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Nguyen DH. Role of Endorphins in Breast Cancer Pathogenesis and Recovery. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 35:87-106. [PMID: 38874719 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45493-6_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the relationship between stress and breast cancer development is essential to preventing and alleviating the cancer. Recent research has shed light on the cognitive, physiological, cellular, and molecular underpinnings of how the endorphin pathway and stress pathway affect breast cancer. This chapter consists of two parts. Part 1 will discuss the role of endorphins in breast cancer development. This includes a discussion of three topics: (1) the neurophysiological effect of endorphins on breast tumor growth in vivo, along with further experiments that will deepen our knowledge of how β-endorphin affects breast cancer; (2) how both the opioid receptor and somatostatin receptor classes alter intracellular signaling in breast cancer cells; and (3) genetic alleles in the opioid signaling pathway that are correlated with increased breast cancer risk. Part 2 will discuss the role of endorphins in recovery from breast cancer. This includes a discussion of three topics: (1) the relationship between breast cancer diagnosis and depression; (2) the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy in reducing stress in breast cancer patients; and (3) the effect of psychotherapy and exercise on preserving telomere length in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Nguyen
- BrainScanology, Inc, Concord, CA, USA.
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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Mukherjee S, Tarale P, Sarkar DK. Neuroimmune Interactions in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Potential Therapeutic Targets and Intervention Strategies. Cells 2023; 12:2323. [PMID: 37759545 PMCID: PMC10528917 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a set of abnormalities caused by prenatal exposure to ethanol and are characterized by developmental defects in the brain that lead to various overt and non-overt physiological abnormalities. Growing evidence suggests that in utero alcohol exposure induces functional and structural abnormalities in gliogenesis and neuron-glia interactions, suggesting a possible role of glial cell pathologies in the development of FASD. However, the molecular mechanisms of neuron-glia interactions that lead to the development of FASD are not clearly understood. In this review, we discuss glial cell pathologies with a particular emphasis on microglia, primary resident immune cells in the brain. Additionally, we examine the involvement of several neuroimmune molecules released by glial cells, their signaling pathways, and epigenetic mechanisms responsible for FASD-related alteration in brain functions. Growing evidence suggests that extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in the communication between cells via transporting bioactive cargo from one cell to the other. This review emphasizes the role of EVs in the context of neuron-glia interactions during prenatal alcohol exposure. Finally, some potential applications involving nutritional, pharmacological, cell-based, and exosome-based therapies in the treatment of FASD are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayani Mukherjee
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1573, USA; (S.M.); (P.T.)
- Hormone Laboratory Research Group, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, Jonas Lies vei 91B, 5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Prashant Tarale
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1573, USA; (S.M.); (P.T.)
| | - Dipak K. Sarkar
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1573, USA; (S.M.); (P.T.)
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Scopano MR, Jones HE, Stea SG, Freeman MZ, Grisel JE. Age, β-endorphin, and sex dependent effects of maternal separation on locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, and alcohol reward. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1155647. [PMID: 37091593 PMCID: PMC10113444 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1155647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionChildhood adversity is pervasive and linked to numerous disadvantages in adulthood, including physical health problems, mental illness, and substance use disorders. Initial sensitivity to the rewarding effects of alcohol predicts the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder, and may be linked to developmental stress. The opioid peptide β-endorphin (β-E) regulates the stress response and is also implicated in the risk for excessive alcohol consumption.MethodsWe explored the influence of β-E in an animal model of early life adversity using controlled maternal separation by evaluating changes in locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, and the initial rewarding effects of alcohol in a single exposure conditioned place preference paradigm in control C57BL/6J and β-E deficient β-E +/+ 0.129S2-Pomc tm1Low/J; β-E −/− mice. Maternal separation (MS) occurred for 3 h each day from post-natal days (PND) 5–18 in approximately half the subjects.ResultsMaternal interactions increased following the separation protocol equally in both genotypes. MS and control subjects were tested as adolescents (PND 26–32) or adults (PND 58–72); the effects of MS were generally more pronounced in older subjects. Adults were more active than adolescents in the open field, and MS decreased activity in adolescent mice but increased it in adults. The increase in adult activity as a result of early life stress depended on both β-E and sex. β-E also influenced the effect of maternal separation on anxiety-like behavior in the Elevated Plus Maze. MS promoted rewarding effects of alcohol in male β-E deficient mice of either age, but had no effect in other groups.DiscussionTaken together, these results suggest that the effects of MS develop over time and are β-E and sex dependent and may aid understanding of how individual differences influence the impact of adverse childhood experiences.
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Gangisetty O, Chaudhary S, Palagani A, Sarkar DK. Transgenerational inheritance of fetal alcohol effects on proopiomelanocortin gene expression and methylation, cortisol response to stress, and anxiety-like behaviors in offspring for three generations in rats: Evidence for male germline transmission. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263340. [PMID: 35143549 PMCID: PMC8830645 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously it has been shown that fetal alcohol exposure increases the stress response partly due to lowering stress regulatory proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) gene expression in the hypothalamus via epigenetic mechanisms for multiple generations in mixed-breed rats. In this study we assess the induction of heritable epigenetic changes of Pomc-related variants by fetal alcohol exposure in isogenic Fischer 344 rats. Using transgenerational breeding models and fetal alcohol exposure procedures, we determined changes in hypothalamic Pomc gene expression and its methylation levels, plasma corticosterone hormone response to restraint stress, and anxiety-like behaviors using elevated plus maze tests in fetal alcohol-exposed offspring for multiple generations in isogenic Fischer rats. Fetal alcohol-exposed male and female rat offspring showed significant deficits in POMC neuronal functions with increased Pomc gene methylation and reduced expression. These changes in POMC neuronal functions were associated with increased plasma corticosterone response to restraint stress and increased anxiety-like behavior. These effects of fetal alcohol exposure persisted in the F1, F2, and F3 progeny of the male germline but not of the female germline. These data suggest that fetal alcohol exposure induces heritable changes in Pomc-related variants involving stress hyperresponsiveness and anxiety-like behaviors which perpetuate into subsequent generations through the male germline via epigenetic modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkaram Gangisetty
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Shaista Chaudhary
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Ajay Palagani
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Dipak K. Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
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Sun J, Sun J. How neuroactive factors mediates immune responses during pregnancy: An interdisciplinary view. Neuropeptides 2022; 91:102213. [PMID: 34839164 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy, from insemination to parturition, is a highly complex but well-orchestrated process that requires various organs and systems to participate. Immune system and neuroendocrine system are important regulators in healthy pregnancy. Dozens of neuroactive factors have been detected in human placenta, whether they are locally secreted or circulated. Among them, some are vividly studied such as corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), progesterone and estrogens, while others are relatively lack of research. Though the neuroendocrine-immune interactions are demonstrated in some diseases for decades, the roles of neuroactive factors in immune system and lymphocytes during pregnancy are not fully elucidated. This review aims to provide an interdisciplinary view on how the neuroendocrine system mediate immune system during pregnancy process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Sun
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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Gangisetty O, Mead EA, Sarkar DK. Sex-Determining Region Y Controls the Effects of Fetal Alcohol Exposure on Proopiomelanocortin Gene Expression. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:608102. [PMID: 33796006 PMCID: PMC8008069 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.608102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal alcohol exposure (FAE) causes various neurodevelopmental deficits in offspring, including reduced expression of the stress regulatory proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) gene and an elevated stress response for multiple generations via the male germline. Male germline-specific effects of FAE on the Pomc gene raises the question if the sex-determining region Y (SRY) may have a role in regulating Pomc gene expression. Using a transgenerational model of FAE in Fischer 344 rats, we determined the role of SRY in the regulation of the Pomc gene. FAEs, like on the Pomc gene, reduced Sry gene expression in sperm and the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) in male adult offspring. Fetal alcohol-induced inhibition of Sry gene expression was associated with increased Sry promoter DNA methylation. Additionally, fetal alcohol effects on the Sry gene persisted for three generations in the male germline but not in the female germline. Sry gene knockdown reduced the Pomc gene expression. Sry recruitment onto the Pomc promoter was found to be reduced in the hypothalamus of fetal alcohol-exposed rats compared to control rats. Pomc promoter luciferase activity was increased following Sry overexpression. A site-directed mutagenesis study revealed that SRY binding sites are required for POMC promoter transcription activity. Overall, these findings suggest that SRY plays a stimulatory role in the regulation of Pomc gene expression and may potentially contribute to the fetal alcohol-induced changes in the level of Pomc gene expression for multiple generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkaram Gangisetty
