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Zaky DA, Mehny KA, Abdelrahman SS, El-Yamany MF, Kamel AS. Flibanserin conquers murine depressive pseudodementia by amending HPA axis, maladaptive inflammation and AKT/GSK/STAT/BDNF trajectory: Center-staging of the serotonergic/adrenergic circuitry. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 980:176869. [PMID: 39117265 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Depressive pseudodementia (DPD) is a debilitating cognitive dysfunction that accompanies major and/or frequent depressive attacks. DPD has gained significant research attention owing to its negative effects on the patients' quality of life and productivity. This study tested the procognitive potential of Flibanserin (FBN), the serotonin (5HT) receptor modulator, against propranolol (PRP), as β/5HT1A receptors blocker. Serving this purpose, female Wistar Albino rats were subjected to chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) and subsequently treated with FBN only (3 mg/kg/day, p.o), PRP only (10 mg/kg/day, p.o), or PRP followed by FBN, using the same doses. FBN ameliorated the behavioral/cognitive alterations and calmed the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis storm by reducing the levels of stress-related hormones, viz, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticosterone (CORT) parallel to epinephrine (EPI) hyperstimulation. The maladaptive inflammatory response, comprising of interleukin (IL)-1β/6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, was consequently blunted. This was contemporaneous to the partial restoration of the protein kinase-B (AKT)/glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 survival trajectory and the reinstatement of the levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Microscopically, FBN repaired the hippocampal architecture and lessened CD68/GFAP immunoreactivity. Pre-administration of PRP partially abolished FBN effect along the estimated parameters, except for 5HT2A receptor expression and epinephrine level, to prove 5HT1A receptor as a fulcrum initiator of the investigated pathway, while its sole administration worsened the underlying condition. Ultimately, these findings highlight the immense procognitive potential of FBN, offering a new paradigm for halting DPD advancement via synchronizing adrenergic/serotonergic circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa A Zaky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini St., Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
| | | | - Sahar S Abdelrahman
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohammed F El-Yamany
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini St., Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Kamel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini St., Cairo, 11562, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Drug Technology, Egyptian Chinese University, Cairo, Egypt
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Barrett FS, Zhou Y, Carbonaro TM, Roberts JM, Smith GS, Griffiths RR, Wong DF. Human Cortical Serotonin 2A Receptor Occupancy by Psilocybin Measured Using [ 11C]MDL 100,907 Dynamic PET and a Resting-State fMRI-Based Brain Parcellation. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2022; 2:784576. [PMID: 38235248 PMCID: PMC10790884 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2021.784576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Psilocybin (a serotonin 2A, or 5-HT2A, receptor agonist) has shown preliminary efficacy as a treatment for mood and substance use disorders. The current report utilized positron emission tomography (PET) with the selective 5-HT2A receptor inverse agonist radioligand [11C]MDL 100,907 (a.k.a. M100,907) and cortical regions of interest (ROIs) derived from resting-state functional connectivity-based brain parcellations in 4 healthy volunteers (2 females) to determine regional occupancy/target engagement of 5-HT2A receptors after oral administration of a psychoactive dose of psilocybin (10 mg/70 kg). Average 5-HT2A receptor occupancy across all ROIs was 39.5% (± 10.9% SD). Three of the ROIs with greatest occupancy (between 63.12 and 74.72% occupancy) were within the default mode network (subgenual anterior cingulate and bilateral angular gyri). However, marked individual variability in regional occupancy was observed across individuals. These data support further investigation of the relationship between individual differences in the acute and enduring effects of psilocybin and the degree of regional 5-HT2A receptor occupancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick S. Barrett
- Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Yun Zhou
- United Imaging Intelligence, Shanghai, China
| | - Theresa M. Carbonaro
- Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Joshua M. Roberts
- Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Gwenn S. Smith
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Roland R. Griffiths
- Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Dean F. Wong
- Departments of Radiology, Psychiatry, Neurology, and Neuroscience, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Rose M, Filiatreault A, Guénette J, Williams A, Thomson EM. Ozone increases plasma kynurenine-tryptophan ratio and impacts hippocampal serotonin receptor and neurotrophic factor expression: Role of stress hormones. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 185:109483. [PMID: 32278163 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution is associated with adverse impacts on the brain, including cognitive decline and increased incidence of dementia, depression and anxiety; however, underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We have shown that both ozone and particulate matter activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, increasing plasma glucocorticoids and altering mRNA profiles in multiple tissues including the brain. HPA axis dysregulation has been associated with central nervous system impacts, including key effects in the hippocampus; accordingly, we hypothesized that pollutant-dependent increases in glucocorticoid levels impact biological pathways relevant to brain health. Fischer-344 rats were treated with metyrapone (0 or 50 mg/kg), a glucocorticoid synthesis inhibitor, and exposed to ozone (0 or 0.8 ppm) for 4 h (n = 5/group) to investigate the role of glucocorticoids in ozone-dependent effects on tryptophan metabolism and expression of serotonin receptors and neurotrophic factors. Ozone increased plasma levels of the tryptophan metabolite kynurenine (~2-fold) and decreased tryptophan levels (~1.2 fold). Hippocampal expression of serotonin receptors exhibited differential regulation following exposure, and expression of key neurotrophic factors (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor A, insulin-like growth factor-1, tyrosine kinase receptor B, b-cell lymphoma 2) was decreased. Some, but not all effects were abrogated by metyrapone treatment, suggesting both glucocorticoid-dependent and -independent regulation. Exposure to exogenous corticosterone (10 mg/kg) followed by clean air reproduced the ozone effects that were blocked with metyrapone, confirming the specificity of effects to glucocorticoids. These results indicate that ozone can modify pathways relevant to brain health and establish a role for the HPA axis in mediating these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Rose
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, K1A 0K9, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Alain Filiatreault
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Josée Guénette
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Andrew Williams
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Errol M Thomson
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, K1A 0K9, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5, Canada.
