directly into the BNSTdl via reverse dialysis. OT content in the microdialysates was measured with highly sensitive and selective radioimmunoassay. Blocking CRFR2 with As2B caused an increase in OT content in BNSTdl microdialysates, whereas CRFR2 activation by Urocortin 3 did not have an effect. The As2B-induced increase in OT release was blocked by application of the CRFR1 antagonist demonstrating that the effect was dependent on CRFR1 transmission. Interestingly, CRF alone caused a delayed increase in OT content in BNSTdl microdialysates, which was dependent on CRF2 but not CRF1 receptors. Our results suggest that members of the CRF peptide family modulate OT release in the BNSTdl via a fine-tuned mechanism that involves both CRFR1 and CRFR2. Further exploration of mechanisms by which endogenous OT system is modulated by CRF peptide family is needed to better understand the role of these neuropeptides in the regulation of anxiety and the stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Martinon
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joanna Dabrowska
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
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You DS, Haney R, Albu S, Meagher MW. Generalized Pain Sensitization and Endogenous Oxytocin in Individuals With Symptoms of Migraine: A Cross-Sectional Study. Headache 2017; 58:62-77. [PMID: 29094347 DOI: 10.1111/head.13213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study examined pain and neurogenic inflammation responses to topical capsaicin during the interictal period (between headache) and their relationship with plasma oxytocin in individuals with migraine. BACKGROUND Individuals with migraine can experience generalized (extracephalic) hyperalgesia, which can persist even between headache attacks. Elevated levels of plasma and cerebrospinal fluid oxytocin have been observed during migraine attacks, oxytocin levels being positively associated with the intensity of migraine symptoms. However, whether oxytocin plays a role in the mechanisms of generalized pain sensitization and neurogenic inflammation during the interictal period has not been studied yet. Understanding migraineurs' interictal pain phenotype and endogenous oxytocin might help identify individuals who would benefit from intranasal oxytocin treatment. METHODS Thirty-two subjects with migraine and 26 healthy controls underwent pain testing. The current study compared capsaicin-induced pain, central sensitization (areas of secondary mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia), and neurogenic inflammation (capsaicin-induced flare) responses on the nondominant volar forearm between migraineurs and healthy controls. Additionally, we studied plasma oxytocin levels and their relationship to migraine symptoms, experimental pain and affect. RESULTS The results indicated a significant group effect (P = .019): Migraineurs reported greater capsaicin-induced pain unpleasantness (M = 1.2, SD = 1.4) on a 0-10 scale and showed larger areas of flare (LnM = 2.8, SD = 0.4) than healthy controls (M = 0.5, SD = 0.8; LnM = 2.6, SD = 0.4; ps < .032). In a subgroup analysis, enhanced capsaicin-induced pain unpleasantness was found in the chronic (P = .007), but not the episodic (Ps > .200), migraineurs. The oxytocin levels were elevated in migraineurs and accounted for 18% of the group difference in capsaicin-induced pain unpleasantness. Within migraineurs, interictal oxytocin levels were negatively associated with psychological distress (Ps < .030). However, during the interictal period, pain sensitivity in extracephalic regions and plasma oxytocin levels were unrelated to migraine symptom parameters (Ps > .074). Lastly, the results found no group difference in areas of secondary mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia (Ps >.298). CONCLUSION The current study revealed that individuals with migraine exhibit enhanced extracephalic capsaicin-induced pain unpleasantness and flare responses during interictal periods. In addition, migraineurs, especially those with chronic migraine, had slightly elevated interictal oxytocin levels compared to controls, which was associated with their affective component of experimental pain. Therefore, treatment targeting affective pain during the interictal period may help to reduce generalized pain in migraine. Furthermore, endogenous increases in oxytocin may be a compensatory mechanism that may help decrease affective distress in migraineurs. The therapeutic effects of intranasal oxytocin may benefit migraineurs by reducing their affective distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dokyoung S You
- Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Rachel Haney
- Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Sergiu Albu
- Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.,Texas A&M Institute of Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Mary W Meagher
- Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.,Texas A&M Institute of Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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