1
|
Vo TTL, Shin D, Ha E, Seo JH. Dysfunction of the Neurovascular Unit by Psychostimulant Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15154. [PMID: 37894832 PMCID: PMC10606839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
'Drug abuse' has been recognized as one of the most pressing epidemics in contemporary society. Traditional research has primarily focused on understanding how drugs induce neurotoxicity or degeneration within the central nervous system (CNS) and influence systems related to reward, motivation, and cravings. However, recent investigations have increasingly shifted their attention toward the detrimental consequences of drug abuse on the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The BBB is a structural component situated in brain vessels, responsible for separating brain tissue from external substances to maintain brain homeostasis. The BBB's function is governed by cellular interactions involving various elements of the 'neurovascular unit (NVU),' such as neurons, endothelial cells, astrocytes, pericytes, and microglia. Disruption of the NVU is closely linked to serious neurodegeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the harmful effects of psychostimulant drugs on the BBB, highlighting the mechanisms through which drugs can damage the NVU. Additionally, the review proposes novel therapeutic targets aimed at protecting the BBB. By understanding the intricate relationships between drug abuse, BBB integrity, and NVU function, researchers and clinicians may uncover new strategies to mitigate the damaging impact of drug abuse on brain health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tam Thuy Lu Vo
- Department of Biochemistry, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.T.L.V.); (E.H.)
| | - Dain Shin
- Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea;
| | - Eunyoung Ha
- Department of Biochemistry, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.T.L.V.); (E.H.)
| | - Ji Hae Seo
- Department of Biochemistry, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.T.L.V.); (E.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Machado da Silva MC, Iglesias LP, Candelario-Jalil E, Khoshbouei H, Moreira FA, de Oliveira ACP. Role of Microglia in Psychostimulant Addiction. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:235-259. [PMID: 36503452 PMCID: PMC10190137 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221208142151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of psychostimulant drugs can modify brain function by inducing changes in the reward system, mainly due to alterations in dopaminergic and glutamatergic transmissions in the mesocorticolimbic pathway. However, the etiopathogenesis of addiction is a much more complex process. Previous data have suggested that microglia and other immune cells are involved in events associated with neuroplasticity and memory, which are phenomena that also occur in addiction. Nevertheless, how dependent is the development of addiction on the activity of these cells? Although the mechanisms are not known, some pathways may be involved. Recent data have shown psychoactive substances may act directly on immune cells, alter their functions and induce various inflammatory mediators that modulate synaptic activity. These could, in turn, be involved in the pathological alterations that occur in substance use disorder. Here, we extensively review the studies demonstrating how cocaine and amphetamines modulate microglial number, morphology, and function. We also describe the effect of these substances in the production of inflammatory mediators and a possible involvement of some molecular signaling pathways, such as the toll-like receptor 4. Although the literature in this field is scarce, this review compiles the knowledge on the neuroimmune axis that is involved in the pathogenesis of addiction, and suggests some pharmacological targets for the development of pharmacotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carolina Machado da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil;
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Lia Parada Iglesias
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Habibeh Khoshbouei
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Fabrício Araujo Moreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Montalvo-Martínez L, Cruz-Carrillo G, Maldonado-Ruiz R, Trujillo-Villarreal LA, Cardenas-Tueme M, Viveros-Contreras R, Ortiz-López R, Camacho-Morales A. Transgenerational Susceptibility to Food Addiction-Like Behavior in Rats Associates to a Decrease of the Anti-Inflammatory IL-10 in Plasma. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:3093-3103. [PMID: 35767136 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03660-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Maternal nutritional programming by energy-dense foods leads to the transgenerational heritance of addiction-like behavior. Exposure to energy-dense foods also activates systemic and central inflammation in the offspring. This study aimed to characterize pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine profiles in blood and their correlation to the transgenerational heritance of the addiction-like behavior in rats. F1 offspring of male Wistar diagnosed with addiction-like behavior were mated with virgin females to generate the F2 and the F3 offspring, respectively. Diagnosis of addiction-like behavior was performed by the operant training schedule (FR1, FR5 and PR) and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine profiles in blood were measured by multiplex platform. Multiple linear models between behavior, fetal programming by diet and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine profiles were performed. We found that the addiction-like behavior found in the F1 male offspring exposed to energy-dense food (cafeteria, CAF) diet during fetal programing is transgenerational inherited to the F2 and F3 generations. Blood from addiction-like behavior subjects of F2 and F3 generations exposed to CAF diet during maternal programming showed decrease in the anti-inflammatory IL-10 in the plasma. Conversely, decreased levels of the pro-inflammatory MCP-1 was identified in non-addiction-like subjects. No changes were found in plasmatic TNF-α levels in the F2 and F3 offspring of non-addiction-like and addiction-like subjects. Finally, biological modeling between IL-10 or MCP-1 plasma levels and prenatal diet exposure on operant training responses confirmed an association of decreased IL-10 levels on addiction-like behavior in the F2 and F3 generations. Globally, we identified decreased anti-inflammatory IL-10 cytokine in the blood of F2 and F3 offspring subjects diagnosed with addiction-like behavior for food rewards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Montalvo-Martínez
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
- Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Cruz-Carrillo
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
- Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Roger Maldonado-Ruiz
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
- Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Luis A Trujillo-Villarreal
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
- Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Marcela Cardenas-Tueme
- Institute for Obesity Research. Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores Monterrey, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | | | - Rocío Ortiz-López
- Institute for Obesity Research. Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores Monterrey, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Alberto Camacho-Morales
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
- Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño. Col. Mitras Centro, S/N, C.P. 64460, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Glavonic E, Mitic M, Adzic M. Hallucinogenic drugs and their potential for treating fear-related disorders: Through the lens of fear extinction. J Neurosci Res 2022; 100:947-969. [PMID: 35165930 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Fear-related disorders, mainly phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder, are highly prevalent, debilitating disorders that pose a significant public health problem. They are characterized by aberrant processing of aversive experiences and dysregulated fear extinction, leading to excessive expression of fear and diminished quality of life. The gold standard for treating fear-related disorders is extinction-based exposure therapy (ET), shown to be ineffective for up to 35% of subjects. Moreover, ET combined with traditional pharmacological treatments for fear-related disorders, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, offers no further advantage to patients. This prompted the search for ways to improve ET outcomes, with current research focused on pharmacological agents that can augment ET by strengthening fear extinction learning. Hallucinogenic drugs promote reprocessing of fear-imbued memories and induce positive mood and openness, relieving anxiety and enabling the necessary emotional engagement during psychotherapeutic interventions. Mechanistically, hallucinogens induce dynamic structural and functional neuroplastic changes