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Abargil M, Irani M, Klein Selle N, Atzil S. Breastfeeding at Any Cost? Adverse Effects of Breastfeeding Pain on Mother-Infant Behavior. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050636. [PMID: 37237450 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Breast milk is considered the ideal infant nutrition, and medical organizations encourage breastfeeding worldwide. Moreover, breastfeeding is often perceived as a natural and spontaneous socio-biological process and one of the fundamental roles of new mothers. While breastfeeding is beneficial, little scientific consideration has been given to its potential psychological challenges. Here, we investigate the phenomenon of breastfeeding pain in mothers and its association with maternal and infant behavioral regulation. During the postpartum weeks, the mother-infant dyad can be considered one allostatic unit directed at infant regulation and development. We hypothesize that pain comprises an allostatic challenge for mothers and will thus impair the capacity for dyadic regulation. To test this, we recruited 71 mothers with varying levels of breastfeeding pain and videotaped them with their infants (2-35 weeks old) during spontaneous face-to-face interactions. We quantified the individual differences in dyadic regulation by behaviorally coding the second-by-second affective expressions for each mother and infant throughout their interactions. We tested the extent to which breastfeeding pain alters affect regulation during mother-infant interactions. We discovered that mothers with severe breastfeeding pain express less affective expressions and less infant-directed gaze during interactive moments of engagement and play than mothers with no or moderate pain. Moreover, infants of mothers experiencing pain during breastfeeding express less affective expressions and more mother-directed gaze while interacting with their mothers than infants of mothers who are not in pain. This demonstrates that the allostatic challenge of maternal pain interferes with the behavioral regulation of both mothers and infants. Since the mother-infant dyad is a codependent allostatic unit, the allostatic challenges of one partner can impact the dyad and thus potentially impact child development, bonding, and mother and infant well-being. The challenges of breastfeeding should be considered in addition to the nutritional advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Abargil
- The Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190501, Israel
| | - Merav Irani
- The Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190501, Israel
| | | | - Shir Atzil
- The Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190501, Israel
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2
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Coccia G, La Greca F, Di Luca M, Scheggia D. Dissecting social decision-making: A spotlight on oxytocinergic transmission. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1061934. [PMID: 36618824 PMCID: PMC9813388 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1061934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Social decision-making requires the ability to balance both the interests of the self and the interests of others to survive in social environments. Empathy is essential to the regulation of this type of interaction, and it often sustains relevant prosocial behaviors such as altruism and helping behavior. In the last decade, our capacity to assess affective and empathy-like behaviors in rodents has expanded our understanding of the neurobiological substrates that underly social decision-making processes such as prosocial behaviors. Within this context, oxytocinergic transmission is profoundly implicated in modulating some of the major components of social decision-making. Thus, this review will present evidence of the association between oxytocin and empathy-like and prosocial behaviors in nonhuman animals. Then, we will dissect the involvement of oxytocinergic transmission-across different brain regions and pathways-in some of the key elements of social decision-making such as emotional discrimination, social recognition, emotional contagion, social dominance, and social memory. Evidence of the modulatory role of oxytocin on social decision-making has raised considerable interest in its clinical relevance, therefore we will also discuss the controversial findings on intranasal oxytocin administration.
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3
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Tauber M, Diene G. Prader-Willi syndrome: Hormone therapies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 181:351-367. [PMID: 34238470 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-820683-6.00026-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder linked to the lack of expression of specific maternally imprinted genes located in the chromosomal region 15q11-q13. Impaired hypothalamic development and function explain most of the phenotype that is characterized by a specific trajectory from anorexia at birth to excessive weight gain at later ages, which is accompanied by hyperphagia and early severe obesity, as well as by other hormonal deficiencies, behavioral deficits, and dysautonomia. In almost all patients, their endocrine dysfunction involves growth hormone deficiency and hypogonadism, which originate from a combination of both peripheral and hypothalamic origin, central hypothyroidism in 40%, precocious adrenarche in 30% of the cases, and in rare cases, also adrenocorticotropin deficiency and precocious puberty. In addition, the oxytocin (OXT) and ghrelin systems are impaired in most patients and involved in a poor suckling response at birth, and hyperphagia with food addiction, poor social skills, and emotional dysregulation. Current hormonal replacement treatments are the same as used in classical hormonal deficiencies, and recombinant human GH treatment is registered since 2000 and has dramatically changed the phenotype of these children. OXT and OXT analogue treatments are currently investigated as well as new molecules targeting the ghrelin system. The severe condition of PWS can be seen as a model to improve the fine description and treatments of hypothalamic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maithé Tauber
- Centre de Référence du Syndrome de Prader-Willi, Hôpital des Enfants, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France.
| | - Gwenaelle Diene
- Centre de Référence du Syndrome de Prader-Willi, Hôpital des Enfants, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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4
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López-Arjona M, Mateo SV, Escribano D, Tecles F, Cerón JJ, Martínez-Subiela S. Effect of reduction and alkylation treatment in three different assays used for the measurement of oxytocin in saliva of pigs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106498. [PMID: 32653738 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a hormone that is increasingly being used for welfare evaluation in animals. Although several types of samples have been used for oxytocin measurement, saliva can be a suitable option for pigs producing less stress than blood sampling. In this study, 3 different methods for oxytocin measurements, 2 based on alphaLISA technology (one with a monoclonal and other with a polyclonal antibody) and one commercially available kit, were compared in saliva of pigs. These methods were used in saliva samples obtained from female pigs at 3 different days during gestation and lactation, with and without a reduction/alkylation (R/A), which is a procedure for breaking the links between oxytocin and proteins of the sample. The assays showed a different behavior after the R/A procedure, with no significant changes in the oxytocin results in case of the alphaLISA monoclonal method, a significant decrease with the alphaLISA polyclonal method, and a significant increase with the commercial kit. Although all assays showed a similar tendency in detecting the changes in oxytocin during gestation and lactation, they showed changes of different magnitude and statistical signification. This report indicates that different assays can measure different forms of oxytocin present in saliva and can have a different behavior after R/A of the sample and when are used to measure oxytocin in gestation and lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M López-Arjona
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - S V Mateo
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - D Escribano
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - F Tecles
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - J J Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain.
| | - S Martínez-Subiela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
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5
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Yamagishi A, Lee J, Sato N. Oxytocin in the anterior cingulate cortex is involved in helping behaviour. Behav Brain Res 2020; 393:112790. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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6
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Sabino ADV, Chagas MHN, Osório FL. Acute effects of oxytocin in music performance anxiety: a crossover, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1757-1767. [PMID: 32123973 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05493-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Individuals with music performance anxiety (MPA) present physical, behavioral, and cognitive manifestations of anxiety, in addition to information processing deficits, especially in facial emotion recognition (FER). OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of a single dose of intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) on FER in a sample of musicians with high and low MPA (primary outcome), as well as indicators of mood/anxiety and self-assessed performance (secondary outcomes). METHODS Crossover, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 43 male musicians with different levels of MPA. Participants completed a static facial emotion recognition task and self-rated mood and performance scales. Data were analyzed using ANOVA 2 × 0 for crossover trials and the Omnibus test (measure of separability between intervention and carryover effects). RESULTS Only musicians with high MPA treated with oxytocin had a higher accuracy in the recognition of happiness (p < 0.03; d > 0.72). No effects of oxytocin were found on mood indicators or on self-perceived performance, regardless of MPA level. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate possible benefits of the acute treatment with oxytocin in MPA, which may improve the management of this common and disabling condition that affects professional musicians. The appropriate perception of positive feedback may increase confidence and feelings of social acceptance, reducing symptoms associated with the condition. The lack of effects on mood/anxiety and cognition may be explained by the context-dependent characteristic of the effects of oxytocin, since the experiment did not represent an actual situation of social threat. TRIAL REGISTRATION Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos): No. RBR-9cph2q.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alini D V Sabino
- Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Marcos Hortes N Chagas
- Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Flávia L Osório
- Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil. .,National Institute for Science and Technology (INCT-TM, CNPq), Brasília, Brazil.
