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Varastehmoradi B, Smith KL, Müller HK, Elfving B, Sanchez C, Wegener G. Kappa opioid activation changes protein profiles in different regions of the brain relevant to depression. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 72:9-17. [PMID: 37040689 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Depression is a widespread disorder with a significant burden on individuals and society. There are various available treatments for patients with depression. However, not all patients respond adequately to their treatment. Recently, the opioid system has regained interest in depression studies. Research in animals and humans suggest that blocking the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) may potentially alleviate the symptoms of depression. The mechanism behind this effect is not fully understood. Stress and alterations in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis) activity are thought to play a crucial role in depression. This study aimed to characterize stress hormones and stress-related protein expression following activation of KOR using a selective agonist. The longitudinal effect was investigated 24 h after KOR activation using the selective agonist U50,488 in Sprague Dawley rats. Stress-related hormones and protein expression patterns were explored using multiplex bead-based assays and western blotting. We found that KOR activation caused an increase in both adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) in serum. Regarding protein assays in different brain regions, phosphorylated glucocorticoid receptors also increased significantly in thalamus (THL), hypothalamus (HTH), and striatum (STR). C-Fos increased time-dependently in THL following KOR activation, extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) increased significantly in STR and amygdala (AMG), while phosphorylated ERK1/2 decreased during the first 2 h and then increased again in AMG and prefrontal cortex (PFC). This study shows that KOR activation alters the HPA axis and ERK signaling which may cause to develop mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bardia Varastehmoradi
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen L Smith
- Alkermes, Inc., Biology, Waltham, MA, United States of America
| | - Heidi Kaastrup Müller
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Betina Elfving
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Connie Sanchez
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Alkermes, Inc., Biology, Waltham, MA, United States of America
| | - Gregers Wegener
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Wang X, Wang T, Fan X, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Li Z. A Molecular Toolbox of Positron Emission Tomography Tracers for General Anesthesia Mechanism Research. J Med Chem 2023; 66:6463-6497. [PMID: 37145921 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
With appropriate radiotracers, positron emission tomography (PET) allows direct or indirect monitoring of the spatial and temporal distribution of anesthetics, neurotransmitters, and biomarkers, making it an indispensable tool for studying the general anesthesia mechanism. In this Perspective, PET tracers that have been recruited in general anesthesia research are introduced in the following order: 1) 11C/18F-labeled anesthetics, i.e., PET tracers made from inhaled and intravenous anesthetics; 2) PET tracers targeting anesthesia-related receptors, e.g., neurotransmitters and voltage-gated ion channels; and 3) PET tracers for studying anesthesia-related neurophysiological effects and neurotoxicity. The radiosynthesis, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics of the above PET tracers are mainly discussed to provide a practical molecular toolbox for radiochemists, anesthesiologists, and those who are interested in general anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Wang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Xiaowei Fan
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yingwei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Zijing Li
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
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Sampaio-Cunha TJ, Martins I. Knowing the Enemy Is Halfway towards Victory: A Scoping Review on Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11206161. [PMID: 36294488 PMCID: PMC9604911 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a paradoxical effect of opioids that is not consensually recognized in clinical settings. We conducted a revision of clinical and preclinical studies and discuss them side by side to provide an updated and renewed view on OIH. We critically analyze data on the human manifestations of OIH in the context of chronic and post-operative pain. We also discuss how, in the context of cancer pain, though there are no direct evidence of OIH, several inherent conditions to the tumor and chemotherapy provide a substrate for the development of OIH. The review of the clinical data, namely in what concerns the strategies to counter OIH, emphasizes how much OIH rely mechanistically on the existence of µ-opioid receptor (MOR) signaling through opposite, inhibitory/antinociceptive and excitatory/pronociceptive, pathways. The rationale for the maladaptive excitatory signaling of opioids is provided by the emerging growing information on the functional role of alternative splicing and heteromerization of MOR. The crossroads between opioids and neuroinflammation also play a major role in OIH. The latest pre-clinical data in this field brings new insights to new and promising therapeutic targets to address OIH. In conclusion, although OIH remains insufficiently recognized in clinical practice, the appropriate diagnosis can turn it into a treatable pain disorder. Therefore, in times of scarce alternatives to opioids to treat pain, mainly unmanageable chronic pain, increased knowledge and recognition of OIH, likely represent the first steps towards safer and efficient use of opioids as analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago J. Sampaio-Cunha
- Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- i3S–Institute for Research & Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IBMC-Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabel Martins
- Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- i3S–Institute for Research & Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IBMC-Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-22-0426780; Fax: +351-22-5513655
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Vázquez-León P, Miranda-Páez A, Valencia-Flores K, Sánchez-Castillo H. Defensive and Emotional Behavior Modulation by Serotonin in the Periaqueductal Gray. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 43:1453-1468. [PMID: 35902460 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01262-z] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a key neurotransmitter for the modulation and/or regulation of numerous physiological processes and psychiatric disorders (e.g., behaviors related to anxiety, pain, aggressiveness, etc.). The periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) is considered an integrating center for active and passive defensive behaviors, and electrical stimulation of this area has been shown to evoke behavioral responses of panic, fight-flight, freezing, among others. The serotonergic activity in PAG is influenced by the activation of other brain areas such as the medial hypothalamus, paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, dorsal raphe nucleus, and ventrolateral orbital cortex. In addition, activation of other receptors within PAG (i.e., CB1, Oxytocin, µ-opioid receptor (MOR), and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABAA)) promotes serotonin release. Therefore, this review aims to document evidence suggesting that the PAG-evoked behavioral responses of anxiety, panic, fear, analgesia, and aggression are influenced by the activation of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A/C receptors and their participation in the treatment of various mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Vázquez-León
- Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Psychology School. 1er Piso Edif. B. Cub B001, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Avenida Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad. Alcaldía de Coyoacan, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Abraham Miranda-Páez
- Department of Physiology, National School of Biological Sciences, National Polytechnic Institute, Wilfrido Massieu esq. Manuel Stampa S/N Col. Nueva Industrial Vallejo, Gustavo A. Madero, Mexico City, CP:07738, Mexico
| | - Kenji Valencia-Flores
- Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Psychology School. 1er Piso Edif. B. Cub B001, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Avenida Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad. Alcaldía de Coyoacan, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Hugo Sánchez-Castillo
- Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Psychology School. 1er Piso Edif. B. Cub B001, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Avenida Universidad 3000, Colonia Copilco Universidad. Alcaldía de Coyoacan, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Research Unit of Psychobiology and Neurosciences (UIPyN), Psychology School, UNAM, CDMX Mexico, CP 04510, Mexico.