across the fear extinction circuitry and temper amygdala's hyperreactivity to threat-related stimuli, effectively mitigating one of the hallmarks of fear-related disorders. This paper provides the first comprehensive review of hallucinogens' potential to alleviate symptoms of fear-related disorders by focusing on their effects on fear extinction and the underlying molecular mechanisms. We overview both preclinical and clinical studies and emphasize the advantages of hallucinogenic drugs over current first-line treatments. We highlight 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine and ketamine as the most effective therapeutics for fear-related disorders and discuss the potential molecular mechanisms responsible for their potency with implications for improving hallucinogen-assisted psychotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilija Glavonic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, "VINČA" Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of thе Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milos Mitic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, "VINČA" Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of thе Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Miroslav Adzic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, "VINČA" Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of thе Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kermanian F, Seghatoleslam M, Mahakizadeh S. MDMA related neuro-inflammation and adenosine receptors. Neurochem Int 2022; 153:105275. [PMID: 34990730 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a world-wide abused psychostimulant, which has the neurotoxic effects on dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons in both rodents and non-human primates. Adenosine acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain through the activation of four specific G-protein-coupled receptors and it acts as a neuromodulator of dopamine neurotransmission. Recent studies suggest that stimulation of adenosine receptors oppose many behavioral effects of methamphetamines. This review summarizes the specific cellular mechanisms involved in MDMA neuroinflammatory effects, along with the protective effects of adenosine receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Kermanian
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Seghatoleslam
- Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Simin Mahakizadeh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Adekeye AO, Fafure AA. Assessment of the cellular integrity and expression of melatonin receptor (MTNR1A) in the retina assaulted by ethanol and acetaminophen. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271221149010. [PMID: 36572547 DOI: 10.1177/09603271221149010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol exposures have been reported to disrupt the development of the retina and optic nerve which can be considered as part of underlying mechanisms of visual pathway impairments. This study aims to investigate the cellular integrity of the retina and the expression of melatonin receptor (MTNR1A) in the retina when assaulted chronically and simultaneously by ethanol and acetaminophen. Animals were randomly grouped into five groups. Control (normal saline), Alcohol group (25% alcohol in 2% sucrose solution), Acetaminophen group, (100 mg/kg BW for 14 days), Acetaminophen + Alcohol group (25% alcohol in 2% sucrose solution + 100 mg/kg BW of paracetamol). Withdrawal group (25% alcohol in 2% sucrose solution + 100 mg/kg BW of paracetamol). The body weight and rectal temperature of the animals were taking every 2 days and a post mortem study was conducted by quantitatively assessing the markers of oxidative stress. Melatonin level was quantified in the retina tissue and Immunohistochemistry was done via MTNR1A to study the expression of melatonin receptor type 1A in the retina. These results demonstrate that alcohol and acetaminophen significantly reduced the activity of retina rat melatonin (MTNR1A) levels, lowers the SOD and MDA activity. Expression of MTNR1A was reduced in the ganglionic cell layer of Alcohol and acetaminophen group as compared to the control and withdrawal group. It can be inferred that chronic simultaneous intake/consumption of alcohol and acetaminophen altered the melatonin level in the retina and this may implicate the circadian clock and melatonin in Wistar rat visual system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A O Adekeye
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, 473846Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - A A Fafure
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, 473846Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Edem EE, Ihaza BE, Fafure AA, Ishola AO, Nebo KE, Enye LA, Akinluyi ET. Virgin coconut oil abrogates depression-associated cognitive deficits by modulating hippocampal antioxidant balance, GABAergic and glutamatergic receptors in mice. Drug Metab Pers Ther 2021; 37:177-190. [PMID: 34881837 DOI: 10.1515/dmpt-2021-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES GABA and glutamate neurotransmission play critical roles in both the neurobiology of depression and cognition; and Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is reported to support brain health. The present study investigated the effect of VCO on depression-associated cognitive deficits in mice. METHODS Thirty male mice divided into five groups were either exposed to chronic unpredicted mild stress (CUMS) protocol for 28 days or pre-treated with 3 mL/kg b. wt. of VCO for 21 days or post-treated with 3 mL/kg b. wt. of VCO for 21 days following 28 days of CUMS exposure. Mice were subjected to behavioural assessments for depressive-like behaviours and short-term memory, and thereafter euthanised. Hippocampal tissue was dissected from the harvested whole brain for biochemical and immunohistochemical evaluations. RESULTS Our results showed that CUMS exposure produced depressive-like behaviours, cognitive deficits and altered hippocampal redox balance. However, treatment with VCO abrogated depression-associated cognitive impairment, and enhanced hippocampal antioxidant concentration. Furthermore, immunohistochemical evaluation revealed significant improvement in GABAA and mGluR1a immunoreactivity following treatment with VCO in the depressed mice. CONCLUSIONS Therefore, findings from this study support the dietary application of VCO to enhance neural resilience in patients with depression and related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edem Ekpenyong Edem
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Blessing Eghosa Ihaza
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Adedamola Adediran Fafure
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Azeez Olakunle Ishola
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Kate Eberechukwu Nebo
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Linus Anderson Enye
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Elizabeth Toyin Akinluyi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Costa G, Gołembiowska K. Neurotoxicity of MDMA: Main effects and mechanisms. Exp Neurol 2021; 347:113894. [PMID: 34655576 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical studies indicate that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; 'ecstasy'), in addition to having abuse potential, may elicit acute and persistent abnormalities of varying severity at the central level. Importantly, neurotoxic effects of MDMA have been demonstrated in experimental animals. Accordingly, central toxicity induced by MDMA may pose a serious harm for health, since MDMA is among the substances that are used for recreational purposes by young and adult people. This review provides a concise overview of recent findings from preclinical and clinical studies that evaluated the central effects of MDMA, and the mechanisms involved in the neurotoxicity induced by this amphetamine-related drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Costa G, Caputi FF, Serra M, Simola N, Rullo L, Stamatakos S, Sanna F, Germain M, Martinoli MG, Candeletti S, Morelli M, Romualdi P. Activation of Antioxidant and Proteolytic Pathways in the Nigrostriatal Dopaminergic System After 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Administration: Sex-Related Differences. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:713486. [PMID: 34512343 PMCID: PMC8430399 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.713486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “ecstasy”) is an amphetamine-related drug that may damage the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system. To investigate the mechanisms that sustain this toxic effect and ascertain their sex-dependence, we evaluated in the nigrostriatal system of MDMA-treated (4 × 20 mg/kg, 2 h apart) male and female mice the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), the gene expression of SOD type 1 and 2, together with SOD1/2 co-localization with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons. In the same mice and brain areas, activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and of β2/β5 subunits of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) were also evaluated. After MDMA, SOD1 increased in striatal TH-positive terminals, but not nigral neurons, of males and females, while SOD2 increased in striatal TH-positive terminals and nigral neurons of males only. Moreover, after MDMA, SOD1 gene expression increased in the midbrain of males and females, whereas SOD2 increased only in males. Finally, MDMA increased the SOD activity in the midbrain of females, without affecting GPx activity, decreased the β2/β5 activities in the striatum of males and the β2 activity in the midbrain of females. These results suggest that the mechanisms of MDMA-induced neurotoxic effects are sex-dependent and dopaminergic neurons of males could be more sensitive to SOD2- and UPS-mediated toxic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesca Felicia Caputi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marcello Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Rullo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Serena Stamatakos
