1
|
Wang T, Ye J, Zhang Y, Li J, Yang T, Wang Y, Jiang X, Yao Q. Role of oxytocin in bone. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1450007. [PMID: 39290327 PMCID: PMC11405241 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1450007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a posterior pituitary hormone that, in addition to its role in regulating childbirth and lactation, also exerts direct regulatory effects on the skeleton through peripheral OT and oxytocin receptor (OTR). Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), osteoblasts (OB), osteoclasts (OC), chondrocytes, and adipocytes all express OT and OTR. OT upregulates RUNX2, BMP2, ALP, and OCN, thereby enhancing the activity of BMSCs and promoting their differentiation towards OB rather than adipocytes. OT also directly regulates OPG/RANKL to inhibit adipocyte generation, increase the expression of SOX9 and COMP, and enhance chondrocyte differentiation. OB can secrete OT, exerting influence on the surrounding environment through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. OT directly increases OC formation through the NκB/MAP kinase signaling pathway, inhibits osteoclast proliferation by triggering cytoplasmic Ca2+ release and nitric oxide synthesis, and has a dual regulatory effect on OCs. Under the stimulation of estrogen, OB synthesizes OT, amplifying the biological effects of estrogen and OT. Mediated by estrogen, the OT/OTR forms a feedforward loop with OB. Apart from estrogen, OT also interacts with arginine vasopressin (AVP), prostaglandins (PGE2), leptin, and adiponectin to regulate bone metabolism. This review summarizes recent research on the regulation of bone metabolism by OT and OTR, aiming to provide insights into their clinical applications and further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianming Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianya Ye
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Huaian Hospital of Huaian City, Huaian, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianxiao Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingqiang Yao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vargas-Pinilla P, S Oliveira Fam B, Medina Tavares G, Lima T, Landau L, Paré P, de Cássia Aleixo Tostes R, Pissinatti A, Falótico T, Costa-Neto C, Maestri R, Bortolini MC. From molecular variations to behavioral adaptations: Unveiling adaptive epistasis in primate oxytocin system. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 184:e24947. [PMID: 38783700 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our primary objective was to investigate the variability of oxytocin (OT) and the GAMEN binding motif within the LNPEP oxytocinase in primates. MATERIALS AND METHODS We sequenced the LNPEP segment encompassing the GAMEN motif in 34 Platyrrhini species, with 21 of them also sequenced for the OT gene. Our dataset was supplemented with primate sequences of LNPEP, OT, and the oxytocin receptor (OTR) sourced from public databases. Evolutionary analysis and coevolution predictions were made followed by the macroevolution analysis of relevant amino acids associated with phenotypic traits, such as mating systems, parental care, and litter size. To account for phylogenetic structure, we utilized two distinct statistical tests. Additionally, we calculated binding energies focusing on the interaction between Callithtrix jacchus VAMEN and Pro8OT. RESULTS We identified two novel motifs (AAMEN and VAMEN), challenging the current knowledge of motif conservation in placental mammals. Coevolution analysis demonstrated a correlation between GAMEN, AAMEN, and VAMEN and their corresponding OTs and OTRs. Callithrix jacchus exhibited a higher binding energy between VAMEN and Pro8OT than orthologous molecules found in humans (GAMEN and Leu8OT). DISCUSSION The coevolution of AAMEN and VAMEN with their corresponding OTs and OTRs suggests a functional relationship that could have contributed to specific reproductive and adaptive behaviors, including paternal care, social monogamy, and twin births, prominent traits in Cebidae species, such as marmosets and tamarins. Our findings underscore the coevolution of taxon-specific amino acids among the three studied molecules, shedding light on the oxytocinergic system as an adaptive epistatic repertoire in primates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Vargas-Pinilla
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Bibiana S Oliveira Fam
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Laboratório de Medicina Genômica, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental (CPE), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Medina Tavares
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Thaynara Lima
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luane Landau
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Pâmela Paré
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | - Tiago Falótico
- Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Costa-Neto
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Renan Maestri
- Laboratório de Ecomorfologia e Macroevolução, Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Cátira Bortolini