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Zhang X, Wang P, Shi L, Li N. Study on caspase-1 and partial cognitive impairment in the comorbidity of type 2 diabetes and MDD. J Affect Disord 2021; 290:387-392. [PMID: 34087627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.04.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a major mood disorder characterized by chronic low mood with cognitive impairment. Diabetes mellitus is a group of chronic metabolic diseases, Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) will obviously increase the risk of dementia. People with the the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD have a higher risk of dementia. In this study, we aim to investigate partial cognitive impairment in the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD, and to determine the relationship between changes in caspase-1 expression and cognitive impairment. To further explore the role of caspase-1 in the partial cognitive impairment in the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD. METHODS A total of 162 people were enrolled, there were 49 patients in the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group, 54 patients in the MDD group, and 45 patients in the T2DM group. Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) was used to assess the cognitive function of these three groups. Serum level of caspase-1 was determined by ELISA, and the level of caspase-1, as well as partial cognitive function, was compared in the three groups. RESULTS The cognitive impairment of patients of the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group was worse than the MDD group and the T2DM group, and the immediate memory, attention, and delayed memory in the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group were lower than those in the other two groups, and the caspase-1 of the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD is higher than the caspase-1 of the MDD group, all the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Caspase-1 protein was negatively correlated with immediate memory, attention, and delayed memory (r=-0.332, r=-0.182, r=-0.313, P<0.05). CONCLUSION The cognitive impairment of patients of the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group was worse than the MDD group and the T2DM group, and the immediate memory, attention, and delayed memory in the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group were lower than those in the other two groups. The differences of the caspase-1 in the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group, the MDD group and the T2DM group were significant, the level of the caspase-1 is higher than the other two groups, the cognitive impairment of three groups is associated with caspase-1, suggesting caspase-1 protein may be involved in the cognitive impairment aggravation mechanism of the comorbidity of T2DM and MDD group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyue Zhang
- Psychiatric Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Psychiatric Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Li Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Na Li
- Psychiatric Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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Eitan S, Madison CA, Kuempel J. The self-serving benefits of being a good host: A role for our micro-inhabitants in shaping opioids' function. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 127:284-295. [PMID: 33894242 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Opioids are highly efficacious in their ability to relieve pain, but they are liable for abuse, dependence, and addiction. Risk factors to develop opioid use disorders (OUD) include chronic stress, socio-environment, and preexisting major depressive disorders (MDD) and posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD). Additionally, opioids reduce gut motility, induce loss of gut barrier function, and alter the composition of the trillions of microbes hosted in the gastrointestinal tract, known as the gut microbiota. The microbiota are significant contributors to the reciprocal communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the gut, termed the gut-brain axis. They have strong influences on their host behaviors, including the ability to cope with stress, sociability, affect, mood, and anxiety. Thus, they are implicated in the etiology of MDD and PTSD. Here we review the latest studies demonstrating that intestinal flora can, directly and indirectly, by affecting sociability levels, responses to stress, and mental state, alter the responses to opioids. It suggests that microbiota can potentially be used to increase the resilience to develop analgesic tolerance and OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoshana Eitan
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Caitlin A Madison
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Jacob Kuempel
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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Brejchova J, Holan V, Svoboda P. Expression of Opioid Receptors in Cells of the Immune System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:E315. [PMID: 33396783 PMCID: PMC7795304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The observation of the immunomodulatory effects of opioid drugs opened the discussion about possible mechanisms of action and led researchers to consider the presence of opioid receptors (OR) in cells of the immune system. To date, numerous studies analyzing the expression of OR subtypes in animal and human immune cells have been performed. Some of them confirmed the expression of OR at both the mRNA and protein level, while others did not detect the receptor mRNA either. Although this topic remains controversial, further studies are constantly being published. The most recent articles suggested that the expression level of OR in human peripheral blood lymphocytes could help to evaluate the success of methadone maintenance therapy in former opioid addicts, or could serve as a biomarker for chronic pain diagnosis. However, the applicability of these findings to clinical practice needs to be verified by further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Brejchova
- Laboratory of Biomathematics, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Vladimir Holan
- Department of Nanotoxicology and Molecular Epidemiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic;
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Svoboda
- Laboratory of Biomathematics, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic;
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