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Żulińska S, Strosznajder AK, Strosznajder JB. Current View on PPAR-α and Its Relation to Neurosteroids in Alzheimer's Disease and Other Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Promising Targets in a Therapeutic Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7106. [PMID: 39000217 PMCID: PMC11241121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) may play an important role in the pathomechanism/pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and several other neurological/neuropsychiatric disorders. AD leads to progressive alterations in the redox state, ion homeostasis, lipids, and protein metabolism. Significant alterations in molecular processes and the functioning of several signaling pathways result in the degeneration and death of synapses and neuronal cells, leading to the most severe dementia. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) is among the processes affected by AD; it regulates the transcription of genes related to the metabolism of cholesterol, fatty acids, other lipids and neurotransmission, mitochondria biogenesis, and function. PPAR-α is involved in the cholesterol transport to mitochondria, the substrate for neurosteroid biosynthesis. PPAR-α-coding enzymes, such as sulfotransferases, which are responsible for neurosteroid sulfation. The relation between PPAR-α and cholesterol/neurosteroids may have a significant impact on the course and progression of neurodegeneration/neuroprotection processes. Unfortunately, despite many years of intensive studies, the pathogenesis of AD is unknown and therapy for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases is symptomatic, presenting a significant goal and challenge today. This review presents recent achievements in therapeutic approaches for AD, which are targeting PPAR-α and its relation to cholesterol and neurosteroids in AD and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Żulińska
- Department of Cellular Signaling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Anna K. Strosznajder
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Nowowiejska St. 27, 00-665 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Joanna B. Strosznajder
- Department of Cellular Signaling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
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2
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Heilig M, Witkiewitz K, Ray LA, Leggio L. Novel medications for problematic alcohol use. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172889. [PMID: 38828724 PMCID: PMC11142745 DOI: 10.1172/jci172889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-related harm, a major cause of disease burden globally, affects people along a spectrum of use. When a harmful pattern of drinking is present in the absence of significant behavioral pathology, low-intensity brief interventions that provide information about health consequences of continued use provide large health benefits. At the other end of the spectrum, profound behavioral pathology, including continued use despite knowledge of potentially fatal consequences, warrants a medical diagnosis, and treatment is strongly indicated. Available behavioral and pharmacological treatments are supported by scientific evidence but are vastly underutilized. Discovery of additional medications, with a favorable balance of efficacy versus safety and tolerability can improve clinical uptake of treatment, allow personalized treatment, and improve outcomes. Here, we delineate the clinical conditions when pharmacotherapy should be considered in relation to the main diagnostic systems in use and discuss clinical endpoints that represent meaningful clinical benefits. We then review specific developments in three categories of targets that show promise for expanding the treatment toolkit. GPCRs remain the largest category of successful drug targets across contemporary medicine, and several GPCR targets are currently pursued for alcohol-related indications. Endocrine systems are another established category, and several promising targets have emerged for alcohol indications. Finally, immune modulators have revolutionized treatment of multiple medical conditions, and they may also hold potential to produce benefits in patients with alcohol problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Heilig
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, and Department of Psychiatry, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Katie Witkiewitz
- Department of Psychology and Center on Alcohol, Substance Use and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Lara A. Ray
- Department of Psychology, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, NIH, Baltimore and Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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3
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Marek GW, Malhi H. MetALD: Does it require a different therapeutic option? Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00898. [PMID: 38820071 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
New guidelines for the definitions of steatotic liver disease have named the entity of metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease (MetALD) as an overlap condition of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and alcohol-associated liver disease. There is a broad range of therapeutics in all stages of development for MASLD, but these therapeutics, in general, have not been studied in patients with significant ongoing alcohol use. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the endogenous and exogenous risks for MASLD and MetALD. Rational strategies for therapeutic intervention in MetALD include biopsychosocial interventions, alcohol use cessation strategies, including the use of medications for alcohol use disorder, and judicious use of therapeutics for steatotic liver disease. Therapeutics with promise for MetALD include incretin-based therapies, FGF21 agonists, thyroid hormone receptor beta agonists, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, and agents to modify de novo lipogenesis. Currently, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ agonists have the largest body of literature supporting their use in MASLD, and there is a paucity of agents in trials for alcohol-associated liver disease. From existing studies, it is not clear if unique therapeutics or a combinatorial approach are needed for MetALD. Further elucidation of the safety and benefits of MASLD-related therapies is of paramount importance for advancing therapeutics for MetALD in carefully designed inclusive clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- George W Marek
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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4
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Grodin EN. Neuroimmune modulators as novel pharmacotherapies for substance use disorders. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 36:100744. [PMID: 38435721 PMCID: PMC10906159 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
One promising avenue of research is the use of neuroimmune modulators to treat substance use disorders (SUDs). Neuroimmune modulators target the interactions between the nervous system and immune system, which have been found to play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of SUDs. Multiple classes of substances produce alterations to neuroimmune signaling and peripheral immune function, including alcohol, opioids, and psychostimulants Preclinical studies have shown that neuroimmune modulators can reduce drug-seeking behavior and prevent relapse in animal models of SUDs. Additionally, early-phase clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of using neuroimmune modulators as a treatment for SUDs in humans. These therapeutics can be used as stand-alone treatments or as adjunctive. This review summarizes the current state of the field and provides future directions with a specific focus on personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica N. Grodin
- Department of Psychology, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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5
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Mason BJ, Estey D, Roberts A, de Guglielmo G, George O, Light J, Stoolmiller M, Quello S, Skinner M, Shadan F, Begovic A, Kyle MC, Harris RA. A reverse translational study of PPAR-α agonist efficacy in human and rodent models relevant to alcohol use disorder. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 29:100604. [PMID: 38292518 PMCID: PMC10825428 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2023.100604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing disorder affecting an estimated 283 million individuals worldwide, with substantial health and economic consequences. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), particularly PPAR-α and PPAR-γ, have shown promise in preclinical studies as potential therapeutic targets for AUD. In this human laboratory study, we aimed to translate preclinical findings on the PPAR-α agonist fenofibrate to a human population with current AUD. We hypothesized that, relative to placebo, fenofibrate at the highest FDA-approved dose of 145 mg/d would attenuate responsiveness to in vivo alcohol cues in the lab and reduce drinking under natural conditions. However, the results did not show significant differences in craving and alcohol consumption between the fenofibrate and placebo groups. Reverse translational studies in rodent models confirmed the lack of fenofibrate effect at human-equivalent doses. These findings suggest that inadequate translation of drug dose from rodents to humans may account for the lack of fenofibrate effects on alcohol craving and consumption in humans with AUD. The results highlight the need for new brain-penetrant PPAR-α agonists to adequately test the therapeutic potential of PPAR-α agonists for AUD, and the importance of reverse translational approaches and selection of human-equivalent doses in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J. Mason
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David Estey
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amanda Roberts
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Giordano de Guglielmo
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Olivier George
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - John Light
- Oregon Research Institute, Eugene, OR, USA
| | - Mike Stoolmiller
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Susan Quello
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michael Skinner
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Farhad Shadan
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Adnan Begovic
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Mark C. Kyle
- Pearson Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - R. Adron Harris
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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6
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Getachew B, Hauser SR, Bennani S, El Kouhen N, Sari Y, Tizabi Y. Adolescent alcohol drinking interaction with the gut microbiome: implications for adult alcohol use disorder. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2024; 4:11881. [PMID: 38322648 PMCID: PMC10846679 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2024.11881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Reciprocal communication between the gut microbiota and the brain, commonly referred to as the "gut-brain-axis" is crucial in maintaining overall physiological homeostasis. Gut microbiota development and brain maturation (neuronal connectivity and plasticity) appear to be synchronized and to follow the same timeline during childhood (immature), adolescence (expansion) and adulthood (completion). It is important to note that the mesolimbic reward circuitry develops early on, whereas the maturation of the inhibitory frontal cortical neurons is delayed. This imbalance can lead to increased acquirement of reward-seeking and risk-taking behaviors during adolescence, and consequently eventuate in heightened risk for substance abuse. Thus, there is high initiation of alcohol drinking in early adolescence that significantly increases the risk of alcohol use disorder (AUD) in adulthood. The underlying causes for heightened AUD risk are not well understood. It is suggested that alcohol-associated gut microbiota impairment during adolescence plays a key role in AUD neurodevelopment in adulthood. Furthermore, alcohol-induced dysregulation of microglia, either directly or indirectly through interaction with gut microbiota, may be a critical neuroinflammatory pathway leading to neurodevelopmental impairments and AUD. In this review article, we highlight the influence of adolescent alcohol drinking on gut microbiota, gut-brain axis and microglia, and eventual manifestation of AUD. Furthermore, novel therapeutic interventions via gut microbiota manipulations are discussed briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruk Getachew
- Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Sheketha R. Hauser
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Samia Bennani
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Nacer El Kouhen
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Youssef Sari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Yousef Tizabi
- Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
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Ibáñez C, Acuña T, Quintanilla ME, Pérez-Reytor D, Morales P, Karahanian E. Fenofibrate Decreases Ethanol-Induced Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress and Reduces Alcohol Relapse in Rats by a PPAR-α-Dependent Mechanism. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1758. [PMID: 37760061 PMCID: PMC10525752 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
High ethanol consumption triggers neuroinflammation, implicated in sustaining chronic alcohol use. This inflammation boosts glutamate, prompting dopamine release in reward centers, driving prolonged drinking and relapse. Fibrate drugs, activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α), counteract neuroinflammation in other contexts, prompting investigation into their impact on ethanol-induced inflammation. Here, we studied, in UChB drinker rats, whether the administration of fenofibrate in the withdrawal stage after chronic ethanol consumption reduces voluntary intake when alcohol is offered again to the animals (relapse-type drinking). Furthermore, we determined if fenofibrate was able to decrease ethanol-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Animals treated with fenofibrate decreased alcohol consumption by 80% during post-abstinence relapse. Furthermore, fenofibrate decreased the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukins IL-1β and IL-6, and of an oxidative stress-induced gene (heme oxygenase-1), in the hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, and prefrontal cortex. Animals treated with fenofibrate showed an increase M2-type microglia (with anti-inflammatory proprieties) and a decrease in phagocytic microglia in the hippocampus. A PPAR-α antagonist (GW6471) abrogated the effects of fenofibrate, indicating that they are dependent on PPAR-α activation. These findings highlight the potential of fenofibrate, an FDA-approved dyslipidemia medication, as a supplementary approach to alleviating relapse severity in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) during withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ibáñez
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 8910060, Chile; (C.I.); (D.P.-R.)