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Edward A Mead
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
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Świerczyński M, Szymaszkiewicz A, Fichna J, Zielińska M. New insights into molecular pathways in colorectal cancer: Adiponectin, interleukin-6 and opioid signaling. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1875:188460. [PMID: 33184028 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cause of death among neoplasms around the world. The environmental factors, like diet and obesity, are crucial in CRC pathogenesis by creating cancer-favorable microenvironment and hormonal changes. Adiponectin, the adipose tissue-specific hormone, is generally considered to negatively correlate with CRC development. The interleukin 6 (IL-6) is one of the most important pro-inflammatory cytokine connected with CRC, which is strongly inflammation-associated. The opioids are variable group substantially correlated with cancers - the endogenous opioids affect immune system and cell cycle including proliferation and cell death whereas exogenous opioids are leading clinically used analgesics in terminal cancer patients. In this review we discuss the involvement of adiponectin, IL-6 and opioids in CRC pathogenesis, their link with obesity, possible cross-talk and potential novel therapeutic approach in CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikołaj Świerczyński
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Agata Szymaszkiewicz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Jakub Fichna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Marta Zielińska
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
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Alcohol as an early life stressor: Epigenetics, metabolic, neuroendocrine and neurobehavioral implications. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:654-668. [PMID: 32976915 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol exposure during gestation is an early life stressor that profoundly dysregulates structure and functions of the embryonal nervous system, altering the cognitive and behavioral development. Such dysregulation is also achieved by epigenetic mechanisms, which, altering the chromatin structure, redraw the entire pattern of gene expression. In parallel, an oxidative stress response at the cellular level and a global upregulation of neuroendocrine stress response, regulated by the HPA axis, exist and persist in adulthood. This neurobehavioral framework matches those observed in other psychiatric diseases such as mood diseases, depression, autism; those early life stressing events, although probably triggered by specific and different epigenetic mechanisms, give rise to largely overlapping neurobehavioral phenotypes. An early diagnosis of prenatal alcohol exposure, using reliable markers of ethanol intake, together with a deeper understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms, some of them reversible by their nature, can offer a temporal "window" of intervention. Supplementing a mother's diet with protective and antioxidant substances in addition to supportive psychological therapies can protect newborns from being affected.
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Gangisetty O, Palagani A, Sarkar DK. Transgenerational inheritance of fetal alcohol exposure adverse effects on immune gene interferon-ϒ. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:70. [PMID: 32448218 PMCID: PMC7245772 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00859-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol exposures in utero have been shown to alter immune system functions in the offspring which persists into adulthood. However, it is not apparent why the in utero alcohol effect on the immune system persists into adulthood of fetal alcohol-exposed offspring. The objective of this study was to determine the long-term effects of fetal alcohol exposure on the production of interferon-ϒ (IFN-ϒ), a cytokine known to regulate both innate and adaptive immunity. Methods Isogenic Fisher 344 rats were bred to produce pregnant dams, which were fed with a liquid diet containing 6.7% alcohol between gestation days 7 and 21 and pair-fed with an isocaloric liquid diet or fed ad libitum with rat chow; their male and female offspring were used for the study. F1-F3 generation rats were used when they were 2 to 3 months old. Fetal alcohol exposure effects on the Ifn-ɣ gene was determined by measuring the gene promoter methylation and mRNA and protein expression in the spleen. Additionally, transgenerational studies were conducted to evaluate the germline-transmitted effects of fetal alcohol exposure on the Ifn-ɣ gene. Results Fetal alcohol exposure reduced the expression of Ifn-ɣ mRNA and IFN-ϒ protein while it increased the proximal promoter methylation of the Ifn-ɣ gene in both male and female offspring during the adult period. Transgenerational studies revealed that the reduced levels of Ifn-ɣ expression and increased levels of its promoter methylation persisted only in F2 and F3 generation males derived from the male germ line. Conclusion Overall, these findings provide the evidence that fetal alcohol exposures produce an epigenetic mark on the Ifn-ɣ gene that passes through multiple generations via the male germ line. These data provide the first evidence that the male germ line transmits fetal alcohol exposure's adverse effects on the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkaram Gangisetty
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, 67 Poultry Farm Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Ajay Palagani
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, 67 Poultry Farm Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, 67 Poultry Farm Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
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Sarkar DK, Gangisetty O, Wozniak JR, Eckerle JK, Georgieff MK, Foroud TM, Wetherill L, Wertelecki W, Chambers CD, Riley E, Zymak-Zakutnya N, Yevtushok L. Persistent Changes in Stress-Regulatory Genes in Pregnant Women or Children Exposed Prenatally to Alcohol. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:1887-1897. [PMID: 31329297 PMCID: PMC6722014 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have recently shown that binge or heavy levels of alcohol drinking increase deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation and reduce gene expression of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and period 2 (PER2) in adult human subjects (Gangisetty et al., Alcohol Clin Exp Res, 43, 2019, 212). One hypothesis would be that methylation of these 2 genes is consistently associated with alcohol exposure and could be used as biomarkers to predict risk of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). Results of the present study provided some support for this hypothesis. METHODS We conducted a series of studies to determine DNA methylation changes in stress regulatory genes proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and period 2 (PER2) using biological samples from 3 separate cohorts of patients: (i) pregnant women who consumed moderate-to-high levels of alcohol or low/unexposed controls, (ii) children with PAE and non-alcohol-exposed controls, and (iii) children with PAE treated with or without choline. RESULTS We found pregnant women who consumed moderate-to-high levels of alcohol and gave birth to PAE children had higher DNA methylation of POMC and PER2. PAE children also had increased methylation of POMC and PER2. The differences in the gene methylation of PER2 and POMC between PAE and controls did not differ by maternal smoking status. PAE children had increased levels of stress hormone cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone. Choline supplementation reduced DNA hypermethylation and increased expression of POMC and PER2 in children with PAE. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that PAE significantly elevates DNA methylation of POMC and PER2 and increases levels of stress hormones. Furthermore, these results suggest the possibility that measuring DNA methylation levels of PER2 and POMC in biological samples from pregnant women or from children may be useful for identification of a woman or a child with PAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak K. Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program. Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, 67 Poultry Farm Lane, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Omkaram Gangisetty
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program. Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, 67 Poultry Farm Lane, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Wozniak
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, F282/2A West, 2450 Riverside Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - Judith K. Eckerle
- Department Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Michael K. Georgieff
- Division of Pediatric Neonatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Tatiana M Foroud
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, 46202, USA
| | - Leah Wetherill
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, 46202, USA
| | - Wladimir Wertelecki
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92054, USA
| | - Christina D. Chambers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92054, USA
| | - Edward Riley
- Department of Psychology, Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, 92120, USA
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Acupuncture on the Stress-Related Drug Relapse to Seeking. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:5367864. [PMID: 30416533 PMCID: PMC6207895 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5367864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronic relapsing disease, which causes serious social and economic problems. The most important trial for the successful treatment of drug addiction is to prevent the high rate of relapse to drug-seeking behaviors. Opponent process as a motivational theory with excessive drug seeking in the negative reinforcement of drug dependence reflects both loss of brain reward system and recruitment of brain stress system. The negative emotional state produced by brain stress system during drug withdrawal might contribute to the intense drug craving and drive drug-seeking behaviors via negative reinforcement mechanisms. Decrease in dopamine neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens and recruitment of corticotropin-releasing factor in the extended amygdala are hypothesized to be implicated in mediating this motivated behavior. Also, a brain stress response system is hypothesized to increase drug craving and contribute to relapse to drug-seeking behavior during the preoccupation and anticipation stage of dependence caused by the exposure to stress characterized as the nonspecific responses to any demands on the body. Acupuncture has proven to be effective for reducing drug addiction and stress-related psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, acupuncture has been shown to correct reversible brain malfunctions by regulating drug addiction and stress-related neurotransmitters. Accordingly, it seems reasonable to propose that acupuncture attenuates relapse to drug-seeking behavior through inhibition of stress response. In this review, a brief description of stress in relapse to drug-seeking behavior and the effects of acupuncture were presented.