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marc Germain
- Department of Medical Biology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada.,CERMO-FC UQAM, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Maria-Grazia Martinoli
- Department of Medical Biology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Université Laval and CHU Research Center, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Sanzio Candeletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,National Research Council of Italy, Neuroscience Institute, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li Z, Qi Y, Liu K, Cao Y, Zhang H, Song C, Deng H. Effect of Chaihu-jia-Longgu-Muli decoction on withdrawal symptoms in rats with methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:BSR20211376. [PMID: 34355745 PMCID: PMC8380915 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20211376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine detoxification prescription Chaihu-jia-Longgu-Muli decoction (CLMD) relieves depressive symptoms in patients withdrawing from methamphetamine. In the present study, we assessed the effects of CLMD on methamphetamine withdrawal in rats. A methamphetamine-intoxicated rat model was established. Rats were randomly divided into the control, model, high-dosage, medium-dosage, and low-dosage groups, receiving high, medium, and low doses of CLMD, respectively. Weekly body weight measurements revealed that rats treated with methamphetamine had the lowest body weight. The conditioned place preference (CPP) experiment revealed that methamphetamine-intoxicated rats stayed significantly longer in the drug-paired chamber than the control rats. However, after administering high-dosage CLMD, the amount of time the rats spent in the drug-paired chamber was significantly less than that of the model rats. Our open-field test revealed that the model group had lower crossing and rearing scores than the control group. Additionally, rats that received CLMD treatment exhibited higher crossing and rearing scores than the model rats. Striatal dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and endorphins (β-EP) and serum interleukin (IL)-1α and IL-2 concentrations were estimated. Rats in the model group had lower striatal DA, 5-HT, and β-EP and higher serum IL-1α and IL-2 concentrations than those in the control group. High-dosage CLMD administration significantly changed the concentrations of these molecules, such that they approached normal concentrations. In general, CLMD could prevent the development of methamphetamine-induced withdrawal symptoms in rats by increasing the DA, 5-HT, and β-EP and lowering the IL-1α and IL-2 concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zifa Li
- Behavioural Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
- Chinese Medicine Neuro-Psycho Pharmacology Laboratory (CMNPPL), Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Yuchen Qi
- No. 2 Department of Encephalopathy, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250011, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Behavioural Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
- Chinese Medicine Neuro-Psycho Pharmacology Laboratory (CMNPPL), Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Yiming Cao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Behavioural Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
- Chinese Medicine Neuro-Psycho Pharmacology Laboratory (CMNPPL), Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Chunhong Song
- Behavioural Phenotyping Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
- Chinese Medicine Neuro-Psycho Pharmacology Laboratory (CMNPPL), Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Hualiang Deng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Costa G, Spulber S, Paci E, Casu MA, Ceccatelli S, Simola N, Morelli M. In utero exposure to dexamethasone causes a persistent and age-dependent exacerbation of the neurotoxic effects and glia activation induced by MDMA in dopaminergic brain regions of C57BL/6J mice. Neurotoxicology 2021; 83:1-13. [PMID: 33338551 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Clinical and preclinical evidence indicates that prenatal exposure to glucocorticoids may induce detrimental effects in the offspring, including reduction in fetal growth and alterations in the CNS. On this basis, the present study investigated whether in utero exposure to high levels of glucocorticoids is a risk factor that may lead to an exacerbation of the central noxious effects induced by psychoactive drugs consumed later in life. To this end, pregnant C57BL6/J dams were treated with dexamethasone (DEX, 0.05 mg/kg per day) from gestational day 14 until delivery. Thereafter, the male offspring were evaluated to ascertain the magnitude of dopaminergic damage, astrogliosis and microgliosis elicited in the nigrostriatal tract by the amphetamine-related drug 3,4--methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, 4 × 20 mg/kg, 2 h apart, sacrificed 48 h later) administered at either adolescence or adulthood. Immunohistochemistry was performed in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and striatum, to evaluate dopaminergic degeneration by measuring tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), as well as astrogliosis and microgliosis by measuring glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA-1), respectively. Moreover, immunohistochemistry was used to ascertain the co-localization of IBA-1 with either the pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL) IL-1β or the anti-inflammatory IL IL-10, in order to determine the microglial phenotype. In utero administration of DEX induced dopaminergic damage by decreasing the density of TH-positive fibers in the striatum, although only in adult mice. MDMA administration induced dopaminergic damage and glia activation in the nigrostriatal tract of adolescent and adult mice. Mice exposed to DEX in utero and treated with MDMA later in life showed a more pronounced loss of dopaminergic neurons (adolescent mice) and astrogliosis (adolescent and adult mice) in the SNc, compared with control mice. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to glucocorticoids may induce an age-dependent and persistent increase in the susceptibility to central toxicity of amphetamine-related drugs used later in life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Stefan Spulber
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elena Paci
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Antonietta Casu
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Translational Pharmacology, UOS of Cagliari, Scientific and Technological Park of Sardinia POLARIS, Pula, Italy
| | - Sandra Ceccatelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; National Research Council of Italy, Neuroscience Institute, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Aguilar MA, García-Pardo MP, Parrott AC. Of mice and men on MDMA: A translational comparison of the neuropsychobiological effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine ('Ecstasy'). Brain Res 2020; 1727:146556. [PMID: 31734398 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
MDMA (3,4-methylendioxymethamphetamine), also known as Ecstasy, is a stimulant drug recreationally used by young adults usually in dance clubs and raves. Acute MDMA administration increases serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline by reversing the action of the monoamine transporters. In this work, we review the studies carried out over the last 30 years on the neuropsychobiological effects of MDMA in humans and mice and summarise the current knowledge. The two species differ with respect to the neurochemical consequences of chronic MDMA, since it preferentially induces serotonergic dysfunction in humans and dopaminergic neurotoxicity in mice. However, MDMA alters brain structure and function and induces hormonal, psychomotor, neurocognitive, psychosocial and psychiatric outcomes in both species, as well as physically damaging and teratogen effects. Pharmacological and genetic studies in mice have increased our knowledge of the neurochemical substrate of the multiple effects of MDMA. Future work in this area may contribute to developing pharmacological treatments for MDMA-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Aguilar
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.