- Research Center for the Development of Novel Therapeutic Alternatives for Alcohol Use Disorders, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
| | - Tirso Acuña
- Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile;
| | - María Elena Quintanilla
- Research Center for the Development of Novel Therapeutic Alternatives for Alcohol Use Disorders, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
- Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile;
| | - Diliana Pérez-Reytor
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 8910060, Chile; (C.I.); (D.P.-R.)
| | - Paola Morales
- Research Center for the Development of Novel Therapeutic Alternatives for Alcohol Use Disorders, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
- Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile;
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Eduardo Karahanian
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 8910060, Chile; (C.I.); (D.P.-R.)
- Research Center for the Development of Novel Therapeutic Alternatives for Alcohol Use Disorders, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
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Patil VS, Harish DR, Sampat GH, Roy S, Jalalpure SS, Khanal P, Gujarathi SS, Hegde HV. System Biology Investigation Revealed Lipopolysaccharide and Alcohol-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Resembled Hepatitis B Virus Immunobiology and Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11146. [PMID: 37446321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B infection caused by the hepatitis B virus is a life-threatening cause of liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Researchers have produced multiple in vivo models for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and, currently, there are no specific laboratory animal models available to study HBV pathogenesis or immune response; nonetheless, their limitations prevent them from being used to study HBV pathogenesis, immune response, or therapeutic methods because HBV can only infect humans and chimpanzees. The current study is the first of its kind to identify a suitable chemically induced liver cirrhosis/HCC model that parallels HBV pathophysiology. Initially, data from the peer-reviewed literature and the GeneCards database were compiled to identify the genes that HBV and seven drugs (acetaminophen, isoniazid, alcohol, D-galactosamine, lipopolysaccharide, thioacetamide, and rifampicin) regulate. Functional enrichment analysis was performed in the STRING server. The network HBV/Chemical, genes, and pathways were constructed by Cytoscape 3.6.1. About 1546 genes were modulated by HBV, of which 25.2% and 17.6% of the genes were common for alcohol and lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatitis. In accordance with the enrichment analysis, HBV activates the signaling pathways for apoptosis, cell cycle, PI3K-Akt, TNF, JAK-STAT, MAPK, chemokines, NF-kappa B, and TGF-beta. In addition, alcohol and lipopolysaccharide significantly activated these pathways more than other chemicals, with higher gene counts and lower FDR scores. In conclusion, alcohol-induced hepatitis could be a suitable model to study chronic HBV infection and lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatitis for an acute inflammatory response to HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal S Patil
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Darasaguppe R Harish
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Ganesh H Sampat
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Subarna Roy
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Sunil S Jalalpure
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Pukar Khanal
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Swarup S Gujarathi
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Harsha V Hegde
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, India
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Nwachukwu KN, Mohammed HE, Mebane DR, Barber AW, Swartzwelder HS, Marshall SA. Acute and Chronic Ethanol Effects during Adolescence on Neuroimmune Responses: Consequences and Potential Pharmacologic Interventions. Cells 2023; 12:1423. [PMID: 37408257 PMCID: PMC10217092 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Heavy ethanol consumption during adolescence has been linked to neuroimmune response dysregulation and cognitive deficits in the developing adolescent brain. During adolescence, the brain is particularly susceptible to the pharmacological effects of ethanol that are induced by acute and chronic bouts of exposure. Numerous preclinical rodent model studies have used different ethanol administration techniques, such as intragastric gavage, self-administration, vapor, intraperitoneal, and free access, and while most models indicated proinflammatory neuroimmune responses in the adolescent brain, there are various factors that appear to influence this observation. This review synthesizes the most recent findings of the effects of adolescent alcohol use on toll-like receptors, cytokines, and chemokines, as well as the activation of astrocytes and microglia with an emphasis on differences associated with the duration of ethanol exposure (acute vs. chronic), the amount of exposure (e.g., dose or blood ethanol concentrations), sex differences, and the timing of the neuroimmune observation (immediate vs. persistent). Finally, this review discusses new therapeutics and interventions that may ameliorate the dysregulation of neuroimmune maladaptations after ethanol exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kala N. Nwachukwu
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
- Integrated Biosciences PhD Program, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Hassan E. Mohammed
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - DaQuan R. Mebane
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Andrew W. Barber
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - H. Scott Swartzwelder
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - S. Alex Marshall
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
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Niedzwiedz-Massey VM, Douglas JC, Rafferty T, Johnson JW, Holloway KN, Berquist MD, Kane CJ, Drew PD. Effects of chronic and binge ethanol administration on mouse cerebellar and hippocampal neuroinflammation. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2023; 49:345-358. [PMID: 36345683 PMCID: PMC10615135 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2022.2128361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background: Hippocampal and cerebellar neuropathology occurs in individuals with alcohol use disorders (AUD), resulting in impaired cognitive and motor function.Objectives: Evaluate the effects of ethanol on the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules, as well as the effects of the anti-inflammatory PPAR-γ agonist pioglitazone in suppressing ethanol-induced neuroinflammation.Methods: Adult male and female mice were treated chronically with ethanol for just under a month followed by a single acute binge dose of ethanol. Animals were provided liquid diet in the absence of ethanol (Control; n = 18, 9 M/9F), liquid diet containing ethanol (ethanol; n = 22, 11 M/11F), or liquid diet containing ethanol plus gavage administration of 30.0 mg/kg pioglitazone (ethanol + pioglitazone; n = 20, 10 M/10F). The hippocampus and cerebellum were isolated 24 h following the binge dose of ethanol, mRNA was isolated, and pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules were quantified by qRT-PCR.Results: Ethanol significantly (p < .05) increased the expression of pro-inflammatory molecules IL-1β, TNF-α, CCL2, and COX2; increased the expression of inflammasome-related molecules NLRP3 and Casp1 but decreased IL-18; and altered the expression of anti-inflammatory molecules including TGFβR1 in the hippocampus and cerebellum, though some differences were observed between males and females and the two brain regions. The anti-inflammatory pioglitazone inhibited ethanol-induced alterations in the expression of most, but not all, inflammation-related molecules.Conclusion: Chronic plus binge administration of ethanol induced the expression of inflammatory molecules in adult mice and pioglitazone suppressed ethanol-induced neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria M. Niedzwiedz-Massey
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - James C. Douglas
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Tonya Rafferty
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Jennifer W. Johnson
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Kalee N. Holloway
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Michael D. Berquist
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Cynthia J.M. Kane
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Paul D. Drew
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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11
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Matrisciano F, Pinna G. The Strategy of Targeting Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) in the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1411:513-535. [PMID: 36949324 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nonsteroid nuclear receptors and transcription factors that regulate several neuroinflammatory and metabolic processes, recently involved in several neuropsychiatric conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. PPARs are ligand-activated receptors that, following stimulation, induce neuroprotective effects by decreasing neuroinflammatory processes through inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) expression and consequent suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. PPARs heterodimerize with the retinoid X-receptor (RXR) and bind to PPAR-responsive regulatory elements (PPRE) in the promoter region of target genes involved in lipid metabolism, synthesis of cholesterol, catabolism of amino acids, and inflammation. Interestingly, PPARs are considered functionally part of the extended endocannabinoid (eCB) system that includes the classic eCB, anandamide, which act at cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) and are implicated in the pathophysiology of stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. In preclinical studies, PPAR stimulation improves anxiety and depression-like behaviors by enhancing neurosteroid biosynthesis. The peculiar functional role of PPARs by exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects and their expression localization in neurons and glial cells of corticolimbic circuits make them particularly interesting as novel therapeutic targets for several neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by underlying neuroinflammatory/neurodegenerative mechanisms. Herein, we discuss the pathological hallmarks of neuropsychiatric conditions associated with neuroinflammation, as well as the pivotal role of PPARs with a special emphasis on the subtype alpha (PPAR-α) as a suitable molecular target for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Matrisciano
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Graziano Pinna
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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12
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Shang Q, Wang J, Xi Z, Gao B, Qian H, An R, Shao G, Liu H, Li T, Liu X. Mechanisms underlying microRNA-222-3p modulation of methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference in the nucleus accumbens in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:2997-3008. [PMID: 35881147 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06183-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE MicroRNA (miRNA) control of post-transcription gene expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) has been implicated in methamphetamine (METH) dependence. Conditioned place preference (CPP) is a classical animal procedure that reflects the rewarding effects of addictive drugs. miR-222-3p has been reported to play a key role in various neurological diseases and is strongly associated with alcohol dependence. Nevertheless, the role of miR-222-3p in METH dependence remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of miR-222-3p in the NAc in METH-induced CPP. METHODS miR-222-3p expression in the NAc of METH-induced CPP mice was detected by quantitative real-time (qPCR). Following adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated overexpression or knockdown of miR-222-3p in the NAc, mice were subjected to CPP to investigate the effects of miR-222-3p on METH-induced CPP. Target genes of mir-222-3p were predicted using bioinformatics analysis. Candidate target genes for METH-induced CPP were validated by qPCR. RESULTS miR-222-3p expression in the NAc was decreased in CPP mice. Overexpression of miR-222-3p in the NAc blunted METH-induced CPP. Ppp3r1, Cdkn1c, Fmr1, and PPARGC1A were identified as target gene transcripts potentially mediating the effects of miR-222-3p on METH-induced CPP. CONCLUSION Our results highlight miR-222-3p as a key epigenetic regulator in METH-induced CPP and suggest a potential role for miR-222-3p in the regulation of METH-induced reward-related changes in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Shang
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijia Xi
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoyao Gao
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Qian
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Ran An
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaojie Shao
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China. .,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinshe Liu
- Institute of Forensic Injury, Institute of Forensic Bio-Evidence, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China. .,College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Ferdouse A, Clugston RD. Pathogenesis of Alcohol-Associated Fatty Liver: Lessons From Transgenic Mice. Front Physiol 2022; 13:940974. [PMID: 35864895 PMCID: PMC9294393 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.940974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a major public health issue that significantly contributes to human morbidity and mortality, with no FDA-approved therapeutic intervention available. The health burden of ALD has worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been associated with a spike in alcohol abuse, and a subsequent increase in hospitalization rates for ALD. A key knowledge gap that underlies the lack of novel therapies for ALD is a need to better understand the pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to ALD initiation, particularly with respect to hepatic lipid accumulation and the development of fatty liver, which is the first step in the ALD spectrum. The goal of this review is to evaluate the existing literature to gain insight into the pathogenesis of alcohol-associated fatty liver, and to synthesize alcohol’s known effects on hepatic lipid metabolism. To achieve this goal, we specifically focus on studies from transgenic mouse models of ALD, allowing for a genetic dissection of alcohol’s effects, and integrate these findings with our current understanding of ALD pathogenesis. Existing studies using transgenic mouse models of ALD have revealed roles for specific genes involved in hepatic lipid metabolic pathways including fatty acid uptake, mitochondrial β-oxidation, de novo lipogenesis, triglyceride metabolism, and lipid droplet formation. In addition to reviewing this literature, we conclude by identifying current gaps in our understanding of how alcohol abuse impairs hepatic lipid metabolism and identify future directions to address these gaps. In summary, transgenic mice provide a powerful tool to understand alcohol’s effect on hepatic lipid metabolism and highlight that alcohol abuse has diverse effects that contribute to the development of alcohol-associated fatty liver disease.