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Murugan S, Dave Y, Rakhit A, Sarkar DK. Hypothalamic beta-endorphin neurons suppress preneoplastic and neoplastic lesions development in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine induced rat colon cancer model. J Cancer 2017; 8:3105-3113. [PMID: 29158781 PMCID: PMC5665025 DOI: 10.7150/jca.18860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, experimental studies demonstrated negative impacts of impaired body stress response on colonic pathologies. In this study, we tested if reducing body stress response by the use of β-endorphin (BEP) neuronal transplants in the hypothalamus suppresses pre-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions. Colon cancer was induced by injecting 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) for sixteen weeks in Sprague Dawley rats with BEP neuron transplants or control neuron transplants, and their colonic histopathologies, colon tissue levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) proteins and splenic levels of cytotoxic proteins were measured. Our results revealed that DMH induced tumors in colon at 100% incidence in control rats but failed to induce colonic tumors in 70% of animal with BEP neuronal transplants. The mean volume of tumor at the colon was smaller in BEP neurons transplanted rats than those in controls. Histopathologies of colon tissues revealed that BEP neurons transplanted animals had lesser tissue lesions such as aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and adenocarcinoma development in the colon than those in control groups. Immunohistochemical and western blot analyses identified reduced expression of Ki-67, TNF-α and NF-κB nuclear translocation in colonic tissues of BEP neurons transplanted rats than those in controls. BEP neurons transplanted rats also showed reduced expressions of transcription factors linked to EMT like Snail, Twist, and N-cadherin, but increased the levels of an epithelial cell marker E-cadherin in colon tissue. Furthermore, splenic NK cells cytolytic proteins such as perforin, granzyme B and IFN-γ levels in BEP neurons transplanted rats were higher than those in control rats. These data suggest that BEP neuron transplants suppress the growth and progression of colonic tumors possibly by decreasing inflammatory mileu and EMT via activation of innate immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sengottuvelan Murugan
- Current address: Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yatee Dave
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Ankush Rakhit
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
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Liang Y, Du JY, Fang JF, Fang RY, Zhou J, Shao XM, Jiang YL, Chen YT, Fang JQ. Alleviating Mechanical Allodynia and Modulating Cellular Immunity Contribute to Electroacupuncture's Dual Effect on Bone Cancer Pain. Integr Cancer Ther 2017; 17:401-410. [PMID: 28870114 PMCID: PMC6041932 DOI: 10.1177/1534735417728335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothesis: Electroacupuncture (EA) has been used as an alternative analgesic therapy for hundreds of years, yet its analgesic potency and therapeutic advantage against bone cancer pain (BCP) in comparison with morphine remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of EA on mechanical allodynia and cellular immunity of BCP rats, and to further explore the potential mechanism. Methods: The BCP model was established by implanting Walker 256 mammary gland carcinoma cells into the left tibia of adult female Sprague-Dawley rats. EA (dilatational wave, 2/100 Hz, 0.5 mA–1mA–1.5 mA for 10 minutes each intensity) was applied bilaterally to Zusanli (ST 36) and Kunlun (BL 60) for 30 minutes. Both EA stimulation and morphine (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was given once every other day. Naloxone (0.3 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was injected at 30 minutes prior to EA. Mechanical allodynia were demonstrated by paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) which measured by dynamic plantar aesthesiometer. T cell proliferation, percentage of CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in spleen as well as expression of interleukin-2 (IL-2) in plasma were detected by WST-8, flow cytometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique, respectively. Results: An intratibial inoculation of Walker 256 mammary gland carcinoma cells significantly decreased PWTs to mechanical stimuli. EA stimulation alleviated mechanical allodynia in BCP rats, and the analgesic potency of EA was weaker than that of morphine. In contrast to morphine, EA stimulation of BCP rats increased splenic concanavalin A (Con A)-induced T cell proliferation and plasma IL-2 content, as well as increased the percentages of splenic CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T cell subsets. Moreover, both the analgesic effect and the partial immunomodulation of EA were suppressed by an intraperitoneal injection of naloxone. Conclusion: EA could significantly alleviate BCP-induced mechanical allodynia. Although the analgesic effect of EA was weaker than that of morphine, EA had an immunomodulation effect on cellular immunity. Both analgesic and immunomodulatory effect of EA might share the same mechanism via the opioid-mediated pathway, which needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liang
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,2 The Third Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Ying Du
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Fan Fang
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruo-Yi Fang
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- 2 The Third Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Shao
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Liang Jiang
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Tian Chen
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Qiao Fang
- 1 The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Shrivastava P, Cabrera MA, Chastain LG, Boyadjieva NI, Jabbar S, Franklin T, Sarkar DK. Mu-opioid receptor and delta-opioid receptor differentially regulate microglial inflammatory response to control proopiomelanocortin neuronal apoptosis in the hypothalamus: effects of neonatal alcohol. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:83. [PMID: 28407740 PMCID: PMC5391607 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-0844-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid receptors are known to control neurotransmission of various peptidergic neurons, but their potential role in regulation of microglia and neuronal cell communications is unknown. We investigated the role of mu-opioid receptors (MOR) and delta-opioid receptors (DOR) on microglia in the regulation of apoptosis in proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons induced by neonatal ethanol in the hypothalamus. METHODS Neonatal rat pups were fed a milk formula containing ethanol or control diets between postnatal days 2-6. Some of the alcohol-fed rats additionally received pretreatment of a microglia activation blocker minocycline. Two hours after the last feeding, some of the pups were sacrificed and processed for histochemical detection of microglial cell functions or confocal microscopy for detection of cellular physical interaction or used for gene and protein expression analysis. The rest of the pups were dissected for microglia separation by differential gradient centrifugation and characterization by measuring production of various activation markers and cytokines. In addition, primary cultures of microglial cells were prepared using hypothalamic tissues of neonatal rats and used for determination of cytokine production/secretion and apoptotic activity of neurons. RESULTS In the hypothalamus, neonatal alcohol feeding elevated cytokine receptor levels, increased the number of microglial cells with amoeboid-type circularity, enhanced POMC and microglial cell physical interaction, and decreased POMC cell numbers. Minocycline reversed these cellular effects of alcohol. Alcohol feeding also increased levels of microglia MOR protein and pro-inflammatory signaling molecules in the hypothalamus, and MOR receptor antagonist naltrexone prevented these effects of alcohol. In primary cultures of hypothalamic microglia, both MOR agonist [D-Ala 2, N-MePhe 4, Gly-ol]-enkephalin (DAMGO) and ethanol increased microglial cellular levels and secretion of pro-inflammatory cell signaling proteins. However, a DOR agonist [D-Pen2,5]enkephalin (DPDPE) increased microglial secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines and suppressed ethanol's ability to increase microglial production of inflammatory signaling proteins and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, MOR-activated inflammation promoted while DOR-suppressed inflammation inhibited the apoptotic effect of ethanol on POMC neurons. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that ethanol's neurotoxic action on POMC neurons results from MOR-activated neuroinflammatory signaling. Additionally, these results identify a protective effect of a DOR agonist against the pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic action of ethanol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi Shrivastava
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Miguel A Cabrera
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Lucy G Chastain
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Nadka I Boyadjieva
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Shaima Jabbar
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Tina Franklin
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- The Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Lane, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
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15
