Anxiolytic activity of adenosine receptor activation in mice

Ketamine counteracts sevoflurane-induced depressive-like behavior and synaptic plasticity impairments through the adenosine A2A receptor/ERK pathway in rats

Ketamine is an ionic glutamic acid N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist commonly used in clinical anesthesia, and its rapid and lasting antidepressant effect has stimulated great interest in psychology research. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its antidepressant action are still undetermined. Sevoflurane exposure early in life might induce developmental neurotoxicity and mood disorders. In this study, we evaluated the effect of ketamine against sevoflurane-induced depressive-like behavior and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Here, we reported that A2AR protein expression was upregulated in rats with depression induced by sevoflurane inhalation, which was reversed by ketamine. Pharmacological experiments showed that A2AR agonists could reverse the antidepressant effect of ketamine, decrease extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, reduce synaptic plasticity, and induce depressive-like behavior. Our results suggest that ketamine mediates ERK1/2 phosphorylation by downregulating A2AR expression and that p-ERK1/2 increases the production of synaptic-associated proteins, enhancing synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus and thereby ameliorating the depressive-like behavior induced by sevoflurane inhalation in rats. This research provides a framework for reducing anesthesia-induced developmental neurotoxicity and developing new antidepressants.

Dose-Dependent Beneficial Effect of Ketone Supplement-Evoked Ketosis on Anxiety Level in Female WAG/Rij Rats: Sometimes Less Is More

While one-third of the population can be affected by anxiety disorders during their lifetime, our knowledge of the pathophysiology of these disorders is far from complete. Previously, it has been demonstrated in male animals that exogenous ketone supplement-evoked ketosis can decrease anxiety levels in preclinical rodent models, such as Wistar Albino Glaxo/Rijswijk (WAG/Rij) rats. Thus, in this study, we investigated whether intragastric gavage of the exogenous ketone supplement KEMCT (mix of 1,3-butanediol-acetoacetate diester/ketone ester/KE and medium-chain triglyceride/MCT oil in 1:1 ratio) for 7 days can alter the anxiety levels of female WAG/Rij rats using the light-dark box (LDB) test. We demonstrated that a lower dose of KEMCT (3 g/kg/day) increased blood R-βHB (R-β-hydroxybutyrate) levels and significantly decreased anxiety levels (e.g., increased the time spent in the light compartment) in female WAG/Rij rats on the seventh day of administration. Although the higher KEMCT dose (5 g/kg/day) increased blood R-βHB levels more effectively, compared with the lower KEMCT dose, anxiety levels did not improve significantly. We conclude that ketone supplementation might be an effective strategy to induce anxiolytic effects not only in male but also in female WAG/Rij rats. However, these results suggest that the optimal level may be moderately, not highly, elevated blood R-βHB levels when the goal is to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. More studies are needed to understand the exact mechanism of action of ketone supplementation on anxiety levels and to investigate their use in other animal models and humans for the treatment of anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions.

Xanthohumol Pyrazole Derivative Improves Diet-Induced Obesity and Induces Energy Expenditure in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

The energy intake exceeding energy expenditure (EE) results in a positive energy balance, leading to storage of excess energy and weight gain. Here, we investigate the potential of a newly synthesized compound as an inducer of EE for the management of diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Xanthohumol (XN), a prenylated flavonoid from hops, was used as a precursor for the synthesis of a pyrazole derivative tested for its properties on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic impairments. In a comparative study with XN, we report that 4-(5-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-5-methoxy-2-(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl)benzene-1,3-diol (XP) uncouples oxidative phosphorylation in C2C12 cells. In HFD-fed mice, XP improved glucose tolerance and decreased weight gain by increasing EE and locomotor activity. Using an untargeted metabolomics approach, we assessed the effects of treatment on metabolites and their corresponding biochemical pathways. We found that XP and XN reduced purine metabolites and other energy metabolites in the plasma of HFD-fed mice. The induction of locomotor activity was associated with an increase in inosine monophosphate in the cortex of XP-treated mice. Together, these results suggest that XP, better than XN, affects mitochondrial respiration and cellular energy metabolism to prevent obesity in HFD-fed mice.

Neurochemical and Behavioral Consequences of Ethanol and/or Caffeine Exposure: Effects in Zebrafish and Rodents

Zebrafish are increasingly being utilized to model the behavioral and neurochemical effects of pharmaceuticals and, more recently, pharmaceutical interactions. Zebrafish models of stress establish that both caffeine and ethanol influence anxiety, though few studies have implemented co-administration to assess the interaction of anxiety and reward-seeking. Caffeine exposure in zebrafish is teratogenic, causing developmental abnormalities in the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and nervous systems of embryos and larvae. Ethanol is also a teratogen and, as an anxiolytic substance, may be able to offset the anxiogenic effects of caffeine. Co-exposure to caffeine and alcohol impacts neuroanatomy and behavior in adolescent animal models, suggesting stimulant substances may moderate the impact of alcohol on neural circuit development. Here, we review the literature describing neuropharmacological and behavioral consequences of caffeine and/or alcohol exposure in the zebrafish model, focusing on neurochemistry, locomotor effects, and behavioral assessments of stress/anxiety as reported in adolescent/juvenile and adult animals. The purpose of this review is twofold: (1) describe the work in zebrafish documenting the effects of ethanol and/or caffeine exposure and (2) compare these zebrafish studies with comparable experiments in rodents. We focus on specific neurochemical pathways (dopamine, serotonin, adenosine, GABA, adenosine), anxiety-type behaviors (assessed with novel tank, thigmotaxis, shoaling), and locomotor changes resulting from both individual and co-exposure. We compare findings in zebrafish with those in rodent models, revealing similarities across species and identifying conservation of mechanisms that potentially reinforce co-addiction.

Guanosine-Mediated Anxiolytic-Like Effect: Interplay with Adenosine A1 and A2A Receptors

Acute or chronic administration of guanosine (GUO) induces anxiolytic-like effects, for which the adenosine (ADO) system involvement has been postulated yet without a direct experimental evidence. Thus, we aimed to investigate whether adenosine receptors (ARs) are involved in the GUO-mediated anxiolytic-like effect, evaluated by three anxiety-related paradigms in rats. First, we confirmed that acute treatment with GUO exerts an anxiolytic-like effect. Subsequently, we investigated the effects of pretreatment with ADO or A₁R (CPA, CCPA) or A_2AR (CGS21680) agonists 10 min prior to GUO on a GUO-induced anxiolytic-like effect. All the combined treatments blocked the GUO anxiolytic-like effect, whereas when administered alone, each compound was ineffective as compared to the control group. Interestingly, the pretreatment with nonselective antagonist caffeine or selective A₁R (DPCPX) or A_2AR (ZM241385) antagonists did not modify the GUO-induced anxiolytic-like effect. Finally, binding assay performed in hippocampal membranes showed that [³H]GUO binding became saturable at 100–300 nM, suggesting the existence of a putative GUO binding site. In competition experiments, ADO showed a potency order similar to GUO in displacing [³H]GUO binding, whereas AR selective agonists, CPA and CGS21680, partially displaced [³H]GUO binding, but the sum of the two effects was able to displace [³H]GUO binding to the same extent of ADO alone. Overall, our results strengthen previous data supporting GUO-mediated anxiolytic-like effects, add new evidence that these effects are blocked by A₁R and A_2AR agonists and pave, although they do not elucidate the mechanism of GUO and ADO receptor interaction, for a better characterization of GUO binding sites in ARs.