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14
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Yunusoğlu O. Rewarding effect of ethanol-induced conditioned place preference in mice: Effect of the monoterpenoid linalool. Alcohol 2022; 98:55-63. [PMID: 34800613 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol addiction is a chronic relapsing disease that is progressive and has severe detrimental health outcomes. The use of natural products has become popular for the treatment of side effects of drugs and substance abuse. Linalool is a monoterpenoid that exhibits several effects on the central nervous system. Linalool was identified to have beneficial effects on different mechanisms that are relevant in drug addiction or substance use disorder. The primary aim of the present study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of linalool on the rewarding properties of alcohol in mice. Conditioned place preference (CPP) was established by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of ethanol (2 g/kg) during an 8-day conditioning trial. The effects of acamprosate and linalool on the rewarding properties of ethanol were tested in mice who received linalool (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg, i.p.) and acamprosate (300 mg/kg, i.p.) 30 min before each ethanol injection. CPP was extinguished by repeated testing, throughout which conditioned mice were administered daily linalool. Mice were lastly examined for reinstatement provoked by i.p. administration of single low-dose ethanol (0.4 g/kg, i.p.). Treatment with linalool reduced the acquisition and reinstatement, and precipitated the extinction of ethanol-induced CPP in mice. Acquisition and reinstatement of alcohol-induced CPP were significantly reduced by acamprosate, which also precipitated extinction. Ethanol alone and the combination with linalool or acamprosate did not alter locomotor activity. The results of this study suggest that linalool may have pharmacological effects for the treatment of alcohol addiction. In addition, further investigation is required to fully explore the benefits and possible adverse effects of linalool on alcohol addiction.
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15
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Koga T, Peters JM. Targeting Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-β/δ (PPARβ/δ) for the Treatment or Prevention of Alcoholic Liver Disease. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:1598-1606. [PMID: 34719638 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b21-00486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Excessive, chronic alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic liver disease. The etiology of alcoholic liver disease is multifactorial and is influenced by alterations in gene expression and changes in fatty acid metabolism, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance. These events can lead to steatosis, fibrosis, and eventually to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Many of these functions are regulated by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). Thus, it is not surprising that PPARs can modulate the mechanisms that cause alcoholic liver disease. While the roles of PPARα and PPARγ are clearer, the role of PPARβ/δ in alcoholic liver disease requires further clarification. This review summarizes the current understanding based on recent studies that indicate that PPARβ/δ can likely be targeted for the treatment and/or the prevention of alcoholic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Koga
- Laboratory of Hygienic Chemistry, Department of Health Science and Hygiene, Daiichi University of Pharmacy
| | - Jeffrey M Peters
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences and the Center of Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis, The Pennsylvania State University
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16
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Meredith LR, Burnette EM, Grodin EN, Irwin MR, Ray LA. Immune treatments for alcohol use disorder: A translational framework. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 97:349-364. [PMID: 34343618 PMCID: PMC9044974 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
While the immune system is essential for survival, an excessive or prolonged inflammatory response, such as that resulting from sustained heavy alcohol use, can damage the host and contribute to psychiatric disorders. A growing body of literature indicates that the immune system plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of alcohol use disorder (AUD). As such, there is enthusiasm for treatments that can restore healthy levels of inflammation as a mechanism to reduce drinking and promote recovery. In this qualitative literature review, we provide a conceptual rationale for immune therapies and discuss progress in medications development for AUD focused on the immune system as a treatment target. This review is organized into sections based on primary signaling pathways targeted by the candidate therapies, namely: (a) toll-like receptors, (b) phosphodiesterase inhibitors, (c) peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, (d) microglia and astrocytes, (e) other immune pharmacotherapies, and (f) behavioral therapies. As relevant within each section, we examine the basic biological mechanisms of each class of therapy and evaluate preclinical research testing the role of the therapy on mitigating alcohol-related behaviors in animal models. To the extent available, translational findings are reviewed with discussion of completed and ongoing randomized clinical trials and their findings to date. An applied and clinically focused approach is taken to identify the potential clinical applications of the various treatments reviewed. We conclude by delineating the most promising candidate treatments and discussing future directions by considering opportunities for immune treatment development and personalized medicine for AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay R Meredith
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Burnette
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Erica N Grodin
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael R Irwin
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lara A Ray
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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17
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Dieperink E, Hauser P, Dockter K, Miranda J, Evenson M, Thuras P. Reduced alcohol use in patients prescribed pioglitazone. Am J Addict 2021; 30:570-577. [PMID: 34414623 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is common and causes significant morbidity and mortality. Currently approved medications are moderately effective. Novel medications are needed to address AUD. Preliminary data suggests pioglitazone may reduce alcohol use. METHODS Veterans seen at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, who were prescribed pioglitazone for diabetes between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016, were identified using a national VA database (N = 49). Further chart review was performed to identify all Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C) scores prior to starting pioglitazone. Hierarchical Linear models were used to compare all AUDIT-C scores on and off pioglitazone and compare the change in AUDIT-C scores over time before and during pioglitazone was prescribed. AUDIT-C scores were nested within subject with fixed effects for pioglitazone and random intercept and slope for time. RESULTS Forty-nine patients were prescribed pioglitazone and had AUDIT-C scores of 3 or more. The estimated mean AUDIT-C score prior to receiving pioglitazone was 3.98 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.51-4.44) and this was reduced to 2.89 (95% CI: 2.46-3.32), reflecting a significant change F(1, 323) = 43.3, p < .001 in the score. The primary reduction occurred within the first year of the pioglitazone prescription. This effect remained significant after controlling for age. CONCLUSION AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE This is the first study of pioglitazone used in a clinical sample focused on alcohol use outcome. The data show that pioglitazone may reduce alcohol use in patients with heavy drinking. Clinical trials of pioglitazone are warranted in patients with AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Dieperink
- Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota-Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peter Hauser
- Long Beach Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems, Long Beach, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Kathryn Dockter
- Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Juan Miranda
- Long Beach Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems, Long Beach, California, USA
| | - Meredith Evenson
- Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Paul Thuras
- Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Healthcare Systems, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota-Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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18
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Yunusoğlu O. Resveratrol impairs acquisition, reinstatement and precipitates extinction of alcohol-induced place preference in mice. Neurol Res 2021; 43:985-994. [PMID: 34210247 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2021.1948749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol abuse causes several neurological disorders. Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol that occurs as a phytoalexin. In different studies, it has been investigated that resveratrol has positive effects on various mechanisms that are important in drug addiction or substance use disorder. The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of resveratrol on alcohol-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) in mice. METHODS CPP was induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of ethanol (2 g/kg) in an 8-day conditioning program. The influence of reference drug, acamprosate and resveratrol on the rewarding properties of ethanol was tested in mice given treatment of acamprosate (300 mg/kg, i.p.) and resveratrol (25, 50, and 75 mg/kg, i.p.) 30 minutes prior to ethanol administration. Once established, CPP was extinguished by repeated testing, through which conditioned mice were administered acamprosate, various doses of resveratrol or saline daily. Subsequently, the potency of acamprosate and resveratrol in preventing reinstatement of CPP provoked by priming with low-dose ethanol (0.4 g/kg, i.p.) was also evaluated. RESULTS The present findings confirm that resveratrol impairs acquisition, reinstatement and precipitates the extinction of preference for alcohol-induced CPP. Resveratrol presented a similar effect in the CPP phases to the acamprosate. CONCLUSIONS The effect of resveratrol on ethanol-induced CPP in mice demonstrated for the first time. As a conclusion, these findings may shed light on the fact that resveratrol can be utilized as an agent which is potentially beneficial to prevent the various harmful effects of ethanol, however, more research is needed to completely elucidate this attribute.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oruç Yunusoğlu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
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19
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Maiya R, Pomrenze MB, Tran T, Tiwari GR, Beckham A, Paul MT, Mayfield RD, Messing RO. Differential regulation of alcohol consumption and reward by the transcriptional cofactor LMO4. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:2175-2186. [PMID: 32144357 PMCID: PMC7558853 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0706-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Repeated alcohol exposure leads to changes in gene expression that are thought to underlie the transition from moderate to excessive drinking. However, the mechanisms by which these changes are integrated into a maladaptive response that leads to alcohol dependence are not well understood. One mechanism could involve the recruitment of transcriptional co-regulators that bind and modulate the activity of transcription factors. Our results indicate that the transcriptional regulator LMO4 is one such candidate regulator. Lmo4-deficient mice (Lmo4gt/+) consumed significantly more and showed enhanced preference for alcohol in a 24 h intermittent access drinking procedure. shRNA-mediated knockdown of Lmo4 in the nucleus accumbens enhanced alcohol consumption, whereas knockdown in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) decreased alcohol consumption and reduced conditioned place preference for alcohol. To ascertain the molecular mechanisms that underlie these contrasting phenotypes, we carried out unbiased transcriptome profiling of these two brain regions in wild type and Lmo4gt/+ mice. Our results revealed that the transcriptional targets of LMO4 are vastly different between the two brain regions, which may explain the divergent phenotypes observed upon Lmo4 knockdown. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that Oprk1 and genes related to the extracellular matrix (ECM) are important transcriptional targets of LMO4 in the BLA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that LMO4 bound Oprk1 promoter elements. Consistent with these results, disruption of the ECM or infusion of norbinaltorphimine, a selective kappa opioid receptor antagonist, in the BLA reduced alcohol consumption. Hence our results indicate that an LMO4-regulated transcriptional network regulates alcohol consumption in the BLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajani Maiya