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A combined opiate agonist and antagonist treatment reduces prolactin secreting pituitary tumor growth. J Cell Commun Signal 2017; 11:227-232. [PMID: 28144772 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-017-0374-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolactin secreting pituitary adenomas (prolactinomas) is the most common pituitary tumors in humans. Animal studies have identified aggressive prolactinoma development in fetal alcohol exposed rats. We have recently identified a combination treatment of a μ opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone and a δ opioid receptor agonist D-Ala2-,N-Me-Phe4,Gly-ol Enkephalin (DPDPE) increases innate immune function. In this study, we tested whether naltrexone and DPDPE combination therapy is useful to control pituitary tumor growth. Fetal alcohol exposed and control Fischer 344 female rats at 60 days of age were ovariectomized and received an estrogen implant to induce prolactinomas. Six weeks after the estrogen implant, these animals received treatments of naltrexone and DPDPE or saline. The growth of the pituitary tumor prior to and after opioidergic agent treatments was visualized using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). At the end of the treatment, pituitary weights, plasma prolactin and splenic levels of cytotoxic factors were determined. Both imaging data and weight data indicated that the volume and the weight of the pituitary were increased more after estrogen treatment in animals exposed to fetal alcohol than control. Naltrexone and DPDPE treatment reduced the weight and volume of the pituitary gland and plasma levels of prolactin in both fetal alcohol exposed and control-fed animals. The treatment of opioidergic agents also increased the levels of cytotoxic factors in the spleen. These data provide a novel possibility in treating pituitary tumors using a combination therapy of naltrexone and DPDPE.
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16
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Zhang C, Franklin T, Sarkar DK. Inhibition of Mammary Cancer Progression in Fetal Alcohol Exposed Rats by β-Endorphin Neurons. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2016; 40:134-40. [PMID: 26727531 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal alcohol exposure (FAE) increases the susceptibility to carcinogen-induced mammary cancer progression in rodent models. FAE also decreases β-endorphin (β-EP) level and causes hyperstress response, which leads to inhibition of immune function against cancer. Previous studies have shown that injection of nanosphere-attached dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (dbcAMP) into the third ventricle increases the number of β-EP neurons in the hypothalamus. In this study, we assessed the therapeutic potential of stress regulation using methods to increase hypothalamic levels of β-EP, a neuropeptide that inhibits stress axis activity, in treatment of carcinogen-induced mammary cancer in fetal alcohol exposed rats. METHODS Fetal alcohol exposed and control Sprague Dawley rats were given a dose of N-Nitroso-N-methylurea (MNU) at postnatal day 50 to induce mammary cancer growth. Upon detection of mammary tumors, the animals were either transplanted with β-EP neurons or injected with dbcAMP-delivering nanospheres into the hypothalamus to increase β-EP peptide production. Spleen cytokines were detected using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assays. Metastasis study was done by injecting mammary cancer cells MADB106 into jugular vein of β-EP-activated or control fetal alcohol exposed animals. RESULTS Both transplantation of β-EP neurons and injection of dbcAMP-delivering nanospheres inhibited MNU-induced mammary cancer growth in control rats, and reversed the effect of FAE on the susceptibility to mammary cancer. Similar to the previously reported immune-enhancing and stress-suppressive effects of β-EP transplantation, injection of dbcAMP-delivering nanospheres increased the levels of interferon-γ and granzyme B and decreased the levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine in fetal alcohol exposed rats. Mammary cancer cell metastasis study also showed that FAE increased incidence of lung tumor retention, while β-EP transplantation inhibited lung tumor growth in both normal and fetal alcohol exposed rats. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that increase of β-EP production in the hypothalamus may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating the cancer growth in patients with chronic stress and compromised immune function, such as the patients with FAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changqing Zhang
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.,Endocrinolgy and Animal Biosciences Graduate Program, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Tina Franklin
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.,Molecular Biosciences Graduate Program, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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17
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Logan RW, Wynne O, Maglakelidze G, Zhang C, O'Connell S, Boyadjieva NI, Sarkar DK. β-Endorphin neuronal transplantation into the hypothalamus alters anxiety-like behaviors in prenatal alcohol-exposed rats and alcohol-non-preferring and alcohol-preferring rats. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2016; 39:146-57. [PMID: 25623413 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol exposure has adverse effects on stress physiology and behavioral reactivity. This is suggested to be due, in part, to the effect of alcohol on β-endorphin (β-EP)-producing neurons in the hypothalamus. In response to stress, β-EP normally provides negative feedback to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and interacts with other neurotransmitter systems in the amygdala to regulate behavior. We examined whether β-EP neuronal function in the hypothalamus reduces the corticosterone response to acute stress, attenuates anxiety-like behaviors, and modulates alcohol drinking in rats. METHODS To determine whether β-EP neuronal transplants modulate the stress response, anxiety behavior, and alcohol drinking, we implanted differentiated β-EP neurons into the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus of normal, prenatal alcohol-exposed, and alcohol-preferring (P) and alcohol-non-preferring (NP) rats. We then assessed corticosterone levels in response to acute restraint stress and other markers of stress response in the brain and anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze and open-field assays. RESULTS We showed that β-EP neuronal transplants into the PVN reduced the peripheral corticosterone response to acute stress and attenuated anxiety-like behaviors. Similar transplants completely reduced the hypercorticosterone response and elevated anxiety behaviors in prenatal alcohol-exposed adult rats. Moreover, we showed that β-EP reduced anxiety behavior in P rats with minimal effects on alcohol drinking during and following restraint stress. CONCLUSIONS These data further establish a role of β-EP neurons in the hypothalamus for regulating physiological stress response and anxiety behavior and resemble a potential novel therapy for treating stress-related psychiatric disorders in prenatal alcohol-exposed children and those genetically predisposed to increased alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan W Logan
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Translational Neuroscience Program, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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18
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Sarkar DK. Male germline transmits fetal alcohol epigenetic marks for multiple generations: a review. Addict Biol 2016; 21:23-34. [PMID: 25581210 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol exposure during fetal and early postnatal development can lead to an increased incidence of later life adult-onset diseases. Examples include central nervous system dysfunction, depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, and an inability to deal with stressful situations, increased infection and cancer. Direct effects of alcohol leading to developmental abnormalities often involve epigenetic modifications of genes that regulate cellular functions. Epigenetic marks carried over from the parents are known to undergo molecular programming events that happen early in embryonic development by a wave of DNA demethylation, which leaves the embryo with a fresh genomic composition. The proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) gene controls neuroendocrine-immune functions and is imprinted by fetal alcohol exposure. Recently, this gene has been shown to be hypermethylated through three generations. Additionally, the alcohol epigenetic marks on the Pomc gene are maintained in the male but not in the female germline during this transgenerational transmission. These data suggest that the male-specific chromosome might be involved in transmitting alcohol epigenetic marks through multiple generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak K. Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program; Department of Animal Sciences; Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey; Piscataway Township NJ USA
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19
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Varadinova M, Boyadjieva N. Epigenetic mechanisms: A possible link between autism spectrum disorders and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Pharmacol Res 2015; 102:71-80. [PMID: 26408203 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2015.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The etiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) still remains unclear and seems to involve a considerable overlap between polygenic, epigenetic and environmental factors. We have summarized the current understanding of the interplay between gene expression dysregulation via epigenetic modifications and the potential epigenetic impact of environmental factors in neurodevelopmental deficits. Furthermore, we discuss the scientific controversies of the relationship between prenatal exposure to alcohol and alcohol-induced epigenetic dysregulations, and gene expression alterations which are associated with disrupted neural plasticity and causal pathways for ASDs. The review of the literature suggests that a better understanding of developmental epigenetics should contribute to furthering our comprehension of the etiology and pathogenesis of ASDs and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslava Varadinova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Nadka Boyadjieva
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.