- Laboratory of Human and Molecular Evolution, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sosnowski MJ, Brosnan SF. Conserved and differing functions of the endocrine system across different social systems - oxytocin as a case study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1418089. [PMID: 39055053 PMCID: PMC11269223 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1418089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A key goal of the field of endocrinology has been to understand the hormonal mechanisms that drive social behavior and influence reactions to others, such as oxytocin. However, it has sometimes been challenging to understand which aspects and influences of hormonal action are conserved and common among mammalian species, and which effects differ based on features of these species, such as social system. This challenge has been exacerbated by a focus on a relatively small number of traditional model species. In this review, we first demonstrate the benefits of using non-traditional models for the study of hormones, with a focus on oxytocin as a case study in adding species with diverse social systems. We then expand our discussion to explore differing effects of oxytocin (and its response to behavior) within a species, with a particular focus on relationship context and social environment among primate species. Finally, we suggest key areas for future exploration of oxytocin's action centrally and peripherally, and how non-traditional models can be an important resource for understanding the breadth of oxytocin's potential effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meghan J. Sosnowski
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Sarah F. Brosnan
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Language Research Center, Georgia State University, Decatur, GA, United States
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
López-Arjona M, Botía M, Martínez-Subiela S, Cerón JJ. Oxytocin measurements in saliva: an analytical perspective. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:96. [PMID: 37507690 PMCID: PMC10386254 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03661-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin has traditionally been known for its physiological effects on muscle contraction associated with birth and lactation, but in the last years is widely used as a biomarker of "positive experiences" in psychology and behavior. Different types of samples have been used for oxytocin measurements with saliva samples having the particular advantage of an easy and non-stressful collection. However, the low concentration of oxytocin in saliva can represent a limitation for its use. For this reason, sensitive assays and even a previous sample treatment in some cases are required for saliva oxytocin quantification. In addition, the lack of standardized and generally agreed-upon approach to peripheral oxytocin measurement leads to large discrepancies between different laboratories, that use different sample treatment protocols and different assays. The main objectives of this review are to describe the current status of the use of saliva for oxytocin measurement, provide details of the different sample processing techniques that can be applied and inform about the analytical techniques and assays available in different animal species, and also in humans for comparative purposes. It is expected that this information can contribute to an increase in the knowledge about the measurements of oxytocin in saliva and to its wider use in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina López-Arjona
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, 08193, Spain.
| | - María Botía
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, Murcia, 30100, Spain
| | - Silvia Martínez-Subiela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, Murcia, 30100, Spain
| | - José Joaquín Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, Murcia, 30100, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Grebe NM, Sheikh A, Ohannessian L, Drea CM. Effects of oxytocin receptor blockade on dyadic social behavior in monogamous and non-monogamous Eulemur. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 150:106044. [PMID: 36753883 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
A prominent body of research spanning disciplines has been focused on the potential underlying role for oxytocin in the social signatures of monogamous mating bonds. Behavioral differences between monogamous and non-monogamous vole species, putatively mediated by oxytocinergic function, constitute a key source of support for this mechanism, but it is unclear to what extent this hormone-behavior linkage extends to the primate order. In a preregistered experiment, we test if oxytocin receptor blockade affects affiliative behavior in mixed-sex pairs of Eulemur, a genus of strepsirrhine primate containing both monogamous and non-monogamous species. Inconsistent with past studies in monogamous voles or monkeys, we do not find confirmatory evidence in Eulemur that monogamous pairs affiliate more than non-monogamous pairs, nor that oxytocin receptor blockade of one pair member selectively corresponds to reduced affiliative or scent-marking behavior in monogamous species. We do, however, find exploratory evidence of a pattern not previously investigated: simultaneously blocking oxytocin receptors in both members of a monogamous pair predicts lower rates of affiliative behavior relative to controls. Our study demonstrates the value of non-traditional animal models in challenging generalizations based on model organisms, and of methodological reform in providing a potential path forward for behavioral oxytocin research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Grebe
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Anthropology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Alizeh Sheikh