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7
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Constant E, Leuchtmann L, Christophe V, Bodenmann G, Gabrielli F, Ott L, Nandrino JL. Effect of marital satisfaction on self-regulation efforts in couples: Value of heart rate variability measurements. Scand J Psychol 2020; 61:574-581. [PMID: 32314376 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12641] [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: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study explored self-regulatory efforts during the viewing of couple interactions and their association with relationship satisfaction. High-frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV) was measured for each participant during a video recall of a recent couple interaction to quantify the self-regulatory processes governed by parasympathetic activity. Among 30 couples, HF-HRV was measured continuously during three specific periods to explore its change over time using a video-recall procedure: (1) resting state; (2) viewing of couple interactions (expressing daily life situations and conflictual interactions); and (3) recovery. Results of multilevel models revealed a u-shaped pattern of HF-HRV responses for men and women across the three periods with a nadir at the midway through the process. This pattern of physiological change (vagal suppression) reflects a flexible response to a stressful situation. Nevertheless, the pattern of physiological responses varied according to the level of relationship satisfaction. Men who were more satisfied in their couple relationship presented greater vagal suppression than dissatisfied men. In contrast, no significant HF-HRV changes were found in women over the different periods of the video-recall procedure and no moderating effect of relationship satisfaction. We discuss the different patterns of physiological responses observed both for men and women in terms of interindividual variability according to the level of their relationship satisfaction. The present study highlights the important role of relationship satisfaction in regulatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Constant
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Lille, France
| | | | - Véronique Christophe
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Lille, France
| | - Guy Bodenmann
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - François Gabrielli
- UMR 1107 Inserm / UCA, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Laurent Ott
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Lille, France
| | - Jean-Louis Nandrino
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Lille, France
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Yamagishi A, Okada M, Masuda M, Sato N. Oxytocin administration modulates rats' helping behavior depending on social context. Neurosci Res 2019; 153:56-61. [PMID: 30953682 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The affiliative effect of oxytocin on behavior toward other individuals can be modulated by positive and negative aspects of those individuals. However, the context-dependent effect of oxytocin on helping behavior is still unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of oxytocin administration on helping behavior in rats. The rats learned to open a door to help a cagemate soaked with water. The rats were divided into Pair and Solo groups. The rats in the Pair group were housed with their cagemates and those in the Solo group were housed individually. The rats in both groups received oxytocin (1.0 mg/kg) or saline injections intraperitoneally for 5 consecutive days before starting the experimental sessions. In the rats injected with oxytocin, the Solo group showed helping behavior faster than those in the Pair group. The results suggest that the effects of oxytocin administration on helping behavior are dependent on the social context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuhito Yamagishi
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, 1-1-155, Uegahara, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 662-8501, Japan
| | - Maya Okada
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, 1-1-155, Uegahara, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 662-8501, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Masuda
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, 1-1-155, Uegahara, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 662-8501, Japan
| | - Nobuya Sato
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, 1-1-155, Uegahara, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 662-8501, Japan.
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9
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Zanos P, Georgiou P, Weber C, Robinson F, Kouimtsidis C, Niforooshan R, Bailey A. Oxytocin and opioid addiction revisited: old drug, new applications. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2809-2824. [PMID: 28378414 PMCID: PMC6016632 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Revised: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid addiction has devastating health and socio-economic consequences, and current pharmacotherapy is limited and often accompanied by side effects, thus novel treatment is warranted. Traditionally, the neurohypophyseal peptide oxytocin (OT) is known for its effects on mediating reward, social affiliation and bonding, stress and learning and memory. There is now strong evidence that OT is a possible candidate for the treatment of drug addiction and depression-addiction co-morbidities. This review summarizes and critically discusses the preclinical evidence surrounding the consequences of pharmacological manipulation of the oxytocinergic system on opioid addiction-related processes, as well as the effects of opioids on the OT system at different stages of the addiction cycle. The mechanisms underlying the effects of OT on opioid addiction, including OT' interaction with the monoaminergic, glutamatergic, opioidergic systems and its effect on the amygdala, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and on memory consolidation of traumatic memories, are also reviewed. We also review clinical evidence on the effects of intranasal OT administration on opioid-dependent individuals and discuss the therapeutic potential along with the limitations that accompany OT-based pharmacotherapies. Review of these studies clearly indicates that the OT system is profoundly affected by opioid use and abstinence and points towards the OT system as an important target for developing pharmacotherapies for the treatment of opioid addiction and co-existing affective disorders, thereby preventing relapse. Therefore, there is a clear need for clinical studies assessing the efficacy of OT-based pharmacotherapies in opioid addiction. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Emerging Areas of Opioid Pharmacology. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.14/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panos Zanos
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of SurreyGuildfordSurreyUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Polymnia Georgiou
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of SurreyGuildfordSurreyUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Carol Weber
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of SurreyGuildfordSurreyUK
| | - Fiona Robinson
- Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation TrustChertseySurreyUK
| | | | | | - Alexis Bailey
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of SurreyGuildfordSurreyUK
- Institute of Medical and Biomedical EducationSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
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10
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Duque-Wilckens N, Steinman MQ, Busnelli M, Chini B, Yokoyama S, Pham M, Laredo SA, Hao R, Perkeybile AM, Minie VA, Tan PB, Bales KL, Trainor BC. Oxytocin Receptors in the Anteromedial Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis Promote Stress-Induced Social Avoidance in Female California Mice. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 83:203-213. [PMID: 29066224 PMCID: PMC5743604 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2017.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) is a key regulator of social and emotional behaviors. The effects of OT are context dependent, and it has been proposed that OT increases the salience of both positive and negative social cues. Here we tested whether the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) mediates anxiogenic effects of OT. METHODS First, we studied the effects of systemic administration of an OT receptor (OTR) antagonist L-368,899 on social behavior in male and female California mice exposed to social defeat. We examined the effect of L-368,899 on G protein activation and used early growth response factor 1 immunohistochemistry to identify potential sites of OTR action. Finally, we examined the effects of L-368,899 infused in the BNST on behavior. RESULTS A single dose of systemic L-368,899 increased social approach in stressed female mice and decreased social approach in male mice naïve to defeat. L-368,899 prevented OT activation of G proteins and did not activate G proteins in the absence of OT. Intranasal OT, which reduces social approach in female mice but not male mice, increased early growth response factor 1 immunoreactivity in the nucleus accumbens core and anteromedial BNST in female mice but not in male mice. Stressed female mice that received an infusion of L-368,899 into the anteromedial BNST but not the nucleus accumbens core increased social approach and decreased social vigilance responses. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that OTR activation in anteromedial BNST induces a vigilance response in which individuals avoid, yet attend to, unfamiliar social contexts. Our results suggest that OTR antagonists may have unappreciated therapeutic potential for stress-induced psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Q Steinman
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Marta Busnelli
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano Milan, and Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Bice Chini
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano Milan, and Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Sae Yokoyama
- Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Mary Pham
- Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Sarah A Laredo
- Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Rebecca Hao
- Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | | | - Vanessa A Minie
- Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Phillip B Tan
- Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Karen L Bales
- Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Brian C Trainor
- Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; Psychology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, California.