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA. .,Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA. .,Department of Neurology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Matthew B. Pomrenze
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA,Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Thi Tran
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Gayatri R. Tiwari
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Andrea Beckham
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Madison T. Paul
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA,Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Robert O. Messing
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA,Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA,Department of Neurology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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20
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Villavicencio-Tejo F, Flores-Bastías O, Marambio-Ruiz L, Pérez-Reytor D, Karahanian E. Fenofibrate (a PPAR-α Agonist) Administered During Ethanol Withdrawal Reverts Ethanol-Induced Astrogliosis and Restores the Levels of Glutamate Transporter in Ethanol-Administered Adolescent Rats. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:653175. [PMID: 33959021 PMCID: PMC8093785 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.653175] [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: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
High-ethanol intake induces a neuroinflammatory response, which has been proposed as responsible for the maintenance of chronic ethanol consumption. Neuroinflammation decreases glutamate transporter (GLT-1) expression, increasing levels of glutamate that trigger dopamine release at the corticolimbic reward areas, driving long-term drinking behavior. The activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) by fibrates inhibits neuroinflammation, in models other than ethanol consumption. However, the effect of fibrates on ethanol-induced neuroinflammation has not yet been studied. We previously reported that the administration of fenofibrate to ethanol-drinking rats decreased ethanol consumption. Here, we studied whether fenofibrate effects are related to a decrease in ethanol-induced neuroinflammation and to the normalization of the levels of GLT-1. Rats were administered ethanol on alternate days for 4 weeks (2 g/kg/day). After ethanol withdrawal, fenofibrate was administered for 14 days (50 mg/kg/day) and the levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), phosphorylated NF-κB-inhibitory protein (pIκBα) and GLT-1, were quantified in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. Ethanol treatment increased the levels of GFAP in the hippocampus and hypothalamus, indicating a clear astrocytic activation. Similarly, ethanol increased the levels of pIκBα in the three areas. The administration of fenofibrate decreased the expression of GFAP and pIκBα in the three areas. These results indicate that fenofibrate reverts both astrogliosis and NF-κB activation. Finally, ethanol decreased GLT-1 expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Fenofibrate normalized the levels of GLT-1 in both areas, suggesting that its effect in reducing ethanol consumption could be due to the normalization of glutamatergic tone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Osvaldo Flores-Bastías
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lucas Marambio-Ruiz
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Diliana Pérez-Reytor
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Eduardo Karahanian
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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21
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Lai D, Kapoor M, Wetherill L, Schwandt M, Ramchandani VA, Goldman D, Chao M, Almasy L, Bucholz K, Hart RP, Kamarajan C, Meyers JL, Nurnberger JI, Tischfield J, Edenberg HJ, Schuckit M, Goate A, Scott DM, Porjesz B, Agrawal A, Foroud T. Genome-wide admixture mapping of DSM-IV alcohol dependence, criterion count, and the self-rating of the effects of ethanol in African American populations. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2021; 186:151-161. [PMID: 32652861 PMCID: PMC9376735 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
African Americans (AA) have lower prevalence of alcohol dependence and higher subjective response to alcohol than European Americans. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genes/variants associated with alcohol dependence specifically in AA; however, the sample sizes are still not large enough to detect variants with small effects. Admixture mapping is an alternative way to identify alcohol dependence genes/variants that may be unique to AA. In this study, we performed the first admixture mapping of DSM-IV alcohol dependence diagnosis, DSM-IV alcohol dependence criterion count, and two scores from the self-rating of effects of ethanol (SRE) as measures of response to alcohol: the first five times of using alcohol (SRE-5) and average of SRE across three times (SRE-T). Findings revealed a region on chromosome 4 that was genome-wide significant for SRE-5 (p value = 4.18E-05). Fine mapping did not identify a single causal variant to be associated with SRE-5; instead, conditional analysis concluded that multiple variants collectively explained the admixture mapping signal. PPARGC1A, a gene that has been linked to alcohol consumption in previous studies, is located in this region. Our finding suggests that admixture mapping is a useful tool to identify genes/variants that may have been missed by current GWAS approaches in admixed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongbing Lai
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Manav Kapoor
- Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Leah Wetherill
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Melanie Schwandt
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD
| | - Vijay A. Ramchandani
- Section on Human Psychopharmacology, Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD
| | - David Goldman
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD
| | - Michael Chao
- Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Laura Almasy
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kathleen Bucholz
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Ronald P. Hart
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Chella Kamarajan
- Henri Begleiter Neurodynamics Lab, Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Jacquelyn L. Meyers
- Henri Begleiter Neurodynamics Lab, Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - John I. Nurnberger
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Jay Tischfield
- Department of Genetics and the Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Howard J. Edenberg
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Marc Schuckit
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego Medical School, San Diego, CA
| | - Alison Goate
- Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Denise M. Scott
- Departments of Pediatrics and Human Genetics, Howard University, Washington, DC
| | - Bernice Porjesz
- Henri Begleiter Neurodynamics Lab, Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Arpana Agrawal
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Tatiana Foroud
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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Sagheddu C, Torres LH, Marcourakis T, Pistis M. Endocannabinoid-Like Lipid Neuromodulators in the Regulation of Dopamine Signaling: Relevance for Drug Addiction. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 12:588660. [PMID: 33424577 PMCID: PMC7786397 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.588660] [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: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The family of lipid neuromodulators has been rapidly growing, as the use of different -omics techniques led to the discovery of a large number of naturally occurring N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) and N-acyl amino acids belonging to the complex lipid signaling system termed endocannabinoidome. These molecules exert a variety of biological activities in the central nervous system, as they modulate physiological processes in neurons and glial cells and are involved in the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Their effects on dopamine cells have attracted attention, as dysfunctions of dopamine systems characterize a range of psychiatric disorders, i.e., schizophrenia and substance use disorders (SUD). While canonical endocannabinoids are known to regulate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs impinging on dopamine cells and modulate several dopamine-mediated behaviors, such as reward and addiction, the effects of other lipid neuromodulators are far less clear. Here, we review the emerging role of endocannabinoid-like neuromodulators in dopamine signaling, with a focus on non-cannabinoid N-acylethanolamines and their receptors. Mounting evidence suggests that these neuromodulators contribute to modulate synaptic transmission in dopamine regions and might represent a target for novel medications in alcohol and nicotine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Larissa Helena Torres
- Department of Food and Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Tania Marcourakis
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Section of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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García-Baos A, Alegre-Zurano L, Cantacorps L, Martín-Sánchez A, Valverde O. Role of cannabinoids in alcohol-induced neuroinflammation. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 104:110054. [PMID: 32758518 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol is a psychoactive substance highly used worldwide, whose harmful use might cause a broad range of mental and behavioural disorders. Underlying brain impact, the neuroinflammatory response induced by alcohol is recognised as a key contributing factor in the progression of other neuropathological processes, such as neurodegeneration. These sequels are determined by multiple factors, including age of exposure. Strikingly, it seems that the endocannabinoid system modulation could regulate the alcohol-induced neuroinflammation. Although direct CB1 activation can worsen alcohol consequences, targeting other components of the expanded endocannabinoid system may counterbalance the pro-inflammatory response. Indeed, specific modulations of the expanded endocannabinoid system have been proved to exert anti-inflammatory effects, primarily through the CB2 and PPARγ signalling. Among them, some endo- and exogeneous cannabinoids can block certain pro-inflammatory mediators, such as NF-κB, thereby neutralizing the neuroinflammatory intracellular cascades. Furthermore, a number of cannabinoids are able to activate complementary anti-inflammatory pathways, which are necessary for the transition from chronically overactivated microglia to a regenerative microglial phenotype. Thus, cannabinoid modulation provides cooperative anti-inflammatory mechanisms that may be advantageous to resolve a pathological neuroinflammation in an alcohol-dependent context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba García-Baos
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Alegre-Zurano
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lídia Cantacorps
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Martín-Sánchez
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Research Programme, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Valverde
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Research Programme, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.
