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Neel AI, Wang Y, Sun H, Liontis KE, McCormack MC, Mayer JC, Cervera Juanes RP, Davenport AT, Grant KA, Daunais JD, Chen R. Differential regulation of G protein-coupled receptor-associated proteins in the caudate and the putamen of cynomolgus macaques following chronic ethanol drinking. J Neurochem 2024; 168:2722-2735. [PMID: 38783749 PMCID: PMC11449652 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16134] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The dorsal striatum is composed of the caudate nucleus and the putamen in human and non-human primates. These two regions receive different cortical projections and are functionally distinct. The caudate is involved in the control of goal-directed behaviors, while the putamen is implicated in habit learning and formation. Previous reports indicate that ethanol differentially influences neurotransmission in these two regions. Because neurotransmitters primarily signal through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to modulate neuronal activity, the present study aimed to determine whether ethanol had a region-dependent impact on the expression of proteins that are involved in the trafficking and function of GPCRs, including G protein subunits and their effectors, protein kinases, and elements of the cytoskeleton. Western blotting was performed to examine protein levels in the caudate and the putamen of male cynomolgus macaques that self-administered ethanol for 1 year under free access conditions, along with control animals that self-administered an isocaloric sweetened solution under identical operant conditions. Among the 18 proteins studied, we found that the levels of one protein (PKCβ) were increased, and 13 proteins (Gαi1/3, Gαi2, Gαo, Gβ1γ, PKCα, PKCε, CaMKII, GSK3β, β-actin, cofilin, α-tubulin, and tubulin polymerization promoting protein) were reduced in the caudate of alcohol-drinking macaques. However, ethanol did not alter the expression of any proteins examined in the putamen. These observations underscore the unique vulnerability of the caudate nucleus to changes in protein expression induced by chronic ethanol exposure. Whether these alterations are associated with ethanol-induced dysregulation of GPCR function and neurotransmission warrants future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna I. Neel
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Yutong Wang
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Haiguo Sun
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Katherine E. Liontis
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Mary C. McCormack
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Jonathan C. Mayer
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Rita P. Cervera Juanes
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - April T. Davenport
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Kathleen A. Grant
- Division of Neuroscience Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239
| | - James D. Daunais
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27157
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Nimitvilai-Roberts S, Gioia D, Lopez MF, Glaser CM, Woodward JJ. Chronic intermittent ethanol exposure differentially alters the excitability of neurons in the orbitofrontal cortex and basolateral amygdala that project to the dorsal striatum. Neuropharmacology 2023; 228:109463. [PMID: 36792030 PMCID: PMC10006395 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109463] [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: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder is associated with altered neuron function including those in orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) that send glutamatergic inputs to areas of the dorsal striatum (DS) that mediate goal and habit directed actions. Previous studies reported that chronic intermittent (CIE) exposure to ethanol alters the electrophysiological properties of OFC and BLA neurons, although projection targets for these neurons were not identified. In this study, we used male and female mice and recorded current-evoked spiking of retrobead labeled DS-projecting OFC and BLA neurons in the same animals following air or CIE treatment. DS-projecting OFC neurons were hyperexcitable 3- and 7-days following CIE exposure and spiking returned to control levels after 14 days of withdrawal. In contrast, firing was decreased in DS-projecting BLA neurons at 3-days withdrawal, increased at 7- and 14-days and returned to baseline at 28 days post-CIE. CIE exposure enhanced the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) of DS-projecting OFC neurons but had no effect on inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs). In DS-projecting BLA neurons, the amplitude and frequency of sIPSCs was enhanced 3 days post-CIE with no change in sEPSCs while at 7-days post-withdrawal, sEPSC amplitude and frequency were increased and sIPSCs had returned to normal. Finally, in CIE-treated mice, acute ethanol no longer inhibited spike firing of DS-projecting OFC and BLA neurons. Overall, these results suggest that CIE-induced changes in the excitability of DS-projecting OFC and BLA neurons could underlie deficits in behavioral control often observed in alcohol-dependent individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominic Gioia
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Marcelo F Lopez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addiction Sciences Division, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Christina M Glaser
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - John J Woodward
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addiction Sciences Division, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
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Maternal Hyperhomocysteinemia Produces Memory Deficits Associated with Impairment of Long-Term Synaptic Plasticity in Young Rats. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010058. [PMID: 36611852 PMCID: PMC9818716 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal hyperhomocysteinemia (HCY) is a common pregnancy complication caused by high levels of the homocysteine in maternal and fetal blood, which leads to the alterations of the cognitive functions, including learning and memory. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of these alterations in a rat model of maternal HCY. The behavioral tests confirmed the memory impairments in young and adult rats following the prenatal HCY exposure. Field potential recordings in hippocampal slices demonstrated that the long-term potentiation (LTP) was significantly reduced in HCY rats. The whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in hippocampal slices demonstrated that the magnitude of NMDA receptor-mediated currents did not change while their desensitization decreased in HCY rats. No significant alterations of glutamate receptor subunit expression except GluN1 were detected in the hippocampus of HCY rats using the quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot methods. The immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that the number of synaptopodin-positive spines is reduced, while the analysis of the ultrastructure of hippocampus using the electron microscopy revealed the indications of delayed hippocampal maturation in young HCY rats. Thus, the obtained results suggest that maternal HCY disturbs the maturation of hippocampus during the first month of life, which disrupts LTP formation and causes memory impairments.
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Dyomina AV, Kovalenko AA, Zakharova MV, Postnikova TY, Griflyuk AV, Smolensky IV, Antonova IV, Zaitsev AV. MTEP, a Selective mGluR5 Antagonist, Had a Neuroprotective Effect but Did Not Prevent the Development of Spontaneous Recurrent Seizures and Behavioral Comorbidities in the Rat Lithium-Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23010497. [PMID: 35008924 PMCID: PMC8745728 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are expressed predominantly on neurons and glial cells and are involved in the modulation of a wide range of signal transduction cascades. Therefore, different subtypes of mGluRs are considered a promising target for the treatment of various brain diseases. Previous studies have demonstrated the seizure-induced upregulation of mGluR5; however, its functional significance is still unclear. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the effect of treatment with the selective mGluR5 antagonist 3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]-pyridine (MTEP) on epileptogenesis and behavioral impairments in rats using the lithium–pilocarpine model. We found that the administration of MTEP during the latent phase of the model did not improve survival, prevent the development of epilepsy, or attenuate its manifestations in rats. However, MTEP treatment completely prevented neuronal loss and partially attenuated astrogliosis in the hippocampus. An increase in excitatory amino acid transporter 2 expression, which has been detected in treated rats, may prevent excitotoxicity and be a potential mechanism of neuroprotection. We also found that MTEP administration did not prevent the behavioral comorbidities such as depressive-like behavior, motor hyperactivity, reduction of exploratory behavior, and cognitive impairments typical in the lithium–pilocarpine model. Thus, despite the distinct neuroprotective effect, the MTEP treatment was ineffective in preventing epilepsy.
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Dong GH, Xu YH, Liu LY, Lu D, Chu CP, Cui SB, Qiu DL. Chronic ethanol exposure during adolescence impairs simple spike activity of cerebellar Purkinje cells in vivo in mice. Neurosci Lett 2021; 771:136396. [PMID: 34919990 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) play critical roles in motor coordination and motor learning through their simple spike (SS) activity. Previous studies have shown that chronic ethanol exposure (CEE) in adolescents impairs learning, attention, and behavior, at least in part by impairing the activity of cerebellar PCs. In this study, we investigated the effect of CEE on the SS activity in urethane-anesthetized adolescent mice by in vivo electrophysiological recordings and pharmacological methods. Our results showed that the cerebellar PCs in CEE adolescent mice expressed a significant decrease in the frequency and an increase in the coefficient of variation (CV) of SS than control group. Blockade of ɤ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor did not change the frequency and CV of SS firing in control group but produced a significant increase in the frequency and a decrease in the CV of SS firing in CEE mice. The CEE-induced decrease in SS firing rate and increase in CV were abolished by application of an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor blocker, D-APV, but not by anα-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl -4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor antagonist, NBQX. Notably, the spontaneous spike rate of molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) in CEE mice was significantly higher than control group, which was also abolished by application of D-APV. These results indicate that adolescent CEE enhances the spontaneous spike firing rate of MLIs through activation of NMDA receptor, resulting in a depression in the SS activity of cerebellar PCs in vivo in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Hui Dong
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Yin-Hua Xu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Liang-Yan Liu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Di Lu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Chun-Ping Chu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Institute of Brain Science, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Song-Biao Cui
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China.
| | - De-Lai Qiu
- Brain Science Research Center, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, China; Institute of Brain Science, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China.