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Joshi RS, Panicker MM. Identifying the In Vivo Cellular Correlates of Antipsychotic Drugs. eNeuro 2018; 5:ENEURO.0220-18.2018. [PMID: 30713996 PMCID: PMC6354787 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0220-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
GPCRs such as 5-HT2A and D2 are implicated in the therapeutic and the side effects of antipsychotics. However, the pattern of brain activity that leads to the behavioral effects of antipsychotics is poorly understood. To address this question, we used the transgenic 'FosTRAP' mice (Mus musculus), where a fluorescent reporter marks the cells responsive to the stimulus of interest. Here, the stimulus was an administration of various antipsychotic drugs. In case of typical antipsychotics such as Haloperidol, the c-fos active cells were predominantly found in the striatum, whereas in case of the atypical antipsychotics (Clozapine and Olanzapine), c-fos-induced cells were more numerous in the cortical regions, e.g., orbital cortex, piriform cortex. Curiously, we also observed ependymal cells to be a novel cellular target of atypical antipsychotics. 5-HT2A is considered to be a major target for atypical antipsychotics. Therefore, we bred 'FosTRAP' mice with 5-HT2A knock-out (KO) mice and tested their response to the prototype of atypical antipsychotics, Clozapine. Interestingly, the absence of 5-HT2A did not significantly affect the number of c-fos-induced cells in the cortical regions. However, the ependymal cells showed a dramatically reduced response to Clozapine in the absence of 5-HT2A. In summary, the TRAP system has allowed us to identify various region-specific activity induced by antipsychotics and novel cellular targets of the antipsychotics. These results serve as a "proof of principle" study that can be extended to explore the biochemical and physiological changes brought about by antipsychotics and specifically identify antipsychotic-responsive cells in the live tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhika S. Joshi
- National Centre for Biological Sciences (Tata Institute of Fundamental Research), Bengaluru 560065, India
| | - Mitradas M. Panicker
- National Centre for Biological Sciences (Tata Institute of Fundamental Research), Bengaluru 560065, India
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Guiard BP, Di Giovanni G. Central serotonin-2A (5-HT2A) receptor dysfunction in depression and epilepsy: the missing link? Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:46. [PMID: 25852551 PMCID: PMC4362472 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
5-Hydroxytryptamine 2A receptors (5-HT2A-Rs) are G-protein coupled receptors. In agreement with their location in the brain, they have been implicated not only in various central physiological functions including memory, sleep, nociception, eating and reward behaviors, but also in many neuropsychiatric disorders. Interestingly, a bidirectional link between depression and epilepsy is suspected since patients with depression and especially suicide attempters have an increased seizure risk, while a significant percentage of epileptic patients suffer from depression. Such epidemiological data led us to hypothesize that both pathologies may share common anatomical and neurobiological alteration of the 5-HT2A signaling. After a brief presentation of the pharmacological properties of the 5-HT2A-Rs, this review illustrates how these receptors may directly or indirectly control neuronal excitability in most networks involved in depression and epilepsy through interactions with the monoaminergic, GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmissions. It also synthetizes the preclinical and clinical evidence demonstrating the role of these receptors in antidepressant and antiepileptic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Guiard
- CNRS, Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale, UMR 5169, Toulouse France ; CNRS, Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale Université de Toulouse 3, UMR 5169, Toulouse, France ; INSERM U1178 Team ≪Depression and Antidepressants≫ Faculté de Pharmacie Paris Sud, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Giuseppe Di Giovanni
- Neurophysiology Unit, Laboratory for the Study of Neurological Disorders, Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Malta, Msida Malta ; School of Biosciences, University of Cardiff, Cardiff UK
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Petit AC, Quesseveur G, Gressier F, Colle R, David DJ, Gardier AM, Ferreri F, Lépine JP, Falissard B, Verstuyft C, Guiard BP, Corruble E. Converging translational evidence for the involvement of the serotonin 2A receptor gene in major depressive disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 54:76-82. [PMID: 24801750 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2014.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
An association between serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR), encoded by HTR2A gene, and major depressive disorder (MDD) has been suggested. Here, we combined preclinical and ecological clinical approaches to explore the impact of impaired 5-HT2AR-mediated transmission on MDD or anxio-depressive-like phenotype in mice. Htr2a knock-out mice (Htr2a(-/-)) and wild-type mice were compared for the ability of chronic corticosterone to elicit some anxio-depressive-like phenotype in three behavioral paradigms (elevated plus maze, tail suspension test and splash test). Accordingly, two single nucleotide polymorphisms of the HTR2A gene (rs6314 ie His452Tyr and rs6313 ie 102C/T), which specific allelic variants may decrease 5-HT2AR-mediated transmission (as in Htr2a(-/-)mice), were studied in a sample of 485 Caucasian patients with MDD. In response to chronic corticosterone exposure, Htr2a(-/-) mice displayed more pronounced anxiodepressive-like phenotype than wild-type mice, as shown by a significant higher "emotionality score" (p<0.01). In patients, the C allele of rs6313 was more frequent in depressed patients (p=0.019) and was also associated with a more severe major depressive episode (p=0.03). This translational and ecological study involving constitutive Htr2a(-/-) knock-out mice and related SNPs in depressed patients suggests that a lower neurotransmission at the 5-HT2AR may favor the susceptibility and severity of MDE. It also suggests that specific allelic variants of the rs6313 and rs6314 may reduce 5-HT2AR-mediated transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Cécile Petit
- Université Paris Sud XI, INSERM U669, Département de Psychiatrie, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.
| | - Gaël Quesseveur
- Université Paris Sud XI, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie EA 3544, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry Cedex, France
| | - Florence Gressier
- Université Paris Sud XI, INSERM U669, Département de Psychiatrie, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Romain Colle
- Université Paris Sud XI, INSERM U669, Département de Psychiatrie, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Denis J David
- Université Paris Sud XI, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie EA 3544, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry Cedex, France
| | - Alain M Gardier
- Université Paris Sud XI, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie EA 3544, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry Cedex, France
| | - Florian Ferreri
- Département de Psychiatrie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 184 rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Lépine
- Hôpital Saint-Louis Lariboisière Fernand Widal, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM U705, CNRS UMR8206, 200 rue du Faubourg Saint Denis, F-75475 Paris Cedex 10, France
| | - Bruno Falissard
- Université Paris Sud XI, INSERM U669, Département de Biostatistiques, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 94400 Villejuif, France
| | - Céline Verstuyft
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bicêtre, Service de Génétique moléculaire, Pharmacogénétique et Hormonologie, F-94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France; Université Paris Sud XI, EA4123, F-92296 Châtenay-Malabry Cedex, France
| | - Bruno P Guiard
- Université Paris Sud XI, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie EA 3544, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry Cedex, France.
| | - Emmanuelle Corruble
- Université Paris Sud XI, INSERM U669, Département de Psychiatrie, Hôpital Bicêtre, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
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Park JY, Kim TK, Choi J, Lee JE, Kim H, Lee EH, Han PL. Implementation of a Two-dimensional Behavior Matrix to Distinguish Individuals with Differential Depression States in a Rodent Model of Depression. Exp Neurobiol 2014; 23:215-23. [PMID: 25258568 PMCID: PMC4174612 DOI: 10.5607/en.2014.23.3.215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Revised: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models of depression are used to study pathophysiology of depression and to advance therapeutic strategies. Stress-induced depression models in rodents are widely used. However, amenable behavioral criteria and experimental procedures that are suitable for animal models have not been established. Given that depression is clinically diagnosed by multiple symptomatic criteria and stress effects are imposed to the brain non-specifically in stress-induced depression models, analyses of depression states in rodents using multiple symptomatic criteria may provide more power than any methods relying on a single symptomatic criterion. To address this, C57BL/6 inbred mice were restrained for 2 h daily for 14 d, and depression states of individual mice were assessed using the U-field test, behavioral assessment developed to measure animal's sociability, and the tail suspension test and/or forced swim test, which are the typical methods that measure psychomotor withdrawal states. Although the majority of these mice showed severe depressive behaviors in both tests, a significant proportion of them, which were all inbred mice and received the same amount of restraints, expressed differential depression states in the sociability test and psychomotor withdrawal tests. To easily read-out differential depression states of individuals in two different tests, a standard method and basic parameters required to construct two-way behavior matrix were introduced. The utility and features of this two-way behavior analysis method for studies of different depressive states of individuals were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Young Park
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
| | - Tae-Kyung Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
| | - Juli Choi
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
| | - Jung-Eun Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
| | - Hannah Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
| | - Eun-Hwa Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
| | - Pyung-Lim Han
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea. ; Department of Chemistry and Nano Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea. ; Brain Disease Research Institute, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Korea
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Quesseveur G, Repérant C, David DJ, Gardier AM, Sanchez C, Guiard BP. 5-HT2A receptor inactivation potentiates the acute antidepressant-like activity of escitalopram: involvement of the noradrenergic system. Exp Brain Res 2013; 226:285-95. [DOI: 10.1007/s00221-013-3434-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Tanyeri P, Buyukokuroglu ME, Mutlu O, Ulak G, Yıldız Akar F, Komsuoglu Celikyurt I, Erden BF. Involvement of serotonin receptor subtypes in the antidepressant-like effect of beta receptor agonist Amibegron (SR 58611A): an experimental study. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 105:12-6. [PMID: 23380524 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
New therapeutic strategies against depression, with less side effects and thus greater efficacy in larger proportion of depressed patients, are needed. Amibegron (SR58611A) is the first selective β3 adrenergic agent that has been shown to possess a profile of antidepressant activity in rodents. To investigate the involvement of serotonin receptors in the effects of amibegron, we used the serotonin 5HT1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635 (WAY) or serotonin 5HT2A-2C receptor antagonist ketanserin or serotonin 5HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron in mice forced swimming test (FST). The locomotor activity was evaluated by measuring the total distance moved in the apparatus and the speed of the animals in the open field test. Imipramine (30mg/kg) significantly reduced immobility time compared to vehicle-treated group while amibegron (5 and 10mg/kg) dose dependently reduced immobility time in the FST. WAY(0.1mg/kg), ondansetron (1mg/kg), ketanserin(5mg/kg) had no effect on immobility time in naive mice while all of the drugs partially and significantly reversed amibegron (10mg/kg) induced decreasement in the immobility time in FST. None of the drugs alter locomotor activity in the open field test. The antidepressant-like effect of amibegron in the FST seems to be mediated by an interaction with serotonin 5-HT1A, serotonin 5-HT2A-2C and serotonin 5-HT3 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pelin Tanyeri
- Sakarya University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 54100-Sakarya, Turkey.