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Further evidence for the involvement of the PPARγ system on alcohol intake and sensitivity in rodents. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:2983-2992. [PMID: 32676772 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05586-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Peroxisome Proliferator Activator receptors (PPARs) are intracellular receptors that function as transcription factors, which regulate specific metabolic and inflammatory processes. PPARs are broadly distributed in the body and are also expressed in the central nervous system, especially in areas involved in addiction-related behavioral responses. Recent studies support a role of PPARs in alcoholism and pioglitazone: a PPARγ agonist used for treatment of type 2 diabetes showed efficacy in reducing alcohol drinking, stress-induced relapse, and alcohol withdrawal syndrome in rats. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS In the current work, we tested the pharmacological effects of pioglitazone on binge-like alcohol consumption using an intermittent two-bottle choice paradigm in Wistar rats and on the "drinking in the dark" (DID) model in mice with selective deletion of PPARγ in neurons. RESULTS Our data show that repeated administration of pioglitazone (10, 30 mg/kg) reduces high voluntary alcohol consumption in Wistar rats. Pre-treatment with the selective PPARγ antagonist GW9662 (5 mg/kg) completely prevented the effect of pioglitazone, demonstrating that its action is specifically mediated by activation of PPARγ. In line with this result, repeated administration of pioglitazone (30 mg/kg) attenuated binge alcohol consumption in PPARγ(+/+) mice. Whereas in PPARγ(-/-) mice, which exhibit reduced alcohol consumption, pioglitazone had no effect. Of note, PPARγ(-/-) mice exhibited lower patterns of alcohol drinking without showing difference in sucrose (control) intake. Interestingly, PPARγ(-/-) mice displayed a higher sensitivity to the sedative and ataxic effect of alcohol compared with their wild-type counterpart. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these data suggest that PPARγ agonists, and specifically pioglitazone, could be potential therapeutics for the treatment of binge alcohol drinking.
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Suárez J, Khom S, Alén F, Natividad LA, Varodayan FP, Patel RR, Kirson D, Arco R, Ballesta A, Bajo M, Rubio L, Martin-Fardon R, de Fonseca FR, Roberto M. Cessation of fluoxetine treatment increases alcohol seeking during relapse and dysregulates endocannabinoid and glutamatergic signaling in the central amygdala. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12813. [PMID: 31339221 PMCID: PMC8050940 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), typically used as antidepressants, induces long-lasting behavioral changes associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, the contribution of SSRI (fluoxetine)-induced alterations in neurobiological processes underlying alcohol relapse such as endocannabinoid and glutamate signaling in the central amygdala (CeA) remains largely unknown. We utilized an integrative approach to study the effects of repeated fluoxetine administration during abstinence on ethanol drinking. Gene expression and biochemical and electrophysiological studies explored the hypothesis that dysregulation in glutamatergic and endocannabinoid mechanisms in the CeA underlie the susceptibility to alcohol relapse. Cessation of daily treatment with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) during abstinence resulted in a marked increase in ethanol seeking during re-exposure periods. The increase in ethanol self-administration was associated with (a) reductions in levels of the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolomine and 2-arachidonoylglycerol in the CeA, (b) increased amygdalar gene expression of cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1), N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (Nape-pld), fatty acid amid hydrolase (Faah), (c) decreased amygdalar gene expression of ionotropic AMPA (GluA2 and GluA4) and metabotropic (mGlu3) glutamate receptors, and (d) increased glutamatergic receptor function. Overall, our data suggest that the administration of the antidepressant fluoxetine during abstinence dysregulates endocannabinoid signaling and glutamatergic receptor function in the amygdala, facts that likely facilitate alcohol drinking behavior during relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Suárez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Malaga (IBIMA), Mental Health UGC, Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sophia Khom
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Francisco Alén
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Malaga (IBIMA), Mental Health UGC, Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Department of Psychobiology. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis A. Natividad
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Florence P. Varodayan
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Reesha R. Patel
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dean Kirson
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rocío Arco
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Malaga (IBIMA), Mental Health UGC, Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Antonio Ballesta
- Department of Psychobiology. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michal Bajo
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Leticia Rubio
- Department of Anatomy and Forensic and Legal Medicine. Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Rémi Martin-Fardon
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Malaga (IBIMA), Mental Health UGC, Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Department of Psychobiology. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA, USA
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Abstract
The pervasive and devastating nature of substance use disorders underlies the need for the continued development of novel pharmacotherapies. We now know that glia play a much greater role in neuronal processes than once believed. The various types of glial cells (e.g., astrocytes, microglial, oligodendrocytes) participate in numerous functions that are crucial to healthy central nervous system function. Drugs of abuse have been shown to interact with glia in ways that directly contribute to the pharmacodynamic effects responsible for their abuse potential. Through their effect upon glia, drugs of abuse also alter brain function resulting in behavioral changes associated with substance use disorders. Therefore, drug-induced changes in glia and inflammation within the central nervous system (neuroinflammation) have been investigated to treat various aspects of drug abuse and dependence. This article presents a brief overview of the effects of each of the major classes of addictive drugs on glia. Next, the paper reviews the pre-clinical and clinical studies assessing the effects that glial modulators have on abuse-related behavioral effects, such as pleasure, withdrawal, and motivation. There is a strong body of pre-clinical literature demonstrating the general effectiveness of several glia-modulating drugs in models of reward and relapse. Clinical studies have also yielded promising results, though not as robust. There is still much to disentangle regarding the integration between addictive drugs and glial cells. Improved understanding of the relationship between glia and the pathophysiology of drug abuse should allow for more precise exploration in the development and testing of glial-directed treatments for substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jermaine D. Jones
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Meng X, Tang GY, Zhao CN, Liu Q, Xu XY, Cao SY. Hepatoprotective effects of Hovenia dulcis seeds against alcoholic liver injury and related mechanisms investigated via network pharmacology. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:3432-3446. [PMID: 32655267 PMCID: PMC7327782 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i24.3432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a worldwide health problem, and natural products have been shown to improve ALD due to their antioxidant activities. Some parts of Hovenia dulcis (H. dulcis), such as roots, peduncles, and stems, provide health benefits. Nevertheless, the effects and mechanisms of H. dulcis seeds on ALD have not yet been fully elucidated.
AIM To determine H. dulcis antioxidant activity, evaluate its effects against ALD, and investigate the related mechanisms via network pharmacology.
METHODS The antioxidant activity of H. dulcis seed was determined by both ferric-reducing antioxidant power and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assays. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined by Folin–Ciocalteu method and aluminum chloride colorimetry, respectively, and polysaccharide was determined by phenol-sulfuric acid method. The effects of H. dulcis seeds against alcoholic liver injury were investigated in mice with water extract pretreatment for 7 days followed by alcohol administration. Moreover, the mechanisms of action were explored with network pharmacology.
RESULTS The results showed that H. dulcis seeds possessed strong antioxidant activity (245.11 ± 10.17 μmol Fe2+/g by ferric-reducing antioxidant power and 284.35 ± 23.57 μmol TE/g by trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity) and contained remarkable phenols and flavonoids, as well as a few polysaccharides. H. dulcis seeds attenuated alcohol-induced oxidative liver injury, showing reduced serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, and triglyceride, elevated hepatic glutathione, increased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase, and reduced malondialdehyde and hepatic triglyceride. The results of network pharmacology analysis indicated that kaempferol, stigmasterol, and naringenin were the main bioactive compounds in H. dulcis seeds and that modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, gut-derived products, and apoptosis were underlying mechanisms of the protective effects of H. dulcis seeds on ALD.
