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Carvour HM, Roemer CA, Underwood DP, Padilla ES, Sandoval O, Robertson M, Miller M, Parsadanyan N, Perry TW, Radke AK. Mu-opioid receptor knockout on Foxp2-expressing neurons reduces aversion-resistant alcohol drinking. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.29.569252. [PMID: 38077082 PMCID: PMC10705460 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.29.569252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2024]
Abstract
Mu-opioid receptors (MORs) in the amygdala and striatum are important in addictive and rewarding behaviors. The transcription factor Foxp2 is a genetic marker of intercalated (ITC) cells in the amygdala and a subset of striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs), both of which express MORs in wild-type mice and are neuronal subpopulations of potential relevance to alcohol-drinking behaviors. For the current series of studies, we characterized the behavior of mice with genetic deletion of the MOR gene Oprm1 in Foxp2-expressing neurons (Foxp2-Cre/Oprm1fl/fl). Male and female Foxp2-Cre/Oprm1fl/fl mice were generated and heterozygous Cre+ (knockout) and homozygous Cre- (control) animals were tested for aversion-resistant alcohol consumption using an intermittent access (IA) task, operant responding for a sucrose reward, conditioned place aversion (CPA) to morphine withdrawal, and locomotor sensitization to morphine. The results demonstrate that deletion of MOR on Foxp2-expressing neurons renders mice more sensitive to quinine-adulterated ethanol (EtOH). Mice with the deletion (vs. Cre- controls) also consumed less alcohol during the final sessions of the IA task, responded less for sucrose under an FR3 schedule, and were less active at baseline and following morphine injection. Foxp2-MOR deletion did not impair the ability to learn to respond for reward or develop a conditioned aversion to morphine withdrawal. Together, these investigations demonstrate that Foxp2-expressing neurons may be involved in escalation of alcohol consumption and the development of compulsive-like alcohol drinking.
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Avila-Zozaya M, Zachariou V. Genetic mouse models in opioid research: current status and future directions. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:491-494. [PMID: 38436758 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-024-02762-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids are prescribed for the management of severe pain conditions, but their long-term use is often leading to physical dependence and addiction disorders. Understanding the complex neurobiology of the opioid system in preclinical models will be essential for the development of safe and efficacious analgesics. With rising numbers of synthetic opioid users and overdose cases, a better understanding of the neuroanatomical and cellular pathways associated with physical dependence and addiction is expected to guide treatment approaches for opioid use disorders. In this commentary, we highlight the importance of advanced genetic mouse models for studying the regional effects of opioid receptors, and we discuss the need of genetic mouse models for the investigation of the regional, circuit and cell compartment-specific role of intracellular mediators of opioid actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monserrat Avila-Zozaya
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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Ganaway A, Tatsuta K, Castillo VCG, Okada R, Sunaga Y, Ohta Y, Ohta J, Ohsawa M, Akay M, Akay YM. Investigating the Influence of Morphine and Cocaine on the Mesolimbic Pathway Using a Novel Microimaging Platform. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16303. [PMID: 38003493 PMCID: PMC10671016 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dopamine (DA)'s relationship with addiction is complex, and the related pathways in the mesocorticolimbic system are used to deliver DA, regulating both behavioral and perceptual actions. Specifically, the mesolimbic pathway connecting the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is crucial in regulating memory, emotion, motivation, and behavior due to its responsibility to modulate dopamine. To better investigate the relationship between DA and addiction, more advanced mapping methods are necessary to monitor its production and propagation accurately and efficiently. In this study, we incorporate dLight1.2 adeno-associated virus (AAV) into our latest CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) imaging platform to investigate the effects of two pharmacological substances, morphine and cocaine, in the NAc using adult mice. By implanting our self-fabricated CMOS imaging device into the deep brain, fluorescence imaging of the NAc using the dLight1.2 AAV allows for the visualization of DA molecules delivered from the VTA in real time. Our results suggest that changes in extracellular DA can be observed with this adapted system, showing potential for new applications and methods for approaching addiction studies. Additionally, we can identify the unique characteristic trend of DA release for both morphine and cocaine, further validating the underlying biochemical mechanisms used to modulate dopaminergic activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Ganaway
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.G.); (M.A.)
| | - Kousuke Tatsuta
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan; (K.T.); (M.O.)
| | - Virgil Christian Garcia Castillo
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma 630-0101, Japan; (V.C.G.C.); (R.O.); (Y.S.); (Y.O.); (J.O.)
| | - Ryoma Okada
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma 630-0101, Japan; (V.C.G.C.); (R.O.); (Y.S.); (Y.O.); (J.O.)
| | - Yoshinori Sunaga
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma 630-0101, Japan; (V.C.G.C.); (R.O.); (Y.S.); (Y.O.); (J.O.)
| | - Yasumi Ohta
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma 630-0101, Japan; (V.C.G.C.); (R.O.); (Y.S.); (Y.O.); (J.O.)
| | - Jun Ohta
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma 630-0101, Japan; (V.C.G.C.); (R.O.); (Y.S.); (Y.O.); (J.O.)
| | - Masahiro Ohsawa
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan; (K.T.); (M.O.)
| | - Metin Akay
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.G.); (M.A.)
| | - Yasemin M. Akay
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (A.G.); (M.A.)