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Quesseveur G, Nguyen HT, Gardier AM, Guiard BP. 5-HT2 ligands in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 21:1701-25. [PMID: 22917059 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2012.719872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One third of depressed patients do not respond adequately to conventional antidepressants including the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Therefore, multi-target drugs or augmentation strategies have been developed for the management of SSRIs-resistant patients. In this context, the 5-HT(2) receptor subtypes represent promising targets but their precise roles have yet to be determined. AREAS COVERED The aim of this review is to shed some light on the preclinical evidence supporting the use of 5-HT(2A) and/or 5-HT(2C) receptor antagonists such as antipsychotics, as potential effective adjuncts in SSRIs-resistant depression. This review synthesizes the current literature about the behavioral, electrophysiological and neurochemical effects of 5-HT(2) receptors ligands on the monoaminergic systems but also on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. EXPERT OPINION Although studies support the hypothesis that the inactivation of 5-HT(2A) and/or 5-HT(2C) receptors might be of interest to reinforce different facets of the therapeutic activity of SSRIs, this pharmacological strategy remains debatable notably because of the lack of chronic data in relevant animal models. Conversely, emerging evidence suggests that the activation of 5-HT(2B) receptor is required for antidepressant-like activity, opening the way to new therapeutic approaches. However, the potential risks related to the enhancement of monoaminergic neurotransmissions could represent a major concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaël Quesseveur
- EA3544 University Paris-XI, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie, Fac. Pharmacie, F-92296, Châtenay-Malabry cedex, France
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Hsu LC, Ko YJ, Cheng HY, Chang CW, Lin YC, Cheng YH, Hsieh MT, Peng WH. Antidepressant-Like Activity of the Ethanolic Extract from Uncaria lanosa Wallich var. appendiculata Ridsd in the Forced Swimming Test and in the Tail Suspension Test in Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2012; 2012:497302. [PMID: 22567032 PMCID: PMC3332070 DOI: 10.1155/2012/497302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Revised: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the antidepressant activity of ethanolic extract of U. lanosa Wallich var. appendiculata Ridsd (UL(EtOH)) for two-weeks administrations by using FST and TST on mice. In order to understand the probable mechanism of antidepressant-like activity of UL(EtOH) in FST and TST, the researchers measured the levels of monoamines and monoamine oxidase activities in mice brain, and combined the antidepressant drugs (fluoxetine, imipramine, maprotiline, clorgyline, bupropion and ketanserin). Lastly, the researchers analyzed the content of RHY in the UL(EtOH). The results showed that UL(EtOH) exhibited antidepressant-like activity in FST and TST in mice. UL(EtOH) increased the levels of 5-HT and 5-HIAA in cortex, striatum, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, the levels of NE and MHPG in cortex and hippocampus, the level of NE in striatum, and the level of DOPAC in striatum. Two-week injection of IMI, CLO, FLU and KET enhanced the antidepressant-like activity of UL(EtOH). UL(EtOH) inhibited the activity of MAO-A. The amount of RHY in UL(EtOH) was 17.12 mg/g extract. Our findings support the view that UL(EtOH) exerts antidepressant-like activity. The antidepressant-like mechanism of UL(EtOH) may be related to the increase in monoamines levels in the hippocampus, cortex, striatum, and hypothalamus of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieh-Ching Hsu
- School of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jen Ko
- School of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Yuan Cheng
- Department of Nursing, Chung Jen College of Nursing, Health Sciences and Management, No. 1-10 Da-Hu, Hu-Bei Village, Da-Lin Township, Chia-Yi 62241, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Wen Chang
- School of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chin Lin
- Department of Biotechnology, TransWorld University, No. 1221, Jen-Nang Road, Chia-Tong Li, Douliou, Yunlin 64063, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hui Cheng
- School of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsuen Hsieh
- School of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Wen Huang Peng
- School of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
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Hasegawa S, Fikre-Merid M, Diksic M. 5-HT2A receptor antagonist M100907 reduces serotonin synthesis: an autoradiographic study. Brain Res Bull 2012; 87:44-9. [PMID: 22056993 PMCID: PMC3653840 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2011.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Accepted: 10/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The effects of the administration of the serotonin (5-HT)(2A) antagonist, M100907, on 5-HT synthesis rates, were evaluated using the α-[(14)C]methyl-l-tryptophan (α-MTrp) autoradiographic method. In the treatment study, M100907 (10mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally 30 min before the α-MTrp injection (30 μCi over 2 min). A single dose of M100907 caused a significant decrease in the synthesis in the anterior olfactory nucleus, accumbens nucleus, frontal cortex, sensory-motor cortex, cingulate cortex, medial caudate-putamen, dorsal thalamus, substantia nigra, inferior collicus, raphe magnus nucleus, superior olive, and raphe pallidus nucleus. These data suggest that the terminal 5-HT(2A) receptors are involved in the regulation of 5-HT synthesis in the entire brain. Further, 5-HT synthesis is likely regulated by the 5-HT(2A) antagonistic property of M100907 in the cortices, anterior olfactory nucleus, caudate putamen, and nucleus accumbens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maraki Fikre-Merid
- Cone Neurosurgical Research Laboratory, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B4
| | - Mirko Diksic
- Cone Neurosurgical Research Laboratory, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B4
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Llorens-Martín M, Tejeda GS, Trejo JL. Antidepressant and proneurogenic influence of environmental enrichment in mice: protective effects vs recovery. Neuropsychopharmacology 2011; 36:2460-8. [PMID: 21796111 PMCID: PMC3194073 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2011.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Physical-cognitive activity has long-lasting beneficial effects on the brain and on behavior. Environmental enrichment (EE) induces brain activity known to influence the behavior of mice, as measured in learned helplessness paradigms (forced swim test), and neurogenic cell populations in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. However, it is not completely clear whether the antidepressant and proneurogenic effects of EE are different in animals that are naive or pre-exposed to the stress inducing helplessness, and if this depends on the type of stressor. It also remains unclear whether differential effects are exerted on distinct neurogenic subpopulations. We found that EE has a protective effect in adult female mice (C57BL/6J) when exposed twice to the same stressor (forced swim test) but it has no influence on recovery. The repeated exposure to this stressor was analyzed together with the effects of EE on different neurogenic populations distinguished by age and differentiation state. Younger cells are more sensitive and responsive to the conditions, both the positive and negative effects. These results are relevant to identify the cell populations that are the targets of stress, depression, and enrichment, and that form part of the mechanism responsible for mood dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Llorens-Martín
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology, Cajal Institute, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo S Tejeda
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology, Cajal Institute, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - José L Trejo
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology, Cajal Institute, CSIC, Madrid, Spain,Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology, Cajal Institute, CSIC, Av. Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain, Tel: +34 91 585 4651, Fax: +34 91 585 4754, E-mail:
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14
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Abstract
Altered oligodendrocyte structure and function is implicated in major psychiatric illnesses, including low cell number and reduced oligodendrocyte-specific gene expression in major depressive disorder (MDD). These features are also observed in the unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) rodent model of the illness, suggesting that they are consequential to environmental precipitants; however, whether oligodendrocyte changes contribute causally to low emotionality is unknown. Focusing on 2'-3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (Cnp1), a crucial component of axoglial communication dysregulated in the amygdala of MDD subjects and UCMS-exposed mice, we show that altered oligodendrocyte integrity can have an unexpected functional role in affect regulation. Mice lacking Cnp1 (knockout, KO) displayed decreased anxiety- and depressive-like symptoms (i.e., low emotionality) compared with wild-type animals, a phenotypic difference that increased with age (3-9 months). This phenotype was accompanied by increased motor activity, but was evident before neurodegenerative-associated motor coordination deficits (≤ 9-12 months). Notably, Cnp1(KO) mice were less vulnerable to developing a depressive-like syndrome after either UCMS or chronic corticosterone exposure. Cnp1(KO) mice also displayed reduced fear expression during extinction, despite normal amygdala c-Fos induction after acute stress, together implicating dysfunction of an amygdala-related neural network, and consistent with proposed mechanisms for stress resiliency. However, the Cnp1(KO) behavioral phenotype was also accompanied by massive upregulation of oligodendrocyte- and immune-related genes in the basolateral amygdala, suggesting an attempt at functional compensation. Together, we demonstrate that the lack of oligodendrocyte-specific Cnp1 leads to resilient emotionality. However, combined with substantial molecular changes and late-onset neurodegeneration, these results suggest the low Cnp1 seen in MDD may cause unsustainable and maladaptive molecular compensations contributing to the disease pathophysiology.