Of adenosine and the blues: The adenosinergic system in the pathophysiology and treatment of major depressive disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the foremost cause of global disability, being responsible for enormous personal, societal, and economical costs. Importantly, existing pharmacological treatments for MDD are partially or totally ineffective in a large segment of patients. As such, the search for novel antidepressant drug targets, anchored on a clear understanding of the etiological and pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning MDD, becomes of the utmost importance. The adenosinergic system, a highly conserved neuromodulatory system, appears as a promising novel target, given both its regulatory actions over many MDD-affected systems and processes. With this goal in mind, we herein review the evidence concerning the role of adenosine as a potential player in pathophysiology and treatment of MDD, combining data from both human and animal studies. Altogether, evidence supports the assertions that the adenosinergic system is altered in both MDD patients and animal models, and that drugs targeting this system have considerable potential as putative antidepressants. Furthermore, evidence also suggests that modifications in adenosine signaling may have a key role in the effects of several pharmacological and non-pharmacological antidepressant treatments with demonstrated efficacy, such as electroconvulsive shock, sleep deprivation, and deep brain stimulation. Lastly, it becomes clear from the available literature that there is yet much to study regarding the role of the adenosinergic system in the pathophysiology and treatment of MDD, and we suggest several avenues of research that are likely to prove fruitful.

C3 amino-substituted chalcone derivative with selective adenosine rA1 receptor affinity in the micromolar range

ABSTRACT

To identify novel adenosine receptor (AR) ligands based on the chalcone scaffold, herein the synthesis, characterization and in vitro and in silico evaluation of 33 chalcones (15-36 and 37-41) and structurally related compounds (42-47) are reported. These compounds were characterized by radioligand binding and GTP shift assays to determine the degree and type of binding affinity, respectively, against rat (r) A1 and A2A ARs. The chalcone derivatives 24, 29, 37 and 38 possessed selective A1 affinity below 10 µM, and thus, are the most active compounds of the present series; compound 38 was the most potent selective A1 AR antagonist (K i (r) = 1.6 µM). The structure-affinity relationships (SAR) revealed that the NH2-group at position C3 of ring A of the chalcone scaffold played a key role in affinity, and also, the Br-atom at position C3' on benzylidene ring B. Upon in vitro and in silico evaluation, the novel C3 amino-substituted chalcone derivative 38-that contains an α,ß-unsaturated carbonyl system and easily allows structural modification-may possibly be a synthon in future drug discovery.

GRAPHIC ABSTRACT

C3 amino-substituted chalcone derivative (38) with C3' Br substitution on benzylidene ring B possesses selective adenosine rA1 receptor affinity in micromolar range.

Critical View on the Usage of Ribavirin in Already Existing Psychostimulant-Use Disorder

Substance-use disorder represents a frequently hidden non-communicable chronic disease. Patients with intravenous drug addiction are at high risk of direct exposure to a variety of viral infections and are considered to be the largest subpopulation infected with the hepatitis C virus. Ribavirin is a synthetic nucleoside analog that has been used as an integral component of hepatitis C therapy. However, ribavirin medication is quite often associated with pronounced psychiatric adverse effects. It is not well understood to what extent ribavirin per se contributes to changes in drug-related neurobehavioral disturbances, especially in the case of psychostimulant drugs, such as amphetamine. It is now well-known that repeated amphetamine usage produces psychosis in humans and behavioral sensitization in animals. On the other hand, ribavirin has an affinity for adenosine A1 receptors that antagonistically modulate the activity of dopamine D1 receptors, which play a critical role in the development of behavioral sensitization. This review will focus on the current knowledge of neurochemical/ neurobiological changes that exist in the psychostimulant drug-addicted brain itself and the antipsychotic-like efficiency of adenosine agonists. Particular attention will be paid to the potential side effects of ribavirin therapy, and the opportunities and challenges related to its application in already existing psychostimulant-use disorder.

Early-life hyperthermic seizures upregulate adenosine A2A receptors in the cortex and promote depressive-like behavior in adult rats

Febrile seizures (FS) represent one of the most frequent convulsive disorders in children which can be classified into simple and prolonged depending on the duration. Although simple FS are generally considered as benign, there is controversy about the outcome of prolonged FS. Here, we have used an animal model of prolonged FS to investigate persistent neurochemical and behavioral alterations in adult rats. Hyperthermic seizures were induced in 12-day-old rats using a warmed air stream from a hair dryer. Neonates exhibited arrest of heat-induced hyperkinesis followed by body flexion and rearing and falling over associated with hindlimb clonus seizures (stage 5 on Racine scale criteria) after hyperthermic induction. After 48 days, the animals were assayed on dark-light box and forced swim tests in order to detect if rats will show signs of anxiety or depression. Finally, animals were sacrificed 56 days after hyperthermia-induced seizures (HIS), and their effects on adenosine A_2A receptor signaling and 5'-nucleotidase activity were studied in plasma membranes from the cerebral cortex by using radioligand-binding assay and by measuring the activities of adenylate cyclase and 5'-nucleotidase. Results obtained have shown that adult rats submitted to HIS during the neonatal period showed depressive-like behavior. Furthermore, animals exposed to hyperthermic insult showed an increase in A_2A receptor level which was also accompanied by an increase in A_2A receptor functionality.