CONCLUSION The results of this study demonstrate that H. dulcis seeds could be a good natural antioxidant source with protective effects on oxidative diseases such as ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Meng
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guo-Yi Tang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Cai-Ning Zhao
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Xu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shi-Yu Cao
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
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Matheson J, Le Foll B. Therapeutic Potential of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) Agonists in Substance Use Disorders: A Synthesis of Preclinical and Human Evidence. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051196. [PMID: 32408505 PMCID: PMC7291117 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) has received increasing interest as a potential strategy to treat substance use disorders due to the localization of PPARs in addiction-related brain regions and the ability of PPAR ligands to modulate dopamine neurotransmission. Robust evidence from animal models suggests that agonists at both the PPAR-α and PPAR-γ isoforms can reduce both positive and negative reinforcing properties of ethanol, nicotine, opioids, and possibly psychostimulants. A reduction in the voluntary consumption of ethanol following treatment with PPAR agonists seems to be the most consistent finding. However, the human evidence is limited in scope and has so far been less promising. There have been no published human trials of PPAR agonists for treatment of alcohol use disorder, despite the compelling preclinical evidence. Two trials of PPAR-α agonists as potential smoking cessation drugs found no effect on nicotine-related outcomes. The PPAR-γ agonist pioglitazone showed some promise in reducing heroin, nicotine, and cocaine craving in two human laboratory studies and one pilot trial, yet other outcomes were unaffected. Potential explanations for the discordance between the animal and human evidence, such as the potency and selectivity of PPAR ligands and sex-related variability in PPAR physiology, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Matheson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3H7, Canada;
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-416-535-8501 (ext. 34727)
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3H7, Canada;
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Stokes Street, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Room 2374, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, 5th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada
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Ozburn AR, Metten P, Potretzke S, Townsley KG, Blednov YA, Crabbe JC. Effects of Pharmacologically Targeting Neuroimmune Pathways on Alcohol Drinking in Mice Selectively Bred to Drink to Intoxication. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2020; 44:553-566. [PMID: 31853996 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rodent models of high alcohol drinking offer opportunities to better understand factors for alcohol use disorders (AUD) and test potential treatments. Selective breeding was carried out to create 2 unique High Drinking in the Dark (HDID-1, HDID-2) mouse lines that represent models of genetic risk for binge-like drinking. A number of studies have indicated that neuroimmune genes are important for regulation of alcohol drinking. We tested whether compounds shown to reduce drinking in other models also reduce alcohol intake in these unique genetic lines. METHODS We report tests of gabapentin, tesaglitazar, fenofibrate, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), ibrutinib, and rolipram. Although these compounds have different mechanisms of action, they have all been shown to reduce inflammatory responses. We evaluated effects of these compounds on alcohol intake. In order to facilitate comparison with previously published findings for some compounds, we employed similar schedules that were previously used for that compound. RESULTS Gabapentin increased ethanol (EtOH) binge-like alcohol drinking in female HDID-1 and HS/NPT mice. Tesaglitazar and fenofibrate did not alter 2-bottle choice (2BC) drinking in male HDID-1 or HS/NPT mice. However, tesaglitazar had no effect on DID EtOH intake but reduced blood alcohol levels (BAL), and fenofibrate increased DID intake with no effects on BAL. CAPE had no effect on EtOH intake. Ibrutinib reduced intake in female HDID-1 in initial testing, but did not reduce intake in a second week of testing. Rolipram reduced DID intake and BALs in male and female HDID-1, HDID-2, and HS/NPT mice. CONCLUSIONS A number of compounds shown to reduce EtOH drinking in other models, and genotypes are not effective in HDID mice or their genetically heterogeneous founders, HS/NPT. The most promising compound was the PDE4 inhibitor, rolipram. These results highlight the importance of assessing generalizability when rigorously testing compounds for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Ozburn
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Portland Alcohol Research Center, VA Portland Health Care System, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Pamela Metten
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Portland Alcohol Research Center, VA Portland Health Care System, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Sheena Potretzke
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Portland Alcohol Research Center, VA Portland Health Care System, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Kayla G Townsley
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Portland Alcohol Research Center, VA Portland Health Care System, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Yuri A Blednov
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - John C Crabbe
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Portland Alcohol Research Center, VA Portland Health Care System, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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30
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Cannabinoids and the expanded endocannabinoid system in neurological disorders. Nat Rev Neurol 2019; 16:9-29. [DOI: 10.1038/s41582-019-0284-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 320] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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31
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Melbourne JK, Thompson KR, Peng H, Nixon K. Its complicated: The relationship between alcohol and microglia in the search for novel pharmacotherapeutic targets for alcohol use disorders. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2019; 167:179-221. [PMID: 31601404 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing disorder with wide-ranging health consequences. Alcohol targets the central nervous system producing neurodegeneration and subsequent cognitive and behavioral deficits, but the mechanisms behind these effects remain unclear. Recently, evidence has been mounting for the role of neuroimmune activation in the pathogenesis of AUDs, but our nascent state of knowledge about the interaction of alcohol with the neuroimmune system supports that the relationship is complicated. As the resident macrophage of the central nervous system, microglia are a central focus. Human and animal research on the interplay between microglia and alcohol in AUDs has proven to be complex, and though early research focused on a pro-inflammatory phenotype of microglia, the anti-inflammatory and homeostatic roles of microglia must be considered. How these new roles for microglia should be incorporated into our thinking about the neuroimmune system in AUDs is discussed in the context of developing novel pharmacotherapies for AUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Melbourne
- The University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Austin, TX, United States
| | - K Ryan Thompson
- The University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Hui Peng
- University of Kentucky, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Kimberly Nixon
- The University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Austin, TX, United States.
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Most D, Salem NA, Tiwari GR, Blednov YA, Mayfield RD, Harris RA. Silencing synaptic MicroRNA-411 reduces voluntary alcohol consumption in mice. Addict Biol 2019; 24:604-616. [PMID: 29665166 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic alcohol consumption alters the levels of microRNAs and mRNAs in the brain, but the specific microRNAs and processes that target mRNAs to affect cellular function and behavior are not known. We examined the in vivo manipulation of previously identified alcohol-responsive microRNAs as potential targets to reduce alcohol consumption. Silencing of miR-411 by infusing antagomiR-411 into the prefrontal cortex of female C57BL/6J mice reduced alcohol consumption and preference, without altering total fluid consumption, saccharin consumption, or anxiety-related behaviors. AntagomiR-411 reduced alcohol consumption when given to mice exposed to a chronic alcohol drinking paradigm but did not affect the acquisition of consumption in mice without a history of alcohol exposure, suggesting that antagomiR-411 has a neuroadaptive, alcohol-dependent effect. AntagomiR-411 decreased the levels of miR-411, as well as the association of immunoprecipitated miR-411 with Argonaute2; and, it increased levels of Faah and Ppard mRNAs. Moreover, antagomiR-411 increased the neuronal expression of glutamate receptor AMPA-2 protein, a known alcohol target and a predicted target of miR-411. These results suggest that alcohol and miR-411 function in a homeostatic manner to regulate synaptic mRNA and protein, thus reversing alcohol-related neuroadaptations and reducing chronic alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Most
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction ResearchThe University of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
- Institute for NeuroscienceUniversity of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
| | - Nihal A. Salem
- Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience and Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of MedicineTexas A&M University College Station TX USA
| | - Gayatri R. Tiwari
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction ResearchThe University of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
| | - Yuri A. Blednov
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction ResearchThe University of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
| | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction ResearchThe University of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
| | - R. Adron Harris
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction ResearchThe University of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
- Institute for NeuroscienceUniversity of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA
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Abstract
The innate immune system plays a critical role in the ethanol-induced neuroimmune response in the brain. Ethanol initiates the innate immune response via activation of the innate immune receptors Toll-like receptors (TLRs, e.g., TLR4, TLR3, TLR7) and NOD-like receptors (inflammasome NLRs) leading to a release of a plethora of chemokines and cytokines and development of the innate immune response. Cytokines and chemokines can have pro- or anti-inflammatory properties through which they regulate the immune response. In this chapter, we will focus on key cytokines (e.g., IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α) and chemokines (e.g., MCP-1/CCL2) that mediate the ethanol-induced neuroimmune responses. In this regard, we will use IL-1β, as an example cytokine, to discuss the neuromodulatory properties of cytokines on cellular properties and synaptic transmission. We will discuss their involvement through a set of evidence: (1) changes in gene and protein expression following ethanol exposure, (2) association of gene polymorphisms (humans) and alterations in gene expression (animal models) with increased alcohol intake, and (3) modulation of alcohol-related behaviors by transgenic or pharmacological manipulations of chemokine and cytokine systems. Over the last years, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms mediating cytokine- and chemokine-dependent regulation of immune responses has advanced tremendously, and we review evidence pointing to cytokines and chemokines serving as neuromodulators and regulators of neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Roberto
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Reesha R Patel
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michal Bajo
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Locci A, Pinna G. Social isolation as a promising animal model of PTSD comorbid suicide: neurosteroids and cannabinoids as possible treatment options. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 92:243-259. [PMID: 30586627 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by drastic alterations in mood, emotions, social abilities and cognition. Notably, one aspect of PTSD, particularly in veterans, is its comorbidity with suicide. Elevated aggressiveness predicts high-risk to suicide in humans and despite the difficulty in reproducing a complex human suicidal behavior in rodents, aggressive behavior is a well reproducible behavioral trait of suicide. PTSD animal models are based on a peculiar phenotype, including exaggerated fear memory and impaired fear extinction associated with neurochemical dysregulations in the brain circuitry regulating emotion. The endocannabinoid and the neurosteroid systems regulate emotions and stress responses, and recent evidence shows these two systems are interrelated and critically compromised in neuropsychiatric disorders. For instance, levels of the neurosteroid, allopregnanolone, as well as those of the endocannabinoids, anandamide and its congener, palmitoylethanolamide are decreased in PTSD. Similarly, the endocannabinoid system and neurosteroid biosynthesis are altered in suicidal individuals. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the only FDA-approved treatments for PTSD, fail to help half of the treatment-seeking patients. This highlights the need for developing biomarker-based efficient therapies. One promising alternative to SSRIs points to stimulation of allopregnanolone biosynthesis as a treatment and a valid end-point to predict treatment response in PTSD patients. This review highlights running findings on the role of the endocannabinoid and neurosteroid systems in PTSD and suicidal behavior both in a preclinical and clinical perspective. A specific focus is given to predictive PTSD/suicide animal models. Ultimately, we discuss the idea that disruption of neurosteroid and endocannabinoid biosynthesis may offer a novel promising biomarker axis to develop new treatments for PTSD and, perhaps, suicidal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Locci
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Graziano Pinna
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Pan Q, Liu Q, Wan R, Kalavagunta PK, Liu L, Lv W, Qiao T, Shang J, Wu H. Selective inhibition of intestinal 5-HT improves neurobehavioral abnormalities caused by high-fat diet mice. Metab Brain Dis 2019; 34:747-761. [PMID: 30931486 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-019-0392-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent literature reported the adverse effects of high-fat diet (HFD) on animal's emotional and cognitive function. An HFD-induced obesity/hyperlipidemia is accompanied by hormonal and neurochemical changes that can lead to depression. The important roles of gut-derived serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) during this processing have been increasingly focused. Hence, to determine the potential role of gut-derived serotonin, HFD model was established in C57BL/6 mice. At the 4th week of feeding, a pharmacologic inhibitor of gut-derived 5-HT synthesis LP533401 (12.5 mg/kg/day), simvastatin (SIM) (5 mg/kg/day) and benzafibrate (BZ) (75 mg/kg/day) were administered for two weeks by oral gavage. Then, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), open field test (OFT), tail suspension test (TST), forced swim test (FST), sucrose preference test (SPT) were used to evaluate metabolic and neurobehavioral performances. Immunohistochemical staining, real-time quantitative PCR and other methods were to explore possible mechanisms. It was found that HFD feeding and drug treatments had some significant effects on neurobehaviors and brain: (1) All administrations reduced the total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) parametric abnormality caused by HFD. LP533401 and SIM could significantly improve the impaired glucose tolerance, while BZ had no significant effect. (2) LP533401, SIM and BZ alleviated depression-like behavior of HFD mice in OFT, TST, FST and SPT. (3) LP533401 and SIM reversed the inhibition of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 2, Tph2 gene expression and the activation of Indoleamine 2,3-dioxy-Genase, IDO expression in HFD-treated brain, whereas BZ did not. (4) LP533401, SIM and BZ restored the inhibitory expression of 5-HT1A receptor in HFD hippocampus. Conclusions: Selective inhibition of intestinal 5-HT can attenuate depressive-like behavior, reduce 5-HT1AR impairment in hippocampus and correct abnormal 5-HT pathway in brain while ameliorating HFD-induced glucose intolerance. Further experiments are warranted to define the adequate strategy of targeting peripheral 5-HT for the treatment of such co-morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Qiongzhen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Renling Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Praveen Kumar Kalavagunta
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Wenting Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Tong Qiao
- Vascular Surgery Department, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Jing Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest, Xining, Qinghai, China.