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20
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Crews FT, Sarkar DK, Qin L, Zou J, Boyadjieva N, Vetreno RP. Neuroimmune Function and the Consequences of Alcohol Exposure. Alcohol Res 2015; 37:331-41, 344-51. [PMID: 26695754 PMCID: PMC4590627] [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: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Induction of neuroimmune genes by binge drinking increases neuronal excitability and oxidative stress, contributing to the neurobiology of alcohol dependence and causing neurodegeneration. Ethanol exposure activates signaling pathways featuring high-mobility group box 1 and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), resulting in induction of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, which regulates expression of several cytokine genes involved in innate immunity, and its target genes. This leads to persistent neuroimmune responses to ethanol that stimulate TLRs and/or certain glutamate receptors (i.e., N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors). Alcohol also alters stress responses, causing elevation of peripheral cytokines, which further sensitize neuroimmune responses to ethanol. Neuroimmune signaling and glutamate excitotoxicity are linked to alcoholic neurodegeneration. Models of alcohol abuse have identified significant frontal cortical degeneration and loss of hippocampal neurogenesis, consistent with neuroimmune activation pathology contributing to these alcohol-induced, long-lasting changes in the brain. These alcohol-induced long-lasting increases in brain neuroimmune-gene expression also may contribute to the neurobiology of alcohol use disorder.
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21
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Sarkar DK. Fetal alcohol exposure increases susceptibility to carcinogenesis and promotes tumor progression in prostate gland. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2015; 815:389-402. [PMID: 25427920 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-09614-8_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The idea that exposure to adverse environmental conditions and lifestyle choices during pregnancy can result in fetal programming that underlies disease susceptibility in adulthood is now widely accepted. Fetal alcohol exposed offspring displays many behavioral and physiological abnormalities including neuroendocrine-immune functions, which often carry over into their adult life. Since the neuroendocrine-immune system plays an important role in controlling tumor surveillance, fetal alcohol exposed offspring can be vulnerable to develop cancer. Animal studies have recently showed increased cancer growth and progression in various tissues of fetal alcohol exposed offspring. I will detail in this chapter the recent evidence for increased prostate carcinogenesis in fetal alcohol exposed rats. I will also provide evidence for a role of excessive estrogenization during prostatic development in the increased incidence of prostatic carcinoma in these animals. Furthermore, I will discuss the additional possibility of the involvement of impaired stress regulation and resulting immune incompetence in the increased prostatic neoplasia in the fetal alcohol exposed offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak K Sarkar
- Endocrinology Program and Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 67 Poultry Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA,
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22
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Gangisetty O, Bekdash R, Maglakelidze G, Sarkar DK. Fetal alcohol exposure alters proopiomelanocortin gene expression and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function via increasing MeCP2 expression in the hypothalamus. PLoS One 2014; 9:e113228. [PMID: 25409090 PMCID: PMC4237387 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a precursor gene of the neuropeptide β-endorphin in the hypothalamus and is known to regulate various physiological functions including stress response. Several recent reports showed that fetal alcohol exposure programs the hypothalamus to produce lower levels of POMC gene transcripts and to elevate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response to stressful stimuli. We investigated the role of methyl CpG binding protein (MeCP2) in the effects of prenatal ethanol on POMC gene expression and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function. Pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were fed between GD 7 and 21 with a liquid diet containing 6.7% alcohol, pair-fed with isocaloric liquid diet, or fed ad libitum with rat chow, and their male offsprings were used at 60 days after birth in this study. Fetal alcohol exposure reduced the level of POMC mRNA, but increased the level of DNA methylation of this gene in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus where the POMC neuronal cell bodies are located. Fetal alcohol exposed rats showed a significant increase in MeCP2 protein levels in POMC cells, MeCP2 gene transcript levels as well as increased MeCP2 protein binding on the POMC promoter in the arcuate nucleus. Lentiviral delivery of MeCP2 shRNA into the third ventricle efficiently reduced MeCP2 expression and prevented the effect of prenatal ethanol on POMC gene expression in the arcuate nucleus. MeCP2-shRNA treatment also normalized the prenatal ethanol-induced increase in corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) gene expression in the hypothalamus and elevated plasma adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone hormone responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. These results suggest that fetal alcohol programming of POMC gene may involve recruitment of MeCP2 on to the methylated promoter of the POMC gene to suppress POMC transcript levels and contribute to HPA axis dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkaram Gangisetty
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Rola Bekdash
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - George Maglakelidze
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Dipak K. Sarkar
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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23
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Zhang C, Murugan S, Boyadjieva N, Jabbar S, Shrivastava P, Sarkar DK. Beta-endorphin cell therapy for cancer prevention. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2014; 8:56-67. [PMID: 25403848 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-14-0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
β-Endorphin (BEP)-producing neuron in the hypothalamus plays a key role in bringing the stress axis to a state of homeostasis and maintaining body immune defense system. Long-term delivery of BEP to obtain beneficial effect on chemoprevention is challenging, as the peptides rapidly develop tolerance. Using rats as animal models, we show here that transplantation of BEP neurons into the hypothalamus suppressed carcinogens- and hormone-induced cancers in various tissues and prevented growth and metastasis of established tumors via activation of innate immune functions. In addition, we show that intracerebroventricular administration of nanosphere-attached dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (dbcAMP) increased the number of BEP neurons in the hypothalamus, reduced the stress response, enhanced the innate immune function, and prevented tumor cell growth, progression, and metastasis. BEP neuronal supplementation did not produce any deleterious effects on general health but was beneficial in suppressing age-induced alterations in physical activity, metabolic, and immune functions. We conclude that the neuroimmune system has significant control over cancer growth and progression, and that activation of the neuroimmune system via BEP neuronal supplementation/induction may have therapeutic value for cancer prevention and improvement of general health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changqing Zhang
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Endocrinology and Animal Biosciences Graduate Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Sengottuvelan Murugan
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Department of Animal Sciences, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Nadka Boyadjieva
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Department of Animal Sciences, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Shaima Jabbar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Endocrinology and Animal Biosciences Graduate Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Pallavi Shrivastava
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Department of Animal Sciences, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Endocrinology and Animal Biosciences Graduate Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Department of Animal Sciences, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.