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Abdulmalek S, Hardiman G. Genetic and epigenetic studies of opioid abuse disorder - the potential for future diagnostics. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2023; 23:361-373. [PMID: 37078260 PMCID: PMC10257799 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2023.2190022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a global problem that often begins with prescribed medications. The available treatment and maintenance plans offer solutions for the consumption rate by individuals leaving the outstanding problem of relapse, which is a major factor hindering the long-term efficacy of treatments. AREAS COVERED Understanding the neurobiology of addiction and relapse would help identifying the core causes of relapse and distinguish vulnerable from resilient individuals, which would lead to more targeted and effective treatment and provide diagnostics to screen individuals who have a propensity to OUD. In this review, we cover the neurobiology of the reward system highlighting the role of multiple brain regions and opioid receptors in the development of the disorder. We also review the current knowledge of the epigenetics of addiction and the available screening tools for aberrant use of opioids. EXPERT OPINION Relapse remains an anticipated limitation in the way of recovery even after long period of abstinence. This highlights the need for diagnostic tools that identify vulnerable patients and prevent the cycle of addiction. Finally, we discuss the limitations of the available screening tools and propose possible solutions for the discovery of addiction diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Abdulmalek
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, NI, UK
| | - Gary Hardiman
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, NI, UK
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), 135 Cannon Street, Charleston, SC 29425
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Lynch N, Lima JD, Spinieli RL, Kaur S. Opioids, sleep, analgesia and respiratory depression: Their convergence on Mu (μ)-opioid receptors in the parabrachial area. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1134842. [PMID: 37090798 PMCID: PMC10117663 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1134842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioids provide analgesia, as well as modulate sleep and respiration, all by possibly acting on the μ-opioid receptors (MOR). MOR's are ubiquitously present throughout the brain, posing a challenge for understanding the precise anatomical substrates that mediate opioid induced respiratory depression (OIRD) that ultimately kills most users. Sleep is a major modulator not only of pain perception, but also for changing the efficacy of opioids as analgesics. Therefore, sleep disturbances are major risk factors for developing opioid overuse, withdrawal, poor treatment response for pain, and addiction relapse. Despite challenges to resolve the neural substrates of respiratory malfunctions during opioid overdose, two main areas, the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) in the medulla and the parabrachial (PB) complex have been implicated in regulating respiratory depression. More recent studies suggest that it is mediation by the PB that causes OIRD. The PB also act as a major node in the upper brain stem that not only receives input from the chemosensory areas in medulla, but also receives nociceptive information from spinal cord. We have previously shown that the PB neurons play an important role in mediating arousal from sleep in response to hypercapnia by its projections to the forebrain arousal centers, and it may also act as a major relay for the pain stimuli. However, due to heterogeneity of cells in the PB, their precise roles in regulating, sleep, analgesia, and respiratory depression, needs addressing. This review sheds light on interactions between sleep and pain, along with dissecting the elements that adversely affects respiration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Satvinder Kaur
- Department of Neurology, Division of Sleep Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Seah C, Huckins LM, Brennand KJ. Stem Cell Models for Context-Specific Modeling in Psychiatric Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 93:642-650. [PMID: 36658083 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies reveal the complex polygenic architecture underlying psychiatric disorder risk, but there is an unmet need to validate causal variants, resolve their target genes(s), and explore their functional impacts on disorder-related mechanisms. Disorder-associated loci regulate transcription of target genes in a cell type- and context-specific manner, which can be measured through expression quantitative trait loci. In this review, we discuss methods and insights from context-specific modeling of genetically and environmentally regulated expression. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cell type and organoid models have uncovered context-specific psychiatric disorder associations by investigating tissue-, cell type-, sex-, age-, and stressor-specific genetic regulation of expression. Techniques such as massively parallel reporter assays and pooled CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) screens make it possible to functionally fine-map genome-wide association study loci and validate their target genes at scale. Integration of disorder-associated contexts with these patient-specific human induced pluripotent stem cell models makes it possible to uncover gene by environment interactions that mediate disorder risk, which will ultimately improve our ability to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Seah
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Laura M Huckins
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Kristen J Brennand
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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Bailly J, Allain F, Schwartz E, Tirel C, Dupuy C, Petit F, Diana MA, Darcq E, Kieffer BL. Habenular Neurons Expressing Mu Opioid Receptors Promote Negative Affect in a Projection-Specific Manner. Biol Psychiatry 2022:S0006-3223(22)01594-3. [PMID: 36496267 PMCID: PMC10027626 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mu opioid receptor (MOR) is central to hedonic balance and produces euphoria by engaging reward circuits. MOR signaling may also influence aversion centers, notably the habenula (Hb), where the receptor is highly dense. Our previous data suggest that the inhibitory activity of MOR in the Hb may limit aversive states. To investigate this hypothesis, we tested whether neurons expressing MOR in the Hb (Hb-MOR neurons) promote negative affect. METHODS Using Oprm1-Cre knockin mice, we combined tracing and optogenetics with behavioral testing to investigate consequences of Hb-MOR neuron stimulation for approach/avoidance (real-time place preference), anxiety-related responses (open field, elevated plus maze, and marble burying), and despair-like behavior (tail suspension). RESULTS Optostimulation of Hb-MOR neurons elicited avoidance behavior, demonstrating that these neurons promote aversive states. Anterograde tracing showed that, in addition to the interpeduncular nucleus, Hb-MOR neurons project to the dorsal raphe nucleus. Optostimulation of Hb-MOR/interpeduncular nucleus terminals triggered avoidance and despair-like responses with no anxiety-related effect, whereas light-activation of Hb-MOR/dorsal raphe nucleus terminals increased levels of anxiety with no effect on other behaviors, revealing 2 dissociable pathways controlling negative affect. CONCLUSIONS Together, the data demonstrate that Hb neurons expressing MOR facilitate aversive states via 2 distinct Hb circuits, contributing to despair-like behavior (Hb-MOR/interpeduncular nucleus) and anxiety (Hb-MOR/dorsal raphe nucleus). The findings support the notion that inhibition of these neurons by either endogenous or exogenous opioids may relieve negative affect, a mechanism that would have implications for hedonic homeostasis and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bailly
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Florence Allain
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada; INSERM U1114, Department of Psychiatry, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Eric Schwartz
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Chloé Tirel
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Charles Dupuy
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Florence Petit
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marco A Diana
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Darcq
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada; INSERM U1114, Department of Psychiatry, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Brigitte L Kieffer
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada; INSERM U1114, Department of Psychiatry, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
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Yang Y, Bai J, Sun JY, Ye T, Zhang L, Wu FY, Nan J, Lan Y. Mechanisms Underlying Mu Opioid Receptor Effects on Parallel Fiber-Purkinje Cell Synaptic Transmission in Mouse Cerebellar Cortex. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2022; 14:862704. [PMID: 35546898 PMCID: PMC9083459 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2022.862704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
μ-opioid receptors (MOR) are widely expressed in the brain, varying in density in different areas. Activation of MORs underlies analgesia, euphoria, but may lead to tolerance, dependence, and ultimately opioid addiction. The Purkinje cell (PC) is the only efferent neuron in the cerebellar cortex and receives glutamatergic synaptic inputs from the parallel fibers formed by the axons of granule cells. Studies have shown that MORs are expressed during the development of cerebellar cells. However, the distribution of MOR and their effects on PF-PC synaptic transmission remain unclear. To examine these questions, we used whole-cell patch clamp recordings and pharmacological methods to determine the effects and mechanisms of MOR activation on synaptic transmission at PF-PC synapses. The MOR-selective agonist DAMGO significantly reduced the amplitude and area under the curve (AUC) of PF-PC evoked (e) EPSCs, and increased the paired-pulse ratio (PPR).DAMGO-induced inhibitory effects on PF-PC eEPSCs and PPR were abolished by MOR specific blocker CTOP. Further, DAMGO significantly reduced the frequency of PF-PC mEPSCs, but had no obvious effect on their amplitude, suggesting a presynaptic site of action. The DAMGO-induced reduction in the frequency of PF-PC mEPSCs also was blocked by CTOP. A protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor PKI added in the pipette solution did not affect the inhibitory effects on PF-PC mEPSCs induced by DAMGO. Both the PKA inhibitor K5720 and MEK inhibitor U0126 in artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) prevented the inhibitory effects of DAMGO on PF-PC mEPSCs. These findings reveal that MORs are expressed in presynaptic PF axon terminals, where DAMGO can activate presynaptic MORs to inhibit PF-PC synaptic transmission by regulating the release of glutamate. G-protein-dependent cAMP-PKA signaling pathway may be involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Jin Bai
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Jia-yue Sun
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Ting Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
- Interdisciplinary Program of Biological Functional Molecules, College of Integration Science, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Feng-ying Wu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
- Interdisciplinary Program of Biological Functional Molecules, College of Integration Science, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Jun Nan
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Yan Lan
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Lan
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9
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Alcohol induced impairment/abnormalities in brain: Role of MicroRNAs. Neurotoxicology 2021; 87:11-23. [PMID: 34478768 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2021.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol is a highly toxic substance and has teratogenic properties that can lead to a wide range of developmental disorders. Excessive use of alcohol can change the structural and functional aspects of developed brain and other organs. Which can further lead to significant health, social and economic implications in many countries of the world. Convincing evidence support the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) as important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression in neurodevelopment and maintenance. They also show differential expression following an injury. MiRNAs are the special class of small non coding RNAs that can modify the gene by targeting the mRNA and fine tune the development of cells to organs. Numerous pieces of evidences have shown the relationship between miRNA, alcohol and brain damage. These studies also show how miRNA controls different cellular mechanisms involved in the development of alcohol use disorder. With the increasing number of research studies, the roles of miRNAs following alcohol-induced injury could help researchers to recognize alternative therapeutic methods to treat/cure alcohol-induced brain damage. The present review summarizes the available data and brings together the important miRNAs, that play a crucial role in alcohol-induced brain damage, which will help in better understanding complex mechanisms. Identifying these miRNAs will not only expand the current knowledge but can lead to the identification of better targets for the development of novel therapeutic interventions.