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Christine M Drea
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Coté JJ, Côté-Arsenault D, Handelzalts JE, Badura-Brack AS, Kalata M, Walters RW, Kasinath P, Kump DA, Herbig K, Tampi R. Effects of 3D-Printed Models and 3D Printed Pictures on Maternal- and Paternal-Fetal Attachment, Anxiety, and Depression. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2023; 52:223-234. [PMID: 36940782 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effect of a 3D-printed model versus 3D printed pictures on maternal- and paternal-fetal attachment, pregnancy-related anxiety, and depression in parents in the third trimester. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING University- and clinic-affiliated hospital system. PARTICIPANTS Between August 2020 and July 2021, we screened 419 women for eligibility. A total of 184 participants (n = 95 women and n = 89 men) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis, of whom 47 women and 44 men received the 3D-printed model, whereas 48 women and 45 men received the 3D printed picture. METHODS Participants completed a set of questionnaires before they received third trimester 3D ultrasonography and a second set of questionnaires approximately 14 days after the study ultrasonography. The primary outcome was the global Maternal and Paternal Antenatal Attachment scale scores. Secondary outcomes included the Maternal and Paternal Antenatal Attachment subscale scores, global Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scores, global Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scores, and global Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire-Revised (second version) scores. We used multilevel models to estimate the effect of the intervention. RESULTS We found a statistically significant increase in mean attachment scores after the 3D printed picture and 3D-printed model intervention of 0.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.22, 0.31], p < .001. Additionally, we found statistically significant improvement in depression (mean change = -1.08, 95% CI [-1.54, -0.62], p < .001), anxiety (mean change = -1.38, 95% CI [-1.87, -0.89], p < .001), and pregnancy-related anxiety (mean change = -2.92, 95% CI [-4.11, -1.72], p < .001) scores. We found no statistically significant between-group differences related to maternal or paternal attachment, anxiety, depression, or pregnancy-related anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the use of 3D printed pictures and 3D-printed models to improve prenatal attachment, anxiety, depression, and pregnancy-related anxiety.
Collapse
|
7
|
Mustoe A. A tale of two hierarchies: Hormonal and behavioral factors underlying sex differences in social dominance in cooperative breeding callitrichids. Horm Behav 2023; 147:105293. [PMID: 36463691 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Callitrichid primates are recognized for high levels of sociality in small groups, their great behavioral flexibility, and single-female dominant hierarchies. Previous work has highlighted that dominant, breeding callitrichids engage in behavioral and hormonal reproductive suppression of related and unrelated subordinates by both producing more offspring, having higher levels of ovulatory hormones, and accessing more sociosexual opportunities. This suppression constitutes a nexus of changes in pituitary responsiveness, ovarian cyclicity, sexual behavior, affiliation, and aggression. In this review, I will highlight important features that characterize callitrichid social hierarchies across broad social contexts. Dominant females sometimes exert reproductive suppression on subordinate nonbreeding females, but this suppression varies across callitrichids based on social stability and changes in group composition, particularly related to the number, experience, and age of nonbreeding subordinates. Meanwhile, dominant males may induce suppression of reproduction in subordinate males, but these effects occur by different behavioral and endocrine mechanisms and to a much lesser extent than their female counterparts; While dominant female callitrichids usually show higher levels of aggression relative to their male counterparts, callitrichids show a general absence of intersexual dominance, likely as an effort of maintaining a cohesive breeding pair within a stable social group and social cooperation. Future efforts are needed to identify precise neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying the presence of sex differences in callitrichid behavior separate from peripheral reproductive function. This is especially important with regard to parental experience, social relationships, development and aging, with larger implications toward understanding sex differences in overall health and wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaryn Mustoe