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Kher G, Trehan S, Misra A. Antisense Oligonucleotides and RNA Interference. CHALLENGES IN DELIVERY OF THERAPEUTIC GENOMICS AND PROTEOMICS 2011. [PMCID: PMC7150054 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-384964-9.00007-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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16
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Vollenweider FX, Kometer M. The neurobiology of psychedelic drugs: implications for the treatment of mood disorders. Nat Rev Neurosci 2010; 11:642-51. [DOI: 10.1038/nrn2884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 398] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Antidepressant- and anxiolytic effects of the novel melatonin agonist Neu-P11 in rodent models. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2010; 31:775-83. [PMID: 20581849 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2010.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of Neu-P11, a novel melatonin agonist, in two models of depression in rats and a model of anxiety in mice. METHODS In the learned helplessness test (LH), Neu-P11 or melatonin (25-100 mg/kg, ip) was administered to rats 2 h before the beginning of the dark phase once a day for 5 days and the number of escape failures and intertrial crossings during the test phase were recorded. In the forced swimming test (FST), rats received a single or repeated administration of Neu-P11 (25-100 mg/kg, ip). The total period of immobility during the test phase was assessed. In the elevated plus-maze test (EPM), mice were treated with Neu-P11 (25-100 mg/kg, ip) or melatonin in the morning or in the evening and tested 2 h later. The percentage of time spent in the open arms and the open arms entries were assessed. RESULTS In the LH test, Neu-P11 but not melatonin significantly decreased the escape deficit and had no effect on the intertrial crossings. In the FST, a single or repeated administration of Neu-P11, either in the morning or in the evening, significantly decreased the duration of immobility. In the EPM test, Neu-P11 significantly increased the percentage of time spent in the open arms and the open arms entries irrespective to the time of administration. Melatonin was effective only when administered in the afternoon. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate that Neu-P11 exerts antidepressant and anxiolytic activities in rodent models.
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Rajkumar R, Mahesh R. Assessing the neuronal serotonergic target-based antidepressant stratagem: impact of in vivo interaction studies and knockout models. Curr Neuropharmacol 2010; 6:215-34. [PMID: 19506722 PMCID: PMC2687932 DOI: 10.2174/157015908785777256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2007] [Revised: 06/05/2008] [Accepted: 06/12/2008] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression remains a challenge in the field of affective neuroscience, despite a steady research progress. Six out of nine basic antidepressant mechanisms rely on serotonin neurotransmitter system. Preclinical studies have demonstrated the significance of serotonin receptors (5-HT1-3,6,7), its signal transduction pathways and classical down stream targets (including neurotrophins, neurokinins, other peptides and their receptors) in antidepressant drug action. Serotonergic control of depression embraces the recent molecular requirements such as influence on proliferation, neurogenesis, plasticity, synaptic (re)modeling and transmission in the central nervous system. The present progress report analyses the credibility of each protein as therapeutically relevant target of depression. In vivo interaction studies and knockout models which identified these targets are foreseen to unearth new ligands and help them transform to drug candidates. The importance of the antidepressant assay selection at the preclinical level using salient animal models/assay systems is discussed. Such test batteries would definitely provide antidepressants with faster onset, efficacy in resistant (and co-morbid) types and with least adverse effects. Apart from the selective ligands, only those molecules which bring an overall harmony, by virtue of their affinities to various receptor subtypes, could qualify as effective antidepressants. Synchronised modulation of various serotonergic sub-pathways is the basis for a unique and balanced antidepressant profile, as that of fluoxetine (most exploited antidepressant) and such a profile may be considered as a template for the upcoming antidepressants. In conclusion, 5-HT based multi-targeted antidepressant drug discovery supported by in vivo interaction studies and knockout models is advocated as a strategy to provide classic molecules for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Rajkumar
- Pharmacy Group, FD-III, Vidya Vihar, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani, Rajasthan-333031, India.
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19
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Carr GV, Lucki I. Comparison of the kappa-opioid receptor antagonist DIPPA in tests of anxiety-like behavior between Wistar Kyoto and Sprague Dawley rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2010; 210:295-302. [PMID: 20369354 PMCID: PMC3370387 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-010-1832-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2009] [Accepted: 03/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Recent evidence suggests a role for the dynorphin/kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) system in the expression of stress-induced behaviors. Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats exhibit increased depression-like and anxiety-like responses in behavioral tests compared to other strains and may be a model of comorbid depression and anxiety characterized by increased activity within the dynorphin/KOR system. Though KOR antagonists produce antidepressant-like effects in WKY rats, their effects in tests of anxiety-like behavior have not been examined in the WKY strain. OBJECTIVE The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of the KOR antagonist 2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-N-methyl-N-[(1S)-1-(3-isothiocyanatophenyl)-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl]acetamide hydrochloride (DIPPA) on the behavior of WKY rats and Sprague Dawley (SD) rats in tests of anxiety-like behavior. METHODS The novelty-induced hypophagia and defensive burying tests were used to measure anxiety-like behavior in WKY and SD rats and determine the effects of DIPPA on anxiety-like behavior in both strains. RESULTS WKY rats displayed greater amounts of anxiety-like behavior compared to SD rats. DIPPA produced anxiolytic-like effects in both tests in both strains. CONCLUSIONS WKY rats display more anxiety-like behavior at baseline compared to SD rats, and DIPPA produced anxiolytic-like effects in both WKY and SD rats. These findings support previous research suggesting that KOR antagonists possess anxiolytic-like properties and may potentially represent a novel class of treatments for mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory V. Carr
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 125 South 31st Street, Room 2204, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Irwin Lucki
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 125 South 31st Street, Room 2204, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Carr GV, Bangasser DA, Bethea T, Young M, Valentino RJ, Lucki I. Antidepressant-like effects of kappa-opioid receptor antagonists in Wistar Kyoto rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2010; 35:752-63. [PMID: 19924112 PMCID: PMC2813986 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2009.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rat strain is a putative genetic model of comorbid depression and anxiety. Previous research showing increased kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) gene expression in the brains of WKY rats, combined with studies implicating the KOR in animal models of depression and anxiety, suggests that alterations in the KOR system could have a role in the WKY behavioral phenotype. Here, the effects of KOR antagonists in the forced swim test (FST) were compared with the WKY and the Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat strains. As previously reported, WKY rats showed more immobility behavior than SD rats. The KOR antagonists selectively produced antidepressant-like effects in the WKY rats. By contrast, the antidepressant desipramine reduced immobility in both strains. Brain regions potentially underlying the strain-specific effects of KOR antagonists in the FST were identified using c-fos expression as a marker of neuronal activity. The KOR antagonist nor-binaltorphimine produced differential effects on the number of c-fos-positive profiles in the piriform cortex and nucleus accumbens shell between SD and WKY rats. The piriform cortex and nucleus accumbens also contained higher levels of KOR protein and dynorphin A peptide, respectively, in the WKY strain. In addition, local administration of nor-binaltorphimine directly into the piriform cortex produced antidepressant-like effects in WKY rats further implicating this region in the antidepressant-like response to KOR antagonists. These results support the use of the WKY rat as a model of affective disorders potentially involving KOR overactivity and provide more evidence that KOR antagonists could potentially be used as novel antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory V Carr