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Ceftriaxone Treatment Weakens Long-Term Synaptic Potentiation in the Hippocampus of Young Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168417. [PMID: 34445137 PMCID: PMC8395093 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Disrupted glutamate clearance in the synaptic cleft leads to synaptic dysfunction and neurological diseases. Decreased glutamate removal from the synaptic cleft is known to cause excitotoxicity. Data on the physiological effects of increased glutamate clearance are contradictory. This study investigated the consequences of ceftriaxone (CTX), an enhancer of glutamate transporter 1 expression, treatment on long-term synaptic potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus of young rats. In this study, 5-day administration of CTX (200 mg/kg) significantly weakened LTP in CA3-CA1 synapses. As shown by electrophysiological recordings, LTP attenuation was associated with weakening of N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-dependent signaling in synapses. However, PCR analysis did not show downregulation of NMDAR subunits or changes in the expression of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) subunits. We assume that extracellular burst stimulation activates fewer synapses in CTX-treated animals because increased glutamate reuptake results in reduced spillover, and neighboring synapses do not participate in neurotransmission. Attenuation of LTP was not accompanied by noticeable behavioral changes in the CTX group, with no behavioral abnormalities observed in the open field test or Morris water maze test. Thus, our experiments show that increased glutamate clearance can impair long-term synaptic plasticity and that this phenomenon can be considered a potential side effect of CTX treatment.
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Postnikova TY, Griflyuk AV, Amakhin DV, Kovalenko AA, Soboleva EB, Zubareva OE, Zaitsev AV. Early Life Febrile Seizures Impair Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity in Young Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8218. [PMID: 34360983 PMCID: PMC8347828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Febrile seizures (FSs) in early life are significant risk factors of neurological disorders and cognitive impairment in later life. However, existing data about the impact of FSs on the developing brain are conflicting. We aimed to investigate morphological and functional changes in the hippocampus of young rats exposed to hyperthermia-induced seizures at postnatal day 10. We found that FSs led to a slight morphological disturbance. The cell numbers decreased by 10% in the CA1 and hilus but did not reduce in the CA3 or dentate gyrus areas. In contrast, functional impairments were robust. Long-term potentiation (LTP) in CA3-CA1 synapses was strongly reduced, which we attribute to the insufficient activity of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). Using whole-cell recordings, we found higher desensitization of NMDAR currents in the FS group. Since the desensitization of NMDARs depends on subunit composition, we analyzed NMDAR current decays and gene expression of subunits, which revealed no differences between control and FS rats. We suggest that an increased desensitization is due to insufficient activation of the glycine site of NMDARs, as the application of D-serine, the glycine site agonist, allows the restoration of LTP to a control value. Our results reveal a new molecular mechanism of FS impact on the developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Aleksey V. Zaitsev
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, 44, Toreza Prospekt, 194223 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (T.Y.P.); (A.V.G.); (D.V.A.); (A.A.K.); (E.B.S.); (O.E.Z.)
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Abstract
Alcohol dependence is a chronically relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking, loss of control in limiting intake, and the emergence of a withdrawal syndrome in the absence of the drug. Accumulating evidence suggests an important role for synaptic transmission in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) in mediating alcohol-related behaviors and neuroadaptive mechanisms associated with alcohol dependence. Acute alcohol facilitates γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic transmission in the CeA via both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms, and chronic alcohol increases baseline GABAergic transmission. Acute alcohol inhibits glutamatergic transmission via effects at N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in the CeA, whereas chronic alcohol up-regulates NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated transmission. Pro- (e.g., corticotropin-releasing factor [CRF]) and antistress (e.g., nociceptin/orphanin FQ, oxytocin) neuropeptides affect alcohol- and anxiety-related behaviors, and also alter the alcohol-induced effects on CeA neurotransmission. Alcohol dependence produces plasticity in these neuropeptide systems, reflecting a recruitment of those systems during the transition to alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Roberto
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Dean Kirson
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Sophia Khom
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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Strong CE, Kabbaj M. Neural Mechanisms Underlying the Rewarding and Therapeutic Effects of Ketamine as a Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:593860. [PMID: 33362485 PMCID: PMC7759199 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.593860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most prevalent substance use disorder and causes a significant global burden. Relapse rates remain incredibly high after decades of attempting to develop novel treatment options that have failed to produce increased rates of sobriety. Ketamine has emerged as a potential treatment for AUD following its success as a therapeutic agent for depression, demonstrated by several preclinical studies showing that acute administration reduced alcohol intake in rodents. As such, ketamine's therapeutic effects for AUD are now being investigated in clinical trials with the hope of it being efficacious in prolonging sobriety from alcohol in humans (ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT01558063). Importantly, ketamine's antidepressant effects only last for about 1-week and because AUD is a lifelong disorder, repeated treatment regimens would be necessary to maintain sobriety. This raises questions regarding its safety for AUD treatment since ketamine itself has the potential for addiction. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the neuroadaptations related to alcohol's addictive properties as well as ketamine's therapeutic and addictive properties. To do this, the focus will be on reward-related brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc), dorsal striatum, prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus, and ventral tegmental area (VTA) to understand how acute vs. chronic exposure will alter reward signaling over time. Additionally, evidence from these studies will be summarized in both male and female subjects. Accordingly, this review aims to address the safety of repeated ketamine infusions for the treatment of AUD. Although more work about the safety of ketamine to treat AUD is warranted, we hope this review sheds light on some answers about the safety of repeated ketamine infusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Strong
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Mohamed Kabbaj
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
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Changes in Behavior and the Expression of Ionotropic Glutamate Receptor Genes in the Brains of Adult Rats after Neonatal Administration of Bacterial Lipopolysaccharide. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11055-020-01025-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Lim JR, Lee HJ, Jung YH, Kim JS, Chae CW, Kim SY, Han HJ. Ethanol-activated CaMKII signaling induces neuronal apoptosis through Drp1-mediated excessive mitochondrial fission and JNK1-dependent NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:123. [PMID: 32787872 PMCID: PMC7422600 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00572-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neurodegeneration is a representative phenotype of patients with chronic alcoholism. Ethanol-induced calcium overload causes NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome formation and an imbalance in mitochondrial dynamics, closely associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. However, how calcium regulates this process in neuronal cells is poorly understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the detailed mechanism of calcium-regulated mitochondrial dynamics and NLRP3 inflammasome formation in neuronal cells by ethanol. Methods In this study, we used the SK-N-MC human neuroblastoma cell line. To confirm the expression level of the mRNA and protein, real time quantitative PCR and western blot were performed. Co-immunoprecipitation and Immunofluorescence staining were conducted to confirm the complex formation or interaction of the proteins. Flow cytometry was used to analyze intracellular calcium, mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal apoptosis. Results Ethanol increased cleaved caspase-3 levels and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation associated with neuronal apoptosis. In addition, ethanol increased protein kinase A (PKA) activation and cAMP-response-element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation, which increased N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) expression. Ethanol-increased NMDAR induced intracellular calcium overload and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) activation leading to phosphorylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase 1 (JNK1). Drp1 phosphorylation promoted Drp1 translocation to the mitochondria, resulting in excessive mitochondrial fission, mitochondrial ROS accumulation, and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, which was recovered by Drp1 inhibitor pretreatment. Ethanol-induced JNK1 phosphorylation activated the NLRP3 inflammasome that induced caspase-1 dependent mitophagy inhibition, thereby exacerbating ROS accumulation and causing cell death. Suppressing caspase-1 induced mitophagy and reversed the ethanol-induced apoptosis in neuronal cells. Conclusions Our results demonstrated that ethanol upregulated NMDAR-dependent CaMKII phosphorylation which is essential for Drp1-mediated excessive mitochondrial fission and the JNK1-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation resulting in neuronal apoptosis. Video abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Ryong Lim
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jik Lee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28644, South Korea.,Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28644, South Korea
| | - Young Hyun Jung
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Sung Kim
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Woo Chae
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Yihl Kim
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Jae Han
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, and BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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Alasmari F, Alhaddad H, Wong W, Bell RL, Sari Y. Ampicillin/Sulbactam Treatment Modulates NMDA Receptor NR2B Subunit and Attenuates Neuroinflammation and Alcohol Intake in Male High Alcohol Drinking Rats. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10071030. [PMID: 32664441 PMCID: PMC7407831 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to ethanol commonly manifests neuroinflammation. Beta (β)-lactam antibiotics attenuate ethanol drinking through upregulation of astroglial glutamate transporters, especially glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1), in the mesocorticolimbic brain regions, including the nucleus accumbens (Acb). However, the effect of β-lactam antibiotics on neuroinflammation in animals chronically exposed to ethanol has not been fully investigated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of ampicillin/sulbactam (AMP/SUL, 100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) on ethanol consumption in high alcohol drinking (HAD1) rats. Additionally, we investigated the effects of AMP/SUL on GLT-1 and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subtypes (NR2A and NR2B) in the Acb core (AcbCo) and Acb shell (AcbSh). We found that AMP/SUL at both doses attenuated ethanol consumption and restored ethanol-decreased GLT-1 and NR2B expression in the AcbSh and AcbCo, respectively. Moreover, AMP/SUL (200 mg/kg, i.p.) reduced ethanol-increased high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) expression in the AcbSh. Moreover, both doses of AMP/SUL attenuated ethanol-elevated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the AcbSh. Our results suggest that AMP/SUL attenuates ethanol drinking and modulates NMDA receptor NR2B subunits and HMGB1-associated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fawaz Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Toledo, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (H.A.); (W.W.)
