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Lavezzi AM, Mehboob R, Piscioli F, Pusiol T. Involvement of the Superior Colliculus in SIDS Pathogenesis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1689. [PMID: 37371784 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of the mesencephalic superior colliculus (SC) in the pathogenetic mechanism of SIDS, a syndrome frequently ascribed to arousal failure from sleep. We analyzed the brains of 44 infants who died suddenly within the first 7 months of life, among which were 26 infants with SIDS and 18 controls. In-depth neuropathological investigations of serial sections of the midbrain showed the SC layered cytoarchitectural organization already well known in animals, as made up of seven distinct layers, but so far never highlighted in humans, albeit with some differences. In 69% of SIDS cases but never in the controls, we observed alterations of the laminar arrangement of the SC deep layers (precisely, an increased number of polygonal cells invading the superficial layers and an increased presence of intensely stained myelinated fibers). Since it has been demonstrated in experimental studies that the deep layers of the SC exert motor control including that of the head, their developmental disorder could lead to the failure of newborns who are in a prone position to resume regular breathing by moving their heads in the sleep-arousal phase. The SC anomalies highlighted here represent a new step in understanding the pathogenetic process that leads to SIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Lavezzi
- "Lino Rossi" Research Center for the Study and Prevention of Unexpected Perinatal Death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Riffat Mehboob
- Lahore Medical Research Center and LMRC Laboratories, LLP, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Francesco Piscioli
- Provincial Health Care Services, Institute of Pathology, Santa Maria del Carmine Hospital, 38068 Rovereto, Italy
| | - Teresa Pusiol
- Provincial Health Care Services, Institute of Pathology, Santa Maria del Carmine Hospital, 38068 Rovereto, Italy
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2
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Gatti AM, Ristic M, Stanzani S, Lavezzi AM. Novel chemical-physical autopsy investigation in Sudden Infant Death and Sudden Intrauterine Unexplained Death Syndromes. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2022; 17:275-288. [PMID: 35133189 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2021-0203] [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: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Verify the presence of inorganic nanoparticle entities in brain tissue samples from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)/Sudden Intrauterine Unexplained Death Syndrome (SIUDS) cases. The presence of inorganic debris could be a cofactor that compromises proper brain tissue functionality. Materials & methods: A novel autopsy approach that consists of neuropathological analysis procedures combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy/field emission gun environmental scanning electron microscopy investigations was implemented on 10 SIDS/SIUDS cases, whereas control samples were obtained from 10 cases of fetal/infant death from known cause. Results: Developmental abnormalities of the brain were associated with the presence of foreign bodies. Although nanoparticles were present as well in control samples, they were not associated with histological brain anomalies, as was the case in SIDS/SIUDS. Conclusion: Inorganic particles present in brain tissues demonstrate their ability to cross the hemato-encephalic barrier and to interact with tissues and cells in an unknown yet pathological fashion. This gives a rationale to consider them as co-factors of lethality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anna M Lavezzi
- "Lino Rossi" Research Center for The Study & prevention of unexpected perinatal death & SIDS Department of Biomedical, Surgical & Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Italy
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3
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Varga AG, Whitaker-Fornek JR, Maletz SN, Levitt ES. Activation of orexin-2 receptors in the Kӧlliker-Fuse nucleus of anesthetized mice leads to transient slowing of respiratory rate. Front Physiol 2022; 13:977569. [PMID: 36406987 PMCID: PMC9667107 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.977569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Orexins are neuropeptides originating from the hypothalamus that serve broad physiological roles, including the regulation of autonomic function, sleep-wake states, arousal and breathing. Lack of orexins may lead to narcolepsy and sleep disordered breathing. Orexinergic hypothalamic neurons send fibers to Kӧlliker-Fuse (KF) neurons that directly project to the rostroventral respiratory group, and phrenic and hypoglossal motor neurons. These connections indicate a potential role of orexin-modulated KF neurons in functionally linking the control of wakefulness/arousal and respiration. In a reduced preparation of juvenile rats Orexin B microinjected into the KF led to a transient increase in respiratory rate and hypoglossal output, however Orexin B modulation of the KF in intact preparations has not been explored. Here, we performed microinjections of the Orexin B mouse peptide and the synthetic Orexin 2 receptor agonist, MDK 5220, in the KF of spontaneously breathing, isoflurane anesthetized wild type mice. Microinjection of Orexin-2 receptor agonists into the KF led to transient slowing of respiratory rate, which was more exaggerated in response to Orexin-B than MDK 5220 injections. Our data suggest that Orexin B signaling in the KF may contribute to arousal-mediated respiratory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienn G. Varga