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Debra A Bangasser
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Thelma Bethea
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Matthew Young
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rita J Valentino
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Irwin Lucki
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 125 South 31st Street, Room 2204, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. Tel: +1 215 573 3305; Fax: +1 215 573 2149; E-mail:
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A novel 5-HT2A receptor antagonist exhibits antidepressant-like effects in a battery of rodent behavioural assays: Approaching early-onset antidepressants. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2010; 94:363-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2009.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2009] [Revised: 09/10/2009] [Accepted: 09/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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22
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Rajkumar R, Pandey DK, Mahesh R, Radha R. 1-(m-Chlorophenyl)piperazine induces depressogenic-like behaviour in rodents by stimulating the neuronal 5-HT2A receptors: Proposal of a modified rodent antidepressant assay. Eur J Pharmacol 2009; 608:32-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2008] [Revised: 02/11/2009] [Accepted: 02/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Elevated 5-HT 2A receptors in postmortem prefrontal cortex in major depression is associated with reduced activity of protein kinase A. Neuroscience 2008; 158:1406-15. [PMID: 19111907 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2008] [Revised: 10/14/2008] [Accepted: 11/24/2008] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Previous human postmortem brain tissue research has implicated abnormalities of 5-HT receptor availability in depression and suicide. Although altered abundance of 5-HT 1A, 5-HT 2A, and 5-HT 2C receptors (5-HT(1A), 5-HT(2A), and 5-HT(2C)) has been reported, the causes remain obscure. This study evaluated the availability of these three receptor subtypes in postmortem brain tissue specimens from persons with a history of major depression (MDD) and normal controls and tested the relationships to protein kinases A and C (PKA, PKC). Samples were obtained from postmortem brain tissue (Brodmann area 10) from 20 persons with a history of MDD and 20 matched controls as determined by a retrospective diagnostic evaluation obtained from family members. Levels of 5-HT(1A), 5-HT(2A), and 5-HT(2C) receptor were quantitated via Western blot analyses. Basal and stimulated PKA and PKC activity were also determined. The depressed samples showed significantly increased 5-HT(2A) receptor abundance relative to controls, but no differences in 5-HT(1A) or 5-HT(2C) receptors. Basal and cyclic AMP-stimulated PKA activity was also reduced in the depressed sample; PKC activity was not different between groups. 5-HT(2A) receptor availability was significantly inversely correlated with PKC activity in controls, but with PKA activity in the depressed sample. Increased 5-HT(2A) receptor abundance and decreased PKA activity in the depressed sample are consistent with prior reports. The correlation of 5-HT(2A) receptor levels with PKA activity in the depressed group suggests that abnormalities of 5-HT(2A) receptor abundance may depend on receptor uncoupling and heterologous regulation by PKA.
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Jha S, Rajendran R, Fernandes KA, Vaidya VA. 5-HT2A/2C receptor blockade regulates progenitor cell proliferation in the adult rat hippocampus. Neurosci Lett 2008; 441:210-4. [PMID: 18603367 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2008.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2007] [Revised: 06/05/2008] [Accepted: 06/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is reported to be a target of antidepressants, drugs of abuse and animal models of depression, suggesting a role for this form of structural plasticity in psychopathology. Serotonergic neurotransmission, which is implicated in several psychiatric diseases, has been reported to regulate adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Amongst the serotonergic receptors, the serotonin2A/2C (5-HT2A/2C) receptors play an important role in the actions of antidepressants and the effects of hallucinogenic drugs of abuse. We have used the mitotic marker 5'-bromo-2-deoxyuridine to address the effects of the 5-HT2A/2C receptors on the proliferation of adult hippocampal progenitors following acute or chronic treatment with the hallucinogenic partial agonists, (+/-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and the antagonist, Ketanserin. Acute, and chronic, DOI and LSD treatments induced a strong behavioral activation, but did not alter adult hippocampal progenitor proliferation. In striking contrast, Ketanserin treatment resulted in a biphasic regulation with a significant decline (22%) in progenitor proliferation following a single treatment, and a robust increase (46%) observed following chronic administration. These results indicate that hallucinogenic drugs that primarily target the 5-HT2A/2C receptors, in contrast to other drugs of abuse, may not alter adult hippocampal neurogenesis. In addition, our results that enhanced adult hippocampal progenitor proliferation results from a sustained blockade of the 5-HT2A/2C receptors suggest that the 5-HT2A/2C receptors may be an important target for the neurogenic effects of antidepressant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanker Jha
- Department of Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai 400005, India
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Kitamura Y, Fujitani Y, Kitagawa K, Miyazaki T, Sagara H, Kawasaki H, Shibata K, Sendo T, Gomita Y. Effects of Imipramine and Bupropion on the Duration of Immobility of ACTH-Treated Rats in the Forced Swim Test: Involvement of the Expression of 5-HT 2A Receptor mRNA. Biol Pharm Bull 2008; 31:246-9. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.31.246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Kitamura
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care and Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
| | - Yoshika Fujitani
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
| | - Kouhei Kitagawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care and Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
| | | | - Hidenori Sagara
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
| | - Hiromu Kawasaki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University
| | - Kazuhiko Shibata
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
| | - Toshiaki Sendo
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
| | - Yutaka Gomita
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Okayama University Medical School
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Tyeryar KR, Undie AS. Tandem regulation of phosphoinositide signaling and acute behavioral effects induced by antidepressant agents in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 193:271-82. [PMID: 17435992 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0784-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2006] [Accepted: 03/22/2007] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Antidepressants increase synaptic monoamine concentrations, but the subsequent signaling events that produce the beneficial clinical effects remain unclear. Diverse antidepressants increase CDP-diacylglycerol, a crucial step in phosphoinositide signaling. Serotonin 5HT(2) receptors, implicated in depression or the actions of some antidepressants, signal through phosphoinositide hydrolysis. Thus, cross talk between antidepressant-induced CDP-diacylglycerol and 5HT(2) signaling could contribute to the antidepressant mechanism. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to test the hypotheses that antidepressants enhance net signaling via 5HT(2) receptors by augmenting the supply of phosphoinositide substrates and that this action contributes to the behavioral effects of the drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Brain slices pre-labeled with [(3)H]inositol in the presence of various antidepressant concentrations were washed and incubated with the 5HT(2) agonist, alpha-methylserotonin, followed by measuring phosphoinositide synthesis and inositol phosphate accumulation. Further, rats administered antidepressants after pretreatment with neomycin to inhibit metabolic utilization of phosphoinositides were behaviorally evaluated in the forced swim test. RESULTS Diverse antidepressants significantly enhanced phosphoinositide synthesis. While alpha-methylserotonin increased inositol phosphate accumulation, this effect was significantly accentuated in hippocampal or cortical tissues pre-incubated in the presence of imipramine, desipramine, fluoxetine, paroxetine, or maprotiline. Drug-induced behavioral antidepressant effects were reversed by neomycin pretreatment, whereas neomycin alone did not alter basal immobility times. CONCLUSIONS Antidepressants probably exert tandem neurochemical effects by increasing synaptic monoamine concentrations and by producing phosphoinositides used in 5HT(2) receptor signaling. This combination of actions may constitute the mechanism of at least the acute behavioral effects of the drugs and could implicate aberrant neurolipid signaling in the pathophysiology of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly R Tyeryar