| | - Huali Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Cannella N, Ubaldi M, Masi A, Bramucci M, Roberto M, Bifone A, Ciccocioppo R. Building better strategies to develop new medications in Alcohol Use Disorder: Learning from past success and failure to shape a brighter future. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 103:384-398. [PMID: 31112713 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic disease that develops over the years. The complexity of the neurobiological processes contributing to the emergence of AUD and the neuroadaptive changes occurring during disease progression make it difficult to improve treatments. On the other hand, this complexity offers researchers the possibility to explore new targets. Over years of intense research several molecules were tested in AUD; in most cases, despite promising preclinical data, the clinical efficacy appeared insufficient to justify futher development. A prototypical example is that of corticotropin releasing factor type 1 receptor (CRF1R) antagonists that showed significant effectiveness in animal models of AUD but were largely ineffective in humans. The present article attempts to analyze the most recent venues in the development of new medications in AUD with a focus on the most promising drug targets under current exploration. Moreover, we delineate the importance of using a more integrated translational framework approach to correlate preclinical findings and early clinical data to enhance the probability to validate biological targets of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazzareno Cannella
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Massimo Ubaldi
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Alessio Masi
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Massimo Bramucci
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Marisa Roberto
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Neuroscience, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Angelo Bifone
- Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems @UniTn, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Corso Bettini 31, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Science, University of Torino, Italy
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
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Kohno M, Link J, Dennis LE, McCready H, Huckans M, Hoffman WF, Loftis JM. Neuroinflammation in addiction: A review of neuroimaging studies and potential immunotherapies. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2019; 179:34-42. [PMID: 30695700 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Addiction is a worldwide public health problem and this article reviews scientific advances in identifying the role of neuroinflammation in the genesis, maintenance, and treatment of substance use disorders. With an emphasis on neuroimaging techniques, this review examines human studies of addiction using positron emission tomography to identify binding of translocator protein (TSPO), which is upregulated in reactive glial cells and activated microglia during pathological states. High TSPO levels have been shown in methamphetamine use but exhibits variable patterns in cocaine use. Alcohol and nicotine use, however, are associated with lower TSPO levels. We discuss how mechanistic differences at the neurotransmitter and circuit level in the neural effects of these agents and subsequent immune response may explain these observations. Finally, we review the potential of anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibudilast, minocycline, and pioglitazone, to ameliorate the behavioral and cognitive consequences of addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milky Kohno
- Research & Development Service, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, USA; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University and Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jeanne Link
- Center for Radiochemistry Research, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Laura E Dennis
- Research & Development Service, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University and Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Holly McCready
- Research & Development Service, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University and Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Marilyn Huckans
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, USA; Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences Division, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University and Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - William F Hoffman
- Research & Development Service, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, USA; Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences Division, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University and Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jennifer M Loftis
- Research & Development Service, Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, USA; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University and Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA.
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Erickson EK, Grantham EK, Warden AS, Harris RA. Neuroimmune signaling in alcohol use disorder. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2018; 177:34-60. [PMID: 30590091 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a widespread disease with limited treatment options. Targeting the neuroimmune system is a new avenue for developing or repurposing effective pharmacotherapies. Alcohol modulates innate immune signaling in different cell types in the brain by altering gene expression and the molecular pathways that regulate neuroinflammation. Chronic alcohol abuse may cause an imbalance in neuroimmune function, resulting in prolonged perturbations in brain function. Likewise, manipulating the neuroimmune system may change alcohol-related behaviors. Psychiatric disorders that are comorbid with AUD, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, and other substance use disorders, may also have underlying neuroimmune mechanisms; current evidence suggests that convergent immune pathways may be involved in AUD and in these comorbid disorders. In this review, we provide an overview of major neuroimmune cell-types and pathways involved in mediating alcohol behaviors, discuss potential mechanisms of alcohol-induced neuroimmune activation, and present recent clinical evidence for candidate immune-related drugs to treat AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K Erickson
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712-01095, USA.
| | - Emily K Grantham
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712-01095, USA
| | - Anna S Warden
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712-01095, USA
| | - R A Harris
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712-01095, USA
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Nisbett KE, Pinna G. Emerging Therapeutic Role of PPAR-α in Cognition and Emotions. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:998. [PMID: 30356872 PMCID: PMC6190882 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Khalin E Nisbett
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Graziano Pinna
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Assessment of pioglitazone and proinflammatory cytokines during buprenorphine taper in patients with opioid use disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:2957-2966. [PMID: 30079432 PMCID: PMC7286070 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4986-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary evidence suggested that the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone reduces opioid-withdrawal symptoms, possibly by inhibiting increases in proinflammatory cytokines. METHODS A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted utilizing two different study designs (entirely outpatient, and a combination of inpatient and outpatient) to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pioglitazone as an adjunct medication for people with opioid physical dependence undergoing a buprenorphine taper. Participants were stabilized on buprenorphine/naloxone (sublingual, up to 16/4 mg/day), then randomized to receive oral pioglitazone (up to 45 mg/day) or placebo before, during, and after buprenorphine taper. Outcome measures included the Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale (SOWS) and Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale, use of rescue medications to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms, and opioid-positive urine specimens. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma were collected during the taper in a subset of participants for measurement of proinflammatory cytokines. RESULTS The clinical trial was prematurely terminated due to slow enrollment; 40 participants per group were required for adequate statistical power to test study hypotheses. Twenty-four participants enrolled; 17 received at least one dose of study medication (6 pioglitazone, 11 placebo). SOWS scores were higher in the pioglitazone arm than in the placebo arm after adjusting for use of rescue medications; participants in the pioglitazone arm needed more rescue medications than the placebo arm during the post-taper phase. SOWS scores were positively correlated with monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in CSF (r = 0.70, p = 0.038) and plasma (r = 0.77, p = 0.015). Participants having higher levels of plasma MCP-1 reported higher SOWS, most notably after the buprenorphine taper ended. CONCLUSIONS Results from this study provide no evidence that pioglitazone reduces opioid withdrawal symptoms during buprenorphine taper. High correlations between MCP-1 and opioid withdrawal symptoms support a role of proinflammatory processes in opioid withdrawal. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01517165.