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11
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Shirtcliff EA, Skinner ML, Obasi EM, Haggerty KP. Positive parenting predicts cortisol functioning six years later in young adults. Dev Sci 2017; 20:10.1111/desc.12461. [PMID: 28139051 PMCID: PMC5689081 DOI: 10.1111/desc.12461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Research which indicates that adverse experiences influence hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis functioning illustrates the social environment 'getting under the skin'. The present study extended this literature by examining whether positive social forces within the caregiving environment can also impact cortisol functioning. We conducted a prospective investigation of over 300 youth, half of whom were White and half were Black. Attachment, bonding and parental rewards for positive behaviors were observed or reported by the youth as an 8th grader. Twelve repeated measures of salivary cortisol were examined six years later when youth were young adults (mean age 20). Race differences were explored. Stronger attachment, bonding and teen-reported positive parenting were predictive of high waking cortisol and steeper diurnal slopes six years later. This effect was nonlinear and additive, such that youth whose social contexts were characterized by the strongest attachment, bonding and rewarding parental relationships had the highest waking cortisol. When effects were moderated by race, findings were such that links of positive parenting with HPA functioning were more consistent for White than Black youth. Findings suggest that positive aspects of the caregiving environment can also 'get under the skin' and these effects are additive across a range of caregiving indices. These findings dovetail with an emerging literature on the powerful role of social support for shaping the body's stress response system and are interpreted as consistent with the Adaptive Calibration Model which suggests that cortisol regulation can have adaptive significance. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/8evHXpt_TXM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martie L Skinner
- Social Development Research Group, University of Washington-Seattle, USA
| | | | - Kevin P Haggerty
- Social Development Research Group, University of Washington-Seattle, USA
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12
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Akdeniz C, Schäfer A, Streit F, Haller L, Wüst S, Kirsch P, Tost H, Meyer-Lindenberg A. Sex-Dependent Association of Perigenual Anterior Cingulate Cortex Volume and Migration Background, an Environmental Risk Factor for Schizophrenia. Schizophr Bull 2017; 43:925-934. [PMID: 28969352 PMCID: PMC5472165 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbw138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Migration status is one of the best-established risk factors for schizophrenia. An increase in risk is observed in both first- and second-generation immigrants, with a varying magnitude depending on the ethnic background of the individuals. The underlying mechanisms for the increased risk are only recently coming into focus. A causal role for social stress has been widely proposed, and recent work indicated altered neural stress processing in the perigenual anterior cingulate cortex (pACC) in migrants. Since previous work shows that social stress may lead to enduring changes in the gray matter volume of vulnerable brain regions, we investigated the impact of migration background on brain structure. We studied healthy young adults (N = 124), native Germans and second-generation migrants, using whole-brain structural magnetic resonance imaging. Groups were matched for a broad range of sociodemographic characteristics including age, gender, urban exposure, and education. We found a significant group by sex interaction effect in pACC gray matter volume, which was reduced in males with migration background only. This mirrors previous findings in urban upbringing, another risk factor for schizophrenia. Our results provide convergent evidence for an impact of environmental risk factors linked to schizophrenia on gray matter volume and extend prior data by highlighting the possibility that the pACC structure may be particularly sensitive to the convergent risk factors linked to schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceren Akdeniz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany,These authors contributed equally
| | - Axel Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany,These authors contributed equally
| | - Fabian Streit
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Leila Haller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefan Wüst
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany,Present address: Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Peter Kirsch
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Heike Tost
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
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13
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Predicting Social Behavior: Basal and Dynamic Joint Effects of Testosterone and Cortisol. ADAPTIVE HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND PHYSIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40750-017-0069-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Bhattacharyya N, Gubbels SP, Schwartz SR, Edlow JA, El-Kashlan H, Fife T, Holmberg JM, Mahoney K, Hollingsworth DB, Roberts R, Seidman MD, Steiner RWP, Do BT, Voelker CCJ, Waguespack RW, Corrigan MD. Clinical Practice Guideline: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (Update). Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2017; 156:S1-S47. [DOI: 10.1177/0194599816689667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 363] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective This update of a 2008 guideline from the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation provides evidence-based recommendations to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), defined as a disorder of the inner ear characterized by repeated episodes of positional vertigo. Changes from the prior guideline include a consumer advocate added to the update group; new evidence from 2 clinical practice guidelines, 20 systematic reviews, and 27 randomized controlled trials; enhanced emphasis on patient education and shared decision making; a new algorithm to clarify action statement relationships; and new and expanded recommendations for the diagnosis and management of BPPV. Purpose The primary purposes of this guideline are to improve the quality of care and outcomes for BPPV by improving the accurate and efficient diagnosis of BPPV, reducing the inappropriate use of vestibular suppressant medications, decreasing the inappropriate use of ancillary testing such as radiographic imaging, and increasing the use of appropriate therapeutic repositioning maneuvers. The guideline is intended for all clinicians who are likely to diagnose and manage patients with BPPV, and it applies to any setting in which BPPV would be identified, monitored, or managed. The target patient for the guideline is aged ≥18 years with a suspected or potential diagnosis of BPPV. The primary outcome considered in this guideline is the resolution of the symptoms associated with BPPV. Secondary outcomes considered include an increased rate of accurate diagnoses of BPPV, a more efficient return to regular activities and work, decreased use of inappropriate medications and unnecessary diagnostic tests, reduction in recurrence of BPPV, and reduction in adverse events associated with undiagnosed or untreated BPPV. Other outcomes considered include minimizing costs in the diagnosis and treatment of BPPV, minimizing potentially unnecessary return physician visits, and maximizing the health-related quality of life of individuals afflicted with BPPV. Action Statements The update group made strong recommendations that clinicians should (1) diagnose posterior semicircular canal BPPV when vertigo associated with torsional, upbeating nystagmus is provoked by the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, performed by bringing the patient from an upright to supine position with the head turned 45° to one side and neck extended 20° with the affected ear down, and (2) treat, or refer to a clinician who can treat, patients with posterior canal BPPV with a canalith repositioning procedure. The update group made a strong recommendation against postprocedural postural restrictions after canalith repositioning procedure for posterior canal BPPV. The update group made recommendations that the clinician should (1) perform, or refer to a clinician who can perform, a supine roll test to assess for lateral semicircular canal BPPV if the patient has a history compatible with BPPV and the Dix-Hallpike test exhibits horizontal or no nystagmus; (2) differentiate, or refer to a clinician who can differentiate, BPPV from other causes of imbalance, dizziness, and vertigo; (3) assess patients with BPPV for factors that modify management, including impaired mobility or balance, central nervous system disorders, a lack of home support, and/or increased risk for falling; (4) reassess patients within 1 month after an initial period of observation or treatment to document resolution or persistence of symptoms; (5) evaluate, or refer to a clinician who can evaluate, patients with persistent symptoms for unresolved BPPV and/or underlying peripheral vestibular or central nervous system disorders; and (6) educate patients regarding the impact of BPPV on their safety, the potential for disease recurrence, and the importance of follow-up. The update group made recommendations against (1) radiographic imaging for a patient who meets diagnostic criteria for BPPV in the absence of additional signs and/or symptoms inconsistent with BPPV that warrant imaging, (2) vestibular testing for a patient who meets diagnostic criteria for BPPV in the absence of additional vestibular signs and/or symptoms inconsistent with BPPV that warrant testing, and (3) routinely treating BPPV with vestibular suppressant medications such as antihistamines and/or benzodiazepines. The guideline update group provided the options that clinicians may offer (1) observation with follow-up as initial management for patients with BPPV and (2) vestibular rehabilitation, either self-administered or with a clinician, in the treatment of BPPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Bhattacharyya
- Department of Otolaryngology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Samuel P. Gubbels
- Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Seth R. Schwartz
- Department of Otolaryngology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jonathan A. Edlow
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hussam El-Kashlan
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Terry Fife
- Barrow Neurological Institute and College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | | | - Richard Roberts
- Alabama Hearing and Balance Associates, Inc, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Michael D. Seidman
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Robert W. Prasaad Steiner
- Department of Health Management and Systems Science and Department of Family and Geriatric Medicine, School of Public Health and Information Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Betty Tsai Do
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Health Sciences Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Courtney C. J. Voelker
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Richard W. Waguespack
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Maureen D. Corrigan
- American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
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Corbett BA, Bales KL, Swain D, Sanders K, Weinstein TAR, Muglia LJ. Comparing oxytocin and cortisol regulation in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, hydrocortisone challenge pilot study in children with autism and typical development. J Neurodev Disord 2016; 8:32. [PMID: 27540420 PMCID: PMC4989357 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-016-9165-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show marked impairment in social functioning and poor adaptation to new and changing contexts, which may be influenced by underlying regulatory processes. Oxytocin (OT) and cortisol are key neuromodulators of biological and behavioral responses, show a synergistic effect, and have been implicated in the neuropathological profile in ASD. However, they are rarely investigated together. The purpose of the pilot study was to evaluate the relationship between cortisol and OT in children with ASD under baseline and physiological stress (hydrocortisone challenge) conditions. Arginine vasopressin (AVP), structurally similar to OT, was also examined. METHODS A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomly assigned, crossover design was employed in 25 children 8-to-12 years with ASD (N = 14) or typical development (TD, N = 11). A low dose of hydrocortisone and placebo were administered via liquid suspension. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to examine the within-subject factor "Condition" (hydrocortisone/placebo) and "Time" (pre and post) and the between-subject factor "Group" (ASD vs. TD). Pearson correlations examined the relationship between hormone levels and clinical profile. RESULTS There was a significant Time × Condition × Group interaction F (1.23) = 4.18, p = 0.05 showing a rise in OT during the experimental condition (hydrocortisone) and a drop during the placebo condition for the TD group but not the ASD group. There were no group differences for AVP. Hormone levels were associated with social profiles. CONCLUSIONS For the TD group, an inverse relationship was observed. OT increased during physiological challenge suggesting that OT played a stress-buffering role during cortisol administration. In contrast for the ASD group, OT remained unchanged or decreased during both the physiological challenge and the placebo condition, suggesting that OT failed to serve as a stress buffer under conditions of physiological stress. While OT has been tied to the social ability of children with ASD, the diminished moderating effect of OT on cortisol may also play a contributory role in the heightened stress often observed in children with ASD. These results contribute to our understanding of the growing complexity of the effects of OT on social behavior as well as the functional interplay and differential regulation OT may have on stress modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blythe A. Corbett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University, PMB 40, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Nashville, TN USA