Anxiolytic Effect of Exogenous Ketone Supplementation Is Abolished by Adenosine A1 Receptor Inhibition in Wistar Albino Glaxo/Rijswijk Rats

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health problems worldwide, but the exact pathophysiology remains largely unknown. It has been demonstrated previously that administration of exogenous ketone supplement KSMCT (ketone salt/KS + medium chain triglyceride/MCT oil) by intragastric gavage for 7 days decreased the anxiety level in genetically absence epileptic Wistar Albino Glaxo/Rijswijk (WAG/Rij) rats. To investigate the potential role of the adenosinergic system in the pathomechanism of anxiety we tested whether the inhibition of adenosine A₁ receptors (A₁Rs) influence the anxiolytic effect of the exogenous ketone supplement. As A₁Rs may mediate such an effect, in the present study we used a specific A₁R antagonist, DPCPX (1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentylxanthine) to test whether it modulates the anxiolytic effect of sub-chronically (7 days) applied KSMCT in the previously tested animal model by using elevated plus maze (EPM) test. We administered KSMCT (2.5 g/kg/day) alone by intragastric gavage and in combination with intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected of DPCPX in two doses (lower: 0.15 mg/kg, higher: 0.25 mg/kg). Control groups represented i.p saline and water gavage with or without i.p. DPCPX administration (2.5 g/kg/day). After treatments, the level of blood glucose and beta-hydroxybutyrate (βHB), as well as body weight were recorded. KSMCT alone significantly increased the time spent in the open arms and decreased the time spent in the closed arms, supporting our previous results. Injection of lower dose of DPCPX decreased, while higher dose of DPCPX abolished the effect of KSMCT administration on EPM. Blood βHB levels were significantly increased after administration of KSMCT, while DPCPX did not change the KSMCT induced increase in blood βHB levels. These results demonstrate that A₁R inhibition modified (decreased) the anti-anxiety effect of KSMCT administration implying that the adenosinergic system, likely via A₁Rs, may modulate the exogenous ketone supplement induced anxiolytic influence.

The Role of Adenosine Receptors in Psychostimulant Addiction

Adenosine receptors (AR) are a family of G-protein coupled receptors, comprised of four members, named A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 receptors, found widely distributed in almost all human body tissues and organs. To date, they are known to participate in a large variety of physiopathological responses, which include vasodilation, pain, and inflammation. In particular, in the central nervous system (CNS), adenosine acts as a neuromodulator, exerting different functions depending on the type of AR and consequent cellular signaling involved. In terms of molecular pathways and second messengers involved, A1 and A3 receptors inhibit adenylyl cyclase (AC), through Gi/o proteins, while A2A and A2B receptors stimulate it through Gs proteins. In the CNS, A1 receptors are widely distributed in the cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum, A2A receptors are localized mainly in the striatum and olfactory bulb, while A2B and A3 receptors are found at low levels of expression. In addition, AR are able to form heteromers, both among themselves (e.g., A1/A2A), as well as with other subtypes (e.g., A2A/D2), opening a whole range of possibilities in the field of the pharmacology of AR. Nowadays, we know that adenosine, by acting on adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, is known to antagonistically modulate dopaminergic neurotransmission and therefore reward systems, being A1 receptors colocalized in heteromeric complexes with D1 receptors, and A2A receptors with D2 receptors. This review documents the present state of knowledge of the contribution of AR, particularly A1 and A2A, to psychostimulants-mediated effects, including locomotor activity, discrimination, seeking and reward, and discuss their therapeutic relevance to psychostimulant addiction. Studies presented in this review reinforce the potential of A1 agonists as an effective strategy to counteract psychostimulant-induced effects. Furthermore, different experimental data support the hypothesis that A2A/D2 heterodimers are partly responsible for the psychomotor and reinforcing effects of psychostimulant drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamine, and the stimulation of A2A receptor is proposed as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of drug addiction. The overall analysis of presented data provide evidence that excitatory modulation of A1 and A2A receptors constitute promising tools to counteract psychostimulants addiction.

Purinergic system in psychiatric diseases

Psychiatric disorders are debilitating diseases, affecting >80 million people worldwide. There are no causal cures for psychiatric disorders and available therapies only treat the symptoms. The etiology of psychiatric disorders is unknown, although it has been speculated to be a combination of environmental, stress and genetic factors. One of the neurotransmitter systems implicated in the biology of psychiatric disorders is the purinergic system. In this review, we performed a comprehensive search of the literature about the role and function of the purinergic system in the development and predisposition to psychiatric disorders, with a focus on depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, anxiety and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. We also describe how therapeutics used for psychiatric disorders act on the purinergic system.

Polyamines as Snake Toxins and Their Probable Pharmacological Functions in Envenomation

While decades of research have focused on snake venom proteins, far less attention has been paid to small organic venom constituents. Using mostly pooled samples, we surveyed 31 venoms (six elapid, six viperid, and 19 crotalid) for spermine, spermidine, putrescine, and cadaverine. Most venoms contained all four polyamines, although some in essentially trace quantities. Spermine is a potentially significant component of many viperid and crotalid venoms (≤0.16% by mass, or 7.9 µmol/g); however, it is almost completely absent from elapid venoms assayed. All elapid venoms contained larger molar quantities of putrescine and cadaverine than spermine, but still at levels that are likely to be biologically insignificant. As with venom purines, polyamines impact numerous physiological targets in ways that are consistent with the objectives of prey envenomation, prey immobilization via hypotension and paralysis. Most venoms probably do not contain sufficient quantities of polyamines to induce systemic effects in prey; however, local effects seem probable. A review of the pharmacological literature suggests that spermine could contribute to prey hypotension and paralysis by interacting with N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, blood platelets, ryanodine receptors, and Ca²⁺-ATPase. It also blocks many types of cation-permeable channels by interacting with negatively charged amino acid residues in the channel mouths. The site of envenomation probably determines which physiological targets assume the greatest importance; however, venom-induced liberation of endogenous, intracellular stores of polyamines could potentially have systemic implications and may contribute significantly to envenomation sequelae.

A Methodological Discussion of Caffeine Research and Animal Avoidance Behavior

Introduction: We present a review of the methodological aspects of caffeine research within animal tests of escape and avoidance behavior in the presence of aversive stimuli. Method: We highlight species, methods of caffeine administration, dosage, dependent measures, and research designs commonly used in this research. Results: Typical subjects were rodents and zebrafish, with species-specific vehicles of caffeine administration and dependent measures. Behavioral tests for escape and avoidance as a function of caffeine consumption were conceptually similar across species, although the arrangement of measures was necessarily adapted to the physiological contingencies of the different species. Discussion and Conclusions: Caffeine administration preceding the presentation of aversive stimuli generally, but not exclusively, enhanced the effect of escape and avoidance of aversive stimuli. The many commonalities in methods and results across species suggest similar methods may be relevant to human subjects as well.

Acute stress blocks the caffeine-induced enhancement of contextual memory retrieval in mice

This study investigated in mice the dose-effect of caffeine on memory retrieval in non-stress and stress conditions. C57 Bl/6 Jico mice learned two consecutive discriminations (D1 and D2) in a four-hole board which involved either distinct contextual (CSD) or similar contextual (SSD) cues. All mice received an i.p. injection of vehicle or caffeine (8, 16 or 32mg/kg) 30min before the test session. Results showed that in non-stress conditions, the 16mg/kg caffeine dose induced a significant enhancement of D1 performance in CSD but not in SSD. Hence, we studied the effect of an acute stress (electric footshocks) administered 15min before the test session on D1 performance in caffeine-treated mice. Results showed that stress significantly decreased D1 performance in vehicle-treated controls and the memory-enhancing effect induced by the 16mg/kg caffeine dose in non-stress condition is no longer observed. Interestingly, whereas caffeine-treated mice exhibited weaker concentrations of plasma corticosterone as compared to vehicles in non-stress condition, stress significantly increased plasma corticosterone concentrations in caffeine-treated mice which reached similar level to that of controls. Overall, the acute stress blocked both the endocrinological and memory retrieval enhancing effects of caffeine.