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24
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Bekdash R, Zhang C, Sarkar D. Fetal alcohol programming of hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin system by epigenetic mechanisms and later life vulnerability to stress. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2014; 38:2323-30. [PMID: 25069392 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons, one of the major regulators of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, immune functions, and energy homeostasis, are vulnerable to the adverse effects of fetal alcohol exposure (FAE). These effects are manifested in POMC neurons by a decrease in Pomc gene expression, a decrement in the levels of its derived peptide β-endorphin and a dysregulation of the stress response in the adult offspring. The HPA axis is a major neuroendocrine system with pivotal physiological functions and mode of regulation. This system has been shown to be perturbed by prenatal alcohol exposure. It has been demonstrated that the perturbation of the HPA axis by FAE is long-lasting and is linked to molecular, neurophysiological, and behavioral changes in exposed individuals. Recently, we showed that the dysregulation of the POMC system function by FAE is induced by epigenetic mechanisms such as hypermethylation of Pomc gene promoter and an alteration in histone marks in POMC neurons. This developmental programming of the POMC system by FAE altered the transcriptome in POMC neurons and induced a hyperresponse to stress in adulthood. These long-lasting epigenetic changes influenced subsequent generations via the male germline. We also demonstrated that the epigenetic programming of the POMC system by FAE was reversed in adulthood with the application of the inhibitors of DNA methylation or histone modifications. Thus, prenatal environmental influences, such as alcohol exposure, could epigenetically modulate POMC neuronal circuits and function to shape adult behavioral patterns. Identifying specific epigenetic factors in hypothalamic POMC neurons that are modulated by fetal alcohol and target Pomc gene could be potentially useful for the development of new therapeutic approaches to treat stress-related diseases in patients with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rola Bekdash
- Endocrinology Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; Neuroscience Graduate Program, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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25
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Mead EA, Sarkar DK. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and their transmission through genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Front Genet 2014; 5:154. [PMID: 24917878 PMCID: PMC4040491 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a group of related conditions that arise from prenatal exposure to maternal consumption of the teratogen, ethanol. It has been estimated that roughly 1% of children in the US suffer from FASD (Sampson etal., 1997), though in some world populations, such as inhabitants of some poorer regions of South Africa, the rate can climb to as high as 20% (May etal., 2013). FASD are the largest cause of mental retardation in U.S. neonates, and ironically, are entirely preventable. FASD have been linked to major changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, resulting in lifelong impairments through mental disorders, retardation, and sensitivity to stress. FASD are linked to an impaired immune system which consequently leads to an elevated risk of cancer and other diseases. FASD arise from a complex interplay of genetic and epigenetic factors. Here, we review current literature on the topic to tease apart what is known in these areas particularly emphasizing HPA axis dysfunction and how this ties into new studies of transgenerational inheritance in FASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward A Mead
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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26
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Rachdaoui N, Sarkar DK. Transgenerational epigenetics and brain disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2014; 115:51-73. [PMID: 25131542 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801311-3.00002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurobehavioral and psychiatric disorders are complex diseases with a strong heritable component; however, to date, genome-wide association studies failed to identify the genetic loci involved in the etiology of these brain disorders. Recently, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has emerged as an important factor playing a pivotal role in the inheritance of brain disorders. This field of research provides evidence that environmentally induced epigenetic changes in the germline during embryonic development can be transmitted for multiple generations and may contribute to the etiology of brain disease heritability. In this review, we discuss some of the most recent findings on transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. We particularly discuss the findings on the epigenetic mechanisms involved in the heritability of alcohol-induced neurobehavioral disorders such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Rachdaoui
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
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27
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Bekdash RA, Zhang C, Sarkar DK. Gestational choline supplementation normalized fetal alcohol-induced alterations in histone modifications, DNA methylation, and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) gene expression in β-endorphin-producing POMC neurons of the hypothalamus. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2013; 37:1133-42. [PMID: 23413810 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to ethanol (EtOH) reduces the expression of hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) gene, known to control various physiological functions including the organismal stress response. In this study, we determined whether the changes in POMC neuronal functions are associated with altered expressions of histone-modifying and DNA-methylating enzymes in POMC-producing neurons, because these enzymes are known to be involved in regulation of gene expression. In addition, we tested whether gestational choline supplementation prevents the adverse effects of EtOH on these neurons. METHODS Pregnant rat dams were fed with alcohol-containing liquid diet or control diet during gestational days 7 and 21 with or without choline, and their male offspring rats were used during the adult period. Using double-immunohistochemistry, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and methylation-specific RT-PCR, we determined protein and mRNA levels of histone-modifying and DNA-methylating enzymes and the changes in POMC gene methylation and expression in the hypothalamus of adult male offspring rats. Additionally, we measured the basal- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced corticosterone levels in plasma by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Prenatal EtOH treatment suppressed hypothalamic levels of protein and mRNA of histone activation marks (H3K4me3, Set7/9, acetylated H3K9, phosphorylated H3S10), and increased the repressive marks (H3K9me2, G9a, Setdb1), DNA-methylating enzyme (Dnmt1), and the methyl-CpG-binding protein (MeCP2). The treatment also elevated the level of POMC gene methylation, while it reduced levels of POMC mRNA and β-EP and elevated corticosterone response to LPS. Gestational choline normalized the EtOH-altered protein and the mRNA levels of H3K4me3, Set7/9, H3K9me2, G9a, Setdb1, Dnmt1, and MeCP2. It also normalizes the changes in POMC gene methylation and gene expression, β-EP production, and the corticosterone response to LPS. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that prenatal EtOH modulates histone and DNA methylation in POMC neurons that may be resulting in hypermethylation of POMC gene and reduction in POMC gene expression. Gestational choline supplementation prevents the adverse effects of EtOH on these neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rola A Bekdash
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Beta-Endorphin Neuron Regulates Stress Response and Innate Immunity to Prevent Breast Cancer Growth and Progression. VITAMINS & HORMONES 2013; 93:263-76. [PMID: 23810011 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-416673-8.00011-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Body and mind interact extensively with each other to control health. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic neurobehavioral stress can promote various tumor growth and progression. The biological reaction to stress involves a chemical cascade initiated within the central nervous system and extends to the periphery, encompassing the immune, endocrine, and autonomic systems. Activation of sympathetic nervous system, such as what happens in the "fight or flight" response, downregulates tumor-suppressive genes, inhibits immune function, and promotes tumor growth. On the other hand, an optimistic attitude or psychological intervention helps cancer patients to survive longer via increase in β-endorphin neuronal suppression of stress hormone levels and sympathetic outflows and activation of parasympathetic control of tumor suppressor gene and innate immune cells to destroy and clear tumor cells.