| | - Hasan Alhaddad
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Toledo, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (H.A.); (W.W.)
| | - Woonyen Wong
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Toledo, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (H.A.); (W.W.)
| | - Richard L. Bell
- Department of Psychiatry and Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Correspondence: (R.L.B.); (Y.S.); Tel.: +317-278-8407 (R.L.B.); +419-383-1507 (Y.S.)
| | - Youssef Sari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Toledo, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (H.A.); (W.W.)
- Correspondence: (R.L.B.); (Y.S.); Tel.: +317-278-8407 (R.L.B.); +419-383-1507 (Y.S.)
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McGinnis MM, Parrish BC, McCool BA. Withdrawal from chronic ethanol exposure increases postsynaptic glutamate function of insular cortex projections to the rat basolateral amygdala. Neuropharmacology 2020; 172:108129. [PMID: 32418906 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A key feature of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is negative affect during withdrawal, which often contributes to relapse and is thought to be caused by altered brain function, especially in circuits that are important mediators of emotional behaviors. Both the agranular insular cortex (AIC) and the basolateral amygdala (BLA) regulate emotions and are sensitive to ethanol-induced changes in synaptic plasticity. The AIC and BLA are reciprocally connected; and the effects of chronic ethanol exposure on this circuit have yet to be explored. Here, we use a combination of optogenetics and electrophysiology to examine the pre- and postsynaptic changes that occur to AIC-BLA synapses following withdrawal from 7- or 10-days of chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure. While CIE/withdrawal did not alter presynaptic glutamate release probability from AIC inputs, withdrawal from 10, but not 7, days of CIE increased AMPA receptor-mediated postsynaptic function at these synapses. Additionally, NMDA receptor-mediated currents evoked by electrical stimulation of the external capsule, which contains AIC afferents, were also increased during withdrawal. Notably, a single subanesthetic dose of ketamine administered at the onset of withdrawal prevented the withdrawal-induced increases in both AMPAR and NMDAR postsynaptic function. Ketamine also prevented the withdrawal-induced increases in anxiety-like behavior measured using the elevated zero maze. Together, these findings suggest that chronic ethanol exposure increases postsynaptic function within the AIC-BLA circuit and that ketamine can prevent ethanol withdrawal-induced alterations in synaptic plasticity and negative affect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly M McGinnis
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Brian C Parrish
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Brian A McCool
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
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14
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Chronic alcohol disrupts hypothalamic responses to stress by modifying CRF and NMDA receptor function. Neuropharmacology 2020; 167:107991. [PMID: 32059962 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.107991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The chronic inability of alcoholics to effectively cope with relapse-inducing stressors has been linked to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) signaling. However, the cellular mechanisms responsible for this dysregulation are yet to be identified. After exposure of male Sprague Dawley rats to chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE; 5-6 g/kg orally for 35 doses over 50 days) or water, followed by 40-60 days of protracted withdrawal, we investigated CIE effects on glutamatergic synaptic transmission, stress-induced plasticity, CRF- and ethanol-induced NMDAR inhibition using electrophysiological recordings in parvocellular neurosecretory cells (PNCs) of the paraventricular nucleus. We also assessed CIE effects on hypothalamic mRNA expression of CRF-related genes using real-time polymerase chain reaction, and on HPA axis function by measuring stress-induced increases in plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone, corticosterone, and self-grooming. In control rats, ethanol-mediated inhibition of NMDARs was prevented by CRF1 receptor (CRFR1) blockade with antalarmin, while CRF/CRFR1-mediated NMDAR blockade was prevented by intracellularly-applied inhibitor of phosphatases PP1/PP2A, okadaic acid, but not the selective striatal-enriched tyrosine protein phosphatase inhibitor, TC-2153. CIE exposure increased GluN2B subunit-dependent NMDAR function of PNCs. This was associated with the loss of both ethanol- and CRF-mediated NMDAR inhibition, and loss of stress-induced short-term potentiation of glutamatergic synaptic inputs, which could be reversed by intracellular blockade of NMDARs with MK801. CIE exposure also blunted the hormonal and self-grooming behavioral responses to repeated restraint stress. These findings suggest a cellular mechanism whereby chronic alcohol dysregulates the hormonal and behavioral responses to repetitive stressors by increasing NMDAR function and decreasing CRFR1 function.
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15
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McCool BA, McGinnis MM. Adolescent Vulnerability to Alcohol Use Disorder: Neurophysiological Mechanisms from Preclinical Studies. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2020; 258:421-442. [PMID: 31595414 DOI: 10.1007/164_2019_296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent alcohol use in human populations dramatically increases the likelihood of adult alcohol use disorder. This adolescent vulnerability is recapitulated in preclinical models which provide important opportunities to understand basic neurobiological mechanisms. We provide here an overview of GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission and our current understanding of the sensitivity of these systems to adolescent ethanol exposure. As a whole, the preclinical literature suggests that adolescent vulnerability may be directly related to region-specific neurobiological processes that continue to develop during adolescence. These processes include the activity of intrinsic circuits within diverse brain regions (primarily represented by GABAergic neurotransmission) and activity-dependent regulation of synaptic strength at glutamatergic synapses. Furthermore, GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission within regions/circuits that regulate cognitive function, emotion, and their integration appears to be the most vulnerable to adolescent ethanol exposure. Finally, using documented behavioral differences between adolescents and adults with respect to acute ethanol, we highlight additional circuits and regions for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A McCool
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
| | - Molly M McGinnis
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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16
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King G, Baker KD, Bisby MA, Chan D, Cowan CSM, Stylianakis AA, Zimmermann KS, Richardson R. A precision medicine approach to pharmacological adjuncts to extinction: a call to broaden research. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:143-161. [PMID: 30116858 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4999-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
There is a pressing need to improve treatments for anxiety. Although exposure-based therapy is currently the gold-standard treatment, many people either do not respond to this therapy or experience a relapse of symptoms after treatment has ceased. In recent years, there have been many novel pharmacological agents identified in preclinical research that have potential as adjuncts for exposure therapy, yet very few of these are regularly integrated into clinical practice. Unfortunately, the robust effects observed in the laboratory animal often do not translate to a clinical population. In this review, we discuss how age, sex, genetics, stress, medications, diet, alcohol, and the microbiome can vary across a clinical population and yet are rarely considered in drug development. While not an exhaustive list, we have focused on these factors because they have been shown to influence an individual's vulnerability to anxiety and alter the neurotransmitter systems often targeted by pharmacological adjuncts to therapy. We argue that for potential adjuncts to be successfully translated from the lab to the clinic empirical research must be broadened to consider how individual difference factors will influence drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle King
- School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Kathryn D Baker
- School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Madelyne A Bisby
- School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Diana Chan
- School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Rick Richardson
- School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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17
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Alterations in mRNA expression of glutamate receptor subunits and excitatory amino acid transporters following pilocarpine-induced seizures in rats. Neurosci Lett 2018; 686:94-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 07/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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18
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Role of glutamatergic system and mesocorticolimbic circuits in alcohol dependence. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 171:32-49. [PMID: 30316901 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence demonstrates that alcohol dependence is associated with dysregulation of several neurotransmitters. Alterations in dopamine, glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid release are linked to chronic alcohol exposure. The effects of alcohol on the glutamatergic system in the mesocorticolimbic areas have been investigated extensively. Several studies have demonstrated dysregulation in the glutamatergic systems in animal models exposed to alcohol. Alcohol exposure can lead to an increase in extracellular glutamate concentrations in mesocorticolimbic brain regions. In addition, alcohol exposure affects the expression and functions of several glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in these brain regions. In this review, we discussed the effects of alcohol exposure on glutamate receptors, glutamate transporters and glutamate homeostasis in each area of the mesocorticolimbic system. In addition, we discussed the genetic aspect of alcohol associated with glutamate and reward circuitry. We also discussed the potential therapeutic role of glutamate receptors and glutamate transporters in each brain region for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Finally, we provided some limitations on targeting the glutamatergic system for potential therapeutic options for the treatment alcohol use disorders.