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nasvhille, TN USA
| | | | - Deanna Swain
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA USA
| | - Kevin Sanders
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University, PMB 40, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
| | | | - Louis J. Muglia
- Department of Pediatrics, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH USA
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16
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Shamay-Tsoory SG, Abu-Akel A. The Social Salience Hypothesis of Oxytocin. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:194-202. [PMID: 26321019 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 529] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a nonapeptide that also serves as a neuromodulator in the human central nervous system. Over the last decade, a sizeable body of literature has examined its effects on social behavior in humans. These studies show that oxytocin modulates various aspects of social behaviors such as empathy, trust, in-group preference, and memory of socially relevant cues. Several theoretical formulations have attempted to explain the effects of oxytocin. The prosocial account argues that oxytocin mainly enhances affiliative prosocial behaviors; the fear/stress theory suggests that oxytocin affects social performance by attenuating stress; and the in-/out-group approach proposes that oxytocin regulates cooperation and conflict among humans in the context of intergroup relations. Nonetheless, accumulating evidence reveals that the effects of oxytocin are dependent on a variety of contextual aspects and the individual's characteristics and can induce antisocial effects including aggression and envy. In an attempt to reconcile these accounts, we suggest a theoretical framework that focuses on the overarching role of oxytocin in regulating the salience of social cues through its interaction with the dopaminergic system. Crucially, the salience effect modulates attention orienting responses to external contextual social cues (e.g., competitive vs. cooperative environment) but is dependent on baseline individual differences such as gender, personality traits, and degree of psychopathology. This view could have important implications for the therapeutic applications of oxytocin in conditions characterized with aberrant social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmad Abu-Akel
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, Unnited Kingdom
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17
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Tabak BA, Vrshek-Schallhorn S, Zinbarg RE, Prenoveau JM, Mineka S, Redei EE, Adam EK, Craske MG. Interaction of CD38 Variant and Chronic Interpersonal Stress Prospectively Predicts Social Anxiety and Depression Symptoms Over Six Years. Clin Psychol Sci 2016; 4:17-27. [PMID: 26958455 PMCID: PMC4779340 DOI: 10.1177/2167702615577470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Variation in the CD38 gene, which regulates secretion of the neuropeptide oxytocin, has been associated with several social phenotypes. Specifically, rs3796863 A allele carriers have demonstrated increased social sensitivity. In 400 older adolescents, we used trait-state-occasion modeling to investigate how rs3796863 genotype, baseline ratings of chronic interpersonal stress, and their gene-environment (GxE) interaction predicted trait social anxiety and depression symptoms over six years. We found significant GxE effects for CD38 A-carrier genotypes and chronic interpersonal stress at baseline predicting greater social anxiety and depression symptoms. A significant GxE effect of smaller magnitude was also found for C/C genotype and chronic interpersonal stress predicting greater depression; however, this effect was small compared to the main effect of chronic interpersonal stress. Thus, in the context of chronic interpersonal stress, heightened social sensitivity associated with the rs3796863 A allele may prospectively predict risk for social anxiety and (to a lesser extent) depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Tabak
- Department of Psychology, University of California – Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Richard E. Zinbarg
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | | | - Susan Mineka
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Eva E. Redei
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
| | - Emma K. Adam
- School of Education and Social Policy, Northwestern University
- Cells to Society Center, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University
| | - Michelle G. Craske
- Department of Psychology, University of California – Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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18
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Cohen-Bendahan CC, Beijers R, van Doornen LJ, de Weerth C. Explicit and implicit caregiving interests in expectant fathers: Do endogenous and exogenous oxytocin and vasopressin matter? Infant Behav Dev 2015; 41:26-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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19
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Buttner AP, Thompson B, Strasser R, Santo J. Evidence for a synchronization of hormonal states between humans and dogs during competition. Physiol Behav 2015; 147:54-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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20
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Shahrestani S, Stewart EM, Quintana DS, Hickie IB, Guastella AJ. Heart rate variability during adolescent and adult social interactions: a meta-analysis. Biol Psychol 2015; 105:43-50. [PMID: 25559773 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2014.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 12/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Social interaction skill is important for psychological wellbeing, stress regulation, protection from disability and overall life satisfaction. Increase in activity of the vagus nerve, measured by heart rate variability (HRV), is associated with social interaction skill and decreased stress. In this meta-analysis we collated statistics from thirteen studies consisting of 787 participants who were participating in social interactions while HRV was simultaneously collected. Results revealed that while dyadic social interactions do not increase HRV generally from a baseline state, negative dyadic social interactions decrease HRV in a manner similar to the Trier Social Stress Task. Further, participants with psychopathology do not show cardiac autonomic flexibility during social interactions as indicated by reductions under stress and increases with subsequently positive social interactions. The role of age, gender and HRV index were also examined as potential moderators of HRV. Implications for health and wellbeing resulting from exposure to negative social interactions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Shahrestani
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Elizabeth M Stewart
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Daniel S Quintana
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Ian B Hickie
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Adam J Guastella
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Australia.
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21
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Eapen V, Dadds M, Barnett B, Kohlhoff J, Khan F, Radom N, Silove DM. Separation anxiety, attachment and inter-personal representations: disentangling the role of oxytocin in the perinatal period. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107745. [PMID: 25229827 PMCID: PMC4168132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we aimed to assess cross-sectionally and longitudinally associations between disturbances in maternal early attachment experiences, symptoms of separation anxiety and depression and oxytocin plasma levels. We examined a mediational model that tested the hypothesis that anxious attachment style arising from the mothers’ early bonding experiences with her own parents was associated with high levels of separation anxiety which, via its impact on depression, was associated with reduced levels of oxytocin in the postnatal period. Data is reported on a structured sample of 127 women recruited during pregnancy from a general hospital antenatal clinic and an initial follow up cohort of 57 women who were re-assessed at 3-months post-partum. We found an association between lower oxytocin level in the post partum period and symptoms of separation anxiety and depression during pregnancy, as well as maternal negative interpersonal representations, upbringing attributes and anxious attachment style. Further meditational analysis revealed that the unique association between anxious attachment and depression is mediated by separation anxiety and that depressed mood mediated the relationship between separation anxiety and oxytocin. In conjunction with evidence from the literature suggesting that lower oxytocin level is associated with bonding difficulties, our findings have significant implications for understanding the biological processes underpinning adverse attachment experiences, negative affect state, and mother-to-infant bonding difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South West Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark Dadds
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bryanne Barnett
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Karitane, Villawood, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Feroza Khan
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South West Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Naomi Radom
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South West Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Derrick M. Silove
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Population Mental Health Research, Psychiatry Research and Teaching Unit, South West Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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The oxytocin analogue carbetocin prevents emotional impairment and stress-induced reinstatement of opioid-seeking in morphine-abstinent mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2014; 39:855-65. [PMID: 24129263 PMCID: PMC3924520 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2013.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2013] [Revised: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The main challenge in treating opioid addicts is to maintain abstinence due to the affective consequences associated with withdrawal which may trigger relapse. Emerging evidence suggests a role of the neurohypophysial peptide oxytocin (OT) in the modulation of mood disorders as well as drug addiction. However, its involvement in the emotional consequences of drug abstinence remains unclear. We investigated the effect of 7-day opioid abstinence on the oxytocinergic system and assessed the effect of the OT analogue carbetocin (CBT) on the emotional consequences of opioid abstinence, as well as relapse. Male C57BL/6J mice were treated with a chronic escalating-dose morphine regimen (20-100 mg/kg/day, i.p.). Seven days withdrawal from this administration paradigm induced a decrease of hypothalamic OT levels and a concomitant increase of oxytocin receptor (OTR) binding in the lateral septum and amygdala. Although no physical withdrawal symptoms or alterations in the plasma corticosterone levels were observed after 7 days of abstinence, mice exhibited increased anxiety-like and depressive-like behaviors and impaired sociability. CBT (6.4 mg/kg, i.p.) attenuated the observed negative emotional consequences of opioid withdrawal. Furthermore, in the conditioned place preference paradigm with 10 mg/kg morphine conditioning, CBT (6.4 mg/kg, i.p.) was able to prevent the stress-induced reinstatement to morphine-seeking following extinction. Overall, our results suggest that alterations of the oxytocinergic system contribute to the mechanisms underlying anxiety, depression, and social deficits observed during opioid abstinence. This study also highlights the oxytocinergic system as a target for developing pharmacotherapy for the treatment of emotional impairment associated with abstinence and thereby prevention of relapse.