Adenosine receptor neurobiology: overview

Adenosine is a naturally occurring nucleoside that is distributed ubiquitously throughout the body as a metabolic intermediary. In the brain, adenosine functions as an important upstream neuromodulator of a broad spectrum of neurotransmitters, receptors, and signaling pathways. By acting through four G-protein-coupled receptors, adenosine contributes critically to homeostasis and neuromodulatory control of a variety of normal and abnormal brain functions, ranging from synaptic plasticity, to cognition, to sleep, to motor activity to neuroinflammation, and cell death. This review begun with an overview of the gene and genome structure and the expression pattern of adenosine receptors (ARs). We feature several new developments over the past decade in our understanding of AR functions in the brain, with special focus on the identification and characterization of canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways of ARs. We provide an update on functional insights from complementary genetic-knockout and pharmacological studies on the AR control of various brain functions. We also highlight several novel and recent developments of AR neurobiology, including (i) recent breakthrough in high resolution of three-dimension structure of adenosine A2A receptors (A2ARs) in several functional status, (ii) receptor-receptor heterodimerization, (iii) AR function in glial cells, and (iv) the druggability of AR. We concluded the review with the contention that these new developments extend and strengthen the support for A1 and A2ARs in brain as therapeutic targets for neurologic and psychiatric diseases.

Role of nitric oxide in the behavioral and neurochemical effects of IB-MECA in zebrafish

RATIONALE

The adenosine A3 receptor and the nitric oxide (NO) pathway regulate the function and localization of serotonin transporters (SERTs). These transporters regulate extracellular serotonin levels, which are correlated with defensive behavior.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to understand the role of the A3AR on anxiety and arousal models in zebrafish, and whether this role is mediated by the nitrergic modulation of serotonin uptake.

METHODS

The effects of IB-MECA (0.01 and 0.1 mg/kg) were assessed in a series of behavioral tasks in adult zebrafish, as well as on extracellular serotonin levels in vivo and serotonin uptake in brain homogenates. Finally, the interaction between IB-MECA and drugs blocking voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs), NO synthase, and SERT was analyzed.

RESULTS

At the lowest dose, IB-MECA decreased bottom dwelling and scototaxis, while at the highest dose, it also decreased shoaling, startle probability, and melanophore responses. These effects were accompanied by an increase in brain extracellular serotonin levels. IB-MECA also concentration-dependently increased serotonin uptake in vitro. The effects of IB-MECA on extracellular 5-HT, scototaxis, and geotaxis were blocked by L-NAME, while only the effects on 5-HT and scototaxis were blocked by verapamil. In vitro, the increase in 5-HT uptake was dependent on VDCCs and NO. Finally, fluoxetine blocked the effect of IB-MECA on scototaxis, but not geotaxis.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the effect of IB-MECA on scototaxis are mediated by a VDCC-NO-SERT pathway. While NO seems to mediate the effects of IB-MECA on geotaxis, neither VDCCs nor SERT seems to be involved in this process.

Creatine, similarly to ketamine, affords antidepressant-like effects in the tail suspension test via adenosine A₁ and A2A receptor activation

The benefits of creatine supplementation have been reported in a broad range of central nervous systems diseases, including depression. A previous study from our group demonstrated that creatine produces an antidepressant-like effect in the tail suspension test (TST), a predictive model of antidepressant activity. Since depression is associated with a dysfunction of the adenosinergic system, we investigated the involvement of adenosine A1 and A2A receptors in the antidepressant-like effect of creatine in the TST. The anti-immobility effect of creatine (1 mg/kg, po) or ketamine (a fast-acting antidepressant, 1 mg/kg, ip) in the TST was prevented by pretreatment of mice with caffeine (3 mg/kg, ip, nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist), 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) (2 mg/kg, ip, selective adenosine A1 receptor antagonist), and 4-(2-[7-amino-2-{2-furyl}{1,2,4}triazolo-{2,3-a}{1,3,5}triazin-5-yl-amino]ethyl)-phenol (ZM241385) (1 mg/kg, ip, selective adenosine A2A receptor antagonist). In addition, the combined administration of subeffective doses of creatine and adenosine (0.1 mg/kg, ip, nonselective adenosine receptor agonist) or inosine (0.1 mg/kg, ip, nucleoside formed by the breakdown of adenosine) reduced immobility time in the TST. Moreover, the administration of subeffective doses of creatine or ketamine combined with N-6-cyclohexyladenosine (CHA) (0.05 mg/kg, ip, selective adenosine A1 receptor agonist), N-6-[2-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(methylphenyl)ethyl]adenosine (DPMA) (0.1 mg/kg, ip, selective adenosine A2A receptor agonist), or dipyridamole (0.1 μg/mouse, icv, adenosine transporter inhibitor) produced a synergistic antidepressant-like effect in the TST. These results indicate that creatine, similarly to ketamine, exhibits antidepressant-like effect in the TST probably mediated by the activation of both adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, further reinforcing the potential of targeting the purinergic system to the management of mood disorders.

Differences between the nonselective adenosine receptor antagonists caffeine and theophylline in motor and mood effects: studies using medium to high doses in animal models

RATIONALE

Caffeine and theophylline are methylxanthines that are broadly consumed, sometimes at high doses, and act as minor psychostimulants. Both are nonselective adenosine antagonists for A1 and A2A receptors, which are colocalized with dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in striatal areas. Adenosine antagonists generally have opposite actions to those of dopamine antagonists. Although the effects of caffeine are widely known, theophylline has been much less well characterized, especially at high doses.

METHODS

Adult male CD1 mice were used to study the effect of a broad range of doses (25.0, 50.0 or 100.0mg/kg) of caffeine and theophylline on measures of spontaneous locomotion and coordination, as well as the pattern of c-Fos immunoreactivity in brain areas rich in adenosine and dopamine receptors. In addition, we evaluated possible anxiety and stress effects of these doses.

RESULTS

Caffeine, at these doses, impaired or suppressed locomotion in several paradigms. However, theophylline was less potent than caffeine at suppressing motor parameters, and even stimulated locomotion. Both drugs induced corticosterone release, however caffeine was more efficacious at intermediate doses. While caffeine showed an anxiogenic profile at all doses, theophylline only did so at the highest dose used (50mg/kg). Only theophylline increased c-Fos immunoreactivity in cortical areas.

CONCLUSION

Theophylline has fewer disruptive effects than caffeine on motor parameters and produces less stress and anxiety effects. These results are relevant for understanding the potential side effects of methylxanthines when consumed at high doses.