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Huang S, Li G, Pan Y, Liu J, Zhao J, Zhang X, Lu W, Wan X, Krebs CJ, Wang Z, Han W, Zhang Z. Population variation alters aggression-associated oxytocin and vasopressin expressions in brains of Brandt's voles in field conditions. Front Zool 2021; 18:56. [PMID: 34717666 PMCID: PMC8557550 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-021-00441-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Density-dependent change in aggressive behavior contributes to the population regulation of many small rodents, but the underlying neurological mechanisms have not been examined in field conditions. We hypothesized that crowding stress and aggression-associated oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in specific regions of the brain may be closely related to aggressive behaviors and population changes of small rodents. We analyzed the association of OT and AVP expression, aggressive behavior, and population density of Brandt’s voles in 24 large semi-natural enclosures (0.48 ha each) in Inner Mongolia grassland. We tested the effects of population density on the OT/AVP system and aggressive behavior by experimentally manipulating populations of Brandt’s voles in the grassland enclosures. High density was positively and significantly associated with more aggressive behavior, and increased expression of mRNA and protein of AVP and its receptor, but decreased expression of mRNA and protein of OT and its receptor in specific brain regions of the voles. Our study suggests that changes in OT/AVP expression are likely a result of the increased psychosocial stress that these voles experience during overcrowding, and thus the OT/AVP system can be used as indicators of density-dependent stressors in Brandt’s voles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuli Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guoliang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yongliang Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,School of Medicine, Huzhou University, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - Jing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jidong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xinrong Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Charles J Krebs
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Zuoxin Wang
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306-1270, USA
| | - Wenxuan Han
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zhibin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China. .,CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Campbell SK, Cortés-Ortiz L. Oxytocin amino acid variation within Neotropical primates: new genetic variants in hormone and receptor sequences and evidence for evolutionary forces driving this unexpected diversity. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blaa173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Oxytocin is a mammalian neuropeptide hormone that mediates behaviours important to reproduction. Despite almost universal amino acid sequence conservation across most groups of mammals, several unique forms have been reported across Neotropical primates. To explore sequence diversity, we investigated the genes encoding oxytocin and its receptor across the Atelidae, which was known to contain at least three unique oxytocin sequences. Additionally, we included the genus Cebus, within the Cebidae, to further explore the ubiquity of the Pro8 variant in this family. We found a novel amino acid variant (Val3) within the Atelidae radiation, bringing the total number of oxytocin sequences within Neotropical primates to seven. Analyses of physicochemical properties revealed conservative substitutions that are likely tolerated within the selective constraints imposed by receptor binding. Furthermore, we report radical substitutions at the eighth codon and evidence for co-evolution between Pro8 and a ligand-binding region of the oxytocin receptor in the Atelidae, supporting the notion that this variant may affect binding specificity. Overall, we suggest that selective constraint on binding specificity may maintain proper oxytocin function and that the diversification of amino acid sequence is likely due to a variety of processes such as relaxed constraint, neutral mutation, positive selection and coevolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna K Campbell
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Liliana Cortés-Ortiz
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pierce ML, French JA, Murray TF. Comparison of the pharmacological profiles of arginine vasopressin and oxytocin analogs at marmoset, macaque, and human vasopressin 1a receptor. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 126:110060. [PMID: 32145592 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OT) are nonapeptides that bind to G-protein coupled receptors and influence social behaviors. Consensus mammalian AVP and OT (Leu8-OT) sequences are highly conserved. In marmosets, an amino acid change in the 8th position of the peptide (Pro8-OT) exhibits unique structural and functional properties. There is ∼85 % structural homology between the OT receptor (OTR) and vasopressin 1a receptor (V1aR) resulting in significant cross-reactivity between the ligands and receptors. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing marmoset (mV1aR), macaque (qV1aR), or human vasopressin receptor 1a (hV1aR) were used to assess AVP, Leu8-OT and Pro8-OT pharmacological profiles. To assess activation of Gq, functional assays were performed using Fluo-3 to measure ligand-induced Ca2+ mobilization. In all three V1aR-expressing cell lines, AVP was more potent than the OT ligands. To assess ligand-induced hyperpolarization, FLIPR Membrane Potential (FMP) assays were performed. In all three V1aR lines, AVP was more potent than the OT analogs. The distinctive U-shaped concentration-response curve displayed by AVP may reflect enhanced desensitization of the mV1aR and hV1aR, which is not observed with qV1aR. Evaluation of Ca2+-activated potassium (K+) channels using the inhibitors apamin, paxilline, and TRAM-34 demonstrated that both intermediate and large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels contributed to membrane hyperpolarization, with different pharmacological profiles identified for distinct ligand-receptor combinations. Taken together, these data suggest differences in ligand-receptor signaling that may underlie differences in social behavior. Integrative studies of behavior, genetics and ligand-receptor interaction will help elucidate the connection between receptor pharmacology and social behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marsha L Pierce