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23
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Kis A, Kemerle K, Hernádi A, Topál J. Oxytocin and social pretreatment have similar effects on processing of negative emotional faces in healthy adult males. Front Psychol 2013; 4:532. [PMID: 23966970 PMCID: PMC3743076 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin has been shown to affect several aspects of human social cognition, including facial emotion processing. There is also evidence that social stimuli (such as eye-contact) can effectively modulate endogenous oxytocin levels. In the present study we directly tested whether intranasal oxytocin administration and pre-treatment with social stimuli had similar effects on face processing at the behavioral level. Subjects (N = 52 healthy adult males) were presented with a set of faces with expressions of different valence (negative, neutral, positive) following different types of pretreatment (oxytocin—OT or placebo—PL and social interaction—Soc or no social interaction—NSoc, N = 13 in each) and were asked to rate all faces for perceived emotion and trustworthiness. On the next day subjects' recognition memory was tested on a set of neutral faces and additionally they had to again rate each face for trustworthiness and emotion. Subjects in both the OT and the Soc pretreatment group (as compared to the PL and to the NSoc groups) gave higher emotion and trustworthiness scores for faces with negative emotional expression. Moreover, 24 h later, subjects in the OT and Soc groups (unlike in control groups) gave lower trustworthiness scores for previously negative faces, than for faces previously seen as emotionally neutral or positive. In sum these results provide the first direct evidence of the similar effects of intranasal oxytocin administration and social stimulation on the perception of negative facial emotions as well as on the delayed recall of negative emotional information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kis
- Psychobiology Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences Budapest, Hungary ; Department of Ethology, Eötvös University Budapest, Hungary
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Convergent Findings of Altered Functional and Structural Brain Connectivity in Individuals with High Functioning Autism: A Multimodal MRI Study. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67329. [PMID: 23825652 PMCID: PMC3688993 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tissue changes in autism spectrum disorders seem to be rather subtle and widespread than anatomically distinct. Therefore a multimodal, whole brain imaging technique appears to be an appropriate approach to investigate whether alterations in white and gray matter integrity relate to consistent changes in functional resting state connectivity in individuals with high functioning autism (HFA). We applied diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and resting state functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (fcMRI) to assess differences in brain structure and function between 12 individuals with HFA (mean age 35.5, SD 11.4, 9 male) and 12 healthy controls (mean age 33.3, SD 9.0, 8 male). Psychological measures of empathy and emotionality were obtained and correlated with the most significant DTI, VBM and fcMRI findings. We found three regions of convergent structural and functional differences between HFA participants and controls. The right temporo-parietal junction area and the left frontal lobe showed decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) values along with decreased functional connectivity and a trend towards decreased gray matter volume. The bilateral superior temporal gyrus displayed significantly decreased functional connectivity that was accompanied by the strongest trend of gray matter volume decrease in the temporal lobe of HFA individuals. FA decrease in the right temporo-parietal region was correlated with psychological measurements of decreased emotionality. In conclusion, our results indicate common sites of structural and functional alterations in higher order association cortex areas and may therefore provide multimodal imaging support to the long-standing hypothesis of autism as a disorder of impaired higher-order multisensory integration.
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25
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Zanos P, Wright SR, Georgiou P, Yoo JH, Ledent C, Hourani SM, Kitchen I, Winsky-Sommerer R, Bailey A. Chronic methamphetamine treatment induces oxytocin receptor up-regulation in the amygdala and hypothalamus via an adenosine A2A receptor-independent mechanism. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 119:72-9. [PMID: 23680573 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There is mounting evidence that the neuropeptide oxytocin is a possible candidate for the treatment of drug addiction. Oxytocin was shown to reduce methamphetamine self-administration, conditioned place-preference, hyperactivity and reinstatement in rodents, highlighting its potential for the management of methamphetamine addiction. Thus, we hypothesised that the central endogenous oxytocinergic system is dysregulated following chronic methamphetamine administration. We tested this hypothesis by examining the effect of chronic methamphetamine administration on oxytocin receptor density in mice brains with the use of quantitative receptor autoradiographic binding. Saline (4ml/kg/day, i.p.) or methamphetamine (1mg/kg/day, i.p.) was administered daily for 10 days to male, CD1 mice. Quantitative autoradiographic mapping of oxytocin receptors was carried out with the use of [(125)I]-vasotocin in brain sections of these animals. Chronic methamphetamine administration induced a region specific upregulation of oxytocin receptor density in the amygdala and hypothalamus, but not in the nucleus accumbens and caudate putamen. As there is evidence suggesting an involvement of central adenosine A2A receptors on central endogenous oxytocinergic function, we investigated whether these methamphetamine-induced oxytocinergic neuroadaptations are mediated via an A2A receptor-dependent mechanism. To test this hypothesis, autoradiographic oxytocin receptor binding was carried out in brain sections of male CD1 mice lacking A2A receptors which were chronically treated with methamphetamine (1mg/kg/day, i.p. for 10 days) or saline. Similar to wild-type animals, chronic methamphetamine administration induced a region-specific upregulation of oxytocin receptor binding in the amygdala and hypothalamus of A2A receptor knockout mice and no genotype effect was observed. These results indicate that chronic methamphetamine use can induce profound neuroadaptations of the oxytocinergic receptor system in brain regions associated with stress, emotionality and social bonding and that these neuroadaptations are independent on the presence of A2A receptors. These results may at least partly explain some of the behavioural consequences of chronic methamphetamine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panos Zanos
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Sherie R Wright
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Polymnia Georgiou
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Ji Hoon Yoo
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Catherine Ledent
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire en Biologie Humaine et Moléculaire, Université Libre de Bruxelles, B-1070, Belgium
| | - Susanna M Hourani
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Ian Kitchen
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Raphaelle Winsky-Sommerer
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK
| | - Alexis Bailey
- Sleep, Chronobiology & Addiction Group, Department of Biochemistry & Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK.
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Macrì S, Onori MP, Roessner V, Laviola G. Animal models recapitulating the multifactorial origin of Tourette syndrome. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2013; 112:211-37. [PMID: 24295623 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-411546-0.00008-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by motor and phonic tics affecting approximately 1% of the pediatric population. Behavioral comorbidities often include obsessive-compulsive behavior and impaired attention. The neurobiological substrates associated with TS generally entail abnormalities in neurotransmitter circuitry regulating basal ganglia activity. The neurotransmitters most often associated with TS are dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. TS origin roots in genetic predisposing factors, and environmental variables favoring tic onset and exacerbation. Among the latter, repeated infections with group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus and psychosocial stressors encountered during development have been proposed to constitute likely susceptibility factors. In this chapter, we describe how this clinical/epidemiological knowledge has been translated into animal models of TS. Specifically, we review several studies attempting to reproduce TS-like symptoms (tics and behavioral stereotypies) and comorbidities (impaired attention, increased locomotion, and perseverative responding) in laboratory rodents. Additionally, we discuss studies in which the genetic and environmental predisposing factors have been modeled in experimental subjects. Ultimately, we propose a unifying perspective recapitulating dependent and independent variables in the preclinical study of TS and discuss its potential theoretical and heuristic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Macrì
- Section of Behavioural Neuroscience, Department Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
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27
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Herzmann G, Young B, Bird CW, Curran T. Oxytocin can impair memory for social and non-social visual objects: a within-subject investigation of oxytocin's effects on human memory. Brain Res 2012; 1451:65-73. [PMID: 22424787 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2011] [Revised: 02/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is important to social behavior and emotion regulation in humans. Oxytocin's role derives in part from its effect on memory performance. More specifically, previous research suggests that oxytocin facilitates recognition of social (e.g., faces), but not of non-social stimuli (e.g., words, visual objects). We conducted the first within-subject study to this hypothesis in a double-blind, placebo-controlled design. We administered oxytocin (24IU) and placebo (saline) in two separate sessions and in randomized order to healthy men. To obtain a baseline measure for session-dependent memory effects, which are caused by proactive interference, an additional group of male subjects in each session received placebo unbeknownst to them and the experimenter. After administration, participants studied faces and houses. Exactly one day after each study session, participants were asked to make memory judgments of new and old items. In the first study-test session, participants administered with oxytocin showed reduced recollection of previously studied faces and houses. Oxytocin also interacted with proactive-interference effects. By impeding memory in the first session, it reduced proactive interference in the second. But oxytocin contributed additionally to the memory-reducing effect of proactive interference when administered in the second session. These results demonstrate that oxytocin can have a memory-impairing effect on both social and non-social visual objects. The present study also emphasizes the necessity of including a non-treated, baseline group in within-subject designs when investigating oxytocin's effects on human memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grit Herzmann
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, UCB 345, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
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28
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Chen E, Miller GE. "Shift-and-Persist" Strategies: Why Low Socioeconomic Status Isn't Always Bad for Health. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2012; 7:135-58. [PMID: 23144651 PMCID: PMC3491986 DOI: 10.1177/1745691612436694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Some individuals, despite facing recurrent, severe adversities in life such as low socioeconomic status (SES), are nonetheless able to maintain good physical health. This article explores why these individuals deviate from the expected association of low SES and poor health and outlines a "shift-and-persist" model to explain the psychobiological mechanisms involved. This model proposes that, in the midst of adversity, some children find role models who teach them to trust others, better regulate their emotions, and focus on their futures. Over a lifetime, these low-SES children develop an approach to life that prioritizes shifting oneself (accepting stress for what it is and adapting the self through reappraisals) in combination with persisting (enduring life with strength by holding on to meaning and optimism). This combination of shift-and-persist strategies mitigates sympathetic-nervous-system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical responses to the barrage of stressors that low-SES individuals confront. This tendency vectors individuals off the trajectory to chronic disease by forestalling pathogenic sequelae of stress reactivity, like insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and systemic inflammation. We outline evidence for the model and argue that efforts to identify resilience-promoting processes are important in this economic climate, given limited resources for improving the financial circumstances of disadvantaged individuals.