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Adrienn G. Varga, , 0000-0003-1311-638X
| | - Jessica R. Whitaker-Fornek
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sebastian N. Maletz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Erica S. Levitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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4
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Lavezzi AM. Altered Development of Mesencephalic Dopaminergic Neurons in SIDS: New Insights into Understanding Sudden Infant Death Pathogenesis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111534. [PMID: 34829763 PMCID: PMC8615170 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is defined as the unexpected sudden death of an infant under 1 year of age that remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation. The SIDS pathogenesis is still unknown; however, abnormalities in brain centers that control breathing and arousal from sleep, including dramatic changes in neurotransmitter levels, have been supposed in these deaths. This is the first study focusing on mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons, so far extensively studied only in animals and human neurological diseases, in SIDS. Dopaminergic structures in midbrain sections of a large series of sudden infant deaths (36 SIDS and 26 controls) were identified using polyclonal rabbit antibodies against tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine biosynthesis, and the dopamine transporter, a membrane protein specifically expressed in dopaminergic cells. Dopamine-immunolabeled neurons were observed concentrated in two specific structures: the pars compacta of the substantia nigra and in the subnucleus medialis of the periaqueductal gray matter. Anatomical and functional degenerations of dopaminergic neurons in these regions were observed in most SIDS cases but never in controls. These results indicate that dopamine depletion, which is already known to be linked especially to Parkinson's disease, is strongly involved even in SIDS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Lavezzi
- "Lino Rossi" Research Center for the Study and Prevention of Unexpected Perinatal Death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Lavezzi AM, Mehboob R. The Mesencephalic Periaqueductal Gray, a Further Structure Involved in Breathing Failure Underlying Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. ASN Neuro 2021; 13:17590914211048260. [PMID: 34623930 PMCID: PMC8642109 DOI: 10.1177/17590914211048260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of the periaqueductal gray
(PAG), an area of gray matter surrounding the cerebral aqueduct of Sylvius, in the
pathogenetic mechanism of SIDS, a syndrome frequently ascribed to arousal failure from
sleep. We reconsidered the same samples of brainstem, more precisely midbrain specimens,
taken from a large series of sudden infant deaths, namely 46 cases aged from 1 to about 7
months, among which 26 SIDS and 20 controls, in which we already highlighted significant
developmental alterations of the substantia nigra, another mesencephalic structure with a
critical role in breath and awakening regulation. Specific histological and
immunohistochemical methods were applied to examine the PAG cytoarchitecture and the
expression of the tyrosine hydroxylase, a marker of catecholaminergic neurons. Hypoplasia
of the PAG subnucleus medialis was observed in 65% of SIDS but never in controls; tyrosine
hydroxylase expression was significantly higher in controls than in SIDS. A significant
correlation was found between these findings and those related to the substantia nigra,
demonstrating a link between these neuronal centers and the brainstem respiratory network
and a common involvement in the sleep-arousal phase failure leading to SIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. Lavezzi
- “Lino Rossi” Research Center for the study and prevention of unexpected
perinatal death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Anna Maria Lavezzi “Lino Rossi” Research Center for
the study and prevention of unexpected perinatal death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical,
Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan. E-mail:
| | - Riffat Mehboob
- “Lino Rossi” Research Center for the study and prevention of unexpected
perinatal death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore,
Pakistan