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10
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Reeves KC, Kube MJ, Grecco GG, Fritz BM, Muñoz B, Yin F, Gao Y, Haggerty DL, Hoffman HJ, Atwood BK. Mu opioid receptors on vGluT2-expressing glutamatergic neurons modulate opioid reward. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12942. [PMID: 32686251 PMCID: PMC7854952 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The role of Mu opioid receptor (MOR)‐mediated regulation of GABA transmission in opioid reward is well established. Much less is known about MOR‐mediated regulation of glutamate transmission in the brain and how this relates to drug reward. We previously found that MORs inhibit glutamate transmission at synapses that express the Type 2 vesicular glutamate transporter (vGluT2). We created a transgenic mouse that lacks MORs in vGluT2‐expressing neurons (MORflox‐vGluT2cre) to demonstrate that MORs on the vGluT2 neurons themselves mediate this synaptic inhibition. We then explored the role of MORs in vGluT2‐expressing neurons in opioid‐related behaviors. In tests of conditioned place preference, MORflox‐vGluT2cre mice did not acquire place preference for a low dose of the opioid, oxycodone, but displayed conditioned place aversion at a higher dose, whereas control mice displayed preference for both doses. In an oral consumption assessment, these mice consumed less oxycodone and had reduced preference for oxycodone compared with controls. MORflox‐vGluT2cre mice also failed to show oxycodone‐induced locomotor stimulation. These mice displayed baseline withdrawal‐like responses following the development of oxycodone dependence that were not seen in littermate controls. In addition, withdrawal‐like responses in these mice did not increase following treatment with the opioid antagonist, naloxone. However, other MOR‐mediated behaviors were unaffected, including oxycodone‐induced analgesia. These data reveal that MOR‐mediated regulation of glutamate transmission is a critical component of opioid reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin C. Reeves
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Megan J. Kube
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Gregory G. Grecco
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Brandon M. Fritz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Braulio Muñoz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Fuqin Yin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Yong Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - David L. Haggerty
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Hunter J. Hoffman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
| | - Brady K. Atwood
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis Indiana USA
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Abstract
Genome-wide association studies and candidate gene findings suggest that genetic approaches may help in choosing the most appropriate drug and dosage, while preventing adverse drug reactions. This is the field that addresses precision medicine: to evaluate variations in the DNA sequence that could be responsible for different individual analgesic response. We review potential gene biomarkers with best overall convergent functional evidence, for opioid use, in pain management. Polymorphisms can modify pharmacodynamics (i.e., mu opioid receptor, OPRM1) and pharmacokinetics (i.e., CYP2D6 phenotypes) pathways altering opioid effectiveness, consumption, side effects or additionally, prescription opioid use dependence vulnerability. This review provides a summary of these candidate variants for the translation of genotype into clinically useful information in pain medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mongi Benjeddou
- Department of Biotechnology, University of The Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Bellville 7535, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Ana M Peiró
- Neuropharmacology on Pain & Functional Diversity (NED), Alicante Institute for Health & Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
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12
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Harda Z, Spyrka J, Jastrzębska K, Szumiec Ł, Bryksa A, Klimczak M, Polaszek M, Gołda S, Zajdel J, Misiołek K, Błasiak A, Rodriguez Parkitna J. Loss of mu and delta opioid receptors on neurons expressing dopamine receptor D1 has no effect on reward sensitivity. Neuropharmacology 2020; 180:108307. [PMID: 32941853 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Opioid signaling controls the activity of the brain's reward system. It is involved in signaling the hedonic effects of rewards and has essential roles in reinforcement and motivational processes. Here, we focused on opioid signaling through mu and delta receptors on dopaminoceptive neurons and evaluated the role these receptors play in reward-driven behaviors. We generated a genetically modified mouse with selective double knockdown of mu and delta opioid receptors in neurons expressing dopamine receptor D1. Selective expression of the transgene was confirmed using immunostaining. Knockdown was validated by measuring the effects of selective opioid receptor agonists on neuronal membrane currents using whole-cell patch clamp recordings. We found that in the nucleus accumbens of control mice, the majority of dopamine receptor D1-expressing neurons were sensitive to a mu or delta opioid agonist. In mutant mice, the response to the delta receptor agonist was blocked, while the effects of the mu agonist were strongly attenuated. Behaviorally, the mice had no obvious impairments. The mutation did not affect the sensitivity to the rewarding effects of morphine injections or social contact and had no effect on preference for sweet taste. Knockdown had a moderate effect on motor activity in some of the tests performed, but this effect did not reach statistical significance. Thus, we found that knocking down mu and delta receptors on dopamine receptor D1-expressing cells does not appreciably affect some of the reward-driven behaviors previously attributed to opioid signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zofia Harda
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jadwiga Spyrka
- Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamila Jastrzębska
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Łukasz Szumiec
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Bryksa
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marta Klimczak
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Maria Polaszek
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Sławomir Gołda
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Zajdel
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Klaudia Misiołek
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Błasiak
- Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jan Rodriguez Parkitna
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
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13
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μ-Opioid Receptors on Distinct Neuronal Populations Mediate Different Aspects of Opioid Reward-Related Behaviors. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0146-20.2020. [PMID: 32859725 PMCID: PMC7508564 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0146-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
μ-Opioid receptors (MORs) are densely expressed in different brain regions known to mediate reward. One such region is the striatum where MORs are densely expressed, yet the role of these MOR populations in modulating reward is relatively unknown. We have begun to address this question by using a series of genetically engineered mice based on the Cre recombinase/loxP system to selectively delete MORs from specific neurons enriched in the striatum: dopamine 1 (D1) receptors, D2 receptors, adenosine 2a (A2a) receptors, and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). We first determined the effects of each deletion on opioid-induced locomotion, a striatal and dopamine-dependent behavior. We show that MOR deletion from D1 neurons reduced opioid (morphine and oxycodone)-induced hyperlocomotion, whereas deleting MORs from A2a neurons resulted in enhanced opioid-induced locomotion, and deleting MORs from D2 or ChAT neurons had no effect. We also present the effect of each deletion on opioid intravenous self-administration. We first assessed the acquisition of this behavior using remifentanil as the reinforcing opioid and found no effect of genotype. Mice were then transitioned to oxycodone as the reinforcer and maintained here for 9 d. Again, no genotype effect was found. However, when mice underwent 3 d of extinction training, during which the drug was not delivered, but all cues remained as during the maintenance phase, drug-seeking behavior was enhanced when MORs were deleted from A2a or ChAT neurons. These findings show that these selective MOR populations play specific roles in reward-associated behaviors.
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14
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Yang HM, Zhan LJ, Lin XQ, Chu CP, Qiu DL, Lan Y. Fentanyl Inhibits Air Puff-Evoked Sensory Information Processing in Mouse Cerebellar Neurons Recorded in vivo. Front Syst Neurosci 2020; 14:51. [PMID: 32848643 PMCID: PMC7417629 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2020.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To examine the effects of fentanyl, a potent mu-opioid receptor (MOR) agonist, on-air puff-evoked responses in Purkinje cells (PCs), and molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) using in vivo patch-clamp recordings in anesthetized mice. Methods: Male mice 6–8 weeks-old were anesthetized and fixed on a custom-made stereotaxic frame. The cerebellar surface was exposed and perfused with oxygenated artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF). Patch-clamp recordings in the cell-attached mode were obtained from PCs and MLIs. Facial stimulation by air-puff of the ipsilateral whisker pad was performed through a pressurized injection system. Fentanyl citrate, CTOP, and H-89 dissolved in ACSF were perfused onto the cerebellar surface. Results: Fentanyl significantly inhibited the amplitude and area under the curve (AUC) of sensory stimulation-evoked inhibitory responses in PCs. Although fentanyl did not influence the frequency of simple spikes (SSs), it decreased the pause of SS. The IC50 of the fentanyl-induced suppression of the P1 response amplitude was 5.53 μM. The selective MOR antagonist CTOP abolished fentanyl-induced inhibitory responses in PCs. However, the application of CTOP alone increased the amplitude, AUC of P1, and the pause of SS. Notably, fentanyl significantly inhibited the tactile-evoked response of MLIs but did not affect their spontaneous firing. The fentanyl-induced decrease of inhibitory responses in PCs was partially prevented by a PKA inhibitor, H-89. Conclusions: These results suggest that fentanyl binds to MORs in MLIs to reduce GABAergic neurotransmission in MLI-PC projections and one potential mechanism is via modulation of the cAMP-PKA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- He-Min Yang
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China
| | - Li-Jie Zhan
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China
| | - Xue-Qin Lin
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China
| | - Chun-Ping Chu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China
| | - De-Lai Qiu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China
| | - Yan Lan
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji City, China
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15
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Vena AA, Zandy SL, Cofresí RU, Gonzales RA. Behavioral, neurobiological, and neurochemical mechanisms of ethanol self-administration: A translational review. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 212:107573. [PMID: 32437827 PMCID: PMC7580704 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder has multiple characteristics including excessive ethanol consumption, impaired control over drinking behaviors, craving and withdrawal symptoms, compulsive seeking behaviors, and is considered a chronic condition. Relapse is common. Determining the neurobiological targets of ethanol and the adaptations induced by chronic ethanol exposure is critical to understanding the clinical manifestation of alcohol use disorders, the mechanisms underlying the various features of the disorder, and for informing medication development. In the present review, we discuss ethanol's interactions with a variety of neurotransmitter systems, summarizing findings from preclinical and translational studies to highlight recent progress in the field. We then describe animal models of ethanol self-administration, emphasizing the value, limitations, and validity of commonly used models. Lastly, we summarize the behavioral changes induced by chronic ethanol self-administration, with an emphasis on cue-elicited behavior, the role of ethanol-related memories, and the emergence of habitual ethanol seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A Vena
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, United States of America
| | | | - Roberto U Cofresí
- Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, United States of America
| | - Rueben A Gonzales
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy and Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, United States of America.
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16
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Zhang XY, Li Q, Dong Y, Yan W, Song K, Lin YQ, Sun YG. Mu-Opioid Receptors Expressed in Glutamatergic Neurons are Essential for Morphine Withdrawal. Neurosci Bull 2020; 36:1095-1106. [PMID: 32451910 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00515-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Although opioids still remain the most powerful pain-killers, the chronic use of opioid analgesics is largely limited by their numerous side-effects, including opioid dependence. However, the mechanism underlying this dependence is largely unknown. In this study, we used the withdrawal symptoms precipitated by naloxone to characterize opioid dependence in mice. We determined the functional role of mu-opioid receptors (MORs) expressed in different subpopulations of neurons in the development of morphine withdrawal. We found that conditional deletion of MORs from glutamatergic neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (Vglut2+) largely eliminated the naloxone-precipitated withdrawal symptoms. In contrast, conditional deletion of MORs expressed in GABAergic neurons had a limited effect on morphine withdrawal. Consistently, mice with MORs deleted from Vglut2+ glutamatergic neurons also showed no morphine-induced locomotor hyperactivity. Furthermore, morphine withdrawal and morphine-induced hyperactivity were not significantly affected by conditional knockout of MORs from dorsal spinal neurons. Taken together, our data indicate that the development of morphine withdrawal is largely mediated by MORs expressed in Vglut2+ glutamatergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yan Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qing Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Ye Dong
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Kun Song
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yong-Qin Lin
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yan-Gang Sun
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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17
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Sivalingam M, Ogawa S, Parhar IS. Mapping of Morphine-Induced OPRM1 Gene Expression Pattern in the Adult Zebrafish Brain. Front Neuroanat 2020; 14:5. [PMID: 32153369 PMCID: PMC7044135 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2020.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphine is a potent analgesic opiate commonly used in treating pain, and it is also a substance of abuse and highly addictive. Hence, it is vital to discover the action sites of morphine in the brain to increase its efficacy of treatment. In the present study, we aimed at identifying comprehensive neuroanatomical locations that are sensitive to morphine in the adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). We performed in situ hybridization to localize the mu opioid receptor (oprm1) gene and to map the morphine sensitive brain areas using neuronal PAS domain-containing protein 4a (npas4a), an early gene marker. Real-time PCR was used to detect changes in mRNA levels of oprm1 and npas4a in control and acute morphine treated fish (2 mg/L; 20 min). Intense positive oprm1 signals were seen in the telencephalon, preoptic area, habenula, hypothalamic area and periventricular gray zone of the optic tectum. Acute morphine exposure significantly increased oprm1 and npas4a mRNA levels in the medial zone of dorsal telencephalon (Dm), ventral region of the ventral telencephalon (Vv), preoptic area, and in the hypothalamus but a decrease in oprm1 and npas4a signals in the dorsal habenula. This study provides a detailed map of oprm1 localization in the brain, which includes previously unreported oprm1 in the habenula of teleost. Presence of oprm1 in multiple brain sites implies multiple action targets of morphine and potential brain functions which could include reward, cognitive and negative emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mageswary Sivalingam
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Satoshi Ogawa
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Ishwar S Parhar
- Brain Research Institute, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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18
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An analysis of the effect of mu-opioid receptor gene (OPRM1) promoter region DNA methylation on the response of naltrexone treatment of alcohol dependence. THE PHARMACOGENOMICS JOURNAL 2020; 20:672-680. [PMID: 32029903 PMCID: PMC7415483 DOI: 10.1038/s41397-020-0158-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study explored the effect of OPRM1 promoter region DNA methylation on the outcome of treatment with the opioid antagonist naltrexone (NTX) for alcohol dependence (AD). Ninety-three patients with DSM-IV AD [41 African Americans (AAs) and 52 European Americans (EAs)] received double-blind treatment with NTX or placebo for at least three months. Relapse to heavy drinking was assessed during the first 13 weeks of the trial. Peripheral blood methylation levels of 33 CpG units in the OPRM1 promoter region were quantified using Sequenom EpiTYPER technology. Bayesian logistic regression was used to analyze the effects of NTX treatment, CpG methylation, CpG methylation×NTX treatment, and age on AD relapse. The Random Forest machine learning algorithm was applied to select AD relapse predictors. No significant effect of individual OPRM1 promoter CpG units on AD relapse was observed in either AAs or EAs. Age was significantly associated with AD relapse in EAs, among whom older subjects had a lower relapse rate. Random forest analyses revealed that the prediction rate for AD relapse reached 66.0% with five top variables (age and four CpG units; ranked by their importance to AD relapse) in the prediction model. These findings suggest that methylation levels of individual OPRM1 promoter CpG units do not contribute significantly to inter-individual variation in NTX response. However, the age of subjects in combination with a cluster of specific OPRM1 promoter CpG units may affect NTX treatment outcome. Additional studies of OPRM1 DNA methylation changes during and after NTX treatment of AD are needed.
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19
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Boulos LJ, Ben Hamida S, Bailly J, Maitra M, Ehrlich AT, Gavériaux-Ruff C, Darcq E, Kieffer BL. Mu opioid receptors in the medial habenula contribute to naloxone aversion. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:247-255. [PMID: 31005059 PMCID: PMC6901535 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0395-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The medial habenula (MHb) is considered a brain center regulating aversive states. The mu opioid receptor (MOR) has been traditionally studied at the level of nociceptive and mesolimbic circuits, for key roles in pain relief and reward processing. MOR is also densely expressed in MHb, however, MOR function at this brain site is virtually unknown. Here we tested the hypothesis that MOR in the MHb (MHb-MOR) also regulates aversion processing. We used chnrb4-Cre driver mice to delete the Oprm1 gene in chnrb4-neurons, predominantly expressed in the MHb. Conditional mutant (B4MOR) mice showed habenula-specific reduction of MOR expression, restricted to chnrb4-neurons (50% MHb-MORs). We tested B4MOR mice in behavioral assays to evaluate effects of MOR activation by morphine, and MOR blockade by naloxone. Locomotor, analgesic, rewarding, and motivational effects of morphine were preserved in conditional mutants. In contrast, conditioned place aversion (CPA) elicited by naloxone was reduced in both naïve (high dose) and morphine-dependent (low dose) B4MOR mice. Further, physical signs of withdrawal precipitated by either MOR (naloxone) or nicotinic receptor (mecamylamine) blockade were attenuated. These data suggest that MORs expressed in MHb B4-neurons contribute to aversive effects of naloxone, including negative effect and aversive effects of opioid withdrawal. MORs are inhibitory receptors, therefore we propose that endogenous MOR signaling normally inhibits chnrb4-neurons of the MHb and moderates their known aversive activity, which is unmasked upon receptor blockade. Thus, in addition to facilitating reward at several brain sites, tonic MOR activity may also limit aversion within the MHb circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. J. Boulos
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - S. Ben Hamida
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - J. Bailly
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - M. Maitra
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - A. T. Ehrlich
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - C. Gavériaux-Ruff
- 0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
| | - E. Darcq
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - B. L. Kieffer
- McGill University, Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Canada ,0000 0004 0638 2716grid.420255.4Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, Strasbourg, France ,0000 0001 2157 9291grid.11843.3fUniversité de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France ,0000 0001 2112 9282grid.4444.0Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104 Illkirch, France ,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U 1258 Illkirch, France
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20
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Neasta J, Darcq E, Jeanblanc J, Carnicella S, Ben Hamida S. GPCR and Alcohol-Related Behaviors in Genetically Modified Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:17-42. [PMID: 31919661 PMCID: PMC7007453 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00828-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest class of cell surface signaling receptors and regulate major neurobiological processes. Accordingly, GPCRs represent primary targets for the treatment of brain disorders. Several human genetic polymorphisms affecting GPCRs have been associated to different components of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Moreover, GPCRs have been reported to contribute to several features of alcohol-related behaviors in animal models. Besides traditional pharmacological tools, genetic-based approaches mostly aimed at deleting GPCR genes provided substantial information on how key GPCRs drive alcohol-related behaviors. In this review, we summarize the alcohol phenotypes that ensue from genetic manipulation, in particular gene deletion, of key GPCRs in rodents. We focused on GPCRs that belong to fundamental neuronal systems that have been shown as potential targets for the development of AUD treatment. Data are reviewed with particular emphasis on alcohol reward, seeking, and consumption which are behaviors that capture essential aspects of AUD. Literature survey indicates that in most cases, there is still a gap in defining the intracellular transducers and the functional crosstalk of GPCRs as well as the neuronal populations in which their signaling regulates alcohol actions. Further, the implication of only a few orphan GPCRs has been so far investigated in animal models. Combining advanced pharmacological technologies with more specific genetically modified animals and behavioral preclinical models is likely necessary to deepen our understanding in how GPCR signaling contributes to AUD and for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémie Neasta
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Faculté de Pharmacie, University of Montpellier, 34093, Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuel Darcq
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montreal, Quebec, H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Jérôme Jeanblanc
- Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences-INSERM U1247, University of Picardie Jules Verne, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Sebastien Carnicella
- INSERM U1216, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences (GIN), University of Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Sami Ben Hamida
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montreal, Quebec, H4H 1R3, Canada.
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21
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Zhao W, Hu Y, Li C, Li N, Zhu S, Tan X, Li M, Zhang Y, Xu Z, Ding Z, Hu L, Liu Z, Sun J. Transplantation of fecal microbiota from patients with alcoholism induces anxiety/depression behaviors and decreases brain mGluR1/PKC ε levels in mouse. Biofactors 2020; 46:38-54. [PMID: 31518024 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that the gut microbiota participates in the psychiatric behavior changes in disorders associated with alcohol. But it still remains unknown whether alcoholism is involved in changes in gut microbiota and its underlying mechanism is also not clear. Here, we tested the gut microbiota of patients with alcoholism and conducted fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from patients with alcoholism to C57BL/6J mice whose gut microbiota had been sharply suppressed with antibiotics (ABX). Then we evaluated their alcohol preference degree, anxiety, and depression-like behaviors and social interaction behaviors, together with molecular changes in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Our data indicated that the gut microbiota of patients with alcoholism was drastically different from those of the healthy adults. The abundance of p_Firmicutes was significantly increased whereas p_Bacteroidetes was decreased. Compared to mice transplanted with fecal microbiota from healthy male adults, the mice accepting fecal microbiota from patients with alcoholism showed (a) anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors, (b) decreased social interaction behaviors, (c) spontaneous alcohol preference, and (d) decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), alpha 1 subunit of GABA type A receptor (α1GABAA R) in mPFC and decreased metabotropic glutamate receptors 1 (mGluR1), protein kinase C (PKC) ε in NAc. Overall, our results suggest that fecal microbiota from patients with alcoholism did induce a status like alcohol dependence in C57BL/6J mice. The decreased expression of BDNF, α1GABAA R, and mGluR1/ PKC ε may be the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Zhao
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Jinan Zhangqiu District Hospital of TCM, Shandong, China
| | - Chuangang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Shaowei Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xu Tan
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zheng Xu
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaoxi Ding
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lingming Hu
- Department of Psychiatry, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zengxun Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinhao Sun
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
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22
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Abstract
Drug addiction is a worldwide societal problem and public health burden, and results from recreational drug use that develops into a complex brain disorder. The opioid system, one of the first discovered neuropeptide systems in the history of neuroscience, is central to addiction. Recently, opioid receptors have been propelled back on stage by the rising opioid epidemics, revolutions in G protein-coupled receptor research and fascinating developments in basic neuroscience. This Review discusses rapidly advancing research into the role of opioid receptors in addiction, and addresses the key questions of whether we can kill pain without addiction using mu-opioid-receptor-targeting opiates, how mu- and kappa-opioid receptors operate within the neurocircuitry of addiction and whether we can bridge human and animal opioid research in the field of drug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Darcq
- Douglas Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Brigitte Lina Kieffer
- Douglas Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. .,Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, INSERM, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
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Zhou Y, Liang Y, Low MJ, Kreek MJ. Nuclear transcriptional changes in hypothalamus of Pomc enhancer knockout mice after excessive alcohol drinking. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2019; 18:e12600. [PMID: 31339663 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Persistent alterations of proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) and mu-opioid receptor (Oprm1) activity and stress responses after alcohol are critically involved in vulnerability to alcohol dependency. Gene transcriptional regulation altered by alcohol may play important roles. Mice with genome-wide deletion of neuronal Pomc enhancer1 (nPE1-/- ), had hypothalamic-specific partial reductions of beta-endorphin and displayed lower alcohol consumption, compared to wildtype littermates (nPE1+/+ ). We used RNA-Seq to measure steady-state nuclear mRNA transcripts of opioid and stress genes in hypothalamus of nPE1+/+ and nPE1-/- mice after 1-day acute withdrawal from chronic excessive alcohol drinking or after water. nPE1-/- had lower basal Pomc and Pdyn (prodynorphin) levels compared to nPE1+/+ , coupled with increased basal Oprm1 and Oprk1 (kappa-opioid receptor) levels, and low alcohol drinking increased Pomc and Pdyn to the basal levels of nPE1+/+ in the water group, without significant effects on Oprm1 and Oprk1. In nPE1+/+ , excessive alcohol intake increased Pomc and Oprm1, with no effect on Pdyn or Oprk1. For stress genes, nPE1-/- had lowered basal Oxt (oxytocin) and Avp (arginine vasopressin) that were restored by low alcohol intake to basal levels of nPE1+/+ . In nPE1+/+ , excessive alcohol intake decreased Oxt and Avpi1 (AVP-induced protein1). Functionally examining the effect of pharmacological blockade of mu-opioid receptor, we found that naltrexone reduced excessive alcohol intake in nPE1+/+ , but not nPE1-/- . Our results provide evidence relevant to the transcriptional profiling of the critical genes in mouse hypothalamus: enhanced opioid and reduced stress gene transcripts after acute withdrawal from excessive alcohol may contribute to altered reward and stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Yupu Liang
- Research Bioinformatics, CCTS, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Malcolm J Low
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mary J Kreek
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
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OPRM1 A118G and serum β-endorphin interact with sex and digit ratio (2D:4D) to influence risk and course of alcohol dependence. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 28:1418-1428. [PMID: 30322771 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Activation of mesolimbic mu-opioid receptors by their endogenous ligand, β-endorphin, can mediate the rewarding effects of alcohol. However, there is conflicting evidence on the relationship between the mu-opioid receptor (OPRM1) A118G single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and alcohol dependence risk. Preclinical evidence suggests that sex and sex hormone-dependent prenatal brain organization may interact with the opioid system to influence alcohol drinking behavior. We genotyped 200 alcohol-dependent patients and 240 healthy individuals for the OPRM1 A118G SNP and measured serum β-endorphin level at recruitment and after acute withdrawal. We then determined the association between these factors and alcohol dependence risk and 24-month outcome in the context of both sex and second-to-fourth digit lengths ratio (2D:4D) - a biomarker of prenatal sex hormone levels. The OPRM1 A118G AA genotype associated with elevated risk of alcohol-related hospital readmission, more readmissions, and fewer days until first readmission in male patients only. After normalizing patient 2D:4D against control 2D:4D, we found that normalized 2D:4D ratios were lower in male 118G patients than male AA patients, suggesting prenatal androgens interact with OPRM1 to influence alcohol dependence risk. In addition, β-endorphin levels after acute withdrawal correlated negatively with withdrawal severity in females but not in males, which may indicate β-endorphin protects against withdrawal-induced stress in a sex-specific manner.
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Zhou Y, Kreek MJ. Involvement of Activated Brain Stress Responsive Systems in Excessive and "Relapse" Alcohol Drinking in Rodent Models: Implications for Therapeutics. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 366:9-20. [PMID: 29669731 PMCID: PMC5988024 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.245621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Addictive diseases, including addiction to alcohol, pose massive public health costs. Addiction is a chronic relapsing disease caused by both the direct effects induced by drugs and persistent neuroadaptations at the molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels. These drug-type specific neuroadaptations are brought on largely by the reinforcing effects of drugs on the central nervous system and environmental stressors. Results from animal experiments have demonstrated important interactions between alcohol and stress-responsive systems. Addiction to specific drugs such as alcohol, psychostimulants, and opioids shares some common direct or downstream effects on the brain's stress-responsive systems, including arginine vasopressin and its V1b receptors, dynorphin and the κ-opioid receptors, pro-opiomelanocortin/β-endorphin and the μ-opioid receptors, and the endocannabinoids. Further study of these systems through laboratory-based and translational research could lead to the discovery of novel treatment targets and the early optimization of interventions (for example, combination) for the pharmacologic therapy of alcoholism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- Laboratory of Biology of Addictive Diseases, Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Mary Jeanne Kreek
- Laboratory of Biology of Addictive Diseases, Rockefeller University, New York, New York
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