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Opacka-Juffry J, Mohiyeddini C. Experience of stress in childhood negatively correlates with plasma oxytocin concentration in adult men. Stress 2012; 15:1-10. [PMID: 21682649 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2011.560309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early life experience is known to affect responses to stress in adulthood. Adverse experience in childhood and/or adolescence sensitises to life events that precipitate depression in later life. Published evidence suggests a relationship between depression and oxytocin (OT), but the extent to which early life experience influences OT disposition in adulthood deserves further exploration. This study hypothesised that early life stress (ELS) has a long-term negative effect on OT system activity. The study was performed on 90 male volunteers (18-56 years; mean ± standard deviation = 27.7 ± 7.09 years). Several questionnaires were used to assess: health, early life stressful experiences in childhood (ELS-C, up to 12 years) and early life stressful adolescence (13-18 years), recent stressful life events, depressive symptoms, state-trait anxiety and social desirability. Plasma OT concentration was estimated by means of a competitive enzyme immunoassay. Lower OT concentrations were significantly associated with higher levels of ELS-C (p < 0.01), and with depressive symptoms and trait anxiety (both p < 0.05). The interaction between ELS-C and trait anxiety was significant (p < 0.05), indicating that the link between ELS-C and plasma OT concentration is moderated by trait anxiety. These results contribute to the evidence that early life adverse experience is negatively associated with OT system activity in adulthood, and offer further insight into mediator and moderator effects on this link.
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30
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Oxytocin specifically enhances valence-dependent parasympathetic responses. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2012; 37:87-93. [PMID: 21641726 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The evolutionarily highly conserved neuropeptide oxytocin seems to be involved in the regulation of complex forms of social behavior. It enhances the processing of positive social stimuli, reduces behavioral and neuroendocrine stress responses and modulates amygdala activity in humans. Moreover, it has been proposed that oxytocin dampens sympathetic nervous system activity. This hypothesis was tested in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 38 men either receiving 24 IU oxytocin intranasally or a placebo spray. While accomplishing an emotion classification task, electrodermal responses were measured as an index of sympathetic activity. Moreover, heart rate changes were recorded that are additionally mediated by the parasympathetic nervous system. Oxytocin enhanced differential heart rate responses to facial expressions as a function of the emotional valence, but had no effect on electrodermal activity or tonic measures of physiological arousal. These results indicate that oxytocin specifically modulates phasic activity of the parasympathetic nervous system which potentially reflects an increased motivational value of facial expressions following oxytocin treatment. Findings suggest that anxiolytic effects of oxytocin are not reflected in short-term sympathetic responses and may even be a consequence of rather than a prerequisite for improved social information processing.
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31
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Higashida H, Yokoyama S, Munesue T, Kikuchi M, Minabe Y, Lopatina O. CD38 gene knockout juvenile mice: a model of oxytocin signal defects in autism. Biol Pharm Bull 2011; 34:1369-72. [PMID: 21881219 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.34.1369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) in the hypothalamus is the biological basis of social recognition, trust, and bonding. We showed that CD38, a leukaemia cell marker, plays an important role in the hypothalamus in the process of OXT release in adult mice. Disruption of Cd38 (Cd38(-/-)) produced impairment of maternal behavior and male social recognition in mice, similar to the behavior observed in Oxt and OXT receptor (Oxtr) gene knockout (Oxt(-/-) and Oxtr(-/-), respectively) mice. Locomotor activity induced by separation from the dam was higher and the number of ultrasonic vocalization (USV) calls was lower in Cd38(-/-) than Cd38(+/+) pups. These phenotypes seemed to be caused by the high plasma OXT levels during development from neonates to 3-week-old juvenile mice. ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity was markedly lower in the knockout mice from birth, suggesting that weaning for mice is a critical time window of differentiating plasma OXT. Contribution by breastfeeding was an important exogenous source for regulating plasma OXT before weaning by the presence of OXT in milk and the dam's mammary glands. The dissimilarity of Cd38(-/-) infant behaviour to Oxt(-/-) or Oxtr(-/-) mice can be explained partly by this exogenous source of OXT. These results suggest that secretion of OXT into the brain in a CD38-dependent manner may play an important role in the development of social behavior, and mice with OXT signalling deficiency, including Cd38(-/-), Oxt(-/-) and Oxtr(-/-) mice are good animal models for developmental disorders, such as autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruhiro Higashida
- Department of Biophysical Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.
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32
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Norman GJ, Cacioppo JT, Morris JS, Karelina K, Malarkey WB, DeVries AC, Berntson GG. Selective influences of oxytocin on the evaluative processing of social stimuli. J Psychopharmacol 2011; 25:1313-9. [PMID: 20498133 PMCID: PMC3924589 DOI: 10.1177/0269881110367452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin has been implicated in a wide range of social processes, such as pair bonding, affiliation, and social judgments that may contribute to normal adjustment and psychiatric states. The present experimental study sought to elucidate potential underlying mechanisms by which oxytocin may impact social processes by examining the effects of intranasal oxytocin on basic evaluative processes. Subjects rated slide stimuli from the International Affective Picture System, varying across multiple categories (pleasant, neutral, unpleasant) and social content. Separate ratings for arousal and for the positive and negative components of valence were obtained in the context of a bivariate evaluative space model. Oxytocin did not have an independent significant effect on positivity or negativity ratings, but instead oxytocin treatment altered the interaction between these component processes for social, relative to non-social stimuli regardless of valence conditions. Specifically, oxytocin, relative to vehicle, significantly decreased arousal ratings to threatening human stimuli without altering ratings of threatening animal stimuli. These results indicate that oxytocin may exert its effects through dynamic alterations in the partially separable neural substrates mediating arousal as well as positive and negative evaluations of social stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Norman
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - John T Cacioppo
- Department of Psychology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John S Morris
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kate Karelina
- Department of Neurosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - William B Malarkey
- The Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,Molecular Virology, Immunology, and Medical Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - A Courtney DeVries
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,Department of Neurosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,The Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gary G Berntson
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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33
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Gordon I, Martin C, Feldman R, Leckman JF. Oxytocin and social motivation. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2011; 1:471-93. [PMID: 21984889 PMCID: PMC3185363 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans are fundamentally social creatures who are ‘motivated’ to be with others. In this review we examine the role of oxytocin (OT) as it relates to social motivation. OT is synthesized in the brain and throughout the body, including in the heart, thymus, gastrointestinal tract, as well as reproductive organs. The distribution of the OT receptor (OTR) system in both the brain and periphery is even more far-reaching and its expression is subject to changes over the course of development. OTR expression is also sensitive to changes in the external environment and the internal somatic world. The OT system functions as an important element within a complex, developmentally sensitive biobehavioral system. Other elements include sensory inputs, the salience, reward, and threat detection pathways, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal stress response axis. Despite an ever expanding scientific literature, key unresolved questions remain concerning the interplay of the central and peripheral components of this complex biobehavioral system that dynamically engages the brain and the body as humans interact with social partners over the course of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilanit Gordon
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carina Martin
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Psychology Department and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Israel
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34
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Aiello TP, Whitaker-Azmitia PM. Sexual differentiation and the neuroendocrine hypothesis of autism. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2011; 294:1663-70. [PMID: 21901838 DOI: 10.1002/ar.21251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2010] [Accepted: 05/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The phenotypic expression of autism spectrum disorders varies widely in severity and characteristics and it is, therefore, likely that a number of etiological factors are involved. However, one finding which has been found consistently is that there is a greater incidence of autism in boys than girls. Recently, attention has been given to the extreme male hypothesis-that is that autism behaviors are an extreme form of typical male behaviors, including lack of empathy and language deficits but an increase in so-called systemizing behaviors, such as attention to detail and collecting. This points to the possibility that an alteration during sexual differentiation of the brain may occur in autism. During sexual differentiation of the brain, two brain regions are highly sexually dimorphic-the amygdala and the hypothalamus. Both of these regions are also implicated in the neuroendocrine hypothesis of autism, wherein a balance between oxytocin and cortisol may contribute to the disorder. We are thus proposing that the extreme male hypothesis and the neuroendocrine hypothesis are in fact compatible in that sexual differentiation of the brain towards an extreme male phenotype would result in the neuroendocrine changes proposed in autism. We have preliminary data, treating developing rat pups with the differentiating hormone 17-β estradiol during a critical time and showing changes in social behaviors and oxytocin, to support this hypothesis. Further studies should be undertaken to confirm the role of extremes of normal sexual differentiation in producing the neuroendocrine changes associated with autism.