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Spinieli RL, Ben Musa R, Kielhofner J, Cornelius-Green J, Cummings KJ. Orexin contributes to eupnea within a critical period of postnatal development. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R558-R571. [PMID: 34405704 PMCID: PMC8560369 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00156.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Orexin neurons are active in wakefulness and mostly silent in sleep. In adult rats and humans, orexin facilitates the hypercapnic ventilatory response but has little effect on resting ventilation. The influence of orexin on breathing in the early postnatal period, and across states of vigilance, have not been investigated. This is relevant as the orexin system may be impaired in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) cases. We addressed three hypotheses: 1) orexin provides a drive to breathe in infancy; 2) the effect of orexin depends on stage of postnatal development; and 3) orexin has a greater influence on breathing in wakefulness compared with sleep. Whole body plethysmography was used to monitor breathing of infant rats at three ages: postnatal days (P) 7-8, 12-14, and 17-19. Respiratory variables were analyzed in wakefulness (W), quiet sleep (QS), and active sleep (AS), following suvorexant (5 mg/kg ip), a dual orexin receptor antagonist, or vehicle (DMSO). Effects of suvorexant on ventilatory responses to graded hypercapnia ([Formula: see text] = 0.02, 0.04, 0.06), hypoxia ([Formula: see text] = 0.10), and hyperoxia ([Formula: see text] = 1.0) at P12-14 were also tested. At P12-14, but not at other ages, suvorexant significantly reduced respiratory frequency in all states, reduced the ventilatory equivalent in QW and QS, and increased [Formula: see text] to ∼5 mmHg. Suvorexant had no effect on ventilatory responses to graded hypercapnia or hypoxia. Hyperoxia eliminated the effects of suvorexant on respiratory frequency at P12-14. Our data suggest that orexin preserves eupneic frequency and ventilation in rats, specifically at ∼2 wk of age, perhaps by facilitating tonic peripheral chemoreflex activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Spinieli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Ruwaida Ben Musa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Jane Kielhofner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | | | - Kevin J Cummings
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
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Immunostaining for NeuN Does Not Show all Mature and Healthy Neurons in the Human and Pig Brain: Focus on the Hippocampus. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2021; 29:e46-e56. [PMID: 33710124 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal nuclei (NeuN) is a neuron-specific nuclear protein, reported to be stably expressed in most postmitotic neurons of the vertebrate nervous system. Reduced staining has been interpreted by some to indicate loss of cell viability in human studies, while others suggest this may be because of changes in the antigenicity of the target epitope. Preliminary studies in our laboratory found low immunostaining for the NeuN antibody on formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) human brain tissue. We report on the techniques and results used to enhance the staining for NeuN in that tissue. In parallel, we stained NeuN in piglet brain tissue, sourced from an experimental model where methodological parameters, including those for tissue fixation and storage, were tightly controlled. In human FFPE brain tissue, we were unable to enhance NeuN immunostaining to a degree sufficient for cell counting. In contrast, we found consistently high levels of staining in the piglet brain tissue. We conclude that processes used for fixation and storage of human FFPE brain tissue are responsible for the reduced staining. These results emphasize that a cautionary approach should be taken when interpreting NeuN staining outcomes in human FFPE brain tissue.
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Varga AG, Maletz SN, Bateman JT, Reid BT, Levitt ES. Neurochemistry of the Kölliker-Fuse nucleus from a respiratory perspective. J Neurochem 2020; 156:16-37. [PMID: 32396650 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Kölliker-Fuse nucleus (KF) is a functionally distinct component of the parabrachial complex, located in the dorsolateral pons of mammals. The KF has a major role in respiration and upper airway control. A comprehensive understanding of the KF and its contributions to respiratory function and dysfunction requires an appreciation for its neurochemical characteristics. The goal of this review is to summarize the diverse neurochemical composition of the KF, focusing on the neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and neuropeptides present. We also include a description of the receptors expressed on KF neurons and transporters involved in each system, as well as their putative roles in respiratory physiology. Finally, we provide a short section reviewing the literature regarding neurochemical changes in the KF in the context of respiratory dysfunction observed in SIDS and Rett syndrome. By over-viewing the current literature on the neurochemical composition of the KF, this review will serve to aid a wide range of topics in the future research into the neural control of respiration in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienn G Varga
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sebastian N Maletz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jordan T Bateman
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Brandon T Reid
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Erica S Levitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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9
