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Olesen J. From fragmentation to collaboration in European brain research: The early history of the European Brain Council (EBC), an organization that changed our perspective of advocacy. Eur J Neurol 2023. [PMID: 37955553 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16130] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The European Academy of Neurology (EAN) is a member of the European Brain Council (EBC), a coalition of neurologists, psychiatrists, neurosurgeons, neuroscientists, patient organizations and industry with an interest in the brain and its diseases. It was founded by the present author. Here, its formation, early history and the results of its advocacy are described. METHOD Eyewitness report and relevant literature were considered. RESULTS After a long and difficult inception, the European Brain Council (EBC) brought all major players with an interest in the brain and its diseases to work closely together. Important data on the cost of brain diseases, lack of funding and fantastic research possibilities were generated and effectively used in advocacy. During the early years of the collaborative effort, the funding of brain research increased from €85 million in framework program (FP) 5 to €260 million in FP6 and to more than €2000 million in FP7. CONCLUSION The EBC has been extremely successful. It is essential that advocacy in the European Union continues to be united so that those involved in brain research are able to speak with one voice to policy makers. An even bigger task, still insufficiently pursued, is for national brain councils to achieve prioritization of brain research in their national political agenda to bring about improved provision of care to those living with a brain disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jes Olesen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark
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2
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Warren WG, Papagianni EP, Hale E, Brociek RA, Cassaday HJ, Stevenson CW. Endocannabinoid metabolism inhibition has no effect on spontaneous fear recovery or extinction resistance in Lister hooded rats. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1082760. [PMID: 36588687 PMCID: PMC9798003 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1082760] [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: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoid transmission is emerging as a target for treating anxiety-related disorders, given its regulation of fear extinction. Boosting anandamide levels via inhibition of its metabolism by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) can enhance extinction, whereas inhibiting monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) to elevate 2-arachidonoylglycerol levels can impair extinction. However, whether endocannabinoids regulate fear relapse over time or extinction resistance remains unclear. In two experiments using auditory fear conditioned rats, we examined the effects of the FAAH inhibitor URB597 and the MAGL inhibitor JZL184 administered systemically on 1) spontaneous fear recovery after delayed extinction, and 2) extinction resistance resulting from immediate extinction [the immediate extinction deficit (IED)]. In Experiment 1, URB597 or JZL184 was given immediately after delayed extinction occurring 24 h after conditioning. Extinction recall and spontaneous fear recovery were tested drug-free 1 and 21 days later, respectively. We found no effects of either drug on extinction recall or spontaneous fear recovery. In Experiment 2, URB597 or JZL184 was given before immediate extinction occurring 30 min after conditioning and extinction recall was tested drug-free the next day. We also examined the effects of propranolol, a beta-adrenoceptor antagonist that can rescue the IED, as a positive control. JZL184 enhanced fear expression and impaired extinction learning but we found no lasting effects of URB597 or JZL184 on cued extinction recall. Propranolol reduced fear expression but, unexpectedly, had no enduring effect on extinction recall. The results are discussed in relation to various methodological differences between previous studies examining endocannabinoid and adrenergic regulation of fear extinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- William G. Warren
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Eleni P. Papagianni
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Ed Hale
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca A. Brociek
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Helen J. Cassaday
- School of Psychology, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Carl W. Stevenson
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Carl W. Stevenson,
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Huang P, Zou Y, Zhang X, Ye X, Wang Y, Yu R, Yang S. The Causal Effects of Insomnia on Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Schizophrenia: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study. Front Genet 2021; 12:763259. [PMID: 34707645 PMCID: PMC8542855 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.763259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric disorder, including bipolar disorder (BD), major depression (MDD), and schizophrenia (SCZ), affects millions of persons around the world. Understanding the disease causal mechanism underlying the three diseases and identifying the modifiable risk factors for them hold the key for the development of effective preventative and treatment strategies. We used a two-sample Mendelian randomization method to assess the causal effect of insomnia on the risk of BD, MDD, and SCZ in a European population. We collected one dataset of insomnia, three of BD, one of MDD, and three of SCZ and performed a meta-analysis for each trait, further verifying the analysis through extensive complementarity and sensitivity analysis. Among the three psychiatric disorders, we found that only insomnia is causally associated with MDD and that higher insomnia increases the risk of MDD. Specifically, the odds ratio of MDD increase of insomnia is estimated to be 1.408 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.210–1.640, p = 1.03E-05] in the European population. The identified causal relationship between insomnia and MDD is robust with respect to the choice of statistical methods and is validated through extensive sensitivity analyses that guard against various model assumption violations. Our results provide new evidence to support the causal effect of insomnia on MDD and pave ways for reducing the psychiatric disorder burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yixin Zou
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xingyu Zhang
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xiangyu Ye
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yidi Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rongbin Yu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Department of Biostatistics, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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4
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Blood–Brain Barrier Dynamic Device with Uniform Shear Stress Distribution for Microscopy and Permeability Measurements. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11125584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurology has always been one of the therapeutic areas with higher attrition rates. One of the main difficulties is the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) that restricts access to the brain for major drugs. This low success rate has led to an increasing demand for in vitro tools. The shear stress, which positively affects endothelial cell differentiation by mimicking blood flow, is required for a more physiological in vitro BBB model. We created an innovative device specifically designed for cell culture under shear stress to investigate drug permeability. Our dynamic device encompasses two compartments communicating together via a semi-permeable membrane, on which human cerebral microvascular endothelial (hCMEC/D3) cells were seeded. The fluidic controlled environment ensures a laminar and homogenous flow to culture cells for at least seven days. Cell differentiation was characterized by immunodetection of inter-endothelial junctions directly in the device by confocal microscopy. Finally, we performed permeability assay with lucifer yellow in both static and dynamic conditions in parallel. Our dynamic device is suited to the evaluation of barrier function and the study of drug transport across the BBB, but it could also be used with other human cell types to reproduce intestinal or kidney barriers.
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Abdolmohammadi J, Faeghi F, Arefan D, Zali A, Haghighatkhah H, Amiri J. The Role of Single Voxel MR Spectroscopy, T2 Relaxation Time and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient in Determining the Cellularity of Brain Tumors by MATLAB Software. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2018; 19:2891-2895. [PMID: 30362318 PMCID: PMC6291043 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2018.19.10.2891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Brain tumors if timely diagnosed are sure to be treated through shorter processes. MRI amongst
others is of Para clinical methods greatly effective in diagnosis phase. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and apparent
diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps provide some information that could reflect tissue cellularity. Neurosurgeons, in
particular to detect the tumor cellularity, must send the specimens taken through biopsy to the pathology unit. This
study is aimed at determining the tumor cellularity in brain. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 32
patients (18 males and 14 females of the range 18 – 77 y/o) between April 2014 and February 2016 who were referred
to the neurosurgery department of Shohada-E Tajrish Hospital of Tehran participated. Imaging was made using single
voxel MR Spectroscopy, ADC and T2W Multi Echo Pulse Sequence in addition to routine pulse sequences and the
images were analyzed using MATLAB software to determine the cellularity of brain tumors in comparison to the biopsy.
Results: findings showed that by decreasing T2 relaxation time, the amount of ADC, N-Acetyl Aspartate (NAA) and
also, increase Choline metabolite, lead to registering tumors in the lower class on the designed table and these tumors
have a higher degree of consistency and cellularity. T2 Relaxation time, the tumors will stand at higher class on the
designed table. Also the results indicated that 85% diagnostic weight of T2 relaxation time and 83% diagnostic weight
of ADC compared with biopsy could reveal the brain tumor cellularity (P>0.05). Conclusion: some cellular metabolite
changes such as NAA and Choline, ADC value and T2 relaxation time feature could effectively be used to distinguish
and illustrate the degree of cellularity of brain tumors especially Intra-axial brain tumors (with about 85%. vs. biopsy).
We recommend to more data should be used to increase the accuracy percentage of this technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamil Abdolmohammadi
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
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Gaillard M. “Invasive” and “Non-invasive” Technologies in Neuroscience Communication. BIOÉTHIQUEONLINE 2018. [DOI: 10.7202/1044618ar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper analyzes a common distinction in neuroscience communication: the labels “invasive” and “non-invasive” attributed to brain-observation technologies. Because an implicit or explicit value judgment accompanies the term “non-invasive,” it has been used to promote technological progress, especially new brain-imaging techniques that have appeared in recent decades. This study’s material comes from interactions between some expert scientists and the political sphere. Expert reports on neuroscience from different advisory bodies in the French public sector have been collected and analyzed for use of the distinction between invasive and non-invasive. The paper shows that the meaning of these widely used labels varies according to the context, e.g., status of discourse, technologies compared, or stakeholders engaged in the discussion. The definition of what is understood as invasive or non-invasive becomes a strategic issue and can thus vary according to the methodologies favoured by experts participating in national advisory boards or councils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxence Gaillard
- International research fellow, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Rikkyo University, Tokyo, Japan
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7
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Lee JLC, Bertoglio LJ, Guimarães FS, Stevenson CW. Cannabidiol regulation of emotion and emotional memory processing: relevance for treating anxiety-related and substance abuse disorders. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:3242-3256. [PMID: 28268256 PMCID: PMC5595771 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Learning to associate cues or contexts with potential threats or rewards is adaptive and enhances survival. Both aversive and appetitive memories are therefore powerful drivers of behaviour, but the inappropriate expression of conditioned responding to fear- and drug-related stimuli can develop into anxiety-related and substance abuse disorders respectively. These disorders are associated with abnormally persistent emotional memories and inadequate treatment, often leading to symptom relapse. Studies show that cannabidiol, the main non-psychotomimetic phytocannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa, reduces anxiety via 5-HT1A and (indirect) cannabinoid receptor activation in paradigms assessing innate responses to threat. There is also accumulating evidence from animal studies investigating the effects of cannabidiol on fear memory processing indicating that it reduces learned fear in paradigms that are translationally relevant to phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder. Cannabidiol does so by reducing fear expression acutely and by disrupting fear memory reconsolidation and enhancing fear extinction, both of which can result in a lasting reduction of learned fear. Recent studies have also begun to elucidate the effects of cannabidiol on drug memory expression using paradigms with translational relevance to addiction. The findings suggest that cannabidiol reduces the expression of drug memories acutely and by disrupting their reconsolidation. Here, we review the literature demonstrating the anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol before focusing on studies investigating its effects on various fear and drug memory processes. Understanding how cannabidiol regulates emotion and emotional memory processing may eventually lead to its use as a treatment for anxiety-related and substance abuse disorders. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of Cognition: a Panacea for Neuropsychiatric Disease? To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.19/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leandro J Bertoglio
- Department of PharmacologyFederal University of Santa CatarinaFlorianopolisSCBrazil
| | | | - Carl W Stevenson
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington CampusLoughboroughUK
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Bernhardt J, Borschmann K, Boyd L, Carmichael ST, Corbett D, Cramer SC, Hoffmann T, Kwakkel G, Savitz S, Saposnik G, Walker M, Ward N. Moving Rehabilitation Research Forward: Developing Consensus Statements for Rehabilitation and Recovery Research. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2017; 31:694-698. [DOI: 10.1177/1545968317724290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Stroke recovery is the next frontier in stroke medicine. While growth in rehabilitation and recovery research is exponential, a number of barriers hamper our ability to rapidly progress the field. Standardized terminology is absent in both animal and human research, methods are poorly described, recovery biomarkers are not well defined, and we lack consistent timeframes or measures to examine outcomes. Agreed methods and conventions for developing, monitoring, evaluating and reporting interventions directed at improving recovery are lacking, and current approaches are often not underpinned by biology. We urgently need to better understand the biology of recovery and its time course in both animals and humans to translate evidence from basic science into clinical trials. A new international partnership of stroke recovery and rehabilitation experts has committed to advancing the research agenda. In May 2016, the first Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable will be held, with the aim of achieving an agreed approach to the development, conduct and reporting of research. A range of methods will be used to achieve consensus in four priority areas: pre-clinical recovery research; biomarkers of recovery; intervention development, monitoring and reporting; and measurement in clinical trials. We hope to foster a global network of researchers committed to advancing this exciting field. Recovery from stroke is challenging for many survivors. They deserve effective treatments underpinned by our evolving understanding of brain recovery and human behaviour. Working together, we can develop game-changing interventions to improve recovery and quality of life in those living with stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bernhardt
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery, Victoria, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karen Borschmann
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery, Victoria, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lara Boyd
- Department of Physical Therapy and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, BC, Canada
| | - S. Thomas Carmichael
- Departments of Neurology and Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Dale Corbett
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Heart and Stroke Foundation Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Steven C. Cramer
- Departments of Neurology, Anatomy & Neurobiology, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Tammy Hoffmann
- Centre for Research in Evidence-Based Practice, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gert Kwakkel
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sean Savitz
- Stroke Program, McGovern Medical School, UT Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Marion Walker
- Division of Rehabilitation and Ageing, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nick Ward
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
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9
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Abdolmohammadi J, Shafiee M, Faeghi F, Arefan D, Zali A, Motiei-Langroudi R, Farshidfar Z, Nazarlou AK, Tavakkoli A, Yarham M. Determination of intra-axial brain tumors cellularity through the analysis of T2 Relaxation time of brain tumors before surgery using MATLAB software. Electron Physician 2016; 8:2726-2732. [PMID: 27757181 PMCID: PMC5053452 DOI: 10.19082/2726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Timely diagnosis of brain tumors could considerably affect the process of patient treatment. To do so, para-clinical methods, particularly MRI, cannot be ignored. MRI has so far answered significant questions regarding tumor characteristics, as well as helping neurosurgeons. In order to detect the tumor cellularity, neuro-surgeons currently have to sample specimens by biopsy and then send them to the pathology unit. The aim of this study is to determine the tumor cellularity in the brain. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 32 patients (18 males and 14 females from 18–77 y/o) were admitted to the neurosurgery department of Shohada-E Tajrish Hospital in Tehran, Iran from April 2012 to February 2014. In addition to routine pulse sequences, T2W Multi echo pulse sequences were taken and the images were analyzed using the MATLAB software to determine the brain tumor cellularity, compared with the biopsy Results These findings illustrate the need for more T2 relaxation time decreases, the higher classes of tumors will stand out in the designed table. In this study, the results show T2 relaxation time with a 85% diagnostic weight, compared with the biopsy, to determine the brain tumor cellularity (p<0.05). Conclusion Our results indicate that the T2 relaxation time feature is the best method to distinguish and present the degree of intra-axial brain tumors cellularity (85% accuracy compared to biopsy). The use of more data is recommended in order to increase the percent accuracy of this techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamil Abdolmohammadi
- M.Sc. of Medical Imaging Technology (MRI), Department of Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohsen Shafiee
- M.Sc. of Medical Physics, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Fariborz Faeghi
- Ph.D. in Medical Physics, Radiology Technology Department, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Douman Arefan
- Department of Radiation Medicine Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University, Evin, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zali
- Neurosurgeon, Head of Neurosurgery Department of Shohada-E Tajrish Hospital, Chairman of the Medical Council of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouzbeh Motiei-Langroudi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Farshidfar
- M.Sc. of Medical Imaging Technology (MRI), Radiology Department of Paramedical School, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Kiani Nazarlou
- M.Sc. of Medical Imaging Technology, Department of Radiology, Imam Reza Medical Research and Training Hospital, Golgasht Ave., Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Tavakkoli
- M.Sc. of Medical Imaging Technology (MRI), Bahonar Medical Research and Training Hospital, Alborz University of Medical Science, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yarham
- M.Sc. of Medical Imaging Technology (MRI), Radiology Department of Paramedical School, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
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10
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Oliveira FFD, Marin SDMC, Bertolucci PHF. Neurological impressions on the organization of language networks in the human brain. Brain Inj 2016; 31:140-150. [PMID: 27740867 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2016.1199914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 95% of right-handed individuals, as well as almost 80% of left-handed individuals, have left hemisphere dominance for language. The perisylvian networks of the dominant hemisphere tend to be the most important language systems in human brains, usually connected by bidirectional fibres originated from the superior longitudinal fascicle/arcuate fascicle system and potentially modifiable by learning. Neuroplasticity mechanisms take place to preserve neural functions after brain injuries. Language is dependent on a hierarchical interlinkage of serial and parallel processing areas in distinct brain regions considered to be elementary processing units. Whereas aphasic syndromes typically result from injuries to the dominant hemisphere, the extent of the distribution of language functions seems to be variable for each individual. METHOD Review of the literature Results: Several theories try to explain the organization of language networks in the human brain from a point of view that involves either modular or distributed processing or sometimes both. The most important evidence for each approach is discussed under the light of modern theories of organization of neural networks. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the connectivity patterns of language networks may provide deeper insights into language functions, supporting evidence-based rehabilitation strategies that focus on the enhancement of language organization for patients with aphasic syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabricio Ferreira de Oliveira
- a Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery , Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) , São Paulo , SP , Brazil
| | - Sheilla de Medeiros Correia Marin
- a Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery , Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) , São Paulo , SP , Brazil
| | - Paulo Henrique Ferreira Bertolucci
- a Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery , Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) , São Paulo , SP , Brazil
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11
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Bernhardt J, Borschmann K, Boyd L, Thomas Carmichael S, Corbett D, Cramer SC, Hoffmann T, Kwakkel G, Savitz SI, Saposnik G, Walker M, Ward N. Moving rehabilitation research forward: Developing consensus statements for rehabilitation and recovery research. Int J Stroke 2016; 11:454-8. [PMID: 27073187 DOI: 10.1177/1747493016643851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Stroke recovery is the next frontier in stroke medicine. While growth in rehabilitation and recovery research is exponential, a number of barriers hamper our ability to rapidly progress the field. Standardized terminology is absent in both animal and human research, methods are poorly described, recovery biomarkers are not well defined, and we lack consistent timeframes or measures to examine outcomes. Agreed methods and conventions for developing, monitoring, evaluating and reporting interventions directed at improving recovery are lacking, and current approaches are often not underpinned by biology. We urgently need to better understand the biology of recovery and its time course in both animals and humans to translate evidence from basic science into clinical trials. A new international partnership of stroke recovery and rehabilitation experts has committed to advancing the research agenda. In May 2016, the first Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable will be held, with the aim of achieving an agreed approach to the development, conduct and reporting of research. A range of methods will be used to achieve consensus in four priority areas: pre-clinical recovery research; biomarkers of recovery; intervention development, monitoring and reporting; and measurement in clinical trials. We hope to foster a global network of researchers committed to advancing this exciting field. Recovery from stroke is challenging for many survivors. They deserve effective treatments underpinned by our evolving understanding of brain recovery and human behaviour. Working together, we can develop game-changing interventions to improve recovery and quality of life in those living with stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bernhardt
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery, Victoria, Australia The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Karen Borschmann
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery, Victoria, Australia The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Lara Boyd
- Department of Physical Therapy and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, BC, Canada
| | - S Thomas Carmichael
- Departments of Neurology and Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Dale Corbett
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada Heart and Stroke Foundation Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Steven C Cramer
- Departments of Neurology, Anatomy & Neurobiology, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Tammy Hoffmann
- Centre for Research in Evidence-Based Practice, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gert Kwakkel
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sean I Savitz
- Stroke Program, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gustavo Saposnik
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada Stroke Outcomes Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marion Walker
- Division of Rehabilitation and Ageing, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nick Ward
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
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Millan MJ, Goodwin GM, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Ove Ögren S. Learning from the past and looking to the future: Emerging perspectives for improving the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:599-656. [PMID: 25836356 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Modern neuropsychopharmacology commenced in the 1950s with the serendipitous discovery of first-generation antipsychotics and antidepressants which were therapeutically effective yet had marked adverse effects. Today, a broader palette of safer and better-tolerated agents is available for helping people that suffer from schizophrenia, depression and other psychiatric disorders, while complementary approaches like psychotherapy also have important roles to play in their treatment, both alone and in association with medication. Nonetheless, despite considerable efforts, current management is still only partially effective, and highly-prevalent psychiatric disorders of the brain continue to represent a huge personal and socio-economic burden. The lack of success in discovering more effective pharmacotherapy has contributed, together with many other factors, to a relative disengagement by pharmaceutical firms from neuropsychiatry. Nonetheless, interest remains high, and partnerships are proliferating with academic centres which are increasingly integrating drug discovery and translational research into their traditional activities. This is, then, a time of transition and an opportune moment to thoroughly survey the field. Accordingly, the present paper, first, chronicles the discovery and development of psychotropic agents, focusing in particular on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic utility, and how problems faced were eventually overcome. Second, it discusses the lessons learned from past successes and failures, and how they are being applied to promote future progress. Third, it comprehensively surveys emerging strategies that are (1), improving our understanding of the diagnosis and classification of psychiatric disorders; (2), deepening knowledge of their underlying risk factors and pathophysiological substrates; (3), refining cellular and animal models for discovery and validation of novel therapeutic agents; (4), improving the design and outcome of clinical trials; (5), moving towards reliable biomarkers of patient subpopulations and medication efficacy and (6), promoting collaborative approaches to innovation by uniting key partners from the regulators, industry and academia to patients. Notwithstanding the challenges ahead, the many changes and ideas articulated herein provide new hope and something of a framework for progress towards the improved prevention and relief of psychiatric and other CNS disorders, an urgent mission for our Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Millan
- Pole for Innovation in Neurosciences, IDR Servier, 125 chemin de ronde, 78290 Croissy sur Seine, France.
| | - Guy M Goodwin
- University Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, England, UK
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg/Medical Faculty Mannheim, J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sven Ove Ögren
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Thompson
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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14
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Pathological circuit function underlying addiction and anxiety disorders. Nat Neurosci 2014; 17:1635-43. [PMID: 25402855 DOI: 10.1038/nn.3849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Current models of addiction and anxiety stem from the idea that aberrant function and remodeling of neural circuits cause the pathological behaviors. According to this hypothesis, a disease-defining experience (for example, drug reward or stress) would trigger specific forms of synaptic plasticity, which in susceptible subjects would become persistent and lead to the disease. While the notion of synaptic diseases has received much attention, no candidate disorder has been sufficiently investigated to yield new, rational therapies that could be tested in the clinic. Here we review the arguments in favor of abnormal neuronal plasticity underlying addiction and anxiety disorders, with a focus on the functional diversity of neurons that make up the circuits involved. We argue that future research must strive to obtain a comprehensive description of the relevant functional anatomy. This will allow identification of molecular mechanisms that govern the induction and expression of disease-relevant plasticity in identified neurons. To establish causality, one will have to test whether normalization of function can reverse pathological behavior. With these elements in hand, it will be possible to propose blueprints for manipulations to be tested in translational studies. The challenge is daunting, but new techniques, above all optogenetics, may enable decisive advances.
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15
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de Oliveira FF, Correia Marin SDM, Ferreira Bertolucci PH. Communicating with the non-dominant hemisphere: Implications for neurological rehabilitation. Neural Regen Res 2014; 8:1236-46. [PMID: 25206418 PMCID: PMC4107603 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.13.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aphasic syndromes usually result from injuries to the dominant hemisphere of the brain. Despite the fact that localization of language functions shows little interindividual variability, several brain areas are simultaneously activated when language tasks are undertaken. Mechanisms of language recovery after brain injury to the dominant hemisphere seem to be relatively stereotyped, including activations of perilesional areas in the acute phase and of homologues of language areas in the non-dominant hemisphere in the subacute phase, later returning to dominant hemisphere activation in the chronic phase. Plasticity mechanisms reopen the critical period of language development, more specifically in what leads to disinhibition of the non-dominant hemisphere when brain lesions affect the dominant hemisphere. The non-dominant hemisphere plays an important role during recovery from aphasia, but currently available rehabilitation therapies have shown limited results for efficient language improvement. Large-scale randomized controlled trials that evaluate well-defined interventions in patients with aphasia are needed for stimulation of neuroplasticity mechanisms that enhance the role of the non-dominant hemisphere for language recovery. Ineffective treatment approaches should be replaced by more promising ones and the latter should be evaluated for proper application. The data generated by such studies could substantiate evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for patients with aphasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabricio Ferreira de Oliveira
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sheilla de Medeiros Correia Marin
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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16
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Abstract
Brain diseases represent a considerable social and economic burden in Europe. With yearly costs of about 800 billion euros and an estimated 179 million people afflicted in 2010, brain diseases are an unquestionable emergency and a grand challenge for neuroscientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica DiLuca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Jes Olesen
- Department of Neurology N39, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, 2600, Denmark.
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17
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Forsman AK, Ventus DBJ, van der Feltz-Cornelis CM, Wahlbeck K. Public mental health research in Europe: a systematic mapping for the ROAMER project. Eur J Public Health 2014; 24:955-60. [PMID: 25428662 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cku055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As part of the ROAMER (ROAdmap for MEntal health Research in Europe) project, aiming to create an integrated European roadmap for mental health research, we set out to map the hitherto unmapped territory of public mental health research in Europe. METHODS Five electronic databases (CINAHL, Health Management, Medline, PsycINFO, Social Services Abstracts) were used for identifying public mental health research articles published between January 2007 and April 2012. The number of publications for each European country in five research domains (i.e. mental health epidemiology, mental health promotion, mental disorder prevention, mental health policy and mental health services) was analysed by population size and gross domestic product (GDP), and mean impact factors were compared. RESULTS In all, 8143 unique publications were identified. Epidemiology research dominates public mental health research, while promotion, prevention and policy research are scarce. Mental health promotion is the fastest growing research area. Research targeting older adults is under-represented. Publications per capita were highest in northwestern Europe, and similar trends were found also when adjusting the number of publications by GDP per capita. The most widely cited research origins from Italy, Switzerland, the UK, the Nordic countries, the Netherlands, Greece and France. CONCLUSION In Europe, public mental health research is currently a matter of the affluent northern and western European countries, and major efforts will be needed to promote public mental health research in south and east Europe. In spite of a smaller public mental health research output, some Mediterranean countries produce highly cited public mental health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Forsman
- 1 Nordic School of Public Health NHV, Gothenburg, Sweden 2 National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Mental Health Promotion Unit, Vaasa, Finland
| | - Daniel B J Ventus
- 2 National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Mental Health Promotion Unit, Vaasa, Finland 3 Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Christina M van der Feltz-Cornelis
- 4 Tranzo Department, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands 5 Clinical Center for Body, Mind and Health, Tilburg, the Netherlands 6 Trimbos Instituut Board, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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18
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Yang X, Hou D, Jiang W, Zhang C. Intercellular protein-protein interactions at synapses. Protein Cell 2014; 5:420-44. [PMID: 24756565 PMCID: PMC4026422 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-014-0054-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical synapses are asymmetric intercellular junctions through which neurons send nerve impulses to communicate with other neurons or excitable cells. The appropriate formation of synapses, both spatially and temporally, is essential for brain function and depends on the intercellular protein-protein interactions of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) at synaptic clefts. The CAM proteins link pre- and post-synaptic sites, and play essential roles in promoting synapse formation and maturation, maintaining synapse number and type, accumulating neurotransmitter receptors and ion channels, controlling neuronal differentiation, and even regulating synaptic plasticity directly. Alteration of the interactions of CAMs leads to structural and functional impairments, which results in many neurological disorders, such as autism, Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the functions of CAMs during development and in the mature neural system, as well as in the pathogenesis of some neurological disorders. Here, we review the function of the major classes of CAMs, and how dysfunction of CAMs relates to several neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074 China
| | - Dongmei Hou
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074 China
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074 China
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Chen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
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19
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Rządkowska M, Szacoń E, Kaczor AA, Fidecka S, Kędzierska E, Matosiuk D. Synthesis, central nervous system activity, and structure-activity relationship of 1-aryl-6-benzyl-7-hydroxy-2,3-dihydroimidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidine-5(1 H)-ones. Med Chem Res 2014; 23:4221-4237. [PMID: 25132789 PMCID: PMC4127001 DOI: 10.1007/s00044-014-0993-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A series of 24 1-aryl-6-benzyl-7-hydroxy-2,3-dihydroimidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidine-5(1H)-ones was designed as antinociceptive compounds acting through opioid receptors with additional serotoninergic activity. The compounds, similarly as previously published series, lack the protonable nitrogen atom which is a part of classical opioid receptor pharmacophore and is necessary to interact with the conserved Asp(3.32) in the opioid receptor binding pocket. The compounds were obtained in one-step cyclocondensation of 1-aryl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-amines diethyl 2-benzylmalonate or diethyl 2-(2-chlorobenzyl)malonate under basic conditions. Almost all the tested compounds exerted strong antinociceptive activity, but surprisingly, it was not reversed by naloxone; thus, it is not mediated through opioid receptors. It makes it possible to conclude that addition of one more aromatic moiety to the non-classical opioid receptor pharmacophore results in the compounds which are not opioid receptor ligands. The lack of activity of one of the tested compounds may be attributed to low blood–brain barrier permeation or unfavorable distribution of electrostatic potential and HOMO and LUMO orbitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Rządkowska
- Department of Synthesis and Chemical Technology of Pharmaceutical Substances with Computer Modeling Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Medical Analytics, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki St, 20093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Szacoń
- Department of Synthesis and Chemical Technology of Pharmaceutical Substances with Computer Modeling Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Medical Analytics, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki St, 20093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka A Kaczor
- Department of Synthesis and Chemical Technology of Pharmaceutical Substances with Computer Modeling Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Medical Analytics, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki St, 20093 Lublin, Poland ; School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sylwia Fidecka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Medical Analytics, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki St, 20093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Ewa Kędzierska
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Medical Analytics, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki St, 20093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dariusz Matosiuk
- Department of Synthesis and Chemical Technology of Pharmaceutical Substances with Computer Modeling Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Medical Analytics, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki St, 20093 Lublin, Poland
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Olesen
- Danish Headache Centre; Department of Neurology at Glostrup Hospital; University of Copenhagen; Glostrup Denmark
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21
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Gjerstad L, Gilhus NE, Stovner LJ, Hoff JM. The Norwegian Brain Council ('Hjernerådet')--united efforts are necessary! Acta Neurol Scand 2012. [PMID: 23190284 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There is a strong tradition of neuroscience in Norway, and Norwegian neurologists have been actively involved in developing partnerships between all those who recognize the importance of the brain and of brain diseases. It was therefore unsurprising that Norwegian neurologists took the initiative in establishing the Norwegian Brain Council (NBC). NBC was founded in 2007 and now comprises 27 organizations and institutions. It includes all those who work with brain research and brain diseases in Norway, as well as all relevant user organizations. Industries and businesses that are related to brain disease may be partners, but do not have full membership. The main mission of NBC is to provide information about the brain and brain diseases for both lay people and public authorities, including politicians, and to promote better treatment for patients with brain diseases and more research in neuroscience. The council has firm ties to the European Brain Council (EBC). NBC plans to follow the initiative taken by EBC in organizing a 'Month of the Brain' in 2013 and a 'Year of the Brain' in 2014. These initiatives could provide an impetus for greater focus on brain diseases, which is essential in order to meet the considerable challenges that are posed by brain diseases in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - J. M. Hoff
- Department of Neurology; Haukeland University Hospital; Bergen; Norway
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Synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 970:573-601. [PMID: 22351073 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-7091-0932-8_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Generation of amyloid peptide (Aβ) is at the beginning of a cascade that leads to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Amyloid precursor protein (APP), as well as β- and γ-secretases, is the principal player involved in Aβ production, while α-secretase cleavage on APP prevents Aβ deposition. Recent studies suggested that soluble assembly states of Aβ peptides can cause cognitive problems by disrupting synaptic function in the absence of significant neurodegeneration. Therefore, current research investigates the relative importance of these various soluble Aβ assemblies in causing synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits. Several Aβ oligomers targets and cellular mechanisms responsible of Aβ-induced synaptic failure have been identified. The first and most important mechanism impugns a toxic gain of function for Aβ which results due to self-association and attainment of new structures capable of novel interactions that lead to impaired plasticity. Other scenarios predicate that Aβ has a normal physiological role. On the one hand, insufficient Aβ could lead to a loss of normal function, whereas excess Aβ may precipitate dysfunction. How this occurs and which the main target/s is/are for the synaptic action of Aβ remains to be fully understood and would certainly represent one of the main challenges to future AD research.
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