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19
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Zubareva OE, Kovalenko AA, Karyakin VB, Kalemenev SV, Lavrent’eva VV, Magazanik LG, Zaitsev AV. Changes in the Expression of Genes of the Glutamate Transporter and Subunits of the NMDA and AMPA Receptors in the Rat Amygdala in the Lithium–Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy. NEUROCHEM J+ 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712418030170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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Lovinger DM, Abrahao KP. Synaptic plasticity mechanisms common to learning and alcohol use disorder. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 25:425-434. [PMID: 30115764 PMCID: PMC6097767 DOI: 10.1101/lm.046722.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorders include drinking problems that span a range from binge drinking to alcohol abuse and dependence. Plastic changes in synaptic efficacy, such as long-term depression and long-term potentiation are widely recognized as mechanisms involved in learning and memory, responses to drugs of abuse, and addiction. In this review, we focus on the effects of chronic ethanol (EtOH) exposure on the induction of synaptic plasticity in different brain regions. We also review findings indicating that synaptic plasticity occurs in vivo during EtOH exposure, with a focus on ex vivo electrophysiological indices of plasticity. Evidence for effects of EtOH-induced or altered synaptic plasticity on learning and memory and EtOH-related behaviors is also reviewed. As this review indicates, there is much work needed to provide more information about the molecular, cellular, circuit, and behavioral consequences of EtOH interactions with synaptic plasticity mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Lovinger
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Karina P Abrahao
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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21
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Kovalenko AA, Zakharova MV, Nikitina VA, Schwarz AP, Karyakin VB, Beznin GV, Tsikunov SG, Zubareva OE. Alterations in the Expression of Genes That Encode Subunits of Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors and the Glutamate Transporter in Brain Structures of Rats after Psychogenic Stress. NEUROCHEM J+ 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s181971241802006x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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22
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Silva CP, Horton WJ, Caruso MJ, Sebastian A, Klein LC, Albert I, Kamens HM. The influence of adolescent nicotine exposure on ethanol intake and brain gene expression. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198935. [PMID: 29912970 PMCID: PMC6005571 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Nicotine and alcohol are often co-abused. Adolescence is a vulnerable period for the initiation of both nicotine and alcohol use, which can lead to subsequent neurodevelopmental and behavioral alterations. It is possible that during this vulnerable period, use of one drug leads to neurobiological alterations that affect subsequent consumption of the other drug. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of nicotine exposure during adolescence on ethanol intake, and the effect of these substances on brain gene expression. Forty-three adolescent female C57BL/6J mice were assigned to four groups. In the first phase of the experiment, adolescent mice (PND 36-41 days) were exposed to three bottles filled with water or nicotine (200 μg/ml) for 22 h a day and a single bottle of water 2 h a day for six days. In the second phase (PND 42-45 days), the 4-day Drinking-in-the-Dark paradigm consisting of access to 20% v/v ethanol or water for 2h or 4h (the last day) was overlaid during the time when the mice did not have nicotine available. Ethanol consumption (g/kg) and blood ethanol concentrations (BEC, mg %) were measured on the final day and whole brains including the cerebellum, were dissected for RNA sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) were detected with CuffDiff and gene networks were built using WGCNA. Prior nicotine exposure increased ethanol consumption and resulting BEC. Significant DEG and biological pathways found in the group exposed to both nicotine and ethanol included genes important in stress-related neuropeptide signaling, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, glutamate release, GABA signaling, and dopamine release. These results replicate our earlier findings that nicotine exposure during adolescence increases ethanol consumption and extends this work by examining gene expression differences which could mediate these behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanza P. Silva
- Biobehavioral Health Department, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - William J. Horton
- Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Caruso
- Biobehavioral Health Department, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Aswathy Sebastian
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Laura C. Klein
- Biobehavioral Health Department, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Istvan Albert
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Helen M. Kamens
- Biobehavioral Health Department, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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23
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Sadat-Shirazi MS, Vousooghi N, Alizadeh B, Makki SM, Zarei SZ, Nazari S, Zarrindast MR. Expression of NMDA receptor subunits in human blood lymphocytes: A peripheral biomarker in online computer game addiction. J Behav Addict 2018; 7:260-268. [PMID: 29788757 PMCID: PMC6174581 DOI: 10.1556/2006.7.2018.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Repeated performance of some behaviors such as playing computer games could result in addiction. The NMDA receptor is critically involved in the development of behavioral and drug addictions. It has been claimed that the expression level of neurotransmitter receptors in the brain may be reflected in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). Methods Here, using a real-time PCR method, we have investigated the mRNA expression of GluN2A, GluN2D, GluN3A, and GluN3B subunits of the NMDA receptor in PBLs of male online computer game addicts (n = 25) in comparison with normal subjects (n = 26). Results Expression levels of GluN2A, GluN2D, and GluN3B subunits were not statistically different between game addicts and the control group. However, the mRNA expression of the GluN3A subunit was downregulated in PBLs of game addicts. Discussion and conclusions Transcriptional levels of GluN2A and GluN2D subunits in online computer game addicts are similar to our previously reported data of opioid addiction and are not different from the control group. However, unlike our earlier finding of drug addiction, the mRNA expression levels of GluN3A and GluN3B subunits in PBLs of game addicts are reduced and unchanged, respectively, compared with control subjects. It seems that the downregulated state of the GluN3A subunit of NMDA receptor in online computer game addicts is a finding that deserves more studies in the future to see whether it can serve as a peripheral biomarker in addiction studies, where the researcher wants to rule out the confusing effects of abused drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra-Sadat Sadat-Shirazi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Genetics Laboratory, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Vousooghi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Genetics Laboratory, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Research Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Nasim Vousooghi, Pharm D, PhD; Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 1417755469, Tehran, Iran; Phone: +98 21 8899 1118; Fax: +98 21 8899 1117; E-mail:
| | - Bentolhoda Alizadeh
- Department of Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Makki
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahrzad Nazari
- Genetics Laboratory, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zarrindast
- Genetics Laboratory, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Studies in Theoretical Physics and Mathematics, Tehran, Iran,Institute for Cognitive Science Studies, Tehran, Iran
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24
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Brolin E, Zelleroth S, Jonsson A, Hallberg M, Grönbladh A, Nyberg F. Chronic administration of morphine using mini-osmotic pumps affects spatial memory in the male rat. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2018; 167:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2018.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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25
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Cuzon Carlson VC. GABA and Glutamate Synaptic Coadaptations to Chronic Ethanol in the Striatum. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 248:79-112. [PMID: 29460153 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol (ethanol) is a widely used and abused drug with approximately 90% of adults over the age of 18 consuming alcohol at some point in their lifetime. Alcohol exerts its actions through multiple neurotransmitter systems within the brain, most notably the GABAergic and glutamatergic systems. Alcohol's actions on GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission have been suggested to underlie the acute behavioral effects of ethanol. The striatum is the primary input nucleus of the basal ganglia that plays a role in motor and reward systems. The effect of ethanol on GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission within striatal circuitry has been thought to underlie ethanol taking, seeking, withdrawal and relapse. This chapter reviews the effects of ethanol on GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission, highlighting the dynamic changes in striatal circuitry from acute to chronic exposure and withdrawal.