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Sharma A. Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance: focus on soma to germline information transfer. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 113:439-46. [PMID: 23257323 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2012.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Revised: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
In trangenerational epigenetic inheritance, phenotypic information not encoded in DNA sequence is transmitted across generations. In germline-dependent mode, memory of environmental exposure in parental generation is transmitted through gametes, leading to appearance of phenotypes in the unexposed future generations. The memory is considered to be encoded in epigenetic factors like DNA methylation, histone modifications and regulatory RNAs. Environmental exposure may cause epigenetic modifications in the germline either directly or indirectly through primarily affecting the soma. The latter possibility is most intriguing because it contradicts the established dogma that hereditary information flows only from germline to soma, not in reverse. As such, identification of the factor(s) mediating soma to germline information transfer in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance would be pathbreaking. Regulatory RNAs and hormone have previously been implicated or proposed to play a role in soma to germline communication in epigenetic inheritance. This review examines the recent examples of gametogenic transgenerational inheritance in plants and animals in order to assess if evidence of regulatory RNAs and hormones as mediators of information transfer is supported. Overall, direct evidence for both mobile regulatory RNAs and hormones is found to exist in plants. In animals, although involvement of mobile RNAs seems imminent, direct evidence of RNA-mediated soma to germline information transfer in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is yet to be obtained. Direct evidence is also lacking for hormones in animals. However, detailed examination of recently reported examples of transgenerational inheritance reveals circumstantial evidence supporting a role of hormones in information transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhay Sharma
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Delhi University Campus, Mall Road, Delhi 110007, India.
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Govorko D, Bekdash RA, Zhang C, Sarkar DK. Male germline transmits fetal alcohol adverse effect on hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin gene across generations. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 72:378-88. [PMID: 22622000 PMCID: PMC3414692 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2012.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2012] [Revised: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurons containing proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived peptides, known to control stress axis, metabolic, and immune functions, have a lower function in patients with a family history of alcoholism, raising the possibility that alcohol effects on the POMC system may transmit through generations. Here we describe epigenetic modifications of Pomc gene that transmit through generation via male germline and may be critically involved in alcoholism-inherited diseases. METHODS Whether an epigenetic mechanism is involved in causing a Pomc expression deficit in fetal alcohol-exposed rats is studied by determining Pomc gene methylation, expression, and functional abnormalities and their normalization following suppression of DNA methylation or histone acetylation. Additionally, transgenerational studies were conducted to evaluate the germline-transmitted effect of alcohol. RESULTS Fetal alcohol-exposed male and female rat offspring showed a significant deficit in POMC neuronal functions. Associated with this was an increased methylation status of several CpG dinucleotides in the proximal part of the Pomc promoter region and altered level of histone-modifying proteins and DNA methyltransferases levels in POMC neurons. Suppression of histone deacetylation and DNA methylation normalized Pomc expression and functional abnormalities. Fetal alcohol-induced Pomc gene methylation, expression, and functional defects persisted in the F2 and F3 male but not in female germline. Additionally, the hypermethylated Pomc gene was detected in sperm of fetal alcohol-exposed F1 offspring that was transmitted through F3 generation via male germline. CONCLUSIONS Trangenerational epigenetic studies should spur new insight into the biological mechanisms that influence the sex-dependent difference in genetic risk of alcoholism-inherited diseases.
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Agapito MA, Barreira JC, Logan RW, Sarkar DK. Evidence for possible period 2 gene mediation of the effects of alcohol exposure during the postnatal period on genes associated with maintaining metabolic signaling in the mouse hypothalamus. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2012; 37:263-9. [PMID: 22823489 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2012.01871.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2012] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animals exposed to alcohol during the developmental period develop circadian disturbances and metabolic problems that often persist during their adult period. In order to study whether alcohol and the circadian clock interact to alter metabolic signaling in the hypothalamus, we determined whether postnatal alcohol feeding in mice permanently alters metabolic sensing in the hypothalamus. Furthermore, we evaluated whether the effect of circadian disruption via Period 2 (Per2) gene mutation prevents alcohol's effects on metabolic signaling in the hypothalamus. METHODS Per2 mutant and wild-type male and female mice of the same genetic background were given a milk formula containing ethanol (EtOH; 11.34% vol/vol) from postnatal day (PD) 2 to 7 and used for gene expression and peptide level determinations in the hypothalamus at PD7 and PD90. RESULTS We report here that postnatal alcohol feeding reduces the expression of proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) gene and production of β-endorphin and α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in the hypothalamus that persists into adulthood. In addition, expressions of metabolic sensing genes in the hypothalamus were also reduced as a consequence of postnatal alcohol exposure. These effects were not sex-specific and were observed in both males and females. Mice carrying a mutation of the Per2 gene did not show any reductions in hypothalamic levels of Pomc and metabolic genes and β-endorphin and α-MSH peptides following alcohol exposure. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that early-life exposure to alcohol alters metabolic sensing to the hypothalamus possibly via regulating Per2 gene and/or the cellular circadian clock mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Agapito
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Boyadjieva NI, Sarkar DK. Microglia play a role in ethanol-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in developing hypothalamic neurons. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2012; 37:252-62. [PMID: 22823548 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2012.01889.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animals exposed to alcohol during the developmental period develop many physiological and behavioral problems because of neuronal loss in various brain areas including the hypothalamus. Because alcohol exposure is known to induce oxidative stress in developing neurons, we tested whether hypothalamic cells from the fetal brain exposed to ethanol (EtOH) may alter the cell-cell communication between neurons and microglia, thereby leading to increased oxidative stress and the activation of apoptotic processes in the neuronal population in the hypothalamus. METHODS Using enriched neuronal and microglial cells from fetal rat hypothalami, we measured cellular levels of various oxidants (O2 -, reactive oxygen species, nitrite), antioxidants (glutathione [GSH]), antioxidative enzymes (glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px], catalase, superoxide dismutase) and apoptotic death in neurons in the presence and absence of EtOH or EtOH-treated microglial culture medium. Additionally, we tested the effectiveness of antioxidative agents in preventing EtOH or EtOH-treated microglial conditioned medium actions on oxidative stress and apoptosis in neuronal cell cultures. RESULTS Neuronal cell cultures showed increased oxidative stress, as demonstrated by higher cellular levels of oxidants but lower levels of antioxidant and antioxidative enzymes, as well as, increased apoptotic death following treatment with EtOH. These effects of EtOH on oxidative stress and cell death were enhanced by the presence of microglia. Antioxidative agents protected developing hypothalamic neurons from oxidative stress and cellular apoptosis which is caused by EtOH or EtOH-treated microglial culture medium. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that exposure of developing hypothalamic neurons to EtOH increases cellular apoptosis via the effects on oxidative stress of neurons directly and via increasing production of microglial-derived factor(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadka I Boyadjieva
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences (NIB, DKS), Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Logan RW, Zhang C, Murugan S, O’Connell S, Levitt D, Rosenwasser AM, Sarkar DK. Chronic shift-lag alters the circadian clock of NK cells and promotes lung cancer growth in rats. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2012; 188:2583-91. [PMID: 22308312 PMCID: PMC3294088 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1102715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged subjection to unstable work or lighting schedules, particularly in rotating shift-workers, is associated with an increased risk of immune-related diseases, including several cancers. Consequences of chronic circadian disruption may also extend to the innate immune system to promote cancer growth, as NK cell function is modulated by circadian mechanisms and plays a key role in lysis of tumor cells. To determine if NK cell function is disrupted by a model of human shift-work and jet-lag, Fischer (344) rats were exposed to either a standard 12:12 light-dark cycle or a chronic shift-lag paradigm consisting of 10 repeated 6-h photic advances occurring every 2 d, followed by 5-7 d of constant darkness. This model resulted in considerable circadian disruption, as assessed by circadian running-wheel activity. NK cells were enriched from control and shifted animals, and gene, protein, and cytolytic activity assays were performed. Chronic shift-lag altered the circadian expression of clock genes, Per2 and Bmal1, and cytolytic factors, perforin and granzyme B, as well as the cytokine, IFN-γ. These alterations were correlated with suppressed circadian expression of NK cytolytic activity. Further, chronic shift-lag attenuated NK cell cytolytic activity under stimulated in vivo conditions, and promoted lung tumor growth following i.v. injection of MADB106 tumor cells. Together, these findings suggest chronic circadian disruption promotes tumor growth by altering the circadian rhythms of NK cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan W. Logan