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35
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Kiss I, Levy-Gigi E, Kéri S. CD 38 expression, attachment style and habituation of arousal in relation to trust-related oxytocin release. Biol Psychol 2011; 88:223-6. [PMID: 21893160 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2011.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2011] [Revised: 08/11/2011] [Accepted: 08/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin plays an important role in human attachment, trust, social perception, memory, and fear regulation. Evidence suggests that CD38, a regulator of oxytocin release, may also be critical in these processes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predictors of plasma oxytocin level measured after a task requiring intimate trust (secret sharing), modeling psychotherapeutic processes, and a neutral social interaction. Results revealed that peripheral CD38 expression positively predicted both trust-related and trust-unrelated oxytocin levels. In addition, habituation of arousal, as measured by skin conductance response, and attachment anxiety also emerged as predictors of oxytocin level in the trust-related condition. These results suggest that CD38 plays a general role in oxytocin secretion, whereas habituation of arousal and attachment anxiety are specifically related to situations involving intimate trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imre Kiss
- National Psychiatry Center, Budapest, Hungary
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36
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Fonagy P, Luyten P, Strathearn L. Borderline personality disorder, mentalization, and the neurobiology of attachment. Infant Ment Health J 2011; 32:47-69. [DOI: 10.1002/imhj.20283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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37
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Feldman R, Gordon I, Zagoory-Sharon O. Maternal and paternal plasma, salivary, and urinary oxytocin and parent-infant synchrony: considering stress and affiliation components of human bonding. Dev Sci 2010; 14:752-61. [PMID: 21676095 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7687.2010.01021.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 275] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Studies in mammals have implicated the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) in processes of bond formation and stress modulation, yet the involvement of OT in human bonding throughout life remains poorly understood. We assessed OT in the plasma, saliva, and urine of 112 mothers and fathers interacting with their 4-6-month-old infants. Parent-infant interactions were micro-coded for parent and child's social behaviors and for the temporal coordination of their socio-affective cues. Parents were interviewed regarding their attachment to the infant and reported on bonding to own parents, romantic attachment, and parenting stress. Results indicated that OT in plasma (pOT) and saliva (sOT) were inter-related and were unrelated to OT in urine (uOT). pOT and sOT in mothers and fathers were associated with parent and child's social engagement, affect synchrony, and positive communicative sequences between parent and child. uOT was related to moments of interactive stress among mothers only, indexed by the co-occurrence of infant negative engagement and mother re-engagement attempts. pOT and sOT were associated with mothers' and fathers' attachment relationships throughout life: to own parents, partner, and infant, whereas uOT correlated with relationship anxiety and parenting stress among mothers only. Similar to other mammals, OT is involved in human attachment and contingent parenting. The dual role of OT in stress and affiliation underscores its complex involvement in processes of social bonding throughout life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Feldman
- Department of Psychology and the Gonda Brain Sciences Center, Bar-Ilan University, Israel.
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38
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Gordon I, Zagoory-Sharon O, Leckman JF, Feldman R. Oxytocin, cortisol, and triadic family interactions. Physiol Behav 2010; 101:679-84. [PMID: 20723553 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2010.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2010] [Revised: 07/21/2010] [Accepted: 08/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) supports the development of parenting in mammals primarily through its impact on parent-infant proximity and touch behaviors; however, much less is known about the links between OT and parental touch and contact in humans. In this study, we examined the relations between maternal and paternal OT and patterns of touch and contact in the family unit during triadic interactions. Thirty-seven parents and their firstborn child were seen twice: during the 2nd and 6th postpartum month. Plasma OT and salivary cortisol (CT) were assessed with ELISA methods. At six months, triadic mother-father-infant interactions were videotaped and micro-coded for patterns of proximity, touch, and gaze behavior. Triadic synchrony, defined as moments of coordination between physical proximity and affectionate touch between the parents as well as between parent and infant while both parent and child are synchronizing their social gaze, was predicted by both maternal and paternal OT. Among mothers, triadic synchrony was also independently related to lower levels of CT. Results highlight the role of OT in the early formation of the family unit at the transition to parenthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilanit Gordon
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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39
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Higashida H, Lopatina O, Yoshihara T, Pichugina YA, Soumarokov AA, Munesue T, Minabe Y, Kikuchi M, Ono Y, Korshunova N, Salmina AB. Oxytocin signal and social behaviour: comparison among adult and infant oxytocin, oxytocin receptor and CD38 gene knockout mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2010; 22:373-9. [PMID: 20141571 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2010.01976.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin in the hypothalamus is the biological basis of social recognition, trust, love and bonding. Previously, we showed that CD38, a proliferation marker in leukaemia cells, plays an important role in the hypothalamus in the process of oxytocin release in adult mice. Disruption of Cd38 (Cd38 (-/-)) elicited impairment of maternal behaviour and male social recognition in adult mice, similar to the behaviour observed in Oxt and oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) gene knockout (Oxt (-/-) and Oxtr (-/-), respectively) mice. Locomotor activity induced by separation from the dam was higher and the number of ultrasonic vocalisation calls was lower in Cd38 (-/-) than Cd38( +/+) pups. However, these behavioural changes were much milder than those observed in Oxt (-/-) and Oxtr (-/-) mice, indicating less impairment of social behaviour in Cd38 (-/-) pups. These phenotypes appeared to be caused by the high plasma oxytocin levels during development from the neonatal period to 3-week-old juvenile mice. ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity was markedly lower in the knockout mice from birth, suggesting that weaning for mice is a critical time window of plasma oxytocin differentiation. Breastfeeding was an important exogenous source of plasma oxytocin regulation before weaning as a result of the presence of oxytocin in milk and the dam's mammary glands. The dissimilarity between Cd38 (-/-) infant behaviour and those of Oxt (-/-) or Oxtr (-/-) mice can be explained partly by this exogenous source of oxytocin. These results suggest that secretion of oxytocin into the brain in a CD38-dependent manner may play an important role in the development of social behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Higashida
- Department of Biophysical Genetics, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan.
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40
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Different amygdala subregions mediate valence-related and attentional effects of oxytocin in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:9400-5. [PMID: 20421469 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1000985107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 381] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin enhances the processing of positive social stimuli and improves the capacity to effectively attend the eye region of conspecifics. To investigate the neural basis of these effects, we combined intranasal oxytocin administration with high-resolution functional magnetic resonance imaging in a unique emotion classification task. Emotional faces were briefly presented while controlling for the initial fixation, and measuring subsequent eye movements. Oxytocin had differential effects on the activity of specific amygdala subregions. On the one hand, it attenuated activation in lateral and dorsal regions of the anterior amygdala for fearful faces but enhanced activity for happy expressions, thus indicating a shift of the processing focus toward positive social stimuli. On the other hand, oxytocin increased the likelihood of reflexive gaze shifts toward the eye region irrespective of the depicted emotional expression. This gazing pattern was related to an increase of activity in the posterior amygdala and an enhanced functional coupling of this region to the superior colliculi. Thus, different behavioral effects of oxytocin seem to be closely related its specific modulatory influence on subregions within the human amygdala.
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Abstract
Borderline personality disorder is characterized by affective instability, impulsivity, identity diffusion, and interpersonal dysfunction. Perceived rejection and loss often serve as triggers to impulsive, suicidal, and self-injurious behavior, affective reactivity, and angry outbursts, suggesting that the attachment and affiliative system may be implicated in the disorder. Neuropeptides, including the opioids, oxytocin, and vasopressin, serve a crucial role in the regulation of affiliative behaviors and thus may be altered in borderline personality disorder. While clinical data are limited, the authors propose alternative neuropeptide models of borderline personality disorder and review relevant preclinical research supporting the role of altered neuropeptide function in this disorder in the hope of stimulating more basic research and the development of new treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Stanley
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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42
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Scantamburlo G, Ansseau M, Geenen V, Legros JJ. Oxytocin: From milk ejection to maladaptation in stress response and psychiatric disorders. A psychoneuroendocrine perspective. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2009; 70:449-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2009.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2009] [Revised: 08/30/2009] [Accepted: 09/09/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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43
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Heinrichs M, von Dawans B, Domes G. Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human social behavior. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:548-557. [PMID: 19505497 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 528] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2009] [Revised: 05/07/2009] [Accepted: 05/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
There is substantial evidence from animal research indicating a key role of the neuropeptides oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the regulation of complex social cognition and behavior. As social interaction permeates the whole of human society, and the fundamental ability to form attachment is indispensable for social relationships, studies are beginning to dissect the roles of OT and AVP in human social behavior. New experimental paradigms and technologies in human research allow a more nuanced investigation of the molecular basis of social behavior. In addition, a better understanding of the neurobiology and neurogenetics of human social cognition and behavior has important implications for the current development of novel clinical approaches for mental disorders that are associated with social deficits (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder). This review focuses on our recent knowledge of the behavioral, endocrine, genetic, and neural effects of OT and AVP in humans and provides a synthesis of recent advances made in the effort to implicate the oxytocinergic system in the treatment of psychopathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Heinrichs
- Department of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i. Br., Germany.