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Donnelly WT, Haynes RL, Commons KG, Erickson DJ, Panzini CM, Xia L, Han QJ, Leiter JC. Prenatal intermittent hypoxia sensitizes the laryngeal chemoreflex, blocks serotoninergic shortening of the reflex, and reduces 5-HT 3 receptor binding in the NTS in anesthetized rat pups. Exp Neurol 2020; 326:113166. [PMID: 31887303 PMCID: PMC7028519 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that exposure to intermittent hypoxia (IH) during pregnancy would prolong the laryngeal chemoreflex (LCR) and diminish the capacity of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) to terminate the LCR. Prenatal exposure to IH was associated with significant prolongation of the LCR in younger, anesthetized, postnatal day (P) rat pups age P8 to P16 compared to control, room air (RA)-exposed rat pups of the same age. Serotonin microinjected into the NTS shortened the LCR in rat pups exposed to RA during gestation, but 5-HT failed to shorten the LCR in rat pups exposed to prenatal IH. Given these observations, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal hypoxia would decrease binding to 5-HT3 receptors in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) where 5-HT acts to shorten the LCR. Serotonin 3 receptor binding was reduced in younger rat pups exposed to IH compared to control, RA-exposed rat pups in the age range P8 to P12. Serotonin 3 receptor binding was similar in older animals (P18-P24) regardless of gas exposure during gestation. The failure of the 5-HT injected into the NTS to shorten the LCR was correlated with a developmental decrease in 5-HT3 receptor binding in the NTS associated with exposure to prenatal IH. In summary, prenatal IH sensitized reflex apnea and blunted processes that terminate reflex apneas in neonatal rat pups, processes that are essential to prevent death following apneas such as those seen in babies who died of SIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- William T Donnelly
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - Robin L Haynes
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
| | - Kathryn G Commons
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States of America
| | - Drexel J Erickson
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
| | - Chris M Panzini
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States of America
| | - Luxi Xia
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - Q Joyce Han
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America
| | - J C Leiter
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, United States of America.
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10
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Barnett S, Li A. Orexin in Respiratory and Autonomic Regulation, Health and Diseases. Compr Physiol 2020; 10:345-363. [DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Maric V, Ramanathan D, Mishra J. Respiratory regulation & interactions with neuro-cognitive circuitry. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 112:95-106. [PMID: 32027875 PMCID: PMC10092293 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
It is increasingly being recognized that active control of breathing - a key aspect of ancient Vedic meditative practices, can relieve stress and anxiety and improve cognition. However, the underlying mechanisms of respiratory modulation of neurophysiology are just beginning to be elucidated. Research shows that brainstem circuits involved in the motor control of respiration receive input from and can directly modulate activity in subcortical circuits, affecting emotion and arousal. Meanwhile, brain regions involved in the sensory aspects of respiration, such as the olfactory bulb, are like-wise linked with wide-spread brain oscillations; and perturbing olfactory bulb activity can significantly affect both mood and cognition. Thus, via both motor and sensory pathways, there are clear mechanisms by which brain activity is entrained to the respiratory cycle. Here, we review evidence gathered across multiple species demonstrating the links between respiration, entrainment of brain activity and functional relevance for affecting mood and cognition. We also discuss further linkages with cardiac rhythms, and the potential translational implications for biorhythm monitoring and regulation in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vojislav Maric
- Neural Engineering and Translation Labs, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dhakshin Ramanathan
- Neural Engineering and Translation Labs, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Mental Health, VA San Diego Medical Center, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jyoti Mishra
- Neural Engineering and Translation Labs, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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Abstract
The pathological features of the appendix tumors fundamentally recall those of the more frequent colorectal neoplasms, although with a higher relative incidence of carcinoids, due to the abundant presence of enteroendocrine cells in the appendix wall. Moreover, different types of lymphomas, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin, arising from the extra-nodal mucosal-associated lymphatic tissue, can be encountered. The appendix tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a cellular component and of a noncellular component: the former includes the immunocompetent cells, while the latter represents the support stroma. Particularly in carcinoids, the immune cell reaction can be explicated by tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, which, in some circumstances, may arrange around and inside the tumor in a brisk fashion influencing favorably the prognosis. This active reaction has to be distinguished from any preexisting inflammatory condition of the appendix and from superimposed tumor complications, such as infection or ischemia. In practice, we consider the appendix TME a complex framework with immunological, mechanic, and metabolic functions, all supported by a marked neo-lymphoangiogenesis.