Overexpression of Adenosine A2A Receptors in Rats: Effects on Depression, Locomotion, and Anxiety

Adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) are a sub-type of receptors enriched in basal ganglia, activated by the neuromodulator adenosine, which interact with dopamine D2 receptors. Although this reciprocal antagonistic interaction is well-established in motor function, the outcome in dopamine-related behaviors remains uncertain, in particular in depression and anxiety. We have demonstrated an upsurge of A2AR associated to aging and chronic stress. Furthermore, Alzheimer's disease patients present A2AR accumulation in cortical areas together with depressive signs. We now tested the impact of overexpressing A2AR in forebrain neurons on dopamine-related behavior, namely depression. Adult male rats overexpressing human A2AR under the control of CaMKII promoter [Tg(CaMKII-hA2AR)] and aged-matched wild-types (WT) of the same strain (Sprague-Dawley) were studied. The forced swimming test (FST), sucrose preference test (SPT), and the open-field test (OFT) were performed to evaluate behavioral despair, anhedonia, locomotion, and anxiety. Tg(CaMKII-hA2AR) animals spent more time floating and less time swimming in the FST and presented a decreased sucrose preference at 48 h in the SPT. They also covered higher distances in the OFT and spent more time in the central zone than the WT. The results indicate that Tg(CaMKII-hA2AR) rats exhibit depressive-like behavior, hyperlocomotion, and altered exploratory behavior. This A2AR overexpression may explain the depressive signs found in aging, chronic stress, and Alzheimer's disease.

Presynaptic adenosine A₁ receptors modulate excitatory transmission in the rat basolateral amygdala

The basolateral amygdala (BLA) plays an integral role in the etiology of anxiety disorders and alcoholism. Although much is known about the intrinsic circuitry that governs BLA excitability, our understanding of the neuromodulators that control BLA excitation is incomplete. In many brain regions, adenosine (ADO) regulates neuronal excitability, primarily via A₁ receptor inhibition of glutamate release, and basal adenosinergic tone is high enough to tonically inhibit neuronal excitation. Although ADO signaling modulates many anxiety- and alcohol-related behaviors, little is known about ADO regulation of BLA neurotransmission. To that end, we used patch clamp methods in rodent brain slices to characterize adenosinergic modulation of excitatory neurotransmission onto BLA pyramidal cells. ADO significantly inhibited EPSCs evoked by stimulation of either medial or external glutamatergic inputs into the BLA. This effect was mimicked by an A₁, but not by an A(₂a), agonist. Paired-pulse ratio and miniature EPSC experiments revealed that A₁ receptors reside at a presynaptic locus on BLA glutamatergic synapses. Moreover, bath application of an A1 receptor antagonist significantly enhanced EPSCs, providing evidence of tonic adenosinergic tone at BLA glutamatergic synapses. In addition, tonic ADO was regulated by adenosine kinase, but not adenosine deaminase. Finally, activation of A₁ receptors had no direct effects on the intrinsic excitability of BLA pyramidal cells. Collectively, these data suggest that tonic A₁ receptor signaling may play an important role in regulating BLA excitability and suggest a possible neurobiological substrate through which ADO may contribute to the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders and alcohol addiction.

Effect of curcumin against pentylenetetrazol-induced seizure threshold in mice: possible involvement of adenosine A1 receptors

Curcumin, obtained from Curcuma longa, has been in use for manifold human disorders. The present study explores the effect of curcumin against pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) seizure threshold in mice. The possible involvement of adenosine receptor(s) mechanism was also investigated. Minimal dose of PTZ (i.v., mg/kg) needed to induce different phases of convulsions were recorded as an index of seizure threshold. Curcumin (20-120 mg/kg, p.o.) produced an increase in seizure threshold for convulsions induced by PTZ i.v. infusion. The anticonvulsant effect of curcumin (80 mg/kg) was prevented by 8-phenyltheophylline (0.5 mg/kg, i.p., non-selective adenosine receptor antagonist) and 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (5 mg/kg, i.p., adenosine A1 receptor antagonist) but not by 8-(3-cholorostryl)caffeine (4 mg/kg, i.p., adenosine A2A receptor antagonist). Further, 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (0.005 mg/kg, i.p., non-selective A1 /A2 receptor agonist), or N(6) -cyclohexyladenosine (0.2 mg/kg, i.p., adenosine A1 receptor agonist), was able to potentiate the anticonvulsant action of curcumin. In contrast, 5'-(N-cyclopropyl) carboxamidoadenosine (0.1 mg/kg, i.p., adenosine A2A receptor agonist) failed to potentiate the effect of curcumin. This study demonstrated the anticonvulsant effect of curcumin against PTZ i.v. seizure threshold via a direct or indirect activation of adenosine A1 but not A2A receptors in mice. Thus, curcumin may prove to be an effective adjunct in treatment of convulsions.

Adenosine and autism: a spectrum of opportunities

In rodents, insufficient adenosine produces behavioral and physiological symptoms consistent with several comorbidities of autism. In rodents and humans, stimuli postulated to increase adenosine can ameliorate these comorbidities. Because adenosine is a broad homeostatic regulator of cell function and nervous system activity, increasing adenosine's influence might be a new therapeutic target for autism with multiple beneficial effects. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Neurodevelopmental Disorders'.

Treadmill running frequency on anxiety and hippocampal adenosine receptors density in adult and middle-aged rats

Physical exercise protocols have varied widely across studies raising the question of whether there is an optimal intensity, duration and frequency that would produce maximal benefits in attenuating symptoms related to anxiety disorders. Although physical exercise causes modifications in neurotransmission systems, the involvement of neuromodulators such as adenosine has not been investigated after chronic exercise training. Anxiety-related behavior was assessed in the elevated plus-maze in adult and middle-aged rats submitted to 8 weeks of treadmill running 1, 3 or 7 days/week. The speed of running was weekly adjusted to maintain moderate intensity. The hippocampal adenosine A1 and A2A receptors densities were also assessed. Treadmill running protocol was efficient in increasing physical exercise capacity in adult and middle-aged rats. All frequencies of treadmill running equally decreased the time spent in the open arms in adult animals. Middle-aged treadmill control rats presented lower time spent in the open arms than adult treadmill control rats. However, treadmill running one day/week reversed this age effect. Adenosine A1 receptor was not changed between groups, but treadmill running counteracted the age-related increase in adenosine A2A receptors. Although treadmill running, independent from frequency, triggered anxiety in adult rats and treadmill running one day/week reversed the age-related anxiety, no consistent relationship was found with hippocampal adenosine receptors densities. Thus, our data suggest that as a complementary therapy in the management of mental disturbances, the frequency and intensity of physical exercise should be taken into account according to age. Besides, this is the first study reporting the modulation of adenosine receptors after chronic physical exercise, which could be important to prevent neurological disorders associated to increase in adenosine A2A receptors.

Adenosine A1, but not A2, receptor blockade increases anxiety and arousal in Zebrafish

Adenosinergic systems have been implicated in anxiety-like states, as caffeine can induce a state of anxiety in human beings. Caffeine is an antagonist at A(1) and A(2) adenosine receptors but it remains unclear whether anxiety is mediated by one or both of these. As the adenosinergic system is rather conserved, we opted to pursue these questions using zebrafish, a widely used model organism in genetics and developmental biology. Zebrafish adenosine 1. 2A.1 and 2A.2 receptors conserve histidine residues in TM6 and TM7 that are responsible for affinity in bovine A1 receptor. We investigated the effects of caffeine, PACPX (an A(1) receptor antagonist) and 1,3-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine (DMPX) (an A(2) receptor antagonist) on anxiety-like behaviour and locomotor activity of zebrafish in the scototaxis test as well as evaluated the effects of these drugs on pigment aggregation. Caffeine increased anxiety at the dose of 100 mg/kg, while locomotion at the dose of 10 mg/kg was increased. Both doses of 10 and 100 mg/kg induced pigment aggregation. PACPX, on the other hand, increased anxiety at a dose of 6 mg/kg and induced pigment aggregation at the doses of 0.6 and 6 mg/kg, but did not produce a locomotor effect. DMPX, in turn, increased locomotion at the dose of 6 mg/kg but did not produce any effect on pigment aggregation or anxiety-like behaviour. These results indicate that blockade of A(1)-R, but not A(2)-R, induces anxiety and autonomic arousal, while the blockade of A(2)-R induces hyperlocomotion. Thus, as in rodents, caffeine's anxiogenic and arousing effects are probably mediated by A(1) receptors in zebrafish and its locomotor activating effect is probably mediated by A(2) receptors.

Acute restraint stress in zebrafish: behavioral parameters and purinergic signaling

Despite the extensive knowledge about the effects of acute restraint stress (ARS) in rodents, zebrafish research is still elementary in this field, and the consequences of stress on purinergic system are unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of ARS on behavior, biochemical, and molecular parameters in zebrafish brain. Animals were submitted to a 90 min ARS protocol and tested for anxiety levels, exploratory behavior, and memory performance. Furthermore, we analyzed ectonucleotidase and adenosine deaminase activities and their gene expression profile, as well as transcription of adenosine receptors. ARS increased anxiety, but did not impair locomotion or cognition. ARS significantly increased ATP hydrolysis, decreased cytosolic ADA activity, and changed the entpd and adora gene expression. In conclusion, ARS disturbed zebrafish behavior, and we hypothesize that the augmentation in adenosine-mediated signaling may be a strategy to reestablish homeostasis and normal behavior after a stressful event.

Pharmacological analysis of zebrafish (Danio rerio) scototaxis

The scototaxis test has been introduced recently to assess anxiety-like phenotypes in fish, including zebrafish. Parametric analyses suggest that scototaxis represents an approach-avoidance conflict, which hints at anxiety. In this model, white avoidance represents anxiety-like behavior, while the number of shuttling events represents activity. Acute or chronic fluoxetine, buspirone, benzodiazepines, ethanol, caffeine and dizocilpine were assessed using the light-dark box (scototaxis) test in zebrafish. Acute fluoxetine treatment did not alter white avoidance, but altered locomotion in the higher dose; chronic treatment (2 weeks), on the other hand, produced an anxiolytic effect with no locomotor outcomes. The benzodiazepines produced a hormetic (inverted U-shaped) dose-response profile, with intermediate doses producing anxiolysis and no effect at higher doses; clonazepam, a high-potency benzodiazepine agonist, produced a locomotor impairment at the highest dose. Buspirone produced an anxiolytic profile, without locomotor impairments. Moclobemide did not produce behavioral effects. Ethanol also produced a hormetic profile in white avoidance, with locomotor activation in 0.5% concentration. Caffeine produced an anxiogenic profile, without locomotor effects. These results suggest that the light-dark box is sensitive to anxiolytic and anxiogenic drugs in zebrafish.

The pharmacological role of phosphatases (acid and alkaline phosphomonoesterases) in snake venoms related to release of purines - a multitoxin

Snake venom components, acting in concert in the prey, cause their immobilization and initiate digestion. To achieve this, several hydrolytic enzymes of snake venom have evolved to interfere in various physiological processes, which are well defined. However, hydrolytic enzymes such as phosphatases (acid and alkaline phosphomonoesterases) are less studied and their pharmacological role in venoms is not clearly defined. Also, they show overlapping substrate specificities and have other common biochemical properties causing uncertainty about their identity in venoms. The near-ubiquitous distribution of these enzymes in venoms, suggests a significant role for these enzymes in envenomation. It appears that these enzymes may play a central role in liberating purines (mainly adenosine) - a multitoxin and through the action of purines help in prey immobilization. However, apart from this, these enzymes could also possess other pharmacological activities as venom enzymes have been evolved to interfere in diverse physiological processes. This has not been verified by pharmacological studies using purified enzymes. Further research is needed to biologically characterize these enzymes in snake venoms, such that their role in venom is clearly established.

Beneficial Effects of Tianeptine on Hippocampus-Dependent Long-Term Memory and Stress-Induced Alterations of Brain Structure and Function

Tianeptine is a well-described antidepressant which has been shown to prevent stress from producing deleterious effects on brain structure and function. Preclinical studies have shown that tianeptine blocks stress-induced alterations of neuronal morphology and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, tianeptine prevents stress from impairing learning and memory, and, importantly, demonstrates memory-enhancing properties in the absence of stress. Recent research has indicated that tianeptine works by normalizing glutamatergic neurotransmission, a mechanism of action that may underlie its effectiveness as an antidepressant. These findings emphasize the value in focusing on the mechanisms of action of tianeptine, and specifically, the glutamatergic system, in the development of novel pharmacotherapeutic strategies in the treatment of depression.

Adenosine A1 receptors are modified by acute treatment with methylphenidate in adult mice

In recent years misuse of methylphenidate (MPH) has been reported. The main pharmacological target of methylphenidate is the dopaminergic system. Adenosine is a neuromodulator that influences the dopaminergic neurotransmission, but studies on MPH and adenosine are still lacking. In this study, adult mice were acutely treated with MPH (5mg/kg, i.p.) and to model misuse, they received an acute overdosage (50mg/kg, i.p). The involvement of adenosine A(1) receptors in anxiety-related behavior and locomotor and exploratory activity was examined. The administration of methylphenidate (5 and 50mg/kg) 30 min before the exposure to open field arena did not modify locomotor activity. The anxiolytic-like behavior was observed with both doses of MPH as revealed by the increase on the number of entries and the time spent in the open arms in the elevated plus-maze. Pre treatment with selective adenosine A(1) receptor antagonist (DPCPX 1mg/kg, i.p.) did not prevent anxiolytic effect caused by MPH 50mg/kg. Immunoblotting of frontal cortex and hippocampal extracts revealed that MPH 50mg/kg increased 88% adenosine A(1) receptor density in the frontal cortex. Extracts from hippocampus did not reveal any differences in the adenosine A(1) receptor density. Our findings ruled out the participation of adenosine A(1) receptors on the MPH-triggered anxiolytic effects. However, the density of adenosine A(1) receptors increased in a brain area strictly involved in the MPH-mediated effects. Thus, the adenosinergic system may play a role in the methylphenidate actions in the central nervous system.

An overview on nucleases (DNase, RNase, and phosphodiesterase) in snake venoms

In this review, we have compiled the data on pharmacological activities associated with endogenous purine release related enzymes-nucleases (DNases, RNases, and phosphodiesterases). The results of studies on toxic effects of these enzymes, emphasizing the future directions in this field, are summarized. One of the major problems facing toxicologists is the identification and characterization of specific venom nucleases since they share similar substrate specificities and biochemical properties. In this review, we have attempted to clarify some of the discrepancies about these enzymes. Further, we have tried to correlate the existence of nuclease enzymes in relation to endogenous release of purines, a multitoxin, during snake envenomation, and we also discuss the possible actions of purines. We hope that this review will stimulate renewed interest among toxicologists to biologically characterize these enzymes and elucidate their role in envenomation.

Tianeptine: an antidepressant with memory-protective properties

The development of effective pharmacotherapy for major depression is important because it is such a widespread and debilitating mental disorder. Here, we have reviewed preclinical and clinical studies on tianeptine, an atypical antidepressant which ameliorates the adverse effects of stress on brain and memory. In animal studies, tianeptine has been shown to prevent stress-induced morphological sequelae in the hippocampus and amygdala, as well as to prevent stress from impairing synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Tianeptine also has memory-protective characteristics, as it blocks the adverse effects of stress on hippocampus-dependent learning and memory. We have further extended the findings on stress, memory and tianeptine here with two novel observations: 1) stress impairs spatial memory in adrenalectomized (ADX), thereby corticosterone-depleted, rats; and 2) the stress-induced impairment of memory in ADX rats is blocked by tianeptine. These findings are consistent with previous research which indicates that tianeptine produces anti-stress and memory-protective properties without altering the response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to stress. We conclude with a discussion of findings which indicate that tianeptine accomplishes its anti-stress effects by normalizing stress-induced increases in glutamate in the hippocampus and amygdala. This finding is potentially relevant to recent research which indicates that abnormalities in glutamatergic neurotransmission are involved in the pathogenesis of depression. Ultimately, tianeptine’s prevention of depression-induced sequelae in the brain is likely to be a primary factor in its effectiveness as a pharmacological treatment for depression.

Dose-dependent effects of caffeine on behavior and thermoregulation in a chronic unpredictable stress model of depression in rats

The effects of the non-selective adenosine A(1)/A(2) receptor antagonist caffeine on behavior and thermoregulation in chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) model of depression was studied in Wistar rats. In the open field (OF) test, caffeine dose-dependently increased motor activity while decreased grooming and time spent in the corner. Five-week exposure to CUS procedure had the opposite effect in rats. Caffeine reversed CUS-induced effects on the above mentioned parameters. Caffeine (40 mg/kg) increased the motor activity in plus maze (PM) test while at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg it decreased the number of entries in the open arms. Whereas CUS did not change the level of anxiety, caffeine (2, 20 and 40 mg/kg) administered after CUS diminished it by increasing the time in open arms. Caffeine dose-dependently decreased the immobility time while CUS had the opposite increasing effect in forced swimming test (FST). Caffeine at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg reversed the effect of CUS on immobility in FST. Caffeine produced dose-dependent rice of body temperature in both non-treated and CUS-treated rats. The hyperthermic effect in normal rats pretreated with caffeine lasted about 90 min while in caffeine-pretreated rats exposed to CUS it lasted about 150 min. High dose of caffeine (100mg/kg) induced significant hypothermia between 90th and 150th minute in control rats and hyperthermia between 30th and 60th minute in CUS-treated rats. These results suggest a putative role of this methylxanthine in the adaptive responses to chronic unpredictable stress stimuli.

Activation of adenosine(1) (A(1)) receptors suppresses head shakes induced by a serotonergic hallucinogen in rats

Modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission by metabotropic glutamate2/3 (mGlu2/3) receptor agonists effectively treats seemingly diverse neuropsychiatric illness such as generalized anxiety disorder and schizophrenia. Activation of adenosine A(1) heteroceptors, like mGlu2 autoreceptors, decreases glutamate release in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and other limbic brain regions. Previously, we have reported electrophysiological, neurochemical and behavioral evidence for interactions between the 5-hydroxytryptamine(2A) (5-HT(2A)) and mGlu2/3 receptors in the mPFC. The present studies were designed to investigate the effects in rats of adenosine A(1) receptor activation/blockade on a behavior modulated by 5-HT(2A) receptor activation/blockade in the mPFC: head shakes induced in the rat by phenethylamine hallucinogens. An adenosine A(1) receptor agonist, N(6)-cyclohexyladenosine (CHA) suppressed head shakes induced by activation of 5-HT(2A) receptors with the phenethylamine hallucinogen (+/-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine hydrochloride (DOI). An adenosine A1 receptor antagonist, 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX), enhanced DOI-induced head shakes and blocked the suppressant action of an adenosine A(1) receptor agonist on DOI-induced head shakes. Thus, the pattern of activity for an agonist and antagonist at the adenosine A1 receptor with respect to modulating DOI-induced head shakes is similar to the pattern observed with mGlu2/3 receptor agonists and antagonists. These novel observations with an adenosine A(1) receptor agonist suggest that this pharmacological action could contribute to antipsychotic effects in addition to thymoleptic effects.

Adenosine receptors and the central nervous system

The adenosine receptors (ARs) in the nervous system act as a kind of "go-between" to regulate the release of neurotransmitters (this includes all known neurotransmitters) and the action of neuromodulators (e.g., neuropeptides, neurotrophic factors). Receptor-receptor interactions and AR-transporter interplay occur as part of the adenosine's attempt to control synaptic transmission. A(2A)ARs are more abundant in the striatum and A(1)ARs in the hippocampus, but both receptors interfere with the efficiency and plasticity-regulated synaptic transmission in most brain areas. The omnipresence of adenosine and A(2A) and A(1) ARs in all nervous system cells (neurons and glia), together with the intensive release of adenosine following insults, makes adenosine a kind of "maestro" of the tripartite synapse in the homeostatic coordination of the brain function. Under physiological conditions, both A(2A) and A(1) ARs play an important role in sleep and arousal, cognition, memory and learning, whereas under pathological conditions (e.g., Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, epilepsy, drug addiction, pain, schizophrenia, depression), ARs operate a time/circumstance window where in some circumstances A(1)AR agonists may predominate as early neuroprotectors, and in other circumstances A(2A)AR antagonists may alter the outcomes of some of the pathological deficiencies. In some circumstances, and depending on the therapeutic window, the use of A(2A)AR agonists may be initially beneficial; however, at later time points, the use of A(2A)AR antagonists proved beneficial in several pathologies. Since selective ligands for A(1) and A(2A) ARs are now entering clinical trials, the time has come to determine the role of these receptors in neurological and psychiatric diseases and identify therapies that will alter the outcomes of these diseases, therefore providing a hopeful future for the patients who suffer from these diseases.

The type 1 equilibrative nucleoside transporter regulates anxiety-like behavior in mice

Activation of adenosine receptors in the brain reduces anxiety-like behavior in animals and humans. Because nucleoside transporters regulate adenosine levels, we used mice lacking the type 1 equilibrative nucleoside transporter (ENT1) to investigate whether ENT1 contributes to anxiety-like behavior. The ENT1 null mice spent more time in the center of an open field compared with wild-type littermates. In the elevated plus maze, ENT1 null mice entered more frequently into and spent more time exploring the open arms. The ENT1 null mice also spent more time exploring the light side of a light-dark box compared with wild-type mice. Microinjection of an ENT1-specific antagonist, nitrobenzylthioinosine (nitrobenzylmercaptopurine riboside), into the amygdala of C57BL/6J mice reduced anxiety-like behavior in the open field and elevated plus maze. These findings show that amygdala ENT1 modulates anxiety-like behavior. The ENT1 may be a drug target for the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Activation of adenosine A1 receptors reduces anxiety-like behavior during acute ethanol withdrawal (hangover) in mice

Elevated signs of anxiety are observed in both humans and rodents during withdrawal from chronic as well as acute ethanol exposure, and it represents an important motivational factor for ethanol relapse. Several reports have suggested the involvement of brain adenosine receptors in different actions produced by ethanol such as motor incoordination and hypnotic effects. In addition, we have recently demonstrated that adenosine A1 receptors modulate the anxiolytic-like effect induced by ethanol in mice. In the present study, we evaluated the potential of adenosine A1 and A2A receptor agonists in reducing the anxiety-like behavior during acute ethanol withdrawal (hangover) in mice. Animals received a single intraperitoneal administration of saline or ethanol (4 g/kg) and were tested in the elevated plus maze after an interval of 0.5-24 h. The results indicated that hangover-induced anxiety was most pronounced between 12 and 18 h after ethanol administration, as indicated by a significant reduction in the exploration of the open arms of the maze. At this time interval, ethanol was completely cleared. The acute administration of 'nonanxiolytic' doses of adenosine and the selective adenosine A1 receptor agonist 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA), but not the adenosine A2A receptor agonist N6-[2-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(2-methylphenyl)ethyl]adenosine (DPMA), at the onset of peak withdrawal (18 h), reduced this anxiogenic-like response. In addition, the effect of CCPA on the anxiety-like behavior of ethanol hangover was reversed by pretreatment with the selective adenosine A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX). These results reinforce the notion of the involvement of adenosine receptors in the anxiety-like responses and indicate the potential of adenosine A1 receptor agonists to reduce the anxiogenic effects during ethanol withdrawal.

Modulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis by caffeine

Although caffeine is the most consumed psychoactive substance in the world, the extents of many of its effects are unknown. High doses of caffeine have been shown to activate the HPA axis while the effects of low to moderate doses have usually not been described in detail. Moreover, although several lines of evidence suggest that low doses of caffeine may restrain some negative affective states, the possible modulatory role of caffeine on HPA axis activation induced by a stressful stimulus has not been described. Thus, the present studies investigated the possible modulatory effects of low to moderate doses of caffeine on moderate to high HPA axis activation induced by different intensities of loud noise. First, in order to test this modulation, time courses for adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone responses to loud noise stress and to caffeine were defined, in rats. Plasma ACTH and corticosterone levels peaked 30 min from the onset of noise presentation, and rapidly declined after noise termination. A low caffeine dose of 2 mg/kg significantly increased plasma corticosterone and ACTH levels 30 min following injections, but levels returned to baseline 60 min following injections. Caffeine doses of 30 mg/kg and higher elevated plasma hormone levels for at least 2h. Doses of 2 or 10mg/kg, however, did not modulate endocrine responses to loud noise presentation. It is concluded that although caffeine activates the HPA axis, low to moderate doses do not modulate HPA axis responses to stressful stimuli.

Nicotine antagonizes caffeine- but not pentylenetetrazole-induced anxiogenic effect in mice

RATIONALE

Nicotine and caffeine are widely consumed licit psychoactive drugs worldwide. Epidemiological studies showed that they were generally used concurrently. Although some studies in experimental animals indicate clear pharmacological interactions between them, no studies have shown a specific interaction on anxiety responses.

OBJECTIVES

The present study investigates the effects of nicotine on anxiety induced by caffeine and another anxiogenic drug, pentylenetetrazole, in mice. The elevated plus-maze (EPM) test was used to evaluate the effects of drugs on anxiety.

METHODS

Adult male Swiss Webster mice (25-32 g) were given nicotine (0.05-0.25 mg/kg s.c.) or saline 10 min before caffeine (70 mg/kg i.p.) or pentylenetetrazole (15 and 30 mg/kg i.p.) injections. After 15 min, mice were evaluated for their open- and closed-arm time and entries on the EPM for a 10-min session. Locomotor activity was recorded for individual groups by using the same treatment protocol with the EPM test.

RESULTS

Nicotine (0.05-0.25 mg/kg) itself did not produce any significant effect in the EPM test, whereas caffeine (70 mg/kg) and pentylenetetrazole (30 mg/kg) produced an anxiogenic effect, apparent with decreases in open-arm time and entry. Nicotine (0.25 mg/kg) pretreatment blocked the caffeine- but not pentylenetetrazole-induced anxiety. Administration of each drug and their combinations did not produce any effect on locomotor activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the antagonistic effect of nicotine on caffeine-induced anxiety is specific to caffeine, instead of a non-specific anxiolytic effect. Thus, it may extend the current findings on the interaction between nicotine and caffeine.

ACTIONS OF ADENOSINE AT ITS RECEPTORS IN THE CNS: Insights from Knockouts and Drugs

Adenosine and its receptors have been the topic of many recent reviews ( 1 – 26 ). These reviews provide a good summary of much of the relevant literature—including the older literature. We have, therefore, chosen to focus the present review on the insights gained from recent studies on genetically modified mice, particularly with respect to the function of adenosine receptors and their potential as therapeutic targets. The information gained from studies of drug effects is discussed in this context, and discrepancies between genetic and pharmacological results are highlighted.