| | | | - Andrew C Parrott
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom; Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Costa G, De Luca MA, Piras G, Marongiu J, Fattore L, Simola N. Neuronal and peripheral damages induced by synthetic psychoactive substances: an update of recent findings from human and animal studies. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:802-816. [PMID: 31719240 PMCID: PMC6990793 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.268895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical studies indicate that synthetic psychoactive substances, in addition to having abuse potential, may elicit toxic effects of varying severity at the peripheral and central levels. Nowadays, toxicity induced by synthetic psychoactive substances poses a serious harm for health, since recreational use of these substances is on the rise among young and adult people. The present review summarizes recent findings on the peripheral and central toxicity elicited by “old” and “new” synthetic psychoactive substances in humans and experimental animals, focusing on amphetamine derivatives, hallucinogen and dissociative drugs and synthetic cannabinoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gessica Piras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Jacopo Marongiu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lack of Rhes Increases MDMA-Induced Neuroinflammation and Dopamine Neuron Degeneration: Role of Gender and Age. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20071556. [PMID: 30925704 PMCID: PMC6480667 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras homolog enriched in striatum (Rhes) is a protein that exerts important physiological functions and modulates psychostimulant drug effects. On this basis, the object of this study was to assess 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) effects on microglial (CD11b) and astroglial (GFAP) activation and on dopamine neuron degeneration (TH) in wild-type (WT) and Rhes knockout (KO) male and female mice of different ages. Motor activity was also evaluated. Adult (3 months) MDMA-treated mice displayed an increase in GFAP-positive cells in striatum (STR), whereas the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) was affected only in male mice. In these mice, the increase of CD11b was more extensive including STR, SNc, motor cortex (CTX), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and nucleus accumbens (NAc). MDMA administration also affected TH immunoreactivity in both STR and SNc of male but not female WT and Rhes KO mice. In middle-aged mice (12 months), MDMA administration further increased GFAP and CD11b and decreased TH immunoreactivity in STR and SNc of all mice. Finally, MDMA induced a higher increase of motor activity in adult Rhes KO male, but not female mice. The results show that Rhes protein plays an important role on MDMA-mediated neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration dependent on gender and age, and confirm the important role of Rhes protein in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes.
Collapse
|
15
|
Stereoselective effects of the second-generation synthetic cathinone α-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP): assessments of conditioned taste avoidance in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1067-1077. [PMID: 30334086 PMCID: PMC8328279 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Work with α-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP), a second-generation synthetic cathinone, has been generally limited to the racemate. Given that with other synthetic cathinones, there are behavioral and neurochemical differences between their enantiomers, differences may also be seen with α-PVP. OBJECTIVES The present study assessed the relative contribution of each enantiomer to the aversive effects of racemic-α-PVP by comparing their ability to induce a conditioned taste avoidance. METHODS Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed every other day for four exposures to a novel saccharin solution followed immediately by an injection of 0 (saline vehicle) or 1.5, 3, or 6 mg/kg of S-, R-, or racemic-α-PVP (IP). On alternating days, all subjects were given access to water to assess any unconditioned effects of α-PVP on general fluid consumption. RESULTS Rats injected with the racemate and S-isomer of α-PVP displayed avoidance of the drug-associated saccharin solution, although this avoidance was dose-dependent only for the subjects injected with the racemate. There was no evidence of taste avoidance in animals injected with the R-enantiomer at any dose tested. Animals injected with 3 mg/kg racemic-α-PVP did not differ in avoidance from those treated with 1.5 mg/kg of the S-enantiomer, but subjects treated with 6 mg/kg racemic-α-PVP displayed a significantly stronger avoidance than those treated with 3 mg/kg S-α-PVP. CONCLUSIONS The present work suggests that the aversive effects of racemic α-PVP are mediated primarily by its S-isomer. The fact that at the highest dose tested (6 mg/kg), the racemate induces an avoidance greater than the simple additive effects of the S- and R-isomers (at 3 mg/kg) suggests that while the R-isomer may not induce taste avoidance at this dose, it may interact synergistically with the S-isomer in mediating the effects of the racemic mixture. These results were discussed in terms of similar effects with other behavioral and physiological endpoints reported with a number of psychostimulants and suggest that the enantiomers of α-PVP are an important variable in characterizing its behavioral effects.
Collapse
|
16
|
Lv XF, Tao LM, Zhong H. Long-term systemic administration with low dose of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine causes photoreceptor cell damage in CD1 mice. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2018; 38:81-87. [PMID: 30360644 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2018.1539007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As a powerful psychostimulant with high potential for abuse, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) causes long-lasting neurotoxicity. This study was to investigate the effects of systemic administration of MDMA on retinal damage in CD1 mice and its underlying mechanisms. MATERIAL AND METHODS CD1 mice were randomly divided into two groups (n = 10): group 1 receiving PBS by intraperitoneal injection daily; group 2 receiving 2 mg/kg MDMA by intraperitoneal injection daily for 3 months. The retinal function was tested by electroretinography (ERG). The retinal morphology and histology was evaluated by Toluidine blue staining and TUNEL assay, respectively. Inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA assays. Gene and protein expression was detected by real-time PCR and western blot. RESULTS Results demonstrated that retinal damage was caused by MDMA after 3-month treatment, evidenced by retinal dysfunction through photoreceptor cell apoptosis induced by inflammatory response and oxidative stress. CONCLUSION Our study indicated that systemic administration of MDMA increased inflammatory response in photoreceptor cells to cause retinal dysfunction on CD1 mice, providing the scientific rationale for the photoreceptor cell damage caused by the MDMA abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Fang Lv
- a Department of Ophthalmology , the Second Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University , Hefei , People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Ming Tao
- a Department of Ophthalmology , the Second Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University , Hefei , People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhong
- b Department of Ophthalmology , Shenzhen Children's Hospital , Shenzhen , People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Impact of neuroimmune activation induced by alcohol or drug abuse on adolescent brain development. Int J Dev Neurosci 2018; 77:89-98. [PMID: 30468786 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence obtained in recent decades has demonstrated that the brain still matures in adolescence. Changes in neural connectivity occur in different regions, including cortical and subcortical structures, which undergo modifications in white and gray matter densities. These alterations concomitantly occur in some neurotransmitter systems and hormone secretion, which markedly influence the refinement of certain brain areas and neural circuits. The immaturity of the adolescent brain makes it more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol and drug abuse, whose use can trigger long-term behavioral dysfunction. This article reviews the action of alcohol and drug abuse (cannabis, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, anabolic androgenic steroids) in the adolescent brain, and their impact on both cognition and behavioral dysfunction, including predisposition to drug abuse in later life. It also discusses recent evidence that indicates the role of the neuroimmune system response and neuroinflammation as mechanisms that participate in many actions of ethanol and drug abuse in adolescence, including the neurotoxicity and alterations in neurocircuitry that contribute to the dysfunctional behaviors associated with addiction. The new data suggest the therapeutic potential of anti-inflammatory targets to prevent the long-term consequences of drug abuse in adolescence.
Collapse
|
18
|
Dunlap LE, Andrews AM, Olson DE. Dark Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:2408-2427. [PMID: 30001118 PMCID: PMC6197894 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Better known as "ecstasy", 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a small molecule that has played a prominent role in defining the ethos of today's teenagers and young adults, much like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) did in the 1960s. Though MDMA possesses structural similarities to compounds like amphetamine and mescaline, it produces subjective effects that are unlike any of the classical psychostimulants or hallucinogens and is one of the few compounds capable of reliably producing prosocial behavioral states. As a result, MDMA has captured the attention of recreational users, the media, artists, psychiatrists, and neuropharmacologists alike. Here, we detail the synthesis of MDMA as well as its pharmacology, metabolism, adverse effects, and potential use in medicine. Finally, we discuss its history and why it is perhaps the most important compound for the future of psychedelic science-having the potential to either facilitate new psychedelic research initiatives, or to usher in a second Dark Age for the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Dunlap
- Department of Chemistry , University of California, Davis , One Shields Avenue , Davis , California 95616 , United States
| | - Anne M Andrews
- Departments of Psychiatry and Chemistry & Biochemistry, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology , University of California , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - David E Olson
- Department of Chemistry , University of California, Davis , One Shields Avenue , Davis , California 95616 , United States
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine , University of California, Davis , 2700 Stockton Blvd, Suite 2102 , Sacramento , California 95817 , United States
- Center for Neuroscience , University of California, Davis , 1544 Newton Ct , Davis , California 95616 , United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Górska AM, Kamińska K, Wawrzczak-Bargieła A, Costa G, Morelli M, Przewłocki R, Kreiner G, Gołembiowska K. Neurochemical and Neurotoxic Effects of MDMA (Ecstasy) and Caffeine After Chronic Combined Administration in Mice. Neurotox Res 2018; 33:532-548. [PMID: 29134560 PMCID: PMC5871650 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9831-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a psychostimulant popular as a recreational drug because of its effect on mood and social interactions. MDMA acts at dopamine (DA) transporter (DAT) and serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT) and is known to induce damage of dopamine and serotonin neurons. MDMA is often ingested with caffeine. Caffeine as a non-selective adenosine A1/A2A receptor antagonist affects dopaminergic and serotonergic transmissions. The aim of the present study was to determine the changes in DA and 5-HT release in the mouse striatum induced by MDMA and caffeine after their chronic administration. To find out whether caffeine aggravates MDMA neurotoxicity, the content of DA and 5-HT, density of brain DAT and SERT, and oxidative damage of nuclear DNA were determined. Furthermore, the effect of caffeine on MDMA-induced changes in striatal dynorphin and enkephalin and on behavior was assessed. The DA and 5-HT release was determined with in vivo microdialysis, and the monoamine contents were measured by HPLC with electrochemical detection. DNA damage was assayed with the alkaline comet assay. DAT and SERT densities were determined by immunohistochemistry, while prodynorphin (PDYN) and proenkephalin were determined by quantitative PCR reactions. The behavioral changes were measured by the open-field (OF) test and novel object recognition (NOR) test. Caffeine potentiated MDMA-induced DA release while inhibiting 5-HT release in the mouse striatum. Caffeine also exacerbated the oxidative damage of nuclear DNA induced by MDMA but diminished DAT decrease in the striatum and worsened a decrease in SERT density produced by MDMA in the frontal cortex. Neither the striatal PDYN expression, increased by MDMA, nor exploratory and locomotor activities of mice, decreased by MDMA, were affected by caffeine. The exploration of novel object in the NOR test was diminished by MDMA and caffeine. Our data provide evidence that long-term caffeine administration has a powerful influence on functions of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons in the mouse brain and on neurotoxic effects evoked by MDMA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Górska
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kamińska
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wawrzczak-Bargieła
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ryszard Przewłocki
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Kreiner
- Department of Brain Biochemistry, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
(±)-MDMA and its enantiomers: potential therapeutic advantages of R(-)-MDMA. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:377-392. [PMID: 29248945 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4812-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The use of (±)-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine ((±)-MDMA) as an adjunct to psychotherapy in the treatment of psychiatric and behavioral disorders dates back over 50 years. Only in recent years have controlled and peer-reviewed preclinical and clinical studies lent support to (±)-MDMA's hypothesized clinical utility. However, the clinical utility of (±)-MDMA is potentially mitigated by a range of demonstrated adverse effects. One potential solution could lie in the individual S(+) and R(-) enantiomers that comprise (±)-MDMA. Individual enantiomers of racemic compounds have been employed in psychiatry to improve a drug's therapeutic index. Although no research has explored the individual effects of either S(+)-MDMA or R(-)-MDMA in humans in a controlled manner, preclinical research has examined similarities and differences between the two molecules and the racemic compound. This review addresses information related to the pharmacodynamics, neurotoxicity, physiological effects, and behavioral effects of S(+)-MDMA and R(-)-MDMA that might guide preclinical and clinical research. The current preclinical evidence suggests that R(-)-MDMA may provide an improved therapeutic index, maintaining the therapeutic effects of (±)-MDMA with a reduced side effect profile, and that future investigations should investigate the therapeutic potential of R(-)-MDMA.
Collapse
|
21
|
Curry DW, Young MB, Tran AN, Daoud GE, Howell LL. Separating the agony from ecstasy: R(-)-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine has prosocial and therapeutic-like effects without signs of neurotoxicity in mice. Neuropharmacology 2018; 128:196-206. [PMID: 28993129 PMCID: PMC5714650 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
S,R(+/-)-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (SR-MDMA) is an amphetamine derivative with prosocial and putative therapeutic effects. Ongoing clinical trials are investigating it as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions. However, its potential for adverse effects such as hyperthermia and neurotoxicity may limit its clinical viability. We investigated the hypothesis that one of the two enantiomers of SR-MDMA, R-MDMA, would retain the prosocial and therapeutic effects but with fewer adverse effects. Using male Swiss Webster and C57BL/6 mice, the prosocial effects of R-MDMA were measured using a social interaction test, and the therapeutic-like effects were assessed using a Pavlovian fear conditioning and extinction paradigm relevant to PTSD. Locomotor activity and body temperature were tracked after administration, and neurotoxicity was evaluated post-mortem. R-MDMA significantly increased murine social interaction and facilitated extinction of conditioned freezing. Yet, unlike racemic MDMA, it did not increase locomotor activity, produce signs of neurotoxicity, or increase body temperature. A key pharmacological difference between R-MDMA and racemic MDMA is that R-MDMA has much lower potency as a dopamine releaser. Pretreatment with a selective dopamine D1 receptor antagonist prevented SR-MDMA-induced hyperthermia, suggesting that differential dopamine signaling may explain some of the observed differences between the treatments. Together, these results indicate that the prosocial and therapeutic effects of SR-MDMA may be separable from the stimulant, thermogenic, and potential neurotoxic effects. To what extent these findings translate to humans will require further investigation, but these data suggest that R-MDMA could be a more viable therapeutic option for the treatment of PTSD and other disorders for which SR-MDMA is currently being investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W Curry
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Matthew B Young
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Andrew N Tran
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Georges E Daoud
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Leonard L Howell
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pitts EG, Minerva AR, Chandler EB, Kohn JN, Logun MT, Sulima A, Rice KC, Howell LL. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Increases Affiliative Behaviors in Squirrel Monkeys in a Serotonin 2A Receptor-Dependent Manner. Neuropsychopharmacology 2017; 42:1962-1971. [PMID: 28425496 PMCID: PMC5561347 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) increases sociality in humans and animals. Release of serotonin (5-HT) is thought to have an important role in the increase in social behaviors, but the mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly understood. Despite the advantages of nonhuman primate models, no studies have examined the mechanisms of the social effects of MDMA in nonhuman primates. The behavior and vocalizations of four group-housed squirrel monkeys were examined following administration of MDMA, its enantiomers, and methamphetamine. 5-HT receptor antagonists and agonists were given as drug pretreatments. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. MDMA and its enantiomers increased affiliative social behaviors and vocalizations, whereas methamphetamine had only modest effects on affiliative behaviors. Pretreatment with a 5-HT2A receptor antagonist and a 5-HT2C receptor agonist attenuated the MDMA-induced increase in social behaviors, while a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist did not alter affiliative vocalizations and increased MDMA-induced social contact. Nonhuman primates show MDMA-specific increases in affiliative social behaviors following MDMA administration, in concordance with human and rodent studies. MDMA-induced increases in social behaviors are 5-HT2A, but not 5-HT1A, receptor dependent. Understanding the neurochemical mechanisms mediating the prosocial effects of MDMA could help in the development of novel therapeutics with the unique social effects of MDMA but fewer of its limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Pitts
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adelaide R Minerva
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Erika B Chandler
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jordan N Kohn
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Meghan T Logun
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Agnieszka Sulima
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kenner C Rice
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Leonard L Howell
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA,Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA, Tel: +1 404 727 7786, Fax: +1 404 727 1266, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cadoni C, Pisanu A, Simola N, Frau L, Porceddu PF, Corongiu S, Dessì C, Sil A, Plumitallo A, Wardas J, Di Chiara G. Widespread reduction of dopamine cell bodies and terminals in adult rats exposed to a low dose regimen of MDMA during adolescence. Neuropharmacology 2017; 123:385-394. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
24
|
Liu X, Zhan LH, Sun XH, Zhang T, Liu ZL, Liang XF, Zhao F, Liu F, Zeng G, Luan CS. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine causes cytotoxicity on 661W cells through inducing macrophage polarization. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2017; 37:143-150. [PMID: 28743199 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2017.1359838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The abuse of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a psychedelic drug, can lead to a variety of disorders in neural system, including the death of retinal neural cells. MDMA at lower doses does not cause obvious cytotoxicity to photoreceptor cells, indicating potential indirect mechanisms which have not yet been elucidated. This study investigated the effect of MDMA at nontoxic concentration on macrophage activation state and its resultant toxicity to photoreceptor cells. Using a co-culture system, cytotoxicity was caused by MDMA on 661W cells after co-culturing with RAW264.7 macrophage. Results showed that MDMA induced the macrophages to M1 polarization, releasing more pro-inflammatory cytokines, upregulating the M1-related gene and protein expression. The phenotype, secretion pattern, and cytotoxicity of the macrophages treated by MDMA are comparable to those of the ones stimulated by IFNγ and LPS. Our study demonstrated that MDMA promoted macrophage polarization to M1 and induced inflammatory response, providing the scientific rationale for the photoreceptor cell damage caused by the MDMA abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Daqing Oil General Hospital , Daqing , People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Hui Zhan
- b Department of Ophthalmology , Daqing People's Hospital , Daqing , People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Hong Sun
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Daqing Oil General Hospital , Daqing , People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- c Department of Ophthalmology , Secondary People's Hospital of Mudanjiang City , Mudanjiang City , People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Li Liu
- d Department of Opthalmology , Dashiqiao Central Hospital , Yingkou , People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Fang Liang
- e Department of Ophthalmology , Beijing Tiantan Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University , Beijing , People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Zhao
- f Department of Ophthalmology , Shenyang Red Cross Hospital , Shenyang , People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Daqing Oil General Hospital , Daqing , People's Republic of China
| | - Guang Zeng
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Daqing Oil General Hospital , Daqing , People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-Sheng Luan
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Daqing Oil General Hospital , Daqing , People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Costa G, Morelli M, Simola N. Progression and Persistence of Neurotoxicity Induced by MDMA in Dopaminergic Regions of the Mouse Brain and Association with Noradrenergic, GABAergic, and Serotonergic Damage. Neurotox Res 2017; 32:563-574. [PMID: 28597409 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9761-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The amphetamine-related drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is known to induce neurotoxic damage in dopaminergic regions of the mouse brain. In order to characterize how the number of administrations influenced the severity of MDMA-induced dopaminergic damage and to describe the localization and persistence of this damage, we evaluated the changes in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine transporter (DAT) in different regions of the mouse brain. Moreover, we investigated whether dopaminergic damage was associated with noradrenergic, GABAergic, and serotonergic damage, by evaluating the changes in noradrenaline transporter (NET), glutamic acid decarboxylase-67 (GAD-67), and serotonin transporter (SERT). Mice received 14, 28, or 36 MDMA administrations (10 mg/kg twice a week) and were sacrificed at different time points (postnatal days 85, 110, 138, or 214) for immunohistochemical evaluation. Mice receiving 28 administrations showed reduced levels of DAT-positive fibers in caudate-putamen (CPu) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and reduced levels of TH-positive nigral neurons. These mice also displayed increased NET-positive hippocampal fibers, reduced GAD-67-positive neurons in CPu and hippocampus, and reduced GAD-67-positive fibers in mPFC. Similar effects of MDMA on DAT, TH, and GAD-67 were found in mice receiving 36 administrations, which also displayed reduced levels of striatal, cortical, and hippocampal TH-immunoreactive fibers. The reductions in dopaminergic markers and GAD-67 persisted at 3 months after MDMA discontinuation. Finally, MDMA never modified the levels of SERT. These results provide further insight into the localization and persistence of MDMA-induced dopaminergic damage and show that this effect may associate with GABAergic but not noradrenergic or serotonergic damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy. .,National Research Council of Italy, Neuroscience Institute, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Miner NB, O'Callaghan JP, Phillips TJ, Janowsky A. The combined effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and selected substituted methcathinones on measures of neurotoxicity. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2017; 61:74-81. [PMID: 28212938 PMCID: PMC5453829 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The rise in popularity of substituted methcathinones (aka "bath salts") has increased the focus on their neurotoxic effects. Two commonly abused methcathinones, 3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone (methylone, MDMC) and 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), are often concomitantly ingested with the illicit drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). To examine potential neurotoxic effects of these drug combinations, C57BL/6J mice were administered 4 i.p. injection of the drugs, at 2h intervals, either singularly: MDMA 15 or 30mg/kg, methylone 20mg/kg, MDPV 1mg/kg; or in combination: methylone/MDMA 20/15mg/kg, MDPV/MDMA 1/15mg/kg. Drug effects on thermoregulation were characterized and striatal tissue analyzed after 2 or 7days for dopamine (DA) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) levels, as well as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. Two days following drug administration, DA and TH were decreased only in the MDMA 30mg/kg group, whereas GFAP expression was dose-dependently increased by MDMA alone. While the combination of the methcathinones with the lower MDMA dose did not affect DA or TH levels, both blocked the MDMA-induced increase in GFAP expression. Seven days following drug administration, there were no significant differences in DA, TH, or GFAP for any treatment group, indicating that changes in DA, TH, and GFAP were transient. Five of the six drug groups exhibited acute hypothermia followed by gradually increasing temperatures. Animals treated with MDPV did not exhibit these biphasic temperature changes, and resembled the saline group. These results indicate that specific effects of both methylone and MDPV on DA depletion or astrocyte activation in the striatum are not additive with effects of MDMA, but block astrogliosis caused by MDMA alone. Additionally, MDPV modulates thermoregulation through a different mechanism than methylone or MDMA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas B Miner
- Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - James P O'Callaghan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Tamara J Phillips
- Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; The Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Aaron Janowsky
- Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; The Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Frau L, Simola N, Porceddu PF, Morelli M. Effect of crowding, temperature and age on glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity induced by MDMA in the mouse brain. Neurotoxicology 2016; 56:127-138. [PMID: 27451954 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedyoxymethamphetamine (MDMA or "ecstasy"), a recreational drug of abuse, can induce glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Since MDMA is often consumed in crowded environments featuring high temperatures, we studied how these factors influenced glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity induced by MDMA. C57BL/6J adolescent (4 weeks old) and adult (12 weeks old) mice received MDMA (4×20mg/kg) in different conditions: 1) while kept 1, 5, or 10×cage at room temperature (21°C); 2) while kept 5×cage at either room (21°C) or high (27°C) temperature. After the last MDMA administration, immunohistochemistry was performed in the caudate-putamen for CD11b and GFAP, to mark microglia and astroglia, and in the substantia nigra pars compacta for tyrosine hydroxylase, to mark dopaminergic neurons. MDMA induced glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity, compared with vehicle administration. Crowding (5 or 10 mice×cage) amplified MDMA-induced glia activation (in adult and adolescent mice) and dopaminergic neurotoxicity (in adolescent mice). Conversely, exposure to a high environmental temperature (27°C) potentiated MDMA-induced glia activation in adult and adolescent mice kept 5×cage, but not dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Crowding and exposure to a high environmental temperature amplified MDMA-induced hyperthermia, and a positive correlation between body temperature and activation of either microglia or astroglia was found in adult and adolescent mice. These results provide further evidence that the administration setting influences the noxious effects of MDMA in the mouse brain. However, while crowding amplifies both glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity, a high environmental temperature exacerbates glia activation only.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Pier Francesca Porceddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy; CNR, Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Metformin Prevented Dopaminergic Neurotoxicity Induced by 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Administration. Neurotox Res 2016; 30:101-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-016-9633-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
|
29
|
Frau L, Costa G, Porceddu PF, Khairnar A, Castelli MP, Ennas MG, Madeddu C, Wardas J, Morelli M. Influence of caffeine on 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced dopaminergic neuron degeneration and neuroinflammation is age-dependent. J Neurochem 2015; 136:148-62. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Pier Francesca Porceddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Amit Khairnar
- Applied Neuroscience Research Group; CEITEC - Central European Institute of Technology; Masaryk University; Brno Czech Republic
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology; University of Cagliari; Monserrato (CA) Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ennas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology; University of Cagliari; Monserrato (CA) Italy
| | - Camilla Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology; University of Cagliari; Monserrato (CA) Italy
| | - Jadwiga Wardas
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology; Institute of Pharmacology; Polish Academy of Sciences; Krakow Poland
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
- CNR; Institute of Neuroscience; Cagliari Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Moratalla R, Khairnar A, Simola N, Granado N, García-Montes JR, Porceddu PF, Tizabi Y, Costa G, Morelli M. Amphetamine-related drugs neurotoxicity in humans and in experimental animals: Main mechanisms. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 155:149-170. [PMID: 26455459 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amphetamine-related drugs, such as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and methamphetamine (METH), are popular recreational psychostimulants. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated that, besides having the potential for abuse, amphetamine-related drugs may also elicit neurotoxic and neuroinflammatory effects. The neurotoxic potentials of MDMA and METH to dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons have been clearly demonstrated in both rodents and non-human primates. This review summarizes the species-specific cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in MDMA and METH-mediated neurotoxic and neuroinflammatory effects, along with the most important behavioral changes elicited by these substances in experimental animals and humans. Emphasis is placed on the neuropsychological and neurological consequences associated with the neuronal damage. Moreover, we point out the gap in our knowledge and the need for developing appropriate therapeutic strategies to manage the neurological problems associated with amphetamine-related drug abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Moratalla
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain; CIBERNED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Amit Khairnar
- Applied Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC - Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Noelia Granado
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain; CIBERNED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose Ruben García-Montes
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain; CIBERNED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pier Francesca Porceddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Yousef Tizabi
- Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; Centre of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
MDMA administration during adolescence exacerbates MPTP-induced cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:4007-18. [PMID: 24687411 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3536-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE We have recently shown that chronic exposure to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "ecstasy") of adolescent mice exacerbates dopamine neurotoxicity and neuroinflammatory effects elicited by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) in the substantia nigra and striatum at adulthood. OBJECTIVES The present study investigated whether the amplification of MPTP effects by previous treatment with MDMA extends to the limbic and cortical regions and consequently affects cognitive performance. METHODS Mice received MDMA (10 mg/kg, twice a day/twice a week) for 9 weeks, followed by MPTP (20 mg/kg × 4 administrations), starting 2 weeks after MDMA discontinuation. Complement type 3 receptor (CD11b) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in both the hippocampus and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to measure microglia and astroglia activation. These neurochemical evaluations were paired with an assessment of cognitive performance by means of the novel object recognition (NOR) and spontaneous alternation tasks. RESULTS MPTP administration to MDMA-pretreated mice elicited a stronger activation of CD11b and GFAP in both the hippocampus and the mPFC compared with either substance administered alone. Furthermore, NOR performance was lower in MDMA-pretreated mice administered MPTP compared with mice that received either substance alone. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that MDMA-MPTP negative interactions extend to the limbic and cortical regions and may result in cognitive impairment, providing further evidence that exposure to MDMA may amplify the effects of later neurotoxic insults.
Collapse
|
32
|
Llabrés S, García-Ratés S, Cristóbal-Lecina E, Riera A, Borrell JI, Camarasa J, Pubill D, Luque FJ, Escubedo E. Molecular basis of the selective binding of MDMA enantiomers to the alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor subtype: Synthesis, pharmacological evaluation and mechanistic studies. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 81:35-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
33
|
Khairnar A, Frau L, Plumitallo A, Morelli M, Simola N. Antagonism of Adenosine A1 or A2A Receptors Amplifies the Effects of MDMA on Glial Activation in the Mouse Brain: Relevance to Caffeine–MDMA Interactions. JOURNAL OF CAFFEINE RESEARCH 2014. [DOI: 10.1089/jcr.2014.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Khairnar
- CEITEC—Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lucia Frau
- Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Plumitallo
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- National Research Council (CNR), Neuroscience Institute, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nicola Simola
- Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Lopez-Rodriguez AB, Llorente-Berzal A, Garcia-Segura LM, Viveros MP. Sex-dependent long-term effects of adolescent exposure to THC and/or MDMA on neuroinflammation and serotoninergic and cannabinoid systems in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1435-47. [PMID: 24236988 PMCID: PMC3954483 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Many young people consume ecstasy as a recreational drug and often in combination with cannabis. In this study, we aimed to mimic human consumption patterns and investigated, in male and female animals, the long-term effects of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on diverse neuroinflammation and neurotoxic markers. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male and female Wistar rats were chronically treated with increasing doses of THC and/or MDMA during adolescence. The effects of THC and/or MDMA on glial reactivity and on serotoninergic and cannabinoid systems were assessed by immunohistochemistry in the hippocampus and parietal cortex. KEY RESULTS THC increased the area staining for glial fibrilar acidic protein in both sexes. In males, both drugs, either separately or in combination, increased the proportion of reactive microglia cells [ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1)]. In contrast, in females, each drug, administered alone, decreased of this proportion, whereas the combination of both drugs resulted in a 'normalization' to control values. In males, MDMA reduced the number of SERT positive fibres, THC induced the opposite effect and the group receiving both drugs did not significantly differ from the controls. In females, MDMA reduced the number of SERT positive fibres and the combination of both drugs counteracted this effect. THC also reduced immunostaining for CB1 receptors in females and this effect was aggravated by the combination with MDMA. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Adolescent exposure of rats to THC and/or MDMA induced long-term, sex-dependent neurochemical and glial alterations, and revealed interactions between the two drugs. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids 2013. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Belen Lopez-Rodriguez
- Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid – Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC)Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro Llorente-Berzal
- Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid – Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC)Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria-Paz Viveros
- Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid – Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Direct and long-lasting effects elicited by repeated drug administration on 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations are regulated differently: implications for the study of the affective properties of drugs of abuse. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 17:429-41. [PMID: 24138707 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145713001235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies suggest that 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) may indicate a positive affective state in rats, and these vocalizations are increasingly being used to investigate the properties of psychoactive drugs. Previous studies, however, have focused on dopaminergic psychostimulants and morphine, whereas little is known about how other drugs modulate 50-kHz USVs. To further elucidate the neuropharmacology of 50-kHz USVs, the present study characterized the direct and long-lasting effects of different drugs of abuse, by measuring the number of 50-kHz USVs and their 'trill' subtype emitted by adult male rats. Rats received repeated administrations of amphetamine (2 mg/kg, i.p.), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, 7.5 mg/kg, i.p.), morphine (7.5 mg/kg, s.c.), or nicotine (0.4 mg/kg, s.c.), on either consecutive or alternate days (five administrations in total) in a novel environment. Seven days later, rats were re-exposed to the drug-paired environment, subjected to USVs recording, and then challenged with the same drug. Finally, 7 d after the challenge, rats were repeatedly exposed to the drug-paired environment and vocalizations were measured. Amphetamine was the only drug to stimulate 50-kHz USVs and 'trill' subtype emission during administration and challenge. Conversely, all rats emitted 50-kHz USVs when re-exposed to the test cage, and this effect was most marked in morphine-treated rats, and less evident in nicotine-treated rats. This study demonstrates that the direct and long-lasting effects of drugs on 50-kHz USVs are regulated differently, providing a better understanding of the usefulness of these vocalizations in the study of psychoactive drugs.
Collapse
|
36
|
Gonçalves J, Baptista S, Silva AP. Psychostimulants and brain dysfunction: a review of the relevant neurotoxic effects. Neuropharmacology 2014; 87:135-49. [PMID: 24440369 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Psychostimulants abuse is a major public concern because is associated with serious health complications, including devastating consequences on the central nervous system (CNS). The neurotoxic effects of these drugs have been extensively studied. Nevertheless, numerous questions and uncertainties remain in our understanding of these toxic events. Thus, the purpose of the present manuscript is to review cellular and molecular mechanisms that might be responsible for brain dysfunction induced by psychostimulants. Topics reviewed include some classical aspects of neurotoxicity, such as monoaminergic system and mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity and hyperthermia. Moreover, recent literature has suggested new phenomena regarding the toxic effects of psychostimulants. Thus, we also reviewed the impact of these drugs on neuroinflammatory response, blood-brain barrier (BBB) function and neurogenesis. Assessing the relative importance of these mechanisms on psychostimulants-induced brain dysfunction presents an exciting challenge for future research efforts. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'CNS Stimulants'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Sofia Baptista
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Costa G, Frau L, Wardas J, Pinna A, Plumitallo A, Morelli M. MPTP-induced dopamine neuron degeneration and glia activation is potentiated in MDMA-pretreated mice. Mov Disord 2013; 28:1957-65. [PMID: 24108425 DOI: 10.1002/mds.25646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical observations report a greater propensity to develop Parkinson's disease (PD) in amphetamine users. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; "ecstasy") is an amphetamine-related drug that is largely consumed by adolescents and young adults, which may have neuroinflammatory and neurotoxic effects. Here, the objective was to evaluate in mice whether consumption of MDMA during adolescence might influence the neuroinflammatory and neurotoxic effects of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a toxin known to induce PD in humans. The activation of astroglia and microglia by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and complement receptor type 3 (CD11b) immunohistochemistry and the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons by tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunohistochemistry were evaluated. MPTP (20 mg/kg × 4) was administered to mice treated from ages 8 weeks to 17 weeks with MDMA (10 mg/kg twice daily, two times a week). In mice that were chronically treated with MDMA, administration of MPTP induced a higher microglial and astroglial response in both the striatum and the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) compared with vehicle-treated or vehicle + MPTP-treated mice. Inflammatory changes were associated with a decrease in TH immunoreactivity in the SNc of MDMA-treated mice and with a further decrease in the striatum and the SNc of MDMA + MPTP-treated mice compared with vehicle-treated, MDMA-treated, and MPTP-treated mice. The results demonstrate that chronic administration of MDMA during late adolescence in mice exacerbates the neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation caused by MPTP, suggesting that MDMA may constitute a risk factor for dopaminergic neuron degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|