- Department of Pharmacology, Creighton University School of Medicine, 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Jeffrey A French
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska Omaha, 6001 Dodge St., Omaha, NE 68182, USA
| | - Thomas F Murray
- Department of Pharmacology, Creighton University School of Medicine, 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE 68178, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pierce ML, French JA, Murray TF. Comparison of the pharmacologic profiles of arginine vasopressin and oxytocin analogs at marmoset, titi monkey, macaque, and human oxytocin receptors. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 125:109832. [PMID: 32018219 PMCID: PMC7196279 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.109832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin-arginine vasopressin (OT-AVP) ligand-receptor family influences a variety of physiological, behavioral, and social behavioral processes in the brain and periphery. The OT-AVP family is highly conserved in mammals, but recent discoveries have revealed remarkable diversity in OT ligands and receptors in New World Monkeys (NWMs) providing a unique opportunity to assess the effects of genetic variation on pharmacological signatures of peptide ligands. The consensus mammalian OT sequence has leucine in the 8th position (Leu8-OT), whereas a number of NWMs, including the marmoset, have proline in the 8th position (Pro8-OT) resulting in a more rigid tail structure. OT and AVP bind to OT’s cognate G-protein coupled receptor (OTR), which couples to various G-proteins (Gi/o, Gq, Gs) to stimulate diverse signaling pathways. CHO cells expressing marmoset (mOTR), titi monkey (tOTR), macaque (qOTR), or human (hOTR) OT receptors were used to compare AVP and OT analog-induced signaling. Assessment of Gq-mediated increase in intracellular calcium (Ca2+) demonstrated that AVP was less potent than OT analogs at OTRs from species whose endogenous ligand is Leu8-OT (tOTR, qOTR, hOTR), relative to Pro8-OT. Likewise, AVP-induced membrane hyperpolarization was less potent at these same OTRs. Evaluation of (Ca2+)-activated potassium (K+) channels using the inhibitors apamin, paxilline, and TRAM-34 demonstrated that both intermediate and large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels contributed to membrane hyperpolarization, with different pharmacological profiles identified for distinct ligand-receptor combinations. Understanding more fully the contributions of structure activity relationships for these peptide ligands at vasopressin and OT receptors will help guide the development of OT-mediated therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marsha L Pierce
- Department of Pharmacology, Creighton University School of Medicine, 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE, 68178, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Midwestern University, 555 31St., Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA.
| | - Jeffrey A French
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska Omaha, 6001 Dodge St., Omaha, NE, 68182, USA.
| | - Thomas F Murray
- Department of Pharmacology, Creighton University School of Medicine, 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE, 68178, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Leu 8 and Pro 8 oxytocin agonism differs across human, macaque, and marmoset vasopressin 1a receptors. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15480. [PMID: 31664130 PMCID: PMC6820730 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52024-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is an important neuromodulator of social behaviors via activation of both oxytocin receptors (OXTR) and vasopressin (AVP) 1a receptors (AVPR1a). Marmosets are neotropical primates with a modified OXT ligand (Pro8-OXT), and this ligand shows significant coevolution with traits including social monogamy and litter size. Pro8-OXT produces more potent and efficacious responses at primate OXTR and stronger behavioral effects than the consensus mammalian OXT ligand (Leu8-OXT). Here, we tested whether OXT/AVP ligands show differential levels of crosstalk at primate AVPR1a. We measured binding affinities and Ca2+ signaling responses of AVP, Pro8-OXT and Leu8-OXT at human, macaque, and marmoset AVPR1a. We found that AVP binds with higher affinity than OXT across AVPR1a, and marmoset AVPR1a show a 10-fold lower OXT binding affinity compared to human and macaque AVPR1a. Both Leu8-OXT and Pro8-OXT produce a less efficacious response than AVP at human AVPR1a and higher efficacious response than AVP at marmoset AVPR1a. These data suggest that OXT might partially antagonize endogenous human AVPR1a signaling and enhance marmoset AVPR1a signaling. These findings aid in further understanding inconsistencies observed following systemic intranasal administration of OXT and provide important insights into taxon-specific differences in nonapeptide ligand/receptor coevolution and behavior.