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26
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Klenowski PM, Tapper AR. Molecular, Neuronal, and Behavioral Effects of Ethanol and Nicotine Interactions. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 248:187-212. [PMID: 29423839 DOI: 10.1007/164_2017_89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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27
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Moaddab M, Mangone E, Ray MH, McDannald MA. Adolescent Alcohol Drinking Renders Adult Drinking BLA-Dependent: BLA Hyper-Activity as Contributor to Comorbid Alcohol Use Disorder and Anxiety Disorders. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7110151. [PMID: 29135933 PMCID: PMC5704158 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7110151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescent alcohol drinking increases the risk for alcohol-use disorder in adulthood. Yet, the changes in adult neural function resulting from adolescent alcohol drinking remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that adolescent alcohol drinking alters basolateral amygdala (BLA) function, making alcohol drinking BLA-dependent in adulthood. Male, Long Evans rats were given voluntary, intermittent access to alcohol (20% ethanol) or a bitter, isocaloric control solution, across adolescence. Half of the rats in each group received neurotoxic BLA lesions. In adulthood, all rats were given voluntary, intermittent access to alcohol. BLA lesions reduced adult alcohol drinking in rats receiving adolescent access to alcohol, but not in rats receiving adolescent access to the control solution. The effect of the BLA lesion was most apparent in high alcohol drinking adolescent rats. The BLA is essential for fear learning and is hyper-active in anxiety disorders. The results are consistent with adolescent heavy alcohol drinking inducing BLA hyper-activity, providing a neural mechanism for comorbid alcohol use disorder and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Moaddab
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Mangone
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
| | - Madelyn H Ray
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
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28
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Hwa L, Besheer J, Kash T. Glutamate plasticity woven through the progression to alcohol use disorder: a multi-circuit perspective. F1000Res 2017; 6:298. [PMID: 28413623 PMCID: PMC5365217 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.9609.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate signaling in the brain is one of the most studied targets in the alcohol research field. Here, we report the current understanding of how the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, its receptors, and its transporters are involved in low, episodic, and heavy alcohol use. Specific animal behavior protocols can be used to assess these different drinking levels, including two-bottle choice, operant self-administration, drinking in the dark, the alcohol deprivation effect, intermittent access to alcohol, and chronic intermittent ethanol vapor inhalation. Importantly, these methods are not limited to a specific category, since they can be interchanged to assess different states in the development from low to heavy drinking. We encourage a circuit-based perspective beyond the classic mesolimbic-centric view, as multiple structures are dynamically engaged during the transition from positive- to negative-related reinforcement to drive alcohol drinking. During this shift from lower-level alcohol drinking to heavy alcohol use, there appears to be a shift from metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent behaviors to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-related processes. Despite high efficacy of the glutamate-related pharmaceutical acamprosate in animal models of drinking, it is ineffective as treatment in the clinic. Therefore, research needs to focus on other promising glutamatergic compounds to reduce heavy drinking or mediate withdrawal symptoms or both.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Hwa
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Joyce Besheer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Thomas Kash
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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29
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Roberto M, Varodayan FP. Synaptic targets: Chronic alcohol actions. Neuropharmacology 2017; 122:85-99. [PMID: 28108359 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol acts on numerous cellular and molecular targets to regulate neuronal communication within the brain. Chronic alcohol exposure and acute withdrawal generate prominent neuroadaptations at synapses, including compensatory effects on the expression, localization and function of synaptic proteins, channels and receptors. The present article reviews the literature describing the synaptic effects of chronic alcohol exposure and their relevance for synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. This review is not meant to be comprehensive, but rather to highlight the effects that have been observed most consistently and that are thought to contribute to the development of alcohol dependence and the negative aspects of withdrawal. Specifically, we will focus on the major excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain, glutamate and GABA, respectively, and how their neuroadaptations after chronic alcohol exposure contributes to alcohol reinforcement, dependence and withdrawal. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "Alcoholism".
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30
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Morisot N, Ron D. Alcohol-dependent molecular adaptations of the NMDA receptor system. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2017; 16:139-148. [PMID: 27906494 PMCID: PMC5444330 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Phenotypes such as motivation to consume alcohol, goal-directed alcohol seeking and habit formation take part in mechanisms underlying heavy alcohol use. Learning and memory processes greatly contribute to the establishment and maintenance of these behavioral phenotypes. The N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is a driving force of synaptic plasticity, a key cellular hallmark of learning and memory. Here, we describe data in rodents and humans linking signaling molecules that center around the NMDARs, and behaviors associated with the development and/or maintenance of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Specifically, we show that enzymes that participate in the regulation of NMDAR function including Fyn kinase as well as signaling cascades downstream of NMDAR including calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CamKII), the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) and the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) play a major role in mechanisms underlying alcohol drinking behaviors. Finally, we emphasize the brain region specificity of alcohol's actions on the above-mentioned signaling pathways and attempt to bridge the gap between the molecular signaling that drive learning and memory processes and alcohol-dependent behavioral phenotypes. Finally, we present data to suggest that genes related to NMDAR signaling may be AUD risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Morisot
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - D. Ron
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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31
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Bell RL, Hauser S, Rodd ZA, Liang T, Sari Y, McClintick J, Rahman S, Engleman EA. A Genetic Animal Model of Alcoholism for Screening Medications to Treat Addiction. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2016; 126:179-261. [PMID: 27055615 PMCID: PMC4851471 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2016.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to present up-to-date pharmacological, genetic, and behavioral findings from the alcohol-preferring P rat and summarize similar past work. Behaviorally, the focus will be on how the P rat meets criteria put forth for a valid animal model of alcoholism with a highlight on its use as an animal model of polysubstance abuse, including alcohol, nicotine, and psychostimulants. Pharmacologically and genetically, the focus will be on the neurotransmitter and neuropeptide systems that have received the most attention: cholinergic, dopaminergic, GABAergic, glutamatergic, serotonergic, noradrenergic, corticotrophin releasing hormone, opioid, and neuropeptide Y. Herein, we sought to place the P rat's behavioral and neurochemical phenotypes, and to some extent its genotype, in the context of the clinical literature. After reviewing the findings thus far, this chapter discusses future directions for expanding the use of this genetic animal model of alcoholism to identify molecular targets for treating drug addiction in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Bell
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.
| | - S Hauser
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Z A Rodd
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - T Liang
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Y Sari
- University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - J McClintick
- Center for Medical Genomics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - S Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, United States
| | - E A Engleman
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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Van Skike CE, Maggio SE, Reynolds AR, Casey EM, Bardo MT, Dwoskin LP, Prendergast MA, Nixon K. Critical needs in drug discovery for cessation of alcohol and nicotine polysubstance abuse. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 65:269-87. [PMID: 26582145 PMCID: PMC4679525 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Polysubstance abuse of alcohol and nicotine has been overlooked in our understanding of the neurobiology of addiction and especially in the development of novel therapeutics for its treatment. Estimates show that as many as 92% of people with alcohol use disorders also smoke tobacco. The health risks associated with both excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking create an urgent biomedical need for the discovery of effective cessation treatments, as opposed to current approaches that attempt to independently treat each abused agent. The lack of treatment approaches for alcohol and nicotine abuse/dependence mirrors a similar lack of research in the neurobiology of polysubstance abuse. This review discusses three critical needs in medications development for alcohol and nicotine co-abuse: (1) the need for a better understanding of the clinical condition (i.e. alcohol and nicotine polysubstance abuse), (2) the need to better understand how these drugs interact in order to identify new targets for therapeutic development and (3) the need for animal models that better mimic this human condition. Current and emerging treatments available for the cessation of each drug and their mechanisms of action are discussed within this context followed by what is known about the pharmacological interactions of alcohol and nicotine. Much has been and will continue to be gained from studying comorbid alcohol and nicotine exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Van Skike
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - S E Maggio
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - A R Reynolds
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - E M Casey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - M T Bardo
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States; Center for Drug Abuse and Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - L P Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States; Center for Drug Abuse and Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - M A Prendergast
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - K Nixon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States.
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Burnett EJ, Chandler LJ, Trantham-Davidson H. Glutamatergic plasticity and alcohol dependence-induced alterations in reward, affect and cognition. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 65:309-20. [PMID: 26341050 PMCID: PMC4679411 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcohol dependence is characterized by a reduction in reward threshold, development of a negative affective state, and significant cognitive impairments. Dependence-induced glutamatergic neuroadaptations in the neurocircuitry mediating reward, affect and cognitive function are thought to underlie the neural mechanism for these alterations. These changes serve to promote increased craving for alcohol and facilitate the development of maladaptive behaviors that promote relapse to alcohol drinking during periods of abstinence. OBJECTIVE To review the extant literature on the effects of chronic alcohol exposure on glutamatergic neurotransmission and its impact on reward, affect and cognition. RESULTS Evidence from a diverse set of studies demonstrates significant enhancement of glutamatergic activity following chronic alcohol exposure. In particular, up-regulation of GluN2B-containing NMDA receptor expression and function is a commonly observed phenomenon that likely reflects activity-dependent adaptive homeostatic plasticity. However, this observation as well as other glutamatergic neuroadaptations are often circuit and cell-type specific. DISCUSSION Dependence-induced alterations in glutamate signaling contribute to many of the symptoms experienced in addicted individuals and can persist well into abstinence. This suggests that they play an important role in the development of behaviors that increase the probability for relapse. As our understanding of the complexity of the neurocircuitry involved in the addictive process has advanced, it has become increasingly clear that investigations of cell-type and circuit-specific effects are required to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the glutamatergic adaptations and their functional consequences in alcohol addiction. CONCLUSION While pharmacological treatments for alcohol dependence and relapse targeting the glutamatergic system have shown great promise in preclinical models, more research is needed to uncover novel, possibly circuit-specific, therapeutic targets that exhibit improved efficacy and reduced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Burnett
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425.
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Bell RL, Hauser SR, McClintick J, Rahman S, Edenberg HJ, Szumlinski KK, McBride WJ. Ethanol-Associated Changes in Glutamate Reward Neurocircuitry: A Minireview of Clinical and Preclinical Genetic Findings. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2015; 137:41-85. [PMID: 26809998 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2015.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we have reviewed the role of glutamate, the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, in a number of neurochemical, -physiological, and -behavioral processes mediating the development of alcohol dependence. The findings discussed include results from both preclinical as well as neuroimaging and postmortem clinical studies. Expression levels for a number of glutamate-associated genes and/or proteins are modulated by alcohol abuse and dependence. These changes in expression include metabotropic receptors and ionotropic receptor subunits as well as different glutamate transporters. Moreover, these changes in gene expression parallel the pharmacologic manipulation of these same receptors and transporters. Some of these gene expression changes may have predated alcohol abuse and dependence because a number of glutamate-associated polymorphisms are related to a genetic predisposition to develop alcohol dependence. Other glutamate-associated polymorphisms are linked to age at the onset of alcohol-dependence and initial level of response/sensitivity to alcohol. Finally, findings of innate and/or ethanol-induced glutamate-associated gene expression differences/changes observed in a genetic animal model of alcoholism, the P rat, are summarized. Overall, the existing literature indicates that changes in glutamate receptors, transporters, enzymes, and scaffolding proteins are crucial for the development of alcohol dependence and there is a substantial genetic component to these effects. This indicates that continued research into the genetic underpinnings of these glutamate-associated effects will provide important novel molecular targets for treating alcohol abuse and dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Bell
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
| | - Sheketha R Hauser
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Jeanette McClintick
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana , USA
| | - Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, USA
| | - Howard J Edenberg
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana , USA
| | - Karen K Szumlinski
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - William J McBride
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Korpi ER, den Hollander B, Farooq U, Vashchinkina E, Rajkumar R, Nutt DJ, Hyytiä P, Dawe GS. Mechanisms of Action and Persistent Neuroplasticity by Drugs of Abuse. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:872-1004. [DOI: 10.1124/pr.115.010967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Xiang Y, Kim KY, Gelernter J, Park IH, Zhang H. Ethanol upregulates NMDA receptor subunit gene expression in human embryonic stem cell-derived cortical neurons. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0134907. [PMID: 26266540 PMCID: PMC4534442 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0134907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic alcohol consumption may result in sustained gene expression alterations in the brain, leading to alcohol abuse or dependence. Because of ethical concerns of using live human brain cells in research, this hypothesis cannot be tested directly in live human brains. In the present study, we used human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived cortical neurons as in vitro cellular models to investigate alcohol-induced expression changes of genes involved in alcohol metabolism (ALDH2), anti-apoptosis (BCL2 and CCND2), neurotransmission (NMDA receptor subunit genes: GRIN1, GRIN2A, GRIN2B, and GRIN2D), calcium channel activity (ITPR2), or transcriptional repression (JARID2). hESCs were differentiated into cortical neurons, which were characterized by immunostaining using antibodies against cortical neuron-specific biomarkers. Ethanol-induced gene expression changes were determined by reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). After a 7-day ethanol (50 mM) exposure followed by a 24-hour ethanol withdrawal treatment, five of the above nine genes (including all four NMDA receptor subunit genes) were highly upregulated (GRIN1: 1.93-fold, P = 0.003; GRIN2A: 1.40-fold, P = 0.003; GRIN2B: 1.75-fold, P = 0.002; GRIN2D: 1.86-fold, P = 0.048; BCL2: 1.34-fold, P = 0.031), and the results of GRIN1, GRIN2A, and GRIN2B survived multiple comparison correction. Our findings suggest that alcohol responsive genes, particularly NMDA receptor genes, play an important role in regulating neuronal function and mediating chronic alcohol consumption-induced neuroadaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfei Xiang
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Kun-Yong Kim
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Joel Gelernter
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- Department of Neurobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- VA Medical Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - In-Hyun Park
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- * E-mail: (HZ); (IHP)
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- VA Medical Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States of America
- * E-mail: (HZ); (IHP)
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Barker JM, Taylor JR. Habitual alcohol seeking: modeling the transition from casual drinking to addiction. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 47:281-94. [PMID: 25193245 PMCID: PMC4258136 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Revised: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The transition from goal-directed actions to habitual ethanol seeking models the development of addictive behavior that characterizes alcohol use disorders. The progression to habitual ethanol-seeking behavior occurs more rapidly than for natural rewards, suggesting that ethanol may act on habit circuit to drive the loss of behavioral flexibility. This review will highlight recent research that has focused on the formation and expression of habitual ethanol seeking, and the commonalities and distinctions between ethanol and natural reward-seeking habits, with the goal of highlighting important, understudied research areas that we believe will lead toward the development of novel treatment and prevention strategies for uncontrolled drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M Barker
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, Ribicoff Labs, New Haven, CT, USA; Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jane R Taylor
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Ramachandran B, Ahmed S, Zafar N, Dean C. Ethanol inhibits long-term potentiation in hippocampal CA1 neurons, irrespective of lamina and stimulus strength, through neurosteroidogenesis. Hippocampus 2014; 25:106-18. [PMID: 25155179 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.22356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol inhibits memory encoding and the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) in CA1 neurons of the hippocampus. Hippocampal LTP at Schaffer collateral synapses onto CA1 pyramidal neurons has been widely studied as a cellular model of learning and memory, but there is striking heterogeneity in the underlying molecular mechanisms in distinct regions and in response to distinct stimuli. Basal and apical dendrites differ in terms of innervation, input specificity, and molecular mechanisms of LTP induction and maintenance, and different stimuli determine distinct molecular pathways of potentiation. However, lamina or stimulus-dependent effects of ethanol on LTP have not been investigated. Here, we tested the effect of acute application of 60 mM ethanol on LTP induction in distinct dendritic compartments (apical versus basal) of CA1 neurons, and in response to distinct stimulation paradigms (single versus repeated, spaced high frequency stimulation). We found that ethanol completely blocks LTP in apical dendrites, whereas it reduces the magnitude of LTP in basal dendrites. Acute ethanol treatment for just 15 min altered pre- and post-synaptic protein expression. Interestingly, ethanol increases the neurosteroid allopregnanolone, which causes ethanol-dependent inhibition of LTP, more prominently in apical dendrites, where ethanol has greater effects on LTP. This suggests that ethanol has general effects on fundamental properties of synaptic plasticity, but the magnitude of its effect on LTP differs depending on hippocampal sub-region and stimulus strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binu Ramachandran
- Trans-Synaptic Signaling Group, European Neuroscience Institute (ENI), Grisebachstrasse 5, 37077, Goettingen, Germany
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Logrip ML, Zorrilla EP. Differential changes in amygdala and frontal cortex Pde10a expression during acute and protracted withdrawal. Front Integr Neurosci 2014; 8:30. [PMID: 24782725 PMCID: PMC3986522 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2014.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorders are persistent problems with high recidivism rates despite repeated efforts to quit drinking. Neuroadaptations that result from alcohol exposure and that persist during periods of abstinence represent putative molecular determinants of the propensity to relapse. Previously we demonstrated a positive association between phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A) gene expression and elevations in relapse-like alcohol self-administration in rats with a history of stress exposure. Because alcohol withdrawal is characterized by heightened anxiety-like behavior, activation of stress-responsive brain regions and an elevated propensity to self-administer alcohol, we hypothesized that Pde10a expression also would be upregulated in reward- and stress-responsive brain regions during periods of acute (8-10 h) and protracted (6 weeks) alcohol withdrawal. During acute withdrawal, elevated Pde10a mRNA expression was found in the medial and basolateral amygdala (BLA), as well as the infralimbic and anterior cingulate subdivisions of the medial prefrontal cortex, relative to alcohol-naïve controls. The BLA was the only region with elevated Pde10a mRNA expression during both acute and protracted withdrawal. In contrast to the elevations, Pde10a mRNA levels tended to be reduced during protracted withdrawal in the dorsal striatum, prelimbic prefrontal cortex, and medial amygdala. Together these results implicate heightened PDE10A expression in the BLA as a lasting neuroadaptation associated with alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian L Logrip
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Eric P Zorrilla
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute La Jolla, CA, USA
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Vilches N, Spichiger C, Mendez N, Abarzua-Catalan L, Galdames HA, Hazlerigg DG, Richter HG, Torres-Farfan C. Gestational chronodisruption impairs hippocampal expression of NMDA receptor subunits Grin1b/Grin3a and spatial memory in the adult offspring. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91313. [PMID: 24663672 PMCID: PMC3963867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological and experimental evidence correlates adverse intrauterine conditions with the onset of disease later in life. For a fetus to achieve a successful transition to extrauterine life, a myriad of temporally integrated humoral/biophysical signals must be accurately provided by the mother. We and others have shown the existence of daily rhythms in the fetus, with peripheral clocks being entrained by maternal cues, such as transplacental melatonin signaling. Among developing tissues, the fetal hippocampus is a key structure for learning and memory processing that may be anticipated as a sensitive target of gestational chronodisruption. Here, we used pregnant rats exposed to constant light treated with or without melatonin as a model of gestational chronodisruption, to investigate effects on the putative fetal hippocampus clock, as well as on adult offspring’s rhythms, endocrine and spatial memory outcomes. The hippocampus of fetuses gestated under light:dark photoperiod (12:12 LD) displayed daily oscillatory expression of the clock genes Bmal1 and Per2, clock-controlled genes Mtnr1b, Slc2a4, Nr3c1 and NMDA receptor subunits 1B-3A-3B. In contrast, in the hippocampus of fetuses gestated under constant light (LL), these oscillations were suppressed. In the adult LL offspring (reared in LD during postpartum), we observed complete lack of day/night differences in plasma melatonin and decreased day/night differences in plasma corticosterone. In the adult LL offspring, overall hippocampal day/night difference of gene expression was decreased, which was accompanied by a significant deficit of spatial memory. Notably, maternal melatonin replacement to dams subjected to gestational chronodisruption prevented the effects observed in both, LL fetuses and adult LL offspring. Collectively, the present data point to adverse effects of gestational chronodisruption on long-term cognitive function; raising challenging questions about the consequences of shift work during pregnancy. The present study also supports that developmental plasticity in response to photoperiodic cues may be modulated by maternal melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Vilches
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carlos Spichiger
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Natalia Mendez
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Lorena Abarzua-Catalan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Hugo A. Galdames
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - David G. Hazlerigg
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Zoology Building, Tillydrone Avenue, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Hans G. Richter
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiologia del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomia, Histologia y Patologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- * E-mail:
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Cheaha D, Sawangjaroen K, Kumarnsit E. Characterization of fluoxetine effects on ethanol withdrawal-induced cortical hyperexcitability by EEG spectral power in rats. Neuropharmacology 2014; 77:49-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
RATIONALE An increasingly compelling literature points to a major role for the glutamate system in mediating the effects of alcohol on behavior and the pathophysiology of alcoholism. Preclinical studies indicate that glutamate signaling mediates certain aspects of ethanol's intoxicating and rewarding effects, and undergoes adaptations following chronic alcohol exposure that may contribute to the withdrawal, craving and compulsive drug-seeking that drive alcohol abuse and alcoholism. OBJECTIVES We discuss the potential for targeting the glutamate system as a novel pharmacotherapeutic approach to treating alcohol use disorders, focusing on five major components of the glutamate system: the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and specific NMDA subunits, the glycineB site on the NMDA receptors (NMDAR), L-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-isoxazole-4-propionic acid ionotropic (AMPA) and kainate (KAR) receptors, metabotropic receptors (mGluR), and glutamate transporters. RESULTS Chronic alcohol abuse produces a hyperglutamatergic state, characterized by elevated extracellular glutamate and altered glutamate receptors and transporters. Pharmacologically manipulating glutamatergic neurotransmission alters alcohol-related behaviors including intoxication, withdrawal, and alcohol-seeking, in rodents and human subjects. Blocking NMDA and AMPA receptors reduces alcohol consumption in rodents, but side-effects may limit this as a therapeutic approach. Selectively targeting NMDA and AMPA receptor subunits (e.g., GluN2B, GluA3), or the NMDAR glycineB site offers an alternative approach. Blocking mGluR5 potently affects various alcohol-related behaviors in rodents, and mGluR2/3 agonism also suppresses alcohol consumption. Finally, glutamate transporter upregulation may mitigate behavioral and neurotoxic sequelae of excess glutamate caused by alcohol. CONCLUSIONS Despite the many challenges that remain, targeting the glutamate system offers genuine promise for developing new treatments for alcoholism.
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Doyon WM, Thomas AM, Ostroumov A, Dong Y, Dani JA. Potential substrates for nicotine and alcohol interactions: a focus on the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 86:1181-93. [PMID: 23876345 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2013] [Revised: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies consistently find correlations between nicotine and alcohol use, yet the neural mechanisms underlying their interaction remain largely unknown. Nicotine and alcohol (i.e., ethanol) share many common molecular and cellular targets that provide potential substrates for nicotine-alcohol interactions. These targets for interaction often converge upon the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, where the link to drug self-administration and reinforcement is well documented. Both nicotine and alcohol activate the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, producing downstream dopamine signals that promote the drug reinforcement process. While nicotine primarily acts via nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, alcohol acts upon a wider range of receptors and molecular substrates. The complex pharmacological profile of these two drugs generates overlapping responses that ultimately intersect within the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system to promote drug use. Here we will examine overlapping targets between nicotine and alcohol and provide evidence for their interaction. Based on the existing literature, we will also propose some potential targets that have yet to be directly tested. Mechanistic studies that examine nicotine-alcohol interactions would ultimately improve our understanding of the factors that contribute to the associations between nicotine and alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- William M Doyon
- Center on Addiction, Learning, Memory, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Wills TA, Winder DG. Ethanol effects on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2013; 3:a012161. [PMID: 23426579 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a012161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The extended amygdala is a series of interconnected, embryologically similar series of nuclei in the brain that are thought to play key roles in aspects of alcohol dependence, specifically in stress-induced increases in alcohol-seeking behaviors. Plasticity of excitatory transmission in these and other brain regions is currently an intense area of scrutiny as a mechanism underlying aspects of addiction. N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (NMDARs) play a critical role in plasticity at excitatory synapses and have been identified as major molecular targets of ethanol. Thus, this article will explore alcohol and NMDAR interactions first at a general level and then focusing within the extended amygdala, in particular on the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany A Wills
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232-0615, USA
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Effects of fluoxetine on CRF and CRF1 expression in rats exposed to the learned helplessness paradigm. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 225:647-59. [PMID: 22960774 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2859-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Stress is a common antecedent reported by people suffering major depression. In these patients, extrahypothalamic brain areas, like the hippocampus and basolateral amygdala (BLA), have been found to be affected. The BLA synthesizes CRF, a mediator of the stress response, and projects to hippocampus. The main hippocampal target for this peptide is the CRF subtype 1 receptor (CRF1). Evidence points to a relationship between dysregulation of CRF/CRF1 extrahypothalamic signaling and depression. OBJECTIVE Because selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first-line pharmacological treatment for depression, we investigated the effect of chronic treatment with the SSRI fluoxetine on long-term changes in CRF/CRF1 signaling in animals showing a depressive-like behavior. METHODS Male Wistar rats were exposed to the learned helplessness paradigm (LH). After evaluation of behavioral impairment, the animals were treated with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg i.p.) or saline for 21 days. We measured BLA CRF expression with RT-PCR and CRF1 expression in CA3 and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus with in situ hybridization. We also studied the activation of one of CRF1's major intracellular signaling targets, the extracellular signal-related kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in CA3. RESULTS In saline-treated LH animals, CRF expression in the BLA increased, while hippocampal CRF1 expression and ERK1/2 activation decreased. Treatment with fluoxetine reversed the changes in CRF and CRF1 expressions, but not in ERK1/2 activation. CONCLUSION In animals exposed to the learned helplessness paradigm, there are long-term changes in CRF and CRF1 expression that are restored with a behaviorally effective antidepressant treatment.
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Zhu Y, Wang Y, Zhao B, Wei S, Xu M, Liu E, Lai J. Differential phosphorylation of GluN1-MAPKs in rat brain reward circuits following long-term alcohol exposure. PLoS One 2013; 8:e54930. [PMID: 23372792 PMCID: PMC3553008 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The effects of long-term alcohol consumption on the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway and N-methyl-D-aspartate-type glutamate receptor 1 (GluN1) subunits in the mesocorticolimbic system remain unclear. In the present study, rats were allowed to consume 6% (v/v) alcohol solution for 28 consecutive days. Locomotor activity and behavioral signs of withdrawal were observed. Phosphorylation and expression of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 protein kinase and GluN1 in the nucleus accumbens, caudate putamen, amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of these rats were also measured. Phosphorylation of ERK, but not JNK or p38, was decreased in all five brain regions studied in alcohol-drinking rats. The ratio of phospho/total-GluN1 subunit was reduced in all five brain regions studied. Those results suggest that the long-term alcohol consumption can inhibits GluN1 and ERK phosphorylation, but not JNK or p38 in the mesocorticolimbic system, and these changes may be relevant to alcohol dependence. To differentiate alcohol-induced changes in ERK and GluN1 between acute and chronic alcohol exposure, we have determined levels of phospho-ERK, phospho-GluN1 and total levels of GluN1 after acute alcohol exposure. Our data show that 30 min following a 2.5 g/kg dose of alcohol (administered intragastrically), levels of phospho-ERK are decreased while those of phospho-GluN1 are elevated with no change in total GluN1 levels. At 24 h following the single alcohol dose, levels of phospho-ERK are elevated in several brain regions while there are no differences between controls and alcohol treated animals in phospho-GluN1 or total GluN1. Those results suggest that alcohol may differentially regulate GluN1 function and ERK activation depending on alcohol dose and exposure time in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Zhu
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Public Health for Forensic Science, Xi’an, China
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Ministry of Education, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yunpeng Wang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Public Health for Forensic Science, Xi’an, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Public Health for Forensic Science, Xi’an, China
| | - Shuguang Wei
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Public Health for Forensic Science, Xi’an, China
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Enqi Liu
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Public Health for Forensic Science, Xi’an, China
| | - Jianghua Lai
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Public Health for Forensic Science, Xi’an, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Ministry of Education, Xi’an, China
- * E-mail:
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Roberto M, Gilpin NW, Siggins GR. The central amygdala and alcohol: role of γ-aminobutyric acid, glutamate, and neuropeptides. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2012; 2:a012195. [PMID: 23085848 PMCID: PMC3543070 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a012195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol dependence is a chronically relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and drug taking, loss of control in limiting intake, and the emergence of a withdrawal syndrome in the absence of the drug. Accumulating evidence suggests an important role for synaptic transmission in the central amygdala (CeA) in mediating alcohol-related behaviors and neuroadaptative mechanisms associated with alcohol dependence. Acute alcohol facilitates γ-aminobutyric acid-ergic (GABAergic) transmission in CeA via both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms, and chronic alcohol increases baseline GABAergic transmission. Acute alcohol inhibits glutamatergic transmission via effects at N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and AMPA receptors in CeA, whereas chronic alcohol up-regulates N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated transmission. Pro- (e.g., corticotropin-releasing factor [CRF]) and anti-stress (e.g., NPY, nociceptin) neuropeptides affect alcohol- and anxiety-related behaviors, and also alter the alcohol-induced effects on CeA neurotransmission. Alcohol dependence produces plasticity in these neuropeptide systems, reflecting a recruitment of those systems during the transition to alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Roberto
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Abstract
Ethanol (EtOH) has effects on numerous cellular molecular targets, and alterations in synaptic function are prominent among these effects. Acute exposure to EtOH activates or inhibits the function of proteins involved in synaptic transmission, while chronic exposure often produces opposing and/or compensatory/homeostatic effects on the expression, localization, and function of these proteins. Interactions between different neurotransmitters (e.g., neuropeptide effects on release of small molecule transmitters) can also influence both acute and chronic EtOH actions. Studies in intact animals indicate that the proteins affected by EtOH also play roles in the neural actions of the drug, including acute intoxication, tolerance, dependence, and the seeking and drinking of EtOH. This chapter reviews the literature describing these acute and chronic synaptic effects of EtOH and their relevance for synaptic transmission, plasticity, and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Lovinger
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, NIAAA, 5625 Fishers Lane, Room TS-13A, Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
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Lieberman R, Levine ES, Kranzler HR, Abreu C, Covault J. Pilot study of iPS-derived neural cells to examine biologic effects of alcohol on human neurons in vitro. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2012; 36:1678-87. [PMID: 22486492 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2012.01792.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of the effects of alcohol on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function and gene expression have depended on rodent or postmortem human brain models. Ideally, the effects of alcohol might better be examined in living neural tissue derived from human subjects. In this study, we used new technologies to reprogram human subject-specific tissue into pluripotent cell colonies and generate human neural cultures as a model system to examine the molecular actions of alcohol. METHODS Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were generated from skin biopsies taken from 7 individuals, 4 alcohol-dependent subjects, and 3 social drinkers. We differentiated the iPS cells into neural cultures and characterized them by immunocytochemistry using antibodies for the neuronal marker beta-III tubulin, glial marker s100β, and synaptic marker synpasin-1. Electrophysiology was performed to characterize the iPS-derived neurons and to measure the effects of acute alcohol exposure on the NMDA receptor response in chronically alcohol exposed and nonexposed neural cultures from 1 nonalcoholic. Finally, we examined changes in mRNA expression of the NMDA receptor subunit genes GRIN1, GRIN2A, GRIN2B, and GRIN2D after 7 days of alcohol exposure and after 24-hour withdrawal from chronic alcohol exposure. RESULTS Immunocytochemistry revealed positive staining for neuronal, glial, and synaptic markers. iPS-derived neurons displayed spontaneous electrical properties and functional ionotropic receptors. Acute alcohol exposure significantly attenuated the NMDA response, an effect that was not observed after 7 days of chronic alcohol exposure. After 7 days of chronic alcohol exposure, there were significant increases in mRNA expression of GRIN1, GRIN2A, and GRIN2D in cultures derived from alcoholic subjects but not in cultures derived from nonalcoholics. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the potential utility of human iPS-derived neural cultures as in vitro models to examine the molecular actions of alcohol on human neural cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Lieberman
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030-1410, USA
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Christian DT, Alexander NJ, Diaz MR, Robinson S, McCool BA. Chronic intermittent ethanol and withdrawal differentially modulate basolateral amygdala AMPA-type glutamate receptor function and trafficking. Neuropharmacology 2012; 62:2430-9. [PMID: 22387532 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2012.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2011] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The amygdala plays a critical role in the generation and expression of anxiety-like behaviors including those expressed following withdrawal (WD) from chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure. In particular, the BLA glutamatergic system controls the expression of both innate and pathological anxiety. Recent data suggests that CIE and WD may functionally alter this system in a manner that closely parallels memory-related phenomena like long-term potentiation (LTP). We therefore specifically dissected CIE/WD-induced changes in glutamatergic signaling using electrophysiological and biochemical approaches with a particular focus on the plasticity-related components of this neurotransmitter system. Our results indicate that cortical glutamatergic inputs arriving at BLA principal via the external capsule undergo predominantly post-synaptic alterations in AMPA receptor function following CIE and WD. Biochemical analysis revealed treatment-dependent changes in AMPA receptor surface expression and subunit phosphorylation that are complemented by changes in total protein levels and/or phosphorylation status of several key, plasticity-associated protein kinases such as calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and protein kinase C (PKC). Together, these data show that CIE- and WD-induced changes in BLA glutamatergic function both functionally and biochemically mimic plasticity-related states. These mechanisms likely contribute to long-term increases in anxiety-like behavior following chronic ethanol exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel T Christian
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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