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13
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Lavezzi AM, Piscioli F, Pusiol T, Jorizzo G, Ferrero S. Sudden intrauterine unexplained death: time to adopt uniform postmortem investigative guidelines? BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:526. [PMID: 31888538 PMCID: PMC6936151 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2603-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Worldwide approximately 2.6 million are stillborn, mostly occurring in developing countries. In the great part these deaths are inexplicable. The evenness and standardisation of the diagnostic criteria are prerequisites to understand their pathogenesis. The core goal of this article is to propose new evidence based investigative post-mortem guidelines that should be adopted in all the Institutions especially when a fetal death, after a routine autopsy procedure, is diagnosed as “unexplained”. The proposed protocol is mainly focused on the anatomopathological examination of the autonomic nervous system and in particular of the brainstem where the main centers that control vital functions are located. Methods Updated investigative guidelines for the examination of unexplained stillbirths, prevalently focused on the histological examination of the brainstem, where the main centers that are involved in monitoring the vital functions are located, are here presented. A section of this protocol concerns the Immunohistochemical evaluation of specific functional markers such as the neuronal nuclear antigen, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, serotonin, orexin, apoptosis and gliosis. The important role of risk factors, having regard in particular to maternal smoking and air pollution is also contemplated in these guidelines. Results Specific morphological and/or functional alterations of vital brainstem structures have been found with high incidence in over 100 cases of unexplained fetal death sent to the “Lino Rossi Research Center” of the Milan University according to the Italian law. These alterations were rarely detected in a group of control cases. Conclusions We hope this protocol can be adopted in all the Institutions notably for the examination of unexplained fetal deaths, in order to make uniform investigations. This will lead to identify a plausible explanation of the pathogenetic mechanism behind the unexplained fetal deaths and to design preventive strategies to decrease the incidence of these very distressing events for both parents and clinicians. Trial registration not applicable for this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Lavezzi
- "Lino Rossi" Research Center for the study and prevention of unexpected perinatal death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Teresa Pusiol
- Institute of Pathology, Hospital of Rovereto (Trento), Rovereto, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Ferrero
- "Lino Rossi" Research Center for the study and prevention of unexpected perinatal death and SIDS, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122, Milan, Italy.,Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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14
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Bastianini S, Silvani A. Clinical implications of basic research. CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/2514183x18789327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Bastianini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Silvani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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15
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Lattuada D, Alfonsi G, Roncati L, Pusiol T, Bulfoni A, Ferrero S, Lavezzi A. Mitochondrial DNA content: A new biomarker for sudden intrauterine unexplained death syndrome (SIUDS). Mitochondrion 2018; 40:13-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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16
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Muhammad N, Sharif M, Amin J, Mehboob R, Gilani SA, Bibi N, Javed H, Ahmed N. Neurochemical Alterations in Sudden Unexplained Perinatal Deaths-A Review. Front Pediatr 2018; 6:6. [PMID: 29423392 PMCID: PMC5788892 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2018.00006] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden unexpected perinatal collapse is a major trauma for the parents of victims. Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is unexpected and mysterious death of an apparently healthy neonate from birth till 1 year of age without any known causes, even after thorough postmortem investigations. However, the incidence of sudden intrauterine unexplained death syndrome (SIUDS) is seven times higher as compared with SIDS. This observation is approximated 40-80%. Stillbirth is defined as death of a fetus after 20th week of gestation or just before delivery at full term without a known reason. Pakistan has the highest burden of stillbirth in the world. This basis of SIDS, SIUDS, and stillbirths eludes specialists. The purpose of this study is to investigate factors behind failure in control of these unexplained deaths and how research may go ahead with improved prospects. Animal models and physiological data demonstrate that sleep, arousal, and cardiorespiratory malfunctioning are abnormal mechanisms in SIUDS risk factors or in newborn children who subsequently die from SIDS. This review focuses on insights in neuropathology and mechanisms of SIDS and SIUDS in terms of different receptors involved in this major perinatal demise. Several studies conducted in the past decade have confirmed neuropathological and neurochemical anomalies related to serotonin transporter, substance P, acetylcholine α7 nicotine receptors, etc., in sudden unexplained fetal and infant deaths. There is need to focus more on research in this area to unveil the major curtain to neuroprotection by underlying mechanisms leading to such deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazeer Muhammad
- COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Wah Cantonment, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sharif
- COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Wah Cantonment, Pakistan
| | - Javeria Amin
- COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Wah Cantonment, Pakistan
| | - Riffat Mehboob
- Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan.,University Institute of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Syed Amir Gilani
- Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nargis Bibi
- COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Wah Cantonment, Pakistan.,Department of Computer Sciences, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Hasnain Javed
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Naseer Ahmed
- Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan.,Medical School, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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17
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Mehboob R, Kabir M, Ahmed N, Ahmad FJ. Towards Better Understanding of the Pathogenesis of Neuronal Respiratory Network in Sudden Perinatal Death. Front Neurol 2017; 8:320. [PMID: 28729852 PMCID: PMC5498558 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden perinatal death that includes the victims of sudden infant death syndrome, sudden intrauterine death syndrome, and stillbirth are heartbreaking events in the life of parents. Most of the studies about sudden perinatal death were reported from Italy, highlighting two main etiological factors: prone sleeping position and smoking. Other probable contributory factors are prematurity, male gender, lack of breastfeeding, respiratory tract infections, use of pacifiers, infant botulism, extensive use of pesticides and insecticides, etc. However, extensive studies across the world are required to establish the role of these factors in a different subset of populations. Previous studies confirmed the widely accepted hypothesis that neuropathology of the brainstem is one of the main cause of sudden perinatal death. This study is an effort to summarize the neuropathological evaluation of the brainstems and their association to sudden perinatal death. Brainstem nuclei in vulnerable infants undergo certain changes that may alter the sleep arousal cycle, cardiorespiratory control, and ultimately culminate in death. This review focuses on the roles of different brainstem nuclei, their pathologies, and the established facts in this regard in terms of it's link to such deaths. This study will also help to understand the role of brainstem nuclei in controlling the cardiorespiratory cycles in sudden perinatal death and may provide a better understanding to resolve the mystery of these deaths in future. It is also found that a global initiative to deal with perinatal death is required to facilitate the diagnosis and prevention in developed and as well as developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riffat Mehboob
- Biomedical Sciences, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan.,Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mahvish Kabir
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Naseer Ahmed
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Verona Medical School, Verona, Italy.,Section of Pharmacology, University of Verona Medical School, Verona, Italy
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18
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Neurodevelopmental disorders and pesticide exposure: the northeastern Italian experience. Arch Toxicol 2016; 91:603-604. [PMID: 28032145 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1920-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disruptors are chemical substances that can interfere with the endocrine system. They include pesticides, metals, additives or contaminants in food, and personal care products. Pesticides are the only substances intentionally released into our environment to kill living things (herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides). There is scientific evidence that exposure to pesticides produces a growing number of human pathological conditions; among these, stillbirth is an emerging issue.
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Roncati L, Termopoli V, Pusiol T. Negative Role of the Environmental Endocrine Disruptors in the Human Neurodevelopment. Front Neurol 2016; 7:143. [PMID: 27625632 PMCID: PMC5003883 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2016.00143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine disruptors (EDs) are able to influence the endocrine system, mimicking or antagonizing hormonal molecules. They are bio-persistent for their degradation resistance in the environment. Our research group has investigated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) the EDs presence in 35 brain samples, coming from 27 cases of sudden intrauterine unexplained death syndrome (SIUDS) and 8 cases of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), collected by centralization in the last year (2015). More in detail, a mixture of 25 EDs has been subjected to analytical procedure, following standard protocols. Among the target analytes, some organochlorine pesticides, that is α-chlordane, γ-chlordane, heptachlor, p,p-DDE, p,p-DDT, and the two most commonly used organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs), chlorpyrifos and chlorfenvinfos, have been found in seven and three samples, respectively. The analytical procedure used to detect the presence of environmental EDs in cortex samples has been successfully implemented on SIUDS and SIDS victims. The environmental EDs have been found to be able to overcome the placental barrier, reaching also the basal ganglia assigned to the control of the vital functions. This finding, related to the OPPs bio-persistence, implies a conceptual redefinition of the fetal–placental and fetal blood–brain barriers: not real safety barriers but simply time-deferral mechanisms of absorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Roncati
- Provincial Health Care Services, Institute of Pathology, Santa Maria del Carmine Hospital, Rovereto, Trentino, Italy; Department of Diagnostic and Clinical Medicine and Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Veronica Termopoli
- LC-MS Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Life and Environment (DiSTeVA), University of Urbino , Urbino , Italy
| | - Teresa Pusiol
- Provincial Health Care Services, Institute of Pathology, Santa Maria del Carmine Hospital , Rovereto, Trentino , Italy
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