Collapse
|
13
|
Chruścicka B, Wallace Fitzsimons SE, Borroto-Escuela DO, Druelle C, Stamou P, Nally K, Dinan TG, Cryan JF, Fuxe K, Schellekens H. Attenuation of Oxytocin and Serotonin 2A Receptor Signaling through Novel Heteroreceptor Formation. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:3225-3240. [PMID: 31038917 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OTR) and the 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HTR2A) are expressed in similar brain regions modulating central pathways critical for social and cognition-related behaviors. Signaling crosstalk between their endogenous ligands, oxytocin (OT) and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), highlights the complex interplay between these two neurotransmitter systems and may be indicative of the formation of heteroreceptor complexes with subsequent downstream signaling changes. In this study, we assess the possible formation of OTR-5HTR2A heteromers in living cells and the functional downstream consequences of this receptor-receptor interaction. First, we demonstrated the existence of a physical interaction between the OTR and 5-HTR2A in vitro, using a flow cytometry-based FRET approach and confocal microscopy. Furthermore, we investigated the formation of this specific heteroreceptor complex ex vivo in the brain sections using the Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA). The OTR-5HTR2A heteroreceptor complexes were identified in limbic regions (including hippocampus, cingulate cortex, and nucleus accumbens), key regions associated with cognition and social-related behaviors. Next, functional cellular-based assays to assess the OTR-5HTR2A downstream signaling crosstalk showed a reduction in potency and efficacy of OT and OTR synthetic agonists, carbetocin and WAY267464, on OTR-mediated Gαq signaling. Similarly, the activation of 5-HTR2A by the endogenous agonist, 5-HT, also revealed attenuation in Gαq-mediated signaling. Finally, altered receptor trafficking within the cell was demonstrated, indicative of cotrafficking of the OTR/5-HTR2A pair. Overall, these results constitute a novel mechanism of specific interaction between the OT and 5-HT neurotransmitters via OTR-5HTR2A heteroreceptor formation and provide potential new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of social and cognition-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Chruścicka
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Shauna E. Wallace Fitzsimons
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Clémentine Druelle
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Kenneth Nally
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Timothy G. Dinan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F. Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kjell Fuxe
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Harriët Schellekens
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cavanaugh J, Mustoe A, Womack SL, French JA. Oxytocin modulates mate-guarding behavior in marmoset monkeys. Horm Behav 2018; 106:150-161. [PMID: 30342885 PMCID: PMC6298842 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In socially-monogamous species, intolerance of interactions between a pairmate and a sexual rival (i.e., mate-guarding) promotes the preservation of long-lasting partnerships. One promising neurobiological candidate for the regulation of mate-guarding behavior in monogamous primates is the oxytocin (OT) system, given its established role in both the development of monogamous bonds and the behavioral processes that facilitate the preservation of those bonds. In this study, male and female marmosets were exposed to a same-sex intruder in their home environment during conditions when their pairmate was present and absent, and across three treatment conditions (OT receptor agonist; saline control; OT receptor antagonist). Saline-treated marmosets spent significantly more time in proximity to the intruder, relative to the empty pairmate enclosure, when their pairmate was absent. However, when marmosets received OT they spent less time in proximity to the intruder, indicating that OT may reduce interest in a same-sex stranger in a territorial context. When their pairmate was present, saline-treated marmosets spent equal time in proximity to both intruder and pairmate; yet when they received OT they spent significantly more time in proximity to the intruder, indicating that OT may increase interest in a same-sex stranger in a mate-guarding context. While OT treatment did not directly influence the expression of aggression, OT system manipulations impacted the expression of selective social interest during an intruder challenge, suggesting that OT may enhance adaptive responses to social challenges. Moreover, these findings add to the converging evidence that the OT system regulates behavioral processes that underlie the preservation of established relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon Cavanaugh
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States of America.