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Changqing Zhang
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Sengottuvelan Murugan
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Stephanie O’Connell
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Dale Levitt
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | | | - Dipak K. Sarkar
- Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
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Sarkar DK, Murugan S, Zhang C, Boyadjieva N. Regulation of cancer progression by β-endorphin neuron. Cancer Res 2012; 72:836-40. [PMID: 22287549 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-3292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
It is becoming increasingly clear that stressful life events can affect cancer growth and metastasis by modulating nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. The purpose of this review is to briefly describe the process by which stress may potentiate carcinogenesis and how reducing body stress may prevent cancer growth and progression. The opioid peptide β-endorphin plays a critical role in bringing the stress axis to a state of homeostasis. We have recently shown that enhancement of endogenous levels of β-endorphin in the hypothalamus via β-endorphin neuron transplantation suppresses stress response, promotes immune function, and reduces the incidence of cancer in rat models of prostate and breast cancers. The cancer-preventive effect of β-endorphin is mediated through the suppression of sympathetic neuronal function, which results in increased peripheral natural killer cell and macrophage activities, elevated levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines. β-endorphin inhibition of tumor progression also involves alteration in the tumor microenvironment, possibly because of suppression of catecholamine and inflammatory cytokine production, which are known to alter DNA repair, cell-matrix attachments, angiogenic process, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Thus, β-endorphin cell therapy may offer some therapeutic value in cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
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Sarkar DK. Circadian genes, the stress axis, and alcoholism. Alcohol Res 2012; 34:362-6. [PMID: 23134053 PMCID: PMC3860413] [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: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The body's internal system to control the daily rhythm of the body's functions (i.e., the circadian system), the body's stress response, and the body's neurobiology are highly interconnected. Thus, the rhythm of the circadian system impacts alcohol use patterns; at the same time, alcohol drinking also can alter circadian functions. The sensitivity of the circadian system to alcohol may result from alcohol's effects on the expression of several of the clock genes that regulate circadian function. The stress response system involves the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain and the adrenal glands, as well as the hormones they secrete, including corticotrophin-releasing hormone, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, and glucocorticoids. It is controlled by brain-signaling molecules, including endogenous opioids such as β-endorphin. Alcohol consumption influences the activity of this system and vice versa. Finally, interactions exist between the circadian system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and alcohol consumption. Thus, it seems that certain clock genes may control functions of the stress response system and that these interactions are affected by alcohol.
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Sarkar DK, Zhang C, Murugan S, Dokur M, Boyadjieva NI, Ortigüela M, Reuhl KR, Mojtehedzadeh S. Transplantation of β-endorphin neurons into the hypothalamus promotes immune function and restricts the growth and metastasis of mammary carcinoma. Cancer Res 2011; 71:6282-91. [PMID: 21835894 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-1610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Neurobehavioral stress has been shown to promote tumor growth and progression and dampen the immune system. In this study, we investigated whether inhibiting stress hormone production could inhibit the development of mammary carcinoma and metastasis in a rat model of breast carcinogenesis. To enhance β-endorphin (BEP), the endogenous opioid polypeptide that boosts immune activity and decreases stress, we generated BEP neurons by in vitro differentiation from fetal neuronal stem cells and transplanted them into the hypothalami of rats subjected to breast carcinogenesis. BEP-transplanted rats displayed a reduction in mammary tumor incidence, growth, malignancy rate, and metastasis compared with cortical cells-transplanted rats. BEP neuron transplants also reduced inflammation and epithelial to mesenchymal transition in the tumor tissues. In addition, BEP neuron transplants increased peripheral natural killer (NK) cell and macrophage activities, elevated plasma levels of antiinflammatory cytokines, and reduced plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines. Antimetastatic effects along with stimulation of NK cells and macrophages could be reversed by treatment with the opiate antagonist naloxone, the β-receptor agonist metaproterenol, or the nicotine acetylcholine receptor antagonist methyllycaconitine. Together, our findings establish a protective role for BEP against the growth and metastasis of mammary tumor cells by altering autonomic nervous system activities that enhance innate immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
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Sauriyal DS, Jaggi AS, Singh N. Extending pharmacological spectrum of opioids beyond analgesia: multifunctional aspects in different pathophysiological states. Neuropeptides 2011; 45:175-88. [PMID: 21208657 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2010.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2010] [Revised: 12/06/2010] [Accepted: 12/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Opioids are well known to exert potent central analgesic actions. In recent years, the numerous studies have unfolded the critical role of opioids in the pathophysiology of various diseases as well as in biological phenomenon of therapeutic interest. The endogenous ligands of opioid receptors are derived from three independent genes and their appropriate processing yields the major representative opioid peptides beta-endorphin, met-enkephalin, leu-enkephalin and dynorphin, respectively. These peptides and their derivatives exhibit different affinity and selectivity for the mu-, delta- and kappa-receptors located on the central and the peripheral neurons, neuroendocrine, immune, and mucosal cells and on many other organ systems. The present review article highlights the role of these peptides in central nervous system disorders such as depression, anxiety, epilepsy, and stress; gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, postoperative ileus, ulceration, and irritable bowel syndrome; immune system and related inflammatory disorders such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis; and others including respiratory, alcoholism and obesity/binge eating. Furthermore, the key role of opioids in different forms of pre- and post-conditioning including ischemic and pharmacological along with in remote preconditioning has also been described.
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Abstract
This paper is the 32nd consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2009 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA.
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Agapito M, Mian N, Boyadjieva NI, Sarkar DK. Period 2 gene deletion abolishes beta-endorphin neuronal response to ethanol. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2010; 34:1613-8. [PMID: 20586752 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01246.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethanol exposure during early life has been shown to permanently alter the circadian expression of clock regulatory genes and the beta-endorphin precursor proopiomelanocortin (POMC) gene in the hypothalamus. Ethanol also alters the stress- and immune-regulatory functions of beta-endorphin neurons in laboratory rodents. Our aim was to determine whether the circadian clock regulatory Per2 gene modulates the action of ethanol on beta-endorphin neurons in mice. METHODS Per2 mutant (mPer2(Brdml)) and wild type (C57BL/6J) mice were used to determine the effect of Per2 mutation on ethanol-regulated beta-endorphin neuronal activity during neonatal period using an in vitro mediobasal hypothalamic (MBH) cell culture model and an in vivo milk formula feeding animal model. The beta-endorphin neuronal activity following acute and chronic ethanol treatments was evaluated by measuring the peptide released from cultured cells or peptide levels in the MBH tissues, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Per2 mutant mice showed a higher basal level of beta-endorphin release from cultured MBH cells and a moderate increase in the peptide content in the MBH in comparison with control mice. However, unlike wild type mice, Per2 mutant mice showed no stimulatory or inhibitory beta-endorphin-secretory responses to acute and chronic ethanol challenges in vitro. Furthermore, Per2 mutant mice, but not wild type mice, failed to show the stimulatory and inhibitory responses of MBH beta-endorphin levels to acute and chronic ethanol challenges in vivo. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest for the first time that the Per2 gene may be critically involved in regulating beta-endorphin neuronal function. Furthermore, the data revealed an involvement of the Per2 gene in regulating beta-endorphin neuronal responses to ethanol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Agapito
- Endocrine Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Graduate Program of Neuroscience, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
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