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Gendy MNS, Di Ciano P, Kowalczyk WJ, Barrett SP, George TP, Heishman S, Le Foll B. Testing the PPAR hypothesis of tobacco use disorder in humans: A randomized trial of the impact of gemfibrozil (a partial PPARα agonist) in smokers. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201512. [PMID: 30260990 PMCID: PMC6160014 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous pre-clinical studies demonstrated a promising role of alpha-type peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα) agonists in decreasing nicotine self-administration and nicotine-seeking behavior in animals. Our goal was to investigate the potential of gemfibrozil, a PPARα agonist, on reducing tobacco smoking in humans. Methods: This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study evaluating the effects of gemfibrozil (1200 mg/day) on smoking in 27 treatment-seeking smokers. The study had two 2-week phases separated by a washout period of at least 1 week. In each phase and after 1 week on medication, participants underwent a lab session where cue reactivity and forced choice paradigms were conducted. Physiological responses and self-reported craving were monitored during the presentation of smoking and neutral cues. In addition, two types of cigarettes were used in the forced choice paradigms: the Nicotinized cigarettes (Nic) and the Denicotinized cigarettes (Denic). The goal of the forced choice was to calculate the percentage of choice of Nic cigarettes while taking gemfibrozil or placebo. The number of quit days was calculated during the two quit attempts weeks (one while taking gemfibrozil and one while taking placebo) of the study. Results: There were no significant differences between gemfibrozil and placebo groups in the percentage of choice of Nic cigarettes, the cue-reactivity (both physiological and subjective measures), or in the number of days of abstinence. Conclusions: Although preclinical studies with PPAR α agonists showed promising results, this preliminary study did not demonstrate positive effect of gemfibrozil on tobacco use and cessation indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie N. S. Gendy
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patricia Di Ciano
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - William J. Kowalczyk
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Department of Psychology, Hartwick College, Oneonta, New York, United States of America
| | - Sean P. Barrett
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Tony P. George
- Addictions Division, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Brain and Therapeutics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Biobehavioural Addictions and Concurrent Disorders Research Laboratory (BACDRL) Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen Heishman
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Brain and Therapeutics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Alcohol Research and Treatment Clinic, Addiction Medicine Services, Ambulatory Care and Structured Treatments, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Ferguson LB, Zhang L, Wang S, Bridges C, Harris RA, Ponomarev I. Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor Agonists Modulate Transposable Element Expression in Brain and Liver. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:331. [PMID: 30283300 PMCID: PMC6156381 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear hormone receptors that act as transcription factors in response to endogenous lipid messengers. The fibrates and thiazolidinediones are synthetic PPAR agonists used clinically to treat dyslipidemia and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, respectively, but also improve symptoms of several other diseases. Transposable elements (TEs), repetitive sequences in mammalian genomes, are implicated in many of the same conditions for which PPAR agonists are therapeutic, including neurodegeneration, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. We tested the hypothesis that there is a link between actions of PPAR agonists and TE expression. We developed an innovative application of microarray data by mapping Illumina mouse WG-6 microarray probes to areas of the mouse genome that contain TEs. Using this information, we assessed the effects of systemic administration of three PPAR agonists with different PPAR subtype selectivity: fenofibrate, tesaglitazar, and bezafibrate, on TE probe expression in mouse brain [prefrontal cortex (PFC) and amygdala] and liver. We found that fenofibrate, and bezafibrate to a lesser extent, up-regulated probes mapped to retrotransposons: Short-Interspersed Elements (SINEs) and Long-Interspersed Elements (LINEs), in the PFC. Conversely, all PPAR agonists down-regulated LINEs and tesaglitazar and bezafibrate also down-regulated SINEs in liver. We built gene coexpression networks that partitioned the diverse transcriptional response to PPAR agonists into groups of probes with highly correlated expression patterns (modules). Most of the differentially expressed retrotransposons were within the same module, suggesting coordinated regulation of their expression, possibly by PPAR signaling. One TE module was conserved across tissues and was enriched with genes whose products participate in epigenetic regulation, suggesting that PPAR agonists affect TE expression via epigenetic mechanisms. Other enriched functional categories included phenotypes related to embryonic development and learning and memory, suggesting functional links between these biological processes and TE expression. In summary, these findings suggest mechanistic relationships between retrotransposons and PPAR agonists and provide a basis for future exploration of their functional roles in brain and liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura B Ferguson
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol & Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Lingling Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Shi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Courtney Bridges
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol & Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - R Adron Harris
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol & Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Igor Ponomarev
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol & Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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Ferguson LB, Harris RA, Mayfield RD. From gene networks to drugs: systems pharmacology approaches for AUD. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:1635-1662. [PMID: 29497781 PMCID: PMC6298603 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4855-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The alcohol research field has amassed an impressive number of gene expression datasets spanning key brain areas for addiction, species (humans as well as multiple animal models), and stages in the addiction cycle (binge/intoxication, withdrawal/negative effect, and preoccupation/anticipation). These data have improved our understanding of the molecular adaptations that eventually lead to dysregulation of brain function and the chronic, relapsing disorder of addiction. Identification of new medications to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) will likely benefit from the integration of genetic, genomic, and behavioral information included in these important datasets. Systems pharmacology considers drug effects as the outcome of the complex network of interactions a drug has rather than a single drug-molecule interaction. Computational strategies based on this principle that integrate gene expression signatures of pharmaceuticals and disease states have shown promise for identifying treatments that ameliorate disease symptoms (called in silico gene mapping or connectivity mapping). In this review, we suggest that gene expression profiling for in silico mapping is critical to improve drug repurposing and discovery for AUD and other psychiatric illnesses. We highlight studies that successfully apply gene mapping computational approaches to identify or repurpose pharmaceutical treatments for psychiatric illnesses. Furthermore, we address important challenges that must be overcome to maximize the potential of these strategies to translate to the clinic and improve healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura B Ferguson
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station A4800, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
- Intitute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - R Adron Harris
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station A4800, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Roy Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station A4800, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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Ch’Ng SS, Lawrence AJ. Investigational drugs for alcohol use disorders: a review of preclinical data. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2018; 27:459-474. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2018.1472763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S Ch’Ng
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew J Lawrence
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Abstract
Patients who suffer from alcohol use disorders (AUDs) usually go through various socio-behavioral and pathophysiological changes that take place in the brain and other organs. Recently, consumption of unhealthy food and excess alcohol along with a sedentary lifestyle has become a norm in both developed and developing countries. Despite the beneficial effects of moderate alcohol consumption, chronic and/or excessive alcohol intake is reported to negatively affect the brain, liver and other organs, resulting in cell death, organ damage/failure and death. The most effective therapy for alcoholism and alcohol related comorbidities is alcohol abstinence, however, chronic alcoholic patients cannot stop drinking alcohol. Therefore, targeted therapies are urgently needed to treat such populations. Patients who suffer from alcoholism and/or alcohol abuse experience harmful effects and changes that occur in the brain and other organs. Upon stopping alcohol consumption, alcoholic patients experience acute withdrawal symptoms followed by a protracted abstinence syndrome resulting in the risk of relapse to heavy drinking. For the past few decades, several drugs have been available for the treatment of AUDs. These drugs include medications to reduce or stop severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms during alcohol detoxification as well as recovery medications to reduce alcohol craving and support abstinence. However, there is no drug that completely antagonizes the adverse effects of excessive amounts of alcohol. This review summarizes the drugs which are available and approved by the FDA and their mechanisms of action as well as the medications that are under various phases of preclinical and clinical trials. In addition, the repurposing of the FDA approved drugs, such as anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antidepressants and other medications, to prevent alcoholism and treat AUDs and their potential target mechanisms are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Akbar
- Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA.
| | - Mark Egli
- Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Young-Eun Cho
- Section of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Byoung-Joon Song
- Section of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Antonio Noronha
- Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
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Microglia and alcohol meet at the crossroads: Microglia as critical modulators of alcohol neurotoxicity. Toxicol Lett 2018; 283:21-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Savarese AM, Lasek AW. Transcriptional Regulators as Targets for Alcohol Pharmacotherapies. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 248:505-533. [PMID: 29594350 PMCID: PMC6242703 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing brain disease that currently afflicts over 15 million adults in the United States. Despite its prevalence, there are only three FDA-approved medications for AUD treatment, all of which show limited efficacy. Because of their ability to alter expression of a large number of genes, often with great cell-type and brain-region specificity, transcription factors and epigenetic modifiers serve as promising new targets for the development of AUD treatments aimed at the neural circuitry that underlies chronic alcohol abuse. In this chapter, we will discuss transcriptional regulators that can be targeted pharmacologically and have shown some efficacy in attenuating alcohol consumption when targeted. Specifically, the transcription factors cyclic AMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR), as well as the epigenetic enzymes, the DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy W. Lasek
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago,Corresponding author: 1601 West Taylor Street, MC 912, Chicago, IL 60612, Tel: (312) 355-1593,
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Flores-Bastías O, Karahanian E. Neuroinflammation produced by heavy alcohol intake is due to loops of interactions between Toll-like 4 and TNF receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and the central melanocortin system: A novel hypothesis and new therapeutic avenues. Neuropharmacology 2018; 128:401-407. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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50
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Miller WR, Fox RG, Stutz SJ, Lane SD, Denner L, Cunningham KA, Dineley KT. PPARγ agonism attenuates cocaine cue reactivity. Addict Biol 2018; 23:55-68. [PMID: 27862692 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine use disorder is a chronic relapsing condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking and taking even after prolonged abstinence periods. Subsequent exposure to drug-associated cues can promote intense craving and lead to relapse in abstinent humans and rodent models. The responsiveness to these cocaine-related cues, or 'cue reactivity', can trigger relapse and cocaine-seeking behaviors; cue reactivity is measurable in cocaine-dependent humans as well as rodent models. Cue reactivity is thought to be predictive of cocaine craving and relapse. Here we report that PPARγ agonism during abstinence from cocaine self-administration reduced previously active lever pressing in Sprague Dawley rats during cue-reactivity tests, while administration of the PPARγ antagonist, GW9662, reversed this effect. PPARγ agonism also normalized nuclear ERK activity in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus which was reversed with GW9662. Our results support the utility of PPARγ agonism as a relapse prevention strategy to maintain abstinence in the presence of cocaine-associated cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Miller
- Department of Neurology; Galveston TX USA
- Center for Addiction Research; Galveston TX USA
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases; Galveston TX USA
| | - Robert G Fox
- Center for Addiction Research; Galveston TX USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Galveston TX USA
| | - Sonja J Stutz
- Center for Addiction Research; Galveston TX USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Galveston TX USA
| | - Scott D Lane
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston; Houston TX USA
| | - Larry Denner
- Center for Addiction Research; Galveston TX USA
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases; Galveston TX USA
- Division of Endocrinology; Internal Medicine University of Texas Medical Branch; Galveston TX USA
| | - Kathryn A Cunningham
- Center for Addiction Research; Galveston TX USA
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases; Galveston TX USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Galveston TX USA
| | - Kelly T Dineley
- Department of Neurology; Galveston TX USA
- Center for Addiction Research; Galveston TX USA
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases; Galveston TX USA
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