| | - Aaryn Mustoe
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States of America
| | - Stephanie L Womack
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey A French
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States of America; Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cavanaugh J, Mustoe A, French JA. Oxytocin regulates reunion affiliation with a pairmate following social separation in marmosets. Am J Primatol 2018; 80:e22750. [PMID: 29527695 PMCID: PMC6133767 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While separation from significant social partners produces a host of neurobiological and behavioral perturbations, including behavioral distress and increased glucocorticoid production, positive social interactions upon reunion are critical for the reestablishment of normative relationship dynamics and the attenuation of the biobehavioral stress response. The hormone oxytocin has critical and pervasive roles in reproductive and behavioral processes across the lifespan, and plays a particularly prominent role in social bonding. In this study, we examined the extent that oxytocin modulates interactions with a pairmate following separation challenges that varied in both social context (isolation; separation) and duration (long; short), in marmosets. We demonstrated that the impact of pharmacological manipulations of the oxytocin system on the expression of affiliation upon reunion depended on both the context and duration of the separation challenge. Specifically, marmosets treated with an oxytocin antagonist spent less time in proximity with their pairmate upon reunion following a long-separation challenge. During the short-separation challenge, marmosets engaged in more social gaze when separated with an opposite-sex stranger, but not when separated with their mate. Furthermore, marmosets that received the most social gaze from opposite-sex strangers spent the most time in proximity with their long-term mate upon reunion. We also showed that marmosets treated with an OT agonist received increased levels of gaze from opposite-sex strangers, but not from their mate. Overall, these results suggest that marmosets are sensitive to the nature of the social interactions during separation, and subsequently alter their expression of affiliation upon reunion with their long-term mate. These findings further implicate oxytocin as a bond-enhancing molecule that regulates the reestablishment of normative levels of affiliation with a mate following separation, and add to the emerging literature that suggests the OT system underlies critical behavioral processes that contribute to the preservation of long-lasting social bonds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon Cavanaugh
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Aaryn Mustoe
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
- Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jeffrey A. French
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kabbaj M, Wang Z. Neurobiology of motivated behaviors. Integr Zool 2018; 13:613-615. [PMID: 30251389 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Kabbaj
- Professor of Biomedical Sciences & Neuroscience Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Zuoxin Wang
- Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Taylor JH, Schulte NA, French JA, Toews ML. Binding Characteristics of Two Oxytocin Variants and Vasopressin at Oxytocin Receptors from Four Primate Species with Different Social Behavior Patterns. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 367:101-107. [PMID: 30068728 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.250852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A clade of New World monkeys (NWMs) exhibits considerable diversity in both oxytocin (OT) ligand and oxytocin receptor (OTR) structure. Most notable is the variant Pro8-OT, with proline instead of leucine at the eighth position, resulting in a rigid bend in the peptide backbone. A higher proportion of species that express Pro8-OT also engage in biparental care and social monogamy. When marmosets (genus Callithrix), a biparental and monogamous Pro8-OT NWM species, are administered the ancestral Leu8-OT, there is no change in social behavior compared with saline treatment. However, when Pro8-OT is administered, marmosets' sociosexual and prosocial behaviors are altered. The studies here tested the hypothesis that OTR binding affinities and OT-induced intracellular Ca2+ potencies would favor the native OT ligand in OTRs from four primate species, each representing a unique combination of ancestral lineage, breeding system, and native OT ligand: humans (Leu8-OT, monogamous, apes), macaques (Leu8-OT, nonmonogamous, Old World monkey), marmosets (Pro8-OT, monogamous, NWM), and titi monkeys (Leu8-OT, monogamous, NWM). OTRs were expressed in immortalized Chinese hamster ovary cells and tested for intact-cell binding affinities for Pro8-OT, Leu8-OT, and arginine vasopressin (AVP), as well as intracellular Ca2+ signaling after stimulation with Pro8-OT, Leu8-OT, and AVP. Contrary to our hypothesis, Pro8-OT bound at modestly higher affinities and stimulated calcium signaling at modestly higher potencies compared with Leu8-OT in all four primate OTRs. Thus, differences downstream from a ligand-receptor binding event are more likely to explain the different behavioral responses to these two ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack H Taylor
- Departments of Psychology (J.H.T., J.A.F.) and Biology (J.A.F.), Callitrichid Research Center, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; and Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (N.A.S., M.L.T.)
| | - Nancy A Schulte
- Departments of Psychology (J.H.T., J.A.F.) and Biology (J.A.F.), Callitrichid Research Center, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; and Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (N.A.S., M.L.T.)
| | - Jeffrey A French
- Departments of Psychology (J.H.T., J.A.F.) and Biology (J.A.F.), Callitrichid Research Center, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; and Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (N.A.S., M.L.T.)
| | - Myron L Toews
- Departments of Psychology (J.H.T., J.A.F.) and Biology (J.A.F.), Callitrichid Research Center, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; and Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (N.A.S., M.L.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Benítez ME, Sosnowski MJ, Tomeo OB, Brosnan SF. Urinary oxytocin in capuchin monkeys: Validation and the influence of social behavior. Am J Primatol 2018; 80:e22877. [DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela E. Benítez
- Department of Psychology; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Language Research Center; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
| | - Meghan J. Sosnowski
- Department of Psychology; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Language Research Center; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
| | - Olivia B. Tomeo
- Department of Psychology; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Language Research Center; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
| | - Sarah F. Brosnan
- Department of Psychology; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Language Research Center; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
- Neuroscience Institute; Georgia State University; Atlanta Georgia
| |
Collapse
|