| | | | - Gregor Domes
- Department of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i. Br., Germany
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44
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Guastella AJ, Howard AL, Dadds MR, Mitchell P, Carson DS. A randomized controlled trial of intranasal oxytocin as an adjunct to exposure therapy for social anxiety disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2009; 34:917-23. [PMID: 19246160 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2008] [Revised: 11/30/2008] [Accepted: 01/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In humans, oxytocin nasal administration reduces social-threat perception and improves processes involved in communication and the encoding of positive social cues. The aim of this study was to determine whether oxytocin given as an adjunct to exposure therapy improves treatment for social anxiety disorder (SAD) as indicated by a comprehensive set of symptom outcome measures. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we administered 24 IU of oxytocin or a placebo in combination with exposure therapy to twenty-five participants who met primary diagnosis for SAD. Participants administered with oxytocin showed improved positive evaluations of appearance and speech performance as exposure treatment sessions progressed. These effects did not generalize to improve overall treatment outcome from exposure therapy. Participants who received oxytocin or placebo reported similar levels of symptom reduction following treatment across symptom severity, dysfunctional cognition, and life-impairment measures. This study shows that the administration of oxytocin improves mental representations of self, following exposure therapy. These effects may be either short term or situation specific. Future research is now needed to determine whether oxytocin can enhance treatment outcomes for SAD when used with greater frequency, with a wider variety of social learning experiences, and in conjunction with interventions that more specifically target change in broader dysfunctional cognitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Guastella
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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Di Simplicio M, Massey-Chase R, Cowen PJ, Harmer CJ. Oxytocin enhances processing of positive versus negative emotional information in healthy male volunteers. J Psychopharmacol 2009; 23:241-8. [PMID: 18801829 DOI: 10.1177/0269881108095705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Animal studies have shown the role of oxytocin in affiliation and attachment, and recent evidence suggests that oxytocin is also involved in human models of approach behaviour, possibly by modulating the processing of emotionally valenced stimuli. Although oxytocin administration has been reported to decrease neural responses to facial emotional information, the effects on a wider range of behavioural measures of emotional processing shown to be sensitive to antidepressant manipulation have not been examined. The aim of this study was to investigate whether intranasally administered oxytocin affects the processing of positive and negative affective information in healthy male volunteers across tasks measuring attention, perception and memory. Twenty-nine male healthy volunteers were randomly allocated to receive a single dose of oxytocin nasal spray (24 UI) or placebo. 50 min later, participants completed a battery of psychological tests measuring emotional processing. A single dose of intranasally administered oxytocin slowed reaction time to correctly identify fearful facial expressions and reduced the misclassification of positive emotions as negative ones. These effects occurred in the absence of significant differences in subjective ratings of mood and anxiety. These results suggest that oxytocin modulates emotion processing in healthy male volunteers. This action may contribute to the emerging role of the neuropeptide in promoting affiliative and approach behaviours by reducing the salience of potentially ambiguous and threatening social stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Di Simplicio
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry Section, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Sigling HO, Wolterink-Donselaar IG, Spruijt BM. Home seeking behavior in rat pups: Attachment vs. kin selection, oxytocin vs. vasopressin. Eur J Pharmacol 2009; 612:48-53. [PMID: 19356730 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.03.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2008] [Revised: 03/11/2009] [Accepted: 03/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We are interested in the rat as an animal model for infant-mother attachment. In the first experiment we tried to distinguish between a preference for familiar animals (attachment theory) and a preference for genetically related animals (kin selection theory) with the use of an early cross-fostering procedure. Genetic relationships did not influence preferences in cross-fostered pups on postnatal day 17, only familiarity did. Subsequently we investigated if peptides known to influence affiliative behaviors were also effective in the present paradigm. Injection of oxytocin into the cisterna magna did not yield significant effects on preference, while vasopressin and desglycinamide-[Arg8]vasopressin reduced the preference in a dose dependent manner. The effect of vasopressin was completely blocked by pretreatment with the vasopressin V(1A) receptor antagonist d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)(2),Arg(8)-vasopressin. We discuss the explanatory power of attachment theory and kin selection theory with regard to preference experiments in rats and the usefulness of the rat as an animal model for infant-mother attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hein O Sigling
- Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Using the MATRICS to guide development of a preclinical cognitive test battery for research in schizophrenia. Pharmacol Ther 2009; 122:150-202. [PMID: 19269307 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2009.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2009] [Accepted: 02/17/2009] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive deficits in schizophrenia are among the core symptoms of the disease, correlate with functional outcome, and are not well treated with current antipsychotic therapies. In order to bring together academic, industrial, and governmental bodies to address this great 'unmet therapeutic need', the NIMH sponsored the Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) initiative. Through careful factor analysis and consensus of expert opinion, MATRICS identified seven domains of cognition that are deficient in schizophrenia (attention/vigilance, working memory, reasoning and problem solving, processing speed, visual learning and memory, verbal learning and memory, and social cognition) and recommended a specific neuropsychological test battery to probe these domains. In order to move the field forward and outline an approach for translational research, there is a need for a "preclinical MATRICS" to develop a rodent test battery that is appropriate for drug development. In this review, we outline such an approach and review current rodent tasks that target these seven domains of cognition. The rodent tasks are discussed in terms of their validity for probing each cognitive domain as well as a brief overview of the pharmacology and manipulations relevant to schizophrenia for each task.
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Winstock AR, Lea T, Copeland J. Lithium carbonate in the management of cannabis withdrawal in humans: an open-label study. J Psychopharmacol 2009; 23:84-93. [PMID: 18515451 DOI: 10.1177/0269881108089584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most widely used illicit substance in the world. Estimates suggest that approximately 10-20% of cannabis users meet criteria for cannabis dependence and a significant proportion experience withdrawal discomfort on cessation of use. To date, there has been an absence of any clinically validated treatments to manage withdrawal. The current study is an open-label trial exploring the utility of lithium carbonate for the management of cannabis withdrawal symptoms in treatment seeking adult humans. In total, 20 participants were recruited to the study (19 men). All met DSM-IV cannabis-dependence criteria and had been smoking cannabis daily or almost daily for a mean 9 years. Participants were admitted to an inpatient detoxification facility and prescribed lithium 500 mg b.d. for 7 days. Cannabis withdrawal was assessed daily with the Marijuana Withdrawal Checklist (MWC). Two participants were withdrawn from the trial because of possible adverse effects. Sixty percent of participants completed the 7-day treatment program. Follow-up was conducted at a mean of 107 days following treatment. The mean percentage of days abstinent in the period between treatment cessation and follow-up was 87.57%. Twenty-nine percent of participants (n=5) reported continuous abstinence that was biochemically verified at follow-up. Agreement between self-reported cannabis use and urinalysis at follow-up was moderate (kappa=0.47). Significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety and cannabis-related problems were also reported. This study provides evidence for the potential clinical utility and safety of lithium in the management of cannabis withdrawal. A randomised, placebo-controlled trial is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Winstock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.
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Hoge EA, Pollack MH, Kaufman RE, Zak PJ, Simon NM. Oxytocin levels in social anxiety disorder. CNS Neurosci Ther 2008; 14:165-70. [PMID: 18801109 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2008.00051.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide recently associated with social behavior in animals and humans, but the study of its function in populations with social deficits such as autism, schizophrenia, and social anxiety disorder has only recently begun. We measured plasma oxytocin in 24 patients with Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder (GSAD) and 22 healthy controls using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. There were no significant differences in oxytocin level (pg/mL) between patients (M=163.0, SD=109.4) and controls (M=145.0, SD=52.9, z=0.21, P=0.8). Within the GSAD sample, however, higher social anxiety symptom severity adjusted for age and gender was associated with higher oxytocin level (R2=0.21, beta=0.014, SE=0.006, t=2.18, P=0.04). In addition, dissatisfaction with social relationships was associated with higher oxytocin levels (R2=0.18, beta=-0.20, SE=0.10, t=-2.01, P=0.05). Our data provide preliminary support for a link between social anxiety severity and plasma oxytocin. These findings may suggest a possible role for oxytocin as a facilitator of social behavior, an effect which may not be fully utilized in individuals with severe social anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Hoge
- Department of Economics, Claremont University, Claremont, CA, USA.
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Oxytocin attenuates affective evaluations of conditioned faces and amygdala activity. J Neurosci 2008; 28:6607-15. [PMID: 18579733 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4572-07.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 322] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Social relations between humans critically depend on our affective experiences of others. Oxytocin enhances prosocial behavior, but its effect on humans' affective experience of others is not known. We tested whether oxytocin influences affective ratings, and underlying brain activity, of faces that have been aversively conditioned. Using a standard conditioning procedure, we induced differential negative affective ratings in faces exposed to an aversive conditioning compared with nonconditioning manipulation. This differential negative evaluative effect was abolished by treatment with oxytocin, an effect associated with an attenuation of activity in anterior medial temporal and anterior cingulate cortices. In amygdala and fusiform gyrus, this modulation was stronger for faces with direct gaze, relative to averted gaze, consistent with a relative specificity for socially relevant cues. The data suggest that oxytocin modulates the expression of evaluative conditioning for socially relevant faces via influences on amygdala and fusiform gyrus, an effect that may explain its prosocial effects.
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