1
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Abstract
Stress system dysfunction is a typical characteristic of acute depression and other mood disorders. The exact pattern of factors predisposing for stress-related mental disorders is yet to be unraveled. However, corticosteroid receptor function plays an important role for appropriate or dysfunctional neuroendocrine responses to stress exposure and hence in resilience or risk for the development and course of both, depression and anxiety disorders. Solid neuroscience data strongly support that both neuropeptides, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and vasopressin (AVP), are central in coordinating humoral and behavioral adaptation to stress. Other neuropeptides, including oxytocin, neuropeptide S, neuropeptide Y, and orexin, are also considered important contributors. Attempts to turn neuropeptide biology into treatments for stress-related disorders need to consider that neuropeptide receptors are specific drug targets for certain patient populations rather than universal targets for all patients, like biogenic amine systems. That is why most negative clinical trials testing neuropeptide receptor antagonists have been in fact failed trials by design, because no companion tests were used to identify which patients with depression are most likely to benefit from a specific neuropeptide receptor-targeting drug treatment. Therefore, the most important future research task is discovery and development of appropriate companion tests that will allow the successful transfer of the precious treasure of neuropeptide system-targeting drugs into clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcus Ising
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
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2
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Sex differences in behavioral and metabolic effects of gene inactivation: The neuropeptide Y and Y receptors in the brain. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 119:333-347. [PMID: 33045245 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Brain and gonadal hormones interplay controls metabolic and behavioral functions in a sex-related manner. However, most translational neuroscience research related to animal models of endocrine and psychiatric disorders are often carried out in male animals only. The Neuropeptide Y (NPY) system shows sex-dependent differences and is sensitive to gonadal steroids. Based on published data from our and other laboratories, in this review we will discuss the sex related differences of NPY action on energy balance, bone homeostasis and behavior in rodents with the genetic manipulation of genes encoding NPY and its Y1, Y2 and Y5 cognate receptors. Comparative analyses of the phenotype of transgenic and knockout NPY and Y receptor rodents unravels sex dependent differences in the functions of this neurotransmission system, potentially helping to develop therapeutics for a variety of sex-related disorders including metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis and ethanol addiction.
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3
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Chen WC, Liu YB, Liu WF, Zhou YY, He HF, Lin S. Neuropeptide Y Is an Immunomodulatory Factor: Direct and Indirect. Front Immunol 2020; 11:580378. [PMID: 33123166 PMCID: PMC7573154 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.580378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY), which is widely distributed in the nervous system, is involved in regulating a variety of biological processes, including food intake, energy metabolism, and emotional expression. However, emerging evidence points to NPY also as a critical transmitter between the nervous system and immune system, as well as a mediator produced and released by immune cells. In vivo and in vitro studies based on gene-editing techniques and specific NPY receptor agonists and antagonists have demonstrated that NPY is responsible for multifarious direct modulations on immune cells by acting on NPY receptors. Moreover, via the central or peripheral nervous system, NPY is closely connected to body temperature regulation, obesity development, glucose metabolism, and emotional expression, which are all immunomodulatory factors for the immune system. In this review, we focus on the direct role of NPY in immune cells and particularly discuss its indirect impact on the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Can Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yi-Bin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Feng Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Ying-Ying Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - He-Fan He
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China.,Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China.,Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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4
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Bertocchi I, Oberto A, Longo A, Palanza P, Eva C. Conditional inactivation of Npy1r gene in mice induces sex-related differences of metabolic and behavioral functions. Horm Behav 2020; 125:104824. [PMID: 32755609 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sex hormone-driven differences in gene expression have been identified in experimental animals, highlighting brain neuronal populations implicated in dimorphism of metabolic and behavioral functions. Neuropeptide Y-Y1 receptor (NPY-Y1R) system is sexually dimorphic and sensitive to gonadal steroids. In the present study we compared the phenotype of male and female conditional knockout mice (Npy1rrfb mice), carrying the inactivation of Npy1r gene in excitatory neurons of the brain limbic system. Compared to their male control (Npy1r2lox) littermates, male Npy1rrfb mice exhibited hyperactivation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis that is associated with anxiety and executive dysfunction, reduced body weight growth, after-fasting refeeding, white adipose tissue (WAT) mass and plasma leptin levels. Conversely, female Npy1rrfb mice displayed an anxious-like behavior but no differences in HPA axis activity, executive function and body weight, compared to control females. Moreover, conditional inactivation of Npy1r gene induced an increase of subcutaneous and gonadal WAT weight and plasma leptin levels and a compensatory decrease of Agouti-related protein immunoreactivity in the hypothalamic arcuate (ARC) nucleus in females, compared to their respective control littermates. Interestingly, Npy1r mRNA expression was reduced in the ARC and in the paraventricular hypothalamic nuclei of female, but not male mice. These results demonstrated that female mice are resilient to hormonal and metabolic effects of limbic Npy1r gene inactivation, suggesting the existence of an estrogen-dependent relay necessary to ensure the maintenance of the homeostasis, that can be mediated by hypothalamic Y1R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Bertocchi
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandra Oberto
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin, Italy
| | - Angela Longo
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Palanza
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy
| | - Carola Eva
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin, Italy.
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5
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NURR1 deficiency is associated to ADHD-like phenotypes in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:207. [PMID: 31455763 PMCID: PMC6712038 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0544-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor NURR1 regulates the dopamine (DA) signaling pathway and exerts a critical role in the development of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDA). NURR1 alterations have been linked to DA-associated brain disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. However, the association between NURR1 defects and the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a DA-associated brain disease characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention, has never been demonstrated. To date, a comprehensive murine model of ADHD truly reflecting the whole complex human psychiatric disorder still does not exist. NURR1-knockout (NURR1-KO) mice have been reported to exhibit increased spontaneous locomotor activity, but their complete characterization is still lacking. In the present study a wide-ranging test battery was used to perform a comprehensive analysis of the behavioral phenotype of the male NURR1-KO mice. As a result, their hyperactive phenotype was confirmed, while their impulsive behavior was reported for the first time. On the other hand, no anxiety and alterations in motor coordination, sociability and memory were observed. Also, the number of mDA expressing tyrosine hydroxylase, a rate-limiting enzyme of catecholamines biosynthesis, and DA level in brain were not impaired in NURR1-KO mice. Finally, hyperactivity has been shown to be recovered by treatment with methylphenidate, the first line psychostimulant drug used for ADHD. Overall, our study suggests that the NURR1 deficient male mouse may be a satisfactory model to study some ADHD behavioral phenotypes and to test the clinical efficacy of potential therapeutic agents.
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6
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Gołyszny M, Obuchowicz E. Are neuropeptides relevant for the mechanism of action of SSRIs? Neuropeptides 2019; 75:1-17. [PMID: 30824124 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are drugs of first choice in the therapy of moderate to severe depression and anxiety disorders. Their primary mechanism of action is via influence of the serotonergic (5-HT) system, but a growing amount of data provides evidence for other non-monoaminergic players in SSRI effects. It is assumed that neuropeptides, which play a role as neuromodulators in the CNS, are involved in their mechanism of action. In this review we focus on six neuropeptides: corticotropin-releasing factor - CRF, galanin - GAL, oxytocin - OT, vasopressin - AVP, neuropeptide Y - NPY, and orexins - OXs. First, information about their roles in depression and anxiety disorders are presented. Then, findings describing their interactions with the 5-HT system are summarized. These data provide background for analysis of the results of published preclinical and clinical studies related to SSRI effects on the neuropeptide systems. We also report findings showing how modulation of neuropeptide transmission influences behavioral and neurochemical effects of SSRIs. Finally, future research necessary for enriching our knowledge of SSRI mechanisms of action is proposed. Recognition of new molecular targets for antidepressants will have a significant effect on the development of novel therapeutic strategies for mood-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miłosz Gołyszny
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Poniatowskiego 15, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Ewa Obuchowicz
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Poniatowskiego 15, 40-055 Katowice, Poland.
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7
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Serova LI, Nwokafor C, Van Bockstaele EJ, Reyes BAS, Lin X, Sabban EL. Single prolonged stress PTSD model triggers progressive severity of anxiety, altered gene expression in locus coeruleus and hypothalamus and effected sensitivity to NPY. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:482-492. [PMID: 30878321 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2019.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PTSD is heterogeneous disorder that can be long lasting and often has delayed onset following exposure to a traumatic event. Therefore, it is important to take a staging approach to evaluate progression of biological mechanisms of the disease. Here, we begin to evaluate the temporal trajectory of changes following exposure to traumatic stressors in the SPS rat PTSD model. The percent of animals displaying severe anxiety on EPM increased from 17.5% at one week to 57.1% two weeks after SPS stressors, indicating delayed onset or progressive worsening of the symptoms. The LC displayed prolonged activation, and dysbalance of the CRH/NPY systems, with enhanced CRHR1 gene expression, coupled with reduced mRNAs for NPY and Y2R. In the mediobasal hypothalamus, increased CRH mRNA levels were sustained, but there was a flip in alterations of HPA regulatory molecules, GR and FKBP5 and Y5 receptor at two weeks compared to one week. Two weeks after SPS, intranasal NPY at 300 µg/rat, but not 150 µg which was effective after one week, reversed SPS triggered elevated anxiety. It also reversed SPS elicited depressive/despair symptoms and hyperarousal. Overall, the results reveal time-dependent progression in development of anxiety symptoms and molecular impairments in gene expression for CRH and NPY systems in LC and mediobasal hypothalamus by SPS. With longer time afterwards only a higher dose of NPY was effective in reversing behavioral impairments triggered by SPS, indicating that therapeutic approaches should be adjusted according to the degree of biological progression of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia I Serova
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College Valhalla, Basic Sciences Building, New York, NY 10595, USA
| | - Chiso Nwokafor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College Valhalla, Basic Sciences Building, New York, NY 10595, USA
| | | | - Beverly A S Reyes
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19012, USA
| | - Xiaoping Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College Valhalla, Basic Sciences Building, New York, NY 10595, USA
| | - Esther L Sabban
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College Valhalla, Basic Sciences Building, New York, NY 10595, USA.
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8
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Neuropeptide Y impairs the acquisition of conditioned defeat in Syrian hamsters. Neurosci Lett 2018; 690:214-218. [PMID: 30312751 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence indicates that Neuropeptide Y (NPY) may function as a potent anxiolytic as well as a resilience factor that can insulate the brain from the effects of stress. However, most of these studies have utilized physical stressors such as shock or restraint. In the present study, we use an ethologically-based model in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) called Conditioned Defeat (CD) to investigate whether NPY can ameliorate the effect of social defeat stress. In the CD model, a male Syrian hamster is socially defeated by a larger, more aggressive conspecific. Subsequently, when paired with a smaller, non-aggressive intruder (NAI) in its own home cage, changes in its behavioral repertoire occur, including a reduction in aggression and chemosensory (social) investigation, and a concomitant increase in submissive behaviors. In Experiment 1, hamsters were infused intracerebroventricularly (icv) with NPY prior to social defeat, and 24-hours later, hamsters were exposed to a NAI. Results indicate that NPY significantly reduced submissive/defensive behaviors in socially defeated hamsters compared to control animals. In Experiment 2, we examined whether this effect was mediated by the NPY Y1 receptor. Subjects were first pre-treated with the Y1 receptor antagonist BIBP 3226 or vehicle, followed by NPY and then socially defeated. Upon testing with a NAI 24-hours later, pretreatment with BIBP 3226 failed to block the NPY effect compared to controls. These results demonstrate that NPY may function as an important resilience factor in socially defeated hamsters, but that these effects are not mediated by the Y1 receptor.
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9
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Theisen CC, Reyes BA, Sabban E, Van Bockstaele EJ. Ultrastructural Characterization of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor and Neuropeptide Y in the Rat Locus Coeruleus: Anatomical Evidence for Putative Interactions. Neuroscience 2018; 384:21-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.04.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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10
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Longo A, Fadda M, Brasso C, Mele P, Palanza P, Nanavaty I, Bertocchi I, Oberto A, Eva C. Conditional inactivation of Npy1r gene in mice induces behavioural inflexibility and orbitofrontal cortex hyperactivity that are reversed by escitalopram. Neuropharmacology 2018; 133:12-22. [PMID: 29353053 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility is the ability to rapidly adapt established patterns of behaviour in the face of changing circumstance and depends critically on the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Impaired flexibility also results from altered serotonin transmission in the OFC. The Y1 (Y1R) and Y5 (Y5R) receptors for neuropeptide Y (NPY) colocalize in several brain regions and have overlapping functions in regulating cognition and emotional behaviour. The targeted disruption of gene encoding Y1R (Npy1r gene) in Y5R containing neurons (Npy1rY5R-/- mice) increases anxiety-like behaviour and spatial reference memory. Here we used the same conditional system to analyse whether the coordinated expression of the Y1R and Y5R might be required for behavioural flexibility in reversal learning tasks, OFC serotoninergic tone and OFC neural activity, as detected by immunohistochemical quantification of the immediate-early gene, c-Fos. In addition, we investigated whether the acute treatment of Npy1rY5R-/- mice with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor escitalopram affected behavioural flexibility and OFC c-Fos expression. Npy1rY5R-/- male mice exhibit an impairment in performing the reversal task of the Morris water maze and the water T-maze but normal spatial learning, working memory and sociability, compared to their control siblings. Furthermore, Npy1rY5R-/- male mice display decreased 5-hydroxytriptamine (5-HT) positive fibres and increased baseline neural activity in OFC. Importantly, escitalopram normalizes OFC neural activity and restores behavioural flexibility of Npy1rY5R-/- male mice. These findings suggest that the inactivation of Y1R in Y5R containing neurons increases pyramidal neuron activity and dysregulates serotoninergic tone in OFC, whereby contributing to reversal learning impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Longo
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Melissa Fadda
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Claudio Brasso
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Mele
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Palanza
- Department of Medicine - Neuroscience Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Ishira Nanavaty
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bertocchi
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandra Oberto
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Carola Eva
- Neuroscience Institute of the Cavalieri-Ottolenghi Foundation, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, C.so Massimo d'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy.
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11
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Chronic stress leads to epigenetic dysregulation in the neuropeptide-Y and cannabinoid CB1 receptor genes in the mouse cingulate cortex. Neuropharmacology 2017; 113:301-313. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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12
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Neuropeptide Y, resilience, and PTSD therapeutics. Neurosci Lett 2016; 649:164-169. [PMID: 27913193 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.11.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Resilience to traumatic stress is a complex psychobiological process that protects individuals from developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other untoward consequences of exposure to extreme stress, including depression. Progress in translational research points toward the neuropeptide Y (NPY) system - among others - as a key mediator of stress response and as a potential therapeutic focus for PTSD. Substantial preclinical evidence supports the role of NPY in the modulation of stress response and in the regulation of anxiety in animal models. Clinical studies testing the safety and efficacy of modulating the NPY system in humans, however, have lagged behind. In the current article, we review the evidence base for targeting the NPY system as a therapeutic approach in PTSD, and consider impediments and potential solutions to therapeutic development.
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13
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Schmeltzer SN, Herman JP, Sah R. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD): A translational update. Exp Neurol 2016; 284:196-210. [PMID: 27377319 PMCID: PMC8375392 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2016.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a trauma-evoked syndrome, with variable prevalence within the human population due to individual differences in coping and resiliency. In this review, we discuss evidence supporting the relevance of neuropeptide Y (NPY), a stress regulatory transmitter in PTSD. We consolidate findings from preclinical, clinical, and translational studies of NPY that are of relevance to PTSD with an attempt to provide a current update of this area of research. NPY is abundantly expressed in forebrain limbic and brainstem areas that regulate stress and emotional behaviors. Studies in rodents demonstrate a role for NPY in stress responses, anxiety, fear, and autonomic regulation, all relevant to PTSD symptomology. Genetic studies support an association of NPY polymorphisms with stress coping and affect. Importantly, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measurements in combat veterans provide direct evidence of NPY association with PTSD diagnosis and symptomology. In addition, NPY involvement in pain, depression, addiction, and metabolism may be relevant to comorbidities associated with PTSD. Collectively, the literature supports the relevance of NPY to PTSD pathophysiology, although knowledge gaps remain. The NPY system is an attractive target in terms of understanding the physiological basis of PTSD as well as treatment of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah N Schmeltzer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45237, United States
| | - James P Herman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45237, United States
| | - Renu Sah
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45237, United States; VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, United States.
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14
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Bo E, Farinetti A, Marraudino M, Sterchele D, Eva C, Gotti S, Panzica G. Adult exposure to tributyltin affects hypothalamic neuropeptide Y, Y1 receptor distribution, and circulating leptin in mice. Andrology 2016; 4:723-34. [PMID: 27310180 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Tributyltin (TBT), a pesticide used in antifouling paints, is toxic for aquatic invertebrates. In vertebrates, TBT may act in obesogen- inducing adipogenetic gene transcription for adipocyte differentiation. In a previous study, we demonstrated that acute administration of TBT induces c-fos expression in the arcuate nucleus. Therefore, in this study, we tested the hypothesis that adult exposure to TBT may alter a part of the nervous pathways controlling animal food intake. In particular, we investigated the expression of neuropeptide Y (NPY) immunoreactivity. This neuropeptide forms neural circuits dedicated to food assumption and its action is mediated by Y1 receptors that are widely expressed in the hypothalamic nuclei responsible for the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis. To this purpose, TBT was orally administered at a dose of 0.025 mg/kg/day/body weight to adult animals [male and female C57BL/6 (Y1-LacZ transgenic mice] for 4 weeks. No differences were found in body weight and fat deposition, but we observed a significant increase in feed efficiency in TBT-treated male mice and a significant decrease in circulating leptin in both sexes. Computerized quantitative analysis of NPY immunoreactivity and Y1-related β-galactosidase activity demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in NPY and Y1 transgene expression in the hypothalamic circuit controlling food intake of treated male mice in comparison with controls. In conclusion, the present results indicate that adult exposure to TBT is profoundly interfering with the nervous circuits involved in the stimulation of food intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bo
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - A Farinetti
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - M Marraudino
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - D Sterchele
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - C Eva
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - S Gotti
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - G Panzica
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
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15
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Abstract
Stress is defined as an adverse condition that disturbs the homeostasis of the body and activates adaptation responses. Among the many pathways and mediators involved, neuropeptide Y (NPY) stands out due to its unique stress-relieving, anxiolytic and neuroprotective properties. Stress exposure alters the biosynthesis of NPY in distinct brain regions, the magnitude and direction of this effect varying with the duration and type of stress. NPY is expressed in particular neurons of the brainstem, hypothalamus and limbic system, which explains why NPY has an impact on stress-related changes in emotional-affective behaviour and feeding as well as on stress coping. The biological actions of NPY in mammals are mediated by the Y1, Y2, Y4 and Y5 receptors, Y1 receptor stimulation being anxiolytic whereas Y2 receptor activation is anxiogenic. Emerging evidence attributes NPY a role in stress resilience, the ability to cope with stress. Thus there is a negative correlation between stress-induced behavioural disruption and cerebral NPY expression in animal models of post-traumatic stress disorder. Exogenous NPY prevents the negative consequences of stress, and polymorphisms of the NPY gene are predictive of impaired stress processing and increased risk of neuropsychiatric diseases. Stress is also a factor contributing to, and resulting from, neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, in which NPY appears to play an important neuroprotective role. This review summarizes the evidence for an implication of NPY in stress-related and neurodegenerative pathologies and addresses the cerebral NPY system as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Reichmann
- Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 4, A-8010 Graz, Austria.
| | - Peter Holzer
- Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 4, A-8010 Graz, Austria
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16
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Duan C, Chen Y, Shen A, Xu J, Zhao Y, Cai R, Liu Y, Zhou L, Lei Y, Hamre K, Lu L. Genetic expression analysis of E2F-associated phosphoprotein in stress responses in the mouse. Gene 2016; 581:130-8. [PMID: 26802973 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of the monoaminergic system is critical in stress and anxiety disorders, but the role of each family member in the development of stress-related psychopathologies is not sufficiently understood. Eapp has been reported to be a transcriptional repressor of monoamine oxidase B (Maob) and down-regulates Maob via the Maob core promoter. In the present study, we more specifically examine the role of Eapp in stress responses by testing the hypothesis that Eapp may be involved in the occurrence and development of stress responses. Western blotting, qPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to investigate the expression variation of Eapp in hypothalamus tissue after exposure to stress. The expression of Eapp is controlled by a cis-acting quantitative trait locus (cis-eQTL). Two genes Sphk2 and Nosip, had trans-eQTLs that mapped to the location of Eapp and altered expression of these two genes was shown following siRNA knockdown of Eapp. Additionally, Mmp9, Npy, Npy5r and Maob were shown to have different expression levels in the Eapp knock-down experiments. Our data provide strong evidence that the cis-modulated gene, Eapp, is associated with stress responses, and that validated downstream targets and members of Eapp gene network may also be involved in the development of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengwei Duan
- Department of Science and Education, Second People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China; Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China; Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Aiguo Shen
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Neurology, Nantong University Affiliated Mental Health Center, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Yinghong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Nantong University Affiliated Mental Health Center, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Rixin Cai
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Yonghua Liu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Yan Lei
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, USA
| | - Kristin Hamre
- Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, USA.
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