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuropharmacology, Programs in Neuroscience and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201-1075, USA
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Toth M. Use of Mice with Targeted Genetic Inactivation in the Serotonergic System for the Study of Anxiety. Front Neurosci 2007. [DOI: 10.1201/9781420005752.ch9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Micale V, Arezzi A, Rampello L, Drago F. Melatonin affects the immobility time of rats in the forced swim test: the role of serotonin neurotransmission. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2006; 16:538-45. [PMID: 16527463 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2006.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2005] [Revised: 01/11/2006] [Accepted: 01/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of melatonin or its derivatives in depressive patients has been recently considered for clinical application. However, the evidence for its effect on experimental models of depression is not consolidated. Here, the effects of melatonin on the model of forced swim test (FST) paradigm were studied in male rats of the Wistar strain after acute intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of 0.1, 0.5 or 1 mg/kg of the hormone. Melatonin at doses of 0.5 and 1 mg/kg, but not of 0.1 mg/kg, decreased the immobility of rats in the FST paradigm suggesting a possible antidepressant-like activity. The dose of 0.5 mg/kg appeared to be as potent as clomipramine 50 mg/kg in reducing the immobility time of rats in the FST paradigm. The effect of melatonin on immobility time of rats in the FST paradigm was abolished by the simultaneous injection of the non-selective melatonin antagonist, luzindole (0.25 mg/kg, subcutaneously). Similarly, administration of small quantities of serotonin (5-HT, 5 ng/1 microl) or of the 5-HT(2A)/5-HT(2C) receptor agonist 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (2 ng/1 microl) injected into the amygdale totally suppressed the reduction of immobility time in the FST paradigm induced by melatonin 0.5 mg/kg. These results may suggest that effects of melatonin on the behavioral reaction of rats in the FST paradigm are due to an interaction of the hormone with central 5-HT neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Cohen H. Anxiolytic effect and memory improvement in rats by antisense oligodeoxynucleotide to 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A precursor protein. Depress Anxiety 2006; 22:84-93. [PMID: 16149040 DOI: 10.1002/da.20087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonergic (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) mechanisms have been implicated in a number of physiological and pathophysiological processes including mood, anxiety, and cognitive functioning. Among the many 5-HT receptor subtypes, the 5-HT2A receptors (5-HT2A-R) seem to be of particular importance in mediating these effects, and they are prime targets for a variety of psychoactive substances-from hallucinogenic drugs, through atypical antipsychotics, to anxiolytics and antidepressants. Various selective 5-HT2A-R ligands induce different behavioral responses. To determine whether receptor downregulation is an essential part of anxiolytic action, levels of 5-HT2A receptors were manipulated in rats using a nonpharmacological approach-by the administration of an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ASODN) to 5-HT2A-R. Each ASODN was injected icv between two and five times at 24-hr intervals. Control rats received injections of either a scrambled oligodeoxynucleotide (ScrODN) or the vehicle only. On Day 6, anxiety-related behavior was assessed in the elevated plus maze paradigm and performance of memory tasks in the Morris water maze. Gene transcripts were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results show that compared to vehicle and ScrODN control animals, icv 5-HT2A-R-ASODN administrations for 4 consecutive days (but not less) significantly decreased anxietylike behavior and improved memory retention performance. The reduction in anxiety-related behavior in 5-HT2A-R-ASODN rats was accompanied by a decrease in 5-HT2A-R-mRNA expression in the frontal cortex and in the hippocampus. Receptor downregulation has been proposed as one of the central mechanisms for anxiolytic drug actions. Antisense-mediated downmanipulation of receptors in this study, especially of 5-HT2A, supports this theory.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anti-Anxiety Agents/administration & dosage
- Anxiety/genetics
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Cerebral Cortex/drug effects
- Down-Regulation
- Injections, Intraventricular
- Israel
- Male
- Maze Learning/drug effects
- Oligodeoxyribonucleotides, Antisense/administration & dosage
- Oligodeoxyribonucleotides, Antisense/genetics
- Protein Precursors/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein Precursors/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/biosynthesis
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/genetics
- Serotonin 5-HT2 Receptor Antagonists
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagit Cohen
- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
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Kordik CP, Luo C, Gutherman M, Vaidya AH, Rosenthal DI, Crooke JJ, McKenney SL, Plata-Salaman CR, Reitz AB. Diarylacetylene piperidinyl amides as novel anxiolytics. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2006; 16:3065-7. [PMID: 16580201 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2006.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2006] [Revised: 02/08/2006] [Accepted: 02/08/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
N-Phenyl-2-[1-[3-(2-pyridinylethynyl)benzoyl]-4-piperidine]acetamide (9) and related piperidine acetamide derivatives have good oral activity in the elevated plus maze, an animal model predictive of clinical efficacy for the treatment of anxiety. Modest affinity was observed for the neurokinin NK-1 and 2 receptors, which are known to be involved in the regulation of mood and emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl P Kordik
- Drug Discovery Division, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development LLC, Welsh and McKean Roads, Spring House, PA 19477, USA.
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Millan MJ. Multi-target strategies for the improved treatment of depressive states: Conceptual foundations and neuronal substrates, drug discovery and therapeutic application. Pharmacol Ther 2006; 110:135-370. [PMID: 16522330 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2005.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 389] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2005] [Accepted: 11/28/2005] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Major depression is a debilitating and recurrent disorder with a substantial lifetime risk and a high social cost. Depressed patients generally display co-morbid symptoms, and depression frequently accompanies other serious disorders. Currently available drugs display limited efficacy and a pronounced delay to onset of action, and all provoke distressing side effects. Cloning of the human genome has fuelled expectations that symptomatic treatment may soon become more rapid and effective, and that depressive states may ultimately be "prevented" or "cured". In pursuing these objectives, in particular for genome-derived, non-monoaminergic targets, "specificity" of drug actions is often emphasized. That is, priority is afforded to agents that interact exclusively with a single site hypothesized as critically involved in the pathogenesis and/or control of depression. Certain highly selective drugs may prove effective, and they remain indispensable in the experimental (and clinical) evaluation of the significance of novel mechanisms. However, by analogy to other multifactorial disorders, "multi-target" agents may be better adapted to the improved treatment of depressive states. Support for this contention is garnered from a broad palette of observations, ranging from mechanisms of action of adjunctive drug combinations and electroconvulsive therapy to "network theory" analysis of the etiology and management of depressive states. The review also outlines opportunities to be exploited, and challenges to be addressed, in the discovery and characterization of drugs recognizing multiple targets. Finally, a diversity of multi-target strategies is proposed for the more efficacious and rapid control of core and co-morbid symptoms of depression, together with improved tolerance relative to currently available agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Millan
- Institut de Recherches Servier, Centre de Recherches de Croissy, Psychopharmacology Department, 125, Chemin de Ronde, 78290-Croissy/Seine, France.
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Yamauchi M, Miyara T, Matsushima T, Imanishi T. Desensitization of 5-HT2A receptor function by chronic administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Brain Res 2005; 1067:164-9. [PMID: 16360124 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2005.10.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2005] [Revised: 10/19/2005] [Accepted: 10/20/2005] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown that chronic treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), fluvoxamine and paroxetine, attenuated m-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP)-induced hypolocomotion in rats. The effect of these SSRIs on the response to mCPP is thought to be caused by the desensitization of 5-HT2C receptor function. In the present study, we investigated whether chronic administration of SSRI could reduce another pharmacological response to mCPP in rats, i.e., the induction of the secretion of corticosterone. The mCPP-induced increase in the serum concentration of corticosterone was not blocked by the 5-HT2C antagonist SB242084, but was blocked by the 5-HT2A antagonist ketanserin. Chronic treatment with fluvoxamine and paroxetine attenuated the response to mCPP, while these SSRIs had no effects in control rats. These results suggest that the desensitization of 5-HT2A receptor function occurs in the same way as that of 5-HT2C receptor function through chronic treatment with either fluvoxamine or paroxetine as a consequence of prolonged exposure to elevated levels of serotonin. The hypersensitivity of 5-HT2A receptors is observed in depressed patients, and chronic treatment with many antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants have been reported to reduce 5-HT2A receptor density and/or efficacy. The desensitization of 5-HT2A receptor function might contribute to the therapeutic mechanism of action of these SSRIs, as seen with other classes of antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Yamauchi
- Pharmaceutical Research Department, Meiji Seika Kaisha, Ltd., 760 Morooka-cho, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama 222-8567, Japan
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Korte SM, Koolhaas JM, Wingfield JC, McEwen BS. The Darwinian concept of stress: benefits of allostasis and costs of allostatic load and the trade-offs in health and disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2004; 29:3-38. [PMID: 15652252 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2004.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 658] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2004] [Accepted: 08/09/2004] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Why do we get the stress-related diseases we do? Why do some people have flare ups of autoimmune disease, whereas others suffer from melancholic depression during a stressful period in their life? In the present review possible explanations will be given by using different levels of analysis. First, we explain in evolutionary terms why different organisms adopt different behavioral strategies to cope with stress. It has become clear that natural selection maintains a balance of different traits preserving genes for high aggression (Hawks) and low aggression (Doves) within a population. The existence of these personality types (Hawks-Doves) is widespread in the animal kingdom, not only between males and females but also within the same gender across species. Second, proximate (causal) explanations are given for the different stress responses and how they work. Hawks and Doves differ in underlying physiology and these differences are associated with their respective behavioral strategies; for example, bold Hawks preferentially adopt the fight-flight response when establishing a new territory or defending an existing territory, while cautious Doves show the freeze-hide response to adapt to threats in their environment. Thus, adaptive processes that actively maintain stability through change (allostasis) depend on the personality type and the associated stress responses. Third, we describe how the expression of the various stress responses can result in specific benefits to the organism. Fourth, we discuss how the benefits of allostasis and the costs of adaptation (allostatic load) lead to different trade-offs in health and disease, thereby reinforcing a Darwinian concept of stress. Collectively, this provides some explanation of why individuals may differ in their vulnerability to different stress-related diseases and how this relates to the range of personality types, especially aggressive Hawks and non-aggressive Doves in a population. A conceptual framework is presented showing that Hawks, due to inefficient management of mediators of allostasis, are more likely to be violent, to develop impulse control disorders, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, sudden death, atypical depression, chronic fatigue states and inflammation. In contrast, Doves, due to the greater release of mediators of allostasis (surplus), are more susceptible to anxiety disorders, metabolic syndromes, melancholic depression, psychotic states and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mechiel Korte
- Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Box 65, Edelhertweg 15, 8200 AB Lelystad, The Netherlands.
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Dias Elpo Zomkowski A, Oscar Rosa A, Lin J, Santos ARS, Calixto JB, Lúcia Severo Rodrigues A. Evidence for serotonin receptor subtypes involvement in agmatine antidepressant like-effect in the mouse forced swimming test. Brain Res 2004; 1023:253-63. [PMID: 15374751 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2004.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2004] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the involvement of 5-HT(1) and 5-HT(2) receptors in the antidepressant-like effect of agmatine in the mouse forced swimming test (FST). Pretreatment with p-chlorophenylalanine methyl ester (PCPA; 100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.), an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis, for 4 consecutive days), methysergide (5 mg/kg, i.p., a serotonin (5-HT) antagonist), pindolol (32 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(1A/1B) receptor/beta-adrenoceptor antagonist), N-[2-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-N-(2-pyridynyl)cyclohexanecarboxamide (WAY 100635; 0.3 mg/kg, subcutaneously (s.c.), a selective 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist), 1-(2-methoxyphenyl)-4[-(2-phthalimido)butyl]piperazine) (NAN-190; 0.5 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist), 1-(2-(1-pyrrolyl)-phenoxy)-3-isopropylamino-2-propanol (isamoltane; 2.5 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(1B) receptor antagonist), cyproheptadine (3 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(2) antagonist) or ketanserin (5 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(2A/2C) receptor antagonist), but not with propranolol (2 mg/kg, i.p., a beta-adrenoceptor antagonist), prevented the effect of agmatine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) in the FST. A subeffective dose of agmatine (0.001 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a synergistic antidepressant-like effect with pindolol (32 mg/kg), NAN-190 (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), WAY 100635 (0.03 mg/kg, s.c.), (+)-8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin HBr (8-OH-DPAT; 0.01 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist), R(-)-1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane HCl (DOI; 1 mg/kg, i.p., a preferential 5-HT(2A) receptor agonist), or fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p., a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, SSRI) but not with isamoltane (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.), ritanserin (4 mg/kg, i.p., a 5-HT(2A/2C) receptor antagonist) or ketanserin (5 mg/kg, i.p.). Taken together, the results firstly demonstrate that agmatine antidepressant-like effects in the FST seem to be mediated, at least in part, by an interaction with 5-HT(1A/1B) and 5-HT(2) receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa Dias Elpo Zomkowski
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, Trindade, Florianópolis 88040-900, SC, Brazil
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Patel JG, Bartoszyk GD, Edwards E, Ashby CR. The highly selective 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)2A receptor antagonist, EMD 281014, significantly increases swimming and decreases immobility in male congenital learned helpless rats in the forced swim test. Synapse 2004; 52:73-5. [PMID: 14755634 DOI: 10.1002/syn.10308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
We examined the effect of the highly selective 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)(2A) receptor antagonist 7-[4-[2-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-ethyl]-piperazine-1-carbonyl]-1H-indole-3-carbonitrile HCl (EMD 281014) in congenital learned helpless male rats in the forced swim test. The administration of EMD-281014 (0.3-30 mg/kg i.p.) to congenital learned helpless rats dose-dependently and significantly (at 10 and 30 mg/kg) decreased immobility and increased swimming compared to vehicle-treated animals. Thus, EMD 281014 produces effects in the forced swim test resembling those of antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jignesh G Patel
- PHS Department, St. John's University, Jamaica, Queens, New York 11439, USA
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Hill MN, Brotto LA, Lee TTY, Gorzalka BB. Corticosterone attenuates the antidepressant-like effects elicited by melatonin in the forced swim test in both male and female rats. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2003; 27:905-11. [PMID: 14499306 DOI: 10.1016/s0278-5846(03)00149-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin has been demonstrated to increase activity in the forced swim test (FST), a putative model of antidepressant efficacy, indicating that it may possess antidepressant-like qualities. It has been suggested that corticosterone can interfere with the efficacy of antidepressants, an effect that has previously been demonstrated in the FST. This experiment examined the effects of melatonin and corticosterone, independently and in combination, on the behaviours of both male and female rats in the FST. Corticosterone, melatonin, combined vehicles or a combined melatonin/corticosterone regimen were administered for 20 days, after which the animals were observed in the FST. As seen in previous research, melatonin elicited an antidepressant-like effect in the FST by reducing immobile behaviour (P<.01) and increasing active behaviour (P<.01). Corticosterone was found to reduce activity (P<.01) and increase immobility (P<.01), as well as attenuate the anti-immobility effects of melatonin (P=.03). These findings suggest that while melatonin may possess antidepressant-like qualities, high levels of corticosterone seem capable of attenuating these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N Hill
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, B.C., Canada V6T 1Z4
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Van Oekelen D, Luyten WHML, Leysen JE. Ten years of antisense inhibition of brain G-protein-coupled receptor function. BRAIN RESEARCH. BRAIN RESEARCH REVIEWS 2003; 42:123-42. [PMID: 12738054 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0173(03)00153-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (AOs) are widely used as tools for inhibiting gene expression in the mammalian central nervous system. Successful gene suppression has been reported for different targets such as neurotransmitter receptors, neuropeptides, ion channels, trophic factors, cytokines, transporters, and others. This illustrates their potential for studying the expression and function of a wide range of proteins. AOs may even find therapeutic applications and provide an attractive strategy for intervention in diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). However, a lack of effectiveness and/or specificity could be a major drawback for research or clinical applications. Here we provide a critical overview of the literature from the past decade on AOs for the study of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The following aspects will be considered: mechanisms by which AOs exert their effects, types of animal model system used, detection of antisense action, effects of AO design and delivery characteristics, non-antisense effects and toxicological properties, controls used in antisense studies to assess specificity, and our results (failures and successes). Although the start codon of the mRNA is the most popular region (46%) to target by AOs, targeting the coding region of GPCRs is almost as common (41%). Moreover, AOs directed to the coding region of the GPCR mRNA induce the highest reductions in receptor levels. To resist degradation by nucleases, the modified phosphorothioate AO (S-AO) is the most widely used and effective oligonucleotide. However, the end-capped phosphorothioate AOs (ECS-AOs) are increasingly used due to possible toxic and non-specific effects of the S-AO. Other parameters affecting the activity of a GPCR-targeting AO are the length (mostly an 18-, 20- or 21-mer) and the GC-content (mostly varying from 30 to 80%). Interestingly, one-third of the AOs successfully targeting GPCRs possess a GC/AT ratio of 61-70%. AO-induced reductions in GPCR expression levels and function range typically from 21 to 40% and 41 to 50%, respectively. In contrast to many antisense reviews, we therefore conclude that the functional activity of a GPCR after AO treatment correlates mostly with the density of the target receptors (maximum factor 2). However, AOs are no simple tools for experimental use in vivo. Despite successful results in GPCR research, no general guidelines exist for designing a GPCR-targeting AO or, in general, for setting up a GPCR antisense experiment. It seems that the correct choice of a GPCR targeting AO can only be ascertained empirically. This disadvantage of antisense approaches results mostly from incomplete knowledge about the internalisation and mechanism of action of AOs. Together with non-specific effects of AOs and the difficulties of assessing target specificity, this makes the use of AOs a complex approach from which conclusions must be drawn with caution. Further antisense research has to be carried out to ensure the adequate use of AOs for studying GPCR function and to develop antisense as a valuable therapeutic modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Van Oekelen
- Discovery Research, Janssen Research Foundation, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
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McEwen BS. The neurobiology and neuroendocrinology of stress. Implications for post-traumatic stress disorder from a basic science perspective. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2002; 25:469-94, ix. [PMID: 12136511 DOI: 10.1016/s0193-953x(01)00009-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Stress is a condition of the mind and a factor in the expression of disease that differs among individuals. In post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic events can create a long-lasting state of physiologic reactivity that amplifies and exacerbates the effects of daily life events. The elevated activities of physiologic systems lead to wear and tear, called "allostatic load." It reflects not only the impact of life experiences but also of genes, individual life-style habits (e.g., diet, exercise, and substance abuse), and developmental experiences that set life-long patterns of behavior and physiologic reactivity. Hormones associated with stress and allostatic load protect the body in the short run and promote adaptation, but in the long run allostatic load causes changes in the body that lead to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce S McEwen
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Box 165, 1230 York Avenue, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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Turner EH, Schwartz PJ, Lowe CH, Nawab SS, Feldman-Naim S, Drake CL, Myers FS, Barnett RL, Rosenthal NE. Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of single-dose metergoline in depressed patients with seasonal affective disorder. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2002; 22:216-20. [PMID: 11910270 DOI: 10.1097/00004714-200204000-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A role for serotonin in season affective disorder (SAD) has been explored with a variety of serotonergic pharmacologic agents. The authors initially hypothesized that metergoline, a nonspecific serotonin antagonist, would exacerbate depressive symptoms. In a small, open-label pilot study, the authors observed the opposite effect. They decided to follow up on this finding with this formal study. The study followed a double-blind, randomized cross-over design. Sixteen untreated, depressed patients with SAD received single oral doses of metergoline 8 mg and of placebo, spaced 1 week apart. Fourteen patients were restudied after 2 weeks of light treatment. Depression ratings using the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-Seasonal Affective Disorder Version were performed at baseline and at 3 and 6 days after each intervention. These data were analyzed by baseline-corrected repeated measures with analysis of variance. In the off-lights condition, severity of depression was diminished after metergoline compared with placebo administration (p = 0.001). Patient daily self-ratings suggested that the peak effect occurred 2 to 4 days after study drug administration. In contrast, after 2 weeks of treatment with bright artificial light, metergoline did not demonstrate a significant effect on mood. These data suggest that single doses of metergoline may have antidepressant effects that last several days. Possible mechanisms include 5-hydroxytryptamine(2) receptor downregulation and dopamine agonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick H Turner
- Section on Biological Rhythms, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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Abstract
The hormones and other physiological agents that mediate the effects of stress on the body have protective and adaptive effects in the short run and yet can accelerate pathophysiology when they are over-produced or mismanaged. Here we consider the protective and damaging effects of these mediators as they relate to the immune system and brain. 'Stress' is a principle focus, but this term is rather imprecise. Therefore, the article begins by noting two new terms, allostasis and allostatic load that are intended to supplement and clarify the meanings of 'stress' and 'homeostasis'. For the immune system, acute stress enhances immune function whereas chronic stress suppresses it. These effects can be beneficial for some types of immune responses and deleterious for others. A key mechanism involves the stress-hormone dependent translocation of immune cells in the blood to tissues and organs where an immune defense is needed. For the brain, acute stress enhances the memory of events that are potentially threatening to the organism. Chronic stress, on the other hand, causes adaptive plasticity in the brain, in which local neurotransmitters as well as systemic hormones interact to produce structural as well as functional changes, involving the suppression of ongoing neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and remodelling of dendrites in the Ammon's horn. Under extreme conditions only does permanent damage ensue. Adrenal steroids tell only part of the story as far as how the brain adapts, or shows damage, and local tissue modulators - cytokines for the immune response and excitatory amino acid neurotransmitters for the hippocampus. Moreover, comparison of the effects of experimenter-applied stressors and psychosocial stressors show that what animals do to each other is often more potent than what experimenters do to them. And yet, even then, the brain is resilient and capable of adaptive plasticity. Stress-induced structural changes in brain regions such as the hippocampus have clinical ramifications for disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and individual differences in the aging process.
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Affiliation(s)
- B S McEwen
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, Box 165, 10021, New York, NY, USA.
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Abstract
As a testable heuristic, the concept of stress response and adaptation is highly appealing, and the support for the concept is strong. This explanatory model of depression may account for hitherto apparently discordant facts--contradictory symptoms, antidepressant drugs that act on differing systems, facilitation of antidepressant response by augmentation, and response to psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. This article has focused narrowly on specific cellular elements of the stress-adaptational mechanisms, including the AC-PKA and PLC-PKC transductional cascades, together with specific response elements, such as the HPA axis, BDNF, and NMDA receptors; however, other important mechanisms, including specific receptor subtypes (e.g., 5-HT1A and NE alpha 2), transmitter systems (e.g., acetylcholine and depamine), and hormones (e.g., thyroid and growth hormones and prolactin), which may be important, have not been discussed. As the complex interactions of these systems gradually yield to investigation, not only will new treatments be developed, but better matching of treatment to patient may become an achievable goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Shelton
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
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Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) mediates a wide variety of physiological functions by activating multiple receptors, and abnormalities of these receptor systems has been implicated in many psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, psychosis, migraine, disorders of sexual functioning, sleep, cognition, and feeding. Many of the currently used treatments for these disorders act by affecting the serotonergic system. Observation of serotonin receptor alterations, before and following effective treatments, may yield important insights into the aetiology of these psychiatric disorders and may ultimately lead to more selective and effective therapies. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Naughton
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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Millan MJ, Lejeune F, Gobert A. Reciprocal autoreceptor and heteroreceptor control of serotonergic, dopaminergic and noradrenergic transmission in the frontal cortex: relevance to the actions of antidepressant agents. J Psychopharmacol 2000; 14:114-38. [PMