1
|
Bortolato M, Braccagni G, Pederson CA, Floris G, Fite PJ. "Weeding out" violence? Translational perspectives on the neuropsychobiological links between cannabis and aggression. AGGRESSION AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR 2024; 78:101948. [PMID: 38828012 PMCID: PMC11141739 DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2024.101948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Recent shifts in societal attitudes towards cannabis have led to a dramatic increase in consumption rates in many Western countries, particularly among young people. This trend has shed light on a significant link between cannabis use disorder (CUD) and pathological reactive aggression, a condition involving disproportionate aggressive and violent reactions to minor provocations. The discourse on the connection between cannabis use and aggression is frequently enmeshed in political and legal discussions, leading to a polarized understanding of the causative relationship between cannabis use and aggression. However, integrative analyses from both human and animal research indicate a complex, bidirectional interplay between cannabis misuse and pathological aggression. On the one hand, emerging research reveals a shared genetic and environmental predisposition for both cannabis use and aggression, suggesting a common underlying biological mechanism. On the other hand, there is evidence that cannabis consumption can lead to violent behaviors while also being used as a self-medication strategy to mitigate the negative emotions associated with pathological reactive aggression. This suggests that the coexistence of pathological aggression and CUD may result from overlapping vulnerabilities, potentially creating a self-perpetuating cycle where each condition exacerbates the other, escalating into externalizing and violent behaviors. This article aims to synthesize existing research on the intricate connections between these issues and propose a theoretical model to explain the neurobiological mechanisms underpinning this complex relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Giulia Braccagni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Casey A. Pederson
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Gabriele Floris
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neural Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paula J. Fite
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shevorykin A, Hyland BM, Robles D, Ji M, Vantucci D, Bensch L, Thorner H, Marion M, Liskiewicz A, Carl E, Ostroff JS, Sheffer CE. Tobacco use, trauma exposure and PTSD: a systematic review. Health Psychol Rev 2024:1-32. [PMID: 38711288 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2024.2330896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Tobacco use remains one of the most significant preventable public health problems globally and is increasingly concentrated among vulnerable groups, including those with trauma exposure or diagnosed with PTSD. The goal of this systematic review was to update and extend previous reviews. Of the 7224 publications that met the initial criteria, 267 were included in the review. Summary topic areas include conceptual frameworks for the relation between trauma or PTSD and tobacco use; associations between trauma exposure or PTSD and tobacco use; number and type of trauma exposures and tobacco use; PTSD symptoms and tobacco use; Treatment-related studies; and the examination of causal relations. Evidence continues to indicate that individuals exposed to trauma or diagnosed with PTSD are more likely to use tobacco products, more nicotine dependent and less likely to abstain from tobacco even when provided evidence-based treatments than individuals without trauma. The most commonly cited causal association proposed was use of tobacco for self-regulation of negative affect associated with trauma. A small proportion of the studies addressed causality and mechanisms of action. Future work should incorporate methodological approaches and measures from which we can draw causal conclusions and mechanisms to support the development of viable therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina Shevorykin
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bridget M Hyland
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Robles
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Mengjia Ji
- Department of Psychology, The City College of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
| | - Darian Vantucci
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Lindsey Bensch
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Hannah Thorner
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Matthew Marion
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Amylynn Liskiewicz
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ellen Carl
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jamie S Ostroff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine E Sheffer
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kaya-Akyüzlü D, Özkan-Kotiloğlu S, Yıldırım SA, Danışman M, Yıldırım MA, Özgür-İlhan İ. Effect of MAOA rs1465108 polymorphism on susceptibility to substance/alcohol use disorder: a novel PCR-RFLP assay for the detection of MAOA rs1465108. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:400. [PMID: 38457024 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09366-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health and social consequences of substance/alcohol use disorders are harmful. Most of the individuals cannot stop using them due to more likely their genetic background. The current study aimed both to develop a novel PCR-RFLP method for genotyping of MAOA rs1465108 and to analyze the effect of MAOA rs1465108 on the risk of alcohol (AUD), opioid (OUD) or methamphetamine (MUD) use disorders and on the depressive and anxiety symptoms in a Turkish population. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 353 individual with AUD (n = 154), OUD (n = 160) or MUD (n = 39) and 109 healthy subjects were included. The intensity of anxiety and depressive symptoms and craving and opioid withdrawal were measured by appropriate scales. Logistic regression analysis revealed no association between MAOA rs1465108 polymorphism and substance/alcohol use disorder (p > 0.05). Healthy subjects (3.0) had significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms than individuals with OUD (27.0), AUD (21.0) and MUD (25.5) groups. The severity of depressive symptoms was significantly higher in OUD as compared to AUD. There was a statistically significant difference between individuals with AUD, OUD and MUD in view of the average ages of first use (17, 19 and 20 years, respectively) (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The results presented here do not support the hypothesis that MAOA rs1465108 is associated with substance/alcohol use disorders. The intensity of depressive symptoms could be changed according to the abused substance type. A novel PCR-RFLP was developed for genotyping of MAOA rs1465108 polymorphism, which could be a better option for laboratories without high technology equipment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dilek Kaya-Akyüzlü
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Dikimevi, 06590, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Selin Özkan-Kotiloğlu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science and Art, Kırşehir Ahi Evran University, Merkez/Kırşehir, Turkey
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sariye Aybüke Yıldırım
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Dikimevi, 06590, Ankara, Turkey
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Danışman
- Ankara Training and Research Hospital AMATEM Clinic, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mukaddes Asena Yıldırım
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Dikimevi, 06590, Ankara, Turkey
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - İnci Özgür-İlhan
- Department of Mental Health and Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hicks TA, Bustamante D, Bountress KE, Adkins AE, Svikis DS, Gillespie NA, Dick DM, Amstadter AB. Is pre-college interpersonal trauma associated with cannabis use? JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2645-2652. [PMID: 34586040 PMCID: PMC8960473 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1980399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the prevalence and correlates of lifetime cannabis use (i.e., experimental [use 1-5 times] and non-experimental [use ≥ 6 times]) in relation to interpersonal trauma (IPT) above and beyond relevant covariates. PARTICIPANTS A large (n = 9,889) representative sample of college students at an urban university in the southeastern part of the United States. METHODS Participants were 4 cohorts of first-year college students who completed measures of demographics, cannabis, alcohol, nicotine, and IPT. Associations were estimated using multinomial logistic regressions. RESULTS The prevalence of lifetime cannabis use was 28.1% and 17.4% for non-experimental and experimental cannabis use, respectively. IPT was significantly associated with experimental and non-experimental cannabis use above and beyond effects of sex, race, cohort, alcohol, and nicotine. CONCLUSIONS Results show that cannabis use is prevalent among college students and is associated with IPT above and beyond associations with sex, race, and other substance use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terrell A Hicks
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Daniel Bustamante
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kaitlin E Bountress
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Amy E Adkins
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Dace S Svikis
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Nathan A Gillespie
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Danielle M Dick
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Ananda B Amstadter
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jiang Z, Chen Z, Chen X. Candidate gene-environment interactions in substance abuse: A systematic review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287446. [PMID: 37906564 PMCID: PMC10617739 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The abuse of psychogenic drugs can lead to multiple health-related problems. Genetic and environmental vulnerabilities are factors in the emergence of substance use disorders. Empirical evidence regarding the gene-environment interaction in substance use is mixed. Summaries of the latest findings from a candidate gene approach will be useful for revealing the significance of particular gene contributions. Thus, we aim to identify different gene-environment interactions in patterns of substance use and investigate whether any effects trend notably across different genders and races. METHODS We reviewed published studies, until March 1, 2022, on substance use for candidate gene-environment interaction. Basic demographics of the included studies, target genes, environmental factors, main findings, patterns of gene-environment interaction, and other relevant information were collected and summarized. RESULTS Among a total of 44 studies, 38 demonstrated at least one significant interaction effect. About 61.5% of studies on the 5-HTTLPR gene, 100% on the MAOA gene, 42.9% on the DRD2 gene, 50% on the DRD4 gene, 50% on the DAT gene, 80% on the CRHR1 gene, 100% on the OPRM1 gene, 100% on the GABRA1 gene, and 50% on the CHRNA gene had a significant gene-environment interaction effect. The diathesis-stress model represents a dominant interaction pattern (89.5%) in the studies with a significant interaction effect; the remaining significant effect on substance use is found in the differential susceptibility model. The social push and swing model were not reported in the included studies. CONCLUSION The gene-environment interaction research on substance use behavior is methodologically multidimensional, which causes difficulty in conducting pooled analysis, or stated differently-making it hard to identify single sources of significant influence over maladaptive patterns of drug taking. In decreasing the heterogeneity and facilitating future pooled analysis, researchers must (1) replicate the existing studies with consistent study designs and measures, (2) conduct power calculations to report gene-environment correlations, (3) control for covariates, and (4) generate theory-based hypotheses with factorial based experiments when designing future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Jiang
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zidong Chen
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xi Chen
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Sociology and Social Policy, Lingnan University, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hicks TA, Bountress KE, Adkins AE, Svikis DS, Gillespie NA, Dick DM, Amstadter AB. A longitudinal mediational investigation of risk pathways among cannabis use, interpersonal trauma exposure, and trauma-related distress. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA : THEORY, RESEARCH, PRACTICE AND POLICY 2023; 15:969-978. [PMID: 35099217 PMCID: PMC9339011 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE College students are at high risk for cannabis use, interpersonal trauma (IPT) exposure, and trauma-related distress (TRD). Two phenotypic etiologic models posited to explain associations between cannabis use and trauma-related phenotypes are the self-medication (trauma/TRD → cannabis use) and high-risk (cannabis use → trauma/TRD) hypotheses. The primary objective of the present study was to investigate direct and indirect associations among cannabis use, IPT exposure, and TRD above and beyond established covariates. METHOD The current study used data from the first assessment (i.e., baseline survey at Year 1 Fall) and two follow-up assessments (i.e., Year 1 Spring and Year 2 Spring) from an ongoing longitudinal study on college behavioral health. Participants were 4 cohorts of college students (n = 9,889) who completed measures of demographics, substance use, IPT, and TRD. Indirect effects of IPT on cannabis through TRD (i.e., self-medication) and cannabis on TRD through IPT (i.e., high-risk), including tests of covariate effects (e.g., gender, age, race, cohort, alcohol, nicotine), were simultaneously estimated using a longitudinal mediation modeling framework. RESULTS Results suggest that more IPT exposure increases risk for TRD and subsequent nonexperimental (use 6+ times) cannabis use, and that experimental (use 1-5 times) and nonexperimental cannabis use increases risk for IPT exposure and subsequent TRD. CONCLUSIONS Both the self-medication and high-risk hypotheses were supported. Findings support a bidirectional causal relationship between cannabis use and trauma-related phenotypes. Additionally, results highlight areas for colleges to intervene among students to help reduce cannabis use and create a safer environment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terrell A. Hicks
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Kaitlin E. Bountress
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Amy E. Adkins
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Dace S. Svikis
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Nathan A. Gillespie
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Danielle M. Dick
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | | | - Ananda B. Amstadter
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Moura Alves Seixas G, de Souza Freitas R, Ferreira Fratelli C, de Souza Silva CM, Ramos de Lima L, Morato Stival M, Schwerz Funghetto S, Rodrigues da Silva IC. MAOA uVNTR Polymorphism Influence on Older Adults Diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus/Systemic Arterial Hypertension. J Aging Res 2023; 2023:8538027. [PMID: 37533936 PMCID: PMC10393510 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8538027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is involved in several biological processes associated with well-being and mental health, and alterations in its function might directly impact various mental disorders. Some mental disorders concomitantly occur in individuals with clinical characteristics, such as substance abuse and diabetes. Objective To analyze the functional MAOA uVNTR polymorphism genotype frequency in an older adult population with diabetes mellitus/arterial hypertension and associate this frequency with clinical characteristics impacting daily life. Methodology. Older adults diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension, or both (DM/SAH) were selected and had their MAOA gene genotyped for uVNTR polymorphism. The revised Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and a questionnaire were also applied to determine their mental health and clinical characteristics. Results The allelic variants detected among the participants were the 2R, 3R, 4R, and 3R/4R heterozygous genotypes. Genotypes solely containing the 3R allele had patients who marked yes for smoking and alcoholism, and only those with the 3R genotypes (female 3R/3R homozygote or male 3R∗ hemizygote) were significant. Although not statistically significant, only 3R and 3R/4R genotypes presented cases of severe depression per the revised BDI interpretations. Conclusion The MAOA uVNTR polymorphism's low-activity 3R allele presence in an older adult population diagnosed with DM/SAH may represent a risk for developing substance use (alcohol and smoking) dependence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Moura Alves Seixas
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Ceilândia, University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Renata de Souza Freitas
- University Center of Brasília (UniCEUB), Brasília, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Caroline Ferreira Fratelli
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Ceilândia, University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Marina Morato Stival
- Faculty of Ceilândia, University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Serra V, Aroni S, Bortolato M, Frau R, Melis M. Endocannabinoid-dependent decrease of GABAergic transmission on dopaminergic neurons is associated with susceptibility to cocaine stimulant effects in pre-adolescent male MAOA hypomorphic mice exposed to early life stress. Neuropharmacology 2023; 233:109548. [PMID: 37080337 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Vulnerability to cocaine use disorder depends upon a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors. While early life adversity is a critical environmental vulnerability factor for drug misuse, allelic variants of the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene have been shown to moderate its influence on the risk of drug-related problems. However, data on the interactions between MAOA variants and early life stress (ES) with respect to predisposition to cocaine abuse are limited. Here, we show that a mouse model capturing the interaction of genetic (low-activity alleles of the Maoa gene; MAOANeo) and environmental (i.e., ES) vulnerability factors displays an increased sensitivity to repeated in vivo cocaine psychomotor stimulant actions associated with a reduction of GABAA receptor-mediated inhibition of dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Depolarization-induced suppression of inhibition (DSI), a 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2AG)-dependent form of short-term plasticity, also becomes readily expressed by dopamine neurons from male MAOANeo ES mice repeatedly treated with cocaine. The activation of either dopamine D2 or CB1 receptors contributes to cocaine-induced DSI expression, decreased GABA synaptic efficacy, and hyperlocomotion. Next, in vivo pharmacological enhancement of 2AG signaling during repeated cocaine exposure occludes its actions both in vivo and ex vivo. This data extends our knowledge of the multifaceted sequelae imposed by this gene-environment interaction in VTA dopamine neurons of male pre-adolescent mice and contributes to our understanding of neural mechanisms of vulnerability for early onset cocaine use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Sonia Aroni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, 84112, USA
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wessels SH, Macaulay S, Norris SA, Richter LM, May AK. Maternal Education Potentially Moderates the MAOA uVNTR Effects on Externalizing Behavior in Black South African Children. J Genet Psychol 2023; 184:117-132. [PMID: 36259534 DOI: 10.1080/00221325.2022.2134756] [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: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Interactions between the MAOA uVNTR and rearing environment are suggested to influence the developmental manifestations of childhood internalizing and externalizing behavior. However, few studies in the MAOA literature have included continental African children, or focused on non-clinical samples. We explored the main and interactive effects of the MAOA uVNTR (high and low activity alleles) in Black South African male (n = 478) and female (n = 540) children who were part of the longitudinal Birth to Twenty Plus cohort. Historical data on birth weight, gestational age at delivery, socioeconomic status, and maternal education were combined with genotypic information and analyzed using regression modeling. We found no significant main effects for the MAOA uVNTR on childhood behavior in either sex. A significant interaction (p = .04) was identified between MAOA and maternal education, suggesting that externalizing behavior in boys carrying a low activity MAOA allele varied in direct proportion to the education levels of their mothers. However, the model fit failed to reach significance, possibly due to our inclusion of only non-clinical pre-pubertal males. No significant interactions were detected for female children. Our findings lend tentative credibility to the Environmental Sensitivity metaframework, which suggests that MAOA is an important plasticity factor in childhood development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephan H Wessels
- Division of Human Genetics, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Shelley Macaulay
- Division of Human Genetics, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Shane A Norris
- Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- The DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Linda M Richter
- The DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Andrew K May
- Division of Human Genetics, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Theorizing the Role of Dopaminergic Polymorphic Risk Alleles with Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED), Violent/Aggressive Behavior and Addiction: Justification of Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) Testing. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12121946. [PMID: 36556167 PMCID: PMC9784939 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12121946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific studies have provided evidence that there is a relationship between violent and aggressive behaviors and addictions. Genes involved with the reward system, specifically the brain reward cascade (BRC), appear to be associated with various addictions and impulsive, aggressive, and violent behaviors. In our previous research, we examined the Taq A1 allele (variant D2 dopamine receptor gene) and the DAT-40 base repeat (a variant of the dopamine transporter gene) in 11 Caucasian boys at the Brown School in San Marcus, Texas, diagnosed with intermittent explosive disorder. Thirty supernormal controls were screened to exclude several reward-deficit behaviors, including pathological violence, and genotyped for the DRD2 gene. Additionally, 91 controls were screened to exclude ADHD, pathological violence, alcoholism, drug dependence, and tobacco abuse, and their results were compared with DAT1 genotype results. In the schoolboys vs. supercontrols, there was a significant association with the D2 variant and a trend with the dopamine transporter variant. Results support our hypothesis and the involvement of at least two gene risk alleles with adolescent violent/aggressive behaviors. This study and the research presented in this paper suggest that violent/aggressive behaviors are associated with a greater risk of addiction, mediated via various genes linked to the BRC. This review provides a contributory analysis of how gene polymorphisms, especially those related to the brain reward circuitry, are associated with violent behaviors.
Collapse
|
11
|
Hicks TA, Zaur AJ, Keeley JW, Amstadter AB. The association between recreational cannabis use and posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review and methodological critique of the literature. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 240:109623. [PMID: 36162309 PMCID: PMC9665003 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given recent changes in the legal status of cannabis, the risks and benefits associated with its use have become an important public health topic. A growing body of research has demonstrated that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and recreational cannabis use (RCU) frequently co-occur, yet findings are inconsistent (e.g., direction of effect) and methodological variability makes comparison across studies difficult. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive systematic review of all studies (N = 45) published before May 2020 regarding etiologic models of co-occurring RCU and PTSD, as well as provided a methodological critique to inform suggestions for future research initiatives. RESULTS Findings indicate that a majority of studies (n = 37) demonstrated a significant association between RCU and PTSD. Findings provide evidence for the self-medication and high-risk models posited to explain co-occurring RCU and PTSD despite variability in assessment of RCU, which includes commonly used non-standardized self-report questions. CONCLUSION The association between RCU and PTSD is likely bidirectional. Results inform clinicians and researchers working in the mental health and cannabis use fields how the variability in findings on the association between RCU and PTSD may be attributable, in part, to methodological issues that permeate the extant literature pertaining to RCU and PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terrell A Hicks
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA; Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA.
| | - Angela J Zaur
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Jared W Keeley
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Ananda B Amstadter
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA; Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA; Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kanarik M, Grimm O, Mota NR, Reif A, Harro J. ADHD co-morbidities: A review of implication of gene × environment effects with dopamine-related genes. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 139:104757. [PMID: 35777579 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104757] [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: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
ADHD is a major burden in adulthood, where co-morbid conditions such as depression, substance use disorder and obesity often dominate the clinical picture. ADHD has substantial shared heritability with other mental disorders, contributing to comorbidity. However, environmental risk factors exist but their interaction with genetic makeup, especially in relation to comorbid disorders, remains elusive. This review for the first time summarizes present knowledge on gene x environment (GxE) interactions regarding the dopamine system. Hitherto, mainly candidate (GxE) studies were performed, focusing on the genes DRD4, DAT1 and MAOA. Some evidence suggest that the variable number tandem repeats in DRD4 and MAOA may mediate GxE interactions in ADHD generally, and comorbid conditions specifically. Nevertheless, even for these genes, common variants are bound to suggest risk only in the context of gender and specific environments. For other polymorphisms, evidence is contradictory and less convincing. Particularly lacking are longitudinal studies testing the interaction of well-defined environmental with polygenic risk scores reflecting the dopamine system in its entirety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margus Kanarik
- Chair of Neuropsychopharmacology, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A Chemicum, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Oliver Grimm
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nina Roth Mota
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jaanus Harro
- Chair of Neuropsychopharmacology, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A Chemicum, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; Psychiatry Clinic, North Estonia Medical Centre, Paldiski Road 52, 10614 Tallinn, Estonia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Brown S, Fite PJ, Bortolato M. The mediating role of impulsivity in the associations between child maltreatment types and past month substance use. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 128:105591. [PMID: 35306342 PMCID: PMC9119917 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child maltreatment has emerged as an important risk factor for substance use. However, despite evidence consistently demonstrating that substance use peaks during emerging adulthood, less is known about the specificity of maltreatment effects on substance use during this critical developmental period. Further, the factors that might play a role in these associations are not well understood. OBJECTIVE The current study examined the associations between child maltreatment types (i.e., physical abuse, physical neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and emotional neglect) and past month marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco use among emerging adults, and tested whether impulsivity accounted for these associations. METHODS Participants were 500 emerging adults ranging in age between 18 and 25 years old (M = 18.96, SD = 1.22, 49.6% male) recruited from a large, public university in the Midwest United States. RESULTS Tests of indirect effects suggested that impulsivity accounted for associations between emotional abuse and past month marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco use. CONCLUSIONS Current findings provide support for impulsivity as a mechanism linking childhood emotional abuse to substance use among emerging adults, highlighting the need for targeted screening and intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaquanna Brown
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, 2009 Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA.
| | - Paula J Fite
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, 2009 Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, 2009 Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lippard ETC, Nemeroff CB. Going beyond risk factor: Childhood maltreatment and associated modifiable targets to improve life-long outcomes in mood disorders. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 215:173361. [PMID: 35219755 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment increases risk for mood disorders and is associated with earlier onset-and more pernicious disease course following onset-of mood disorders. While the majority of studies to date have been cross-sectional, longitudinal studies are emerging and support the devastating role(s) childhood maltreatment has on development of, and illness course in, mood disorders. This manuscript extends prior reviews to emphasize more recent work, highlighting longitudinal data, and discusses treatment studies that provide clues to mechanisms that mediate disease risk, course, relapse, and treatment response. Evidence suggesting systemic inflammation, alterations in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) neural systems, genetic and other familial factors as mechanisms that mediate risk and onset of, and illness course in, mood disorders following childhood maltreatment is discussed. Risky behaviors following maltreatment, e.g., substance use and unhealthy lifestyles, may further exacerbate alterations in the HPA axis, CRF neural systems, and systematic inflammation to contribute to a more pernicious disease course. More research on sex differences and the impact of maltreatment in vulnerable populations is needed. Future research needs to be aimed at leveraging knowledge on modifiable targets, going beyond childhood maltreatment as a risk factor, to inform prevention and treatment strategies and foster trauma-informed care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth T C Lippard
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Institute of Early Life Adversity Research, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Mulva Clinic for Neuroscience, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA.
| | - Charles B Nemeroff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Institute of Early Life Adversity Research, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA; Mulva Clinic for Neuroscience, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dai Y, Zhang C, Zhang L, Wen C, Zhu T. The modulation of mRNA levels of MAOA by electroacupuncture and psychotherapy in patients with pathological internet use. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:918729. [PMID: 36032227 PMCID: PMC9403867 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.918729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to observe the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) and psychotherapy (PT) effect on the mental status, sleep quality and impulsive trait in patients with pathological internet use, and to observe the changes of Monoamine oxidase type A (MAOA) messenger Ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels in each group. METHODS A total of 60 PIU patients were included for the present study. These patients were randomly divided into two groups: EA group and PT group. Baihui, Sishencong, Hegu, Neiguan, Shenmen, Taichong, Sanyinjiao and Xuanzhong were selected for acupuncture in the EA group, while group psychotherapy combined with individual psychotherapy was used for intervention in patients in the PT group. Young's Internet addiction Test (IAT), Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Barratt Impulse Scale (BIS-11) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to observe the severity of Internet addiction, mental status, sleep quality and impulsive trait of all patients at baseline and 40th days of treatment; and MAOA mRNA data were collected at baseline and 40th days of treatment. RESULTS Electroacupuncture and psychological intervention effectively reduced IAT, SAS, SDS, Y-BOCS, BIS and PSQI scores of PIU patients. After 40 days treatment, the MAOA expression of the PT group was increased, and there was no significant change in EA group. The correlation analysis indicated that IAT scores were positively correlated with SAS, SDS, Y-BOCS, BIS and PSQI at baseline. In addition, after treatment the EA group showed that the change in IAT scores was positively correlated with the change in Y-BOCS and BIS scores, and the PT group showed that the change in IAT scores was positively correlated with the change in SDS, BIS and PSQI scores. CONCLUSION The present study showed that electroacupuncture and psychological intervention can improve severity of Internet addiction, mental status, sleep quality and impulsive trait of PIU patients. Simultaneously, neurobiological changes may be the underlying mechanisms of psychotherapy for internet additcion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Dai
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu Eighth People's Hospital (Geriatric Hospital of Chengdu Medical College), Chengdu, China.,College of Rehabilitation and Health Preservation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chenchen Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Longquanyi District, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingrui Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Leshan Vocational and Technical College, Leshan, China
| | - Chao Wen
- College of Rehabilitation and Health Preservation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Tianmin Zhu
- College of Rehabilitation and Health Preservation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Gerra ML, Gerra MC, Tadonio L, Pellegrini P, Marchesi C, Mattfeld E, Gerra G, Ossola P. Early parent-child interactions and substance use disorder: An attachment perspective on a biopsychosocial entanglement. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:560-580. [PMID: 34606823 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This review aims to elucidate environmental and genetic factors, as well as their epigenetic and neuroendocrine moderators, that may underlie the association between early childhood experiences and Substance Use Disorders (SUD), through the lens of parental attachment. Here we review those attachment-related studies that examined the monoaminergic systems, the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal stress response system, the oxytoninergic system, and the endogenous opioid system from a genetic, epigenetic, and neuroendocrine perspective. Overall, the selected studies point to a moderating effect of insecure attachment between genetic vulnerability and SUD, reasonably through epigenetic modifications. Preliminary evidence suggests that vulnerability to SUDs is related with hypo-methylation (e.g. hyper-expression) of high-risk polymorphisms on the monoaminergic and hypothalamic pituitary adrenal system and hyper-methylation (e.g. hypo-expressions) of protective polymorphisms on the opioid and oxytocin system. These epigenetic modifications may induce a cascade of neuroendocrine changes contributing to the subclinical and behavioural manifestations that precede the clinical onset of SUD. Protective and supportive parenting could hence represent a key therapeutic target to prevent addiction and moderate insecure attachment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Carla Gerra
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI®, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Carlo Marchesi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Elizabeth Mattfeld
- Drug Prevention and Health Branch, Prevention Treatment and Rehabilitation Section, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Gilberto Gerra
- Department of Mental Health, AUSL of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Paolo Ossola
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI®, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Levantini V, Powe C, Lochman JE, Glenn A. Monoamine Oxidase-A and Conduct Problems in Children: The Role of Affective Decision-Making. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10862-021-09917-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
18
|
Cerniglia L, Cimino S, Marzilli E, Pascale E, Tambelli R. Associations Among Internet Addiction, Genetic Polymorphisms, Family Functioning, and Psychopathological Risk: Cross-Sectional Exploratory Study. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e17341. [PMID: 33361057 PMCID: PMC7790611 DOI: 10.2196/17341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND International research has emphasized that youths are at higher risk for the onset of internet addiction (IA), but studies investigating biological, psychological, and social factors associated with this condition are limited. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the possible association between IA and genetic polymorphisms in monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), serotonin-transporter (5-HTTPR), dopamine receptor (DRD4), and dopamine transporter (DAT1) genes by considering the role played by the perception of young adults in their family functioning and their depression, anxiety, and avoidant personality problems. METHODS In a sample of 104 male and female young adults aged between 19 and 23 years (mean age 21.87, SD 2.29 years) recruited from universities in the central southern part of Italy, we addressed the presence of IA using the Young criteria of the IA test. Moreover, the perception of young adults of their family functioning and their psychopathological symptoms were assessed through the Family Assessment Device (FAD) and the Adult Self-Report, respectively. RESULTS We found no significant association between IA and any genetic polymorphisms, neither among males or females. Young adults with IA reported significantly higher scores in the subscale of FAD affective responsiveness (AR; P=.01) and in depressive problems (P=.02), anxiety problems (P=.009), and avoidant personality problems (P=.003) than those in the control group. Results of mediation analyses showed a mediation role played by depressive symptoms (B=0.99; 95% CI 0.22 to 1.97) and avoidant personality problems (B=1.09; 95% CI 0.32 to 2.05) of young adults on the relationship between the FAD, AR, and IA. Finally, this relationship was moderated by the genotype of the 5-HTTLPR (P<.001), DAT1 (P<.001), and MAO-A (P<.001) genes in young adults. CONCLUSIONS This exploratory study supports the recent evidence on the mutual relationship among biological, individual, and social risk factors associated with IA in young adulthood. Our findings may have important clinical implications for the development of prevention and treatment programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cerniglia
- International Telematic University Uninettuno, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kolla NJ, Bortolato M. The role of monoamine oxidase A in the neurobiology of aggressive, antisocial, and violent behavior: A tale of mice and men. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 194:101875. [PMID: 32574581 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, research has revealed that genetic factors shape the propensity for aggressive, antisocial, and violent behavior. The best-documented gene implicated in aggression is MAOA (Monoamine oxidase A), which encodes the key enzyme for the degradation of serotonin and catecholamines. Congenital MAOA deficiency, as well as low-activity MAOA variants, has been associated with a higher risk for antisocial behavior (ASB) and violence, particularly in males with a history of child maltreatment. Indeed, the interplay between low MAOA genetic variants and early-life adversity is the best-documented gene × environment (G × E) interaction in the pathophysiology of aggression and ASB. Additional evidence indicates that low MAOA activity in the brain is strongly associated with a higher propensity for aggression; furthermore, MAOA inhibition may be one of the primary mechanisms whereby prenatal smoke exposure increases the risk of ASB. Complementary to these lines of evidence, mouse models of Maoa deficiency and G × E interactions exhibit striking similarities with clinical phenotypes, proving to be valuable tools to investigate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying antisocial and aggressive behavior. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the knowledge on the involvement of MAOA in aggression, as defined by preclinical and clinical evidence. In particular, we show how the convergence of human and animal research is proving helpful to our understanding of how MAOA influences antisocial and violent behavior and how it may assist in the development of preventative and therapeutic strategies for aggressive manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Kolla
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Research Imaging Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada; Violence Prevention Neurobiological Research Unit, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada; Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada; Translational Initiative on Antisocial Personality Disorder (TrIAD); Program of Research on Violence Etiology, Neurobiology, and Treatment (PReVENT).
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Translational Initiative on Antisocial Personality Disorder (TrIAD); Program of Research on Violence Etiology, Neurobiology, and Treatment (PReVENT).
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fite PJ, Brown S, Hossain WA, Manzardo A, Butler MG, Bortolato M. Sex-Dimorphic Interactions of MAOA Genotype and Child Maltreatment Predispose College Students to Polysubstance Use. Front Genet 2020; 10:1314. [PMID: 32010186 PMCID: PMC6978277 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.01314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polysubstance use (PSU) is highly prevalent among college students. Recent evidence indicates that PSU is based on gene x environment (G×E) interactions, yet the specific biosocial factors underlying this problem remain elusive. We recently reported that lifetime use of tobacco and cannabis in college students is influenced by the interaction of the X-linked MAOA (monoamine oxidase A) gene and child maltreatment. Building on these premises, here we evaluated whether the same G×E interaction may also predict PSU in this population. Students of a large Midwestern university (n = 470; 50.9% females) took part in a computer survey for substance use, as well as childhood trauma exposure, using the Child Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). DNA was extracted from their saliva samples and genotyped for MAOA variable-number of tandem repeat (VNTR) variants. Findings indicated that the highest number of substances were used by male students harboring low-activity MAOA alleles with a history of childhood emotional abuse. In contrast, female homozygous high-activity MAOA carriers with a history of emotional and physical abuse reported consumption of the greatest number of substances. Our results indicate that PSU among college students is influenced by the interaction of MAOA and child maltreatment in a sex-specific fashion. Further studies are warranted to understand the mechanisms of sex differences in the biosocial interplays underlying PSU in this at-risk group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula J. Fite
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Shaquanna Brown
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Waheeda A. Hossain
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Ann Manzardo
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Merlin G. Butler
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fite PJ, Brown S, Hossain W, Manzardo A, Butler MG, Bortolato M. Tobacco and cannabis use in college students are predicted by sex-dimorphic interactions between MAOA genotype and child abuse. CNS Neurosci Ther 2018; 25:101-111. [PMID: 29952131 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postsecondary students in Western countries exhibit a high prevalence of cannabis and tobacco use disorders. The etiology of these problems is contributed by several psychosocial factors, including childhood adversity and trauma; however, the mechanisms whereby these environmental determinants predispose to the use of these substances remain elusive, due to our poor knowledge of genetic and biological moderators. Converging evidence points to the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene as a moderator of the effects of lifetime stress on the initiation of substance use. AIMS Building on these premises, in this study, we analyzed whether MAOA upstream variable number tandem repeat (uVNTR) alleles interact with child maltreatment history to predict for lifetime cannabis and tobacco consumption. MATERIALS AND METHODS Five hundred college students (age: 18-25 years) from a large Midwestern University were surveyed for their child maltreatment history (encompassing emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as emotional and physical neglect) and lifetime consumption of cannabis and tobacco. Saliva samples were obtained to determine the MAOA uVNTR genotype of each participant. RESULTS In female students, lifetime tobacco and cannabis use was predicted by the interaction of physical and emotional abuse with high-activity MAOA allelic variants; conversely, in males, the interaction of low-activity MAOA alleles and physical abuse was associated with lifetime use of tobacco, but not cannabis. DISCUSSION These findings collectively suggest that the vulnerability to smoke tobacco and cannabis is predicted by sex-dimorphic interactions of MAOA gene with childhood abuse. CONCLUSION These biosocial underpinnings of tobacco and cannabis use may prove important in the development of novel personalized preventive strategies for substance use disorders in adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula J Fite
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Shaquanna Brown
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Waheeda Hossain
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Departments of Psychiatry, Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Ann Manzardo
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Departments of Psychiatry, Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Merlin G Butler
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Departments of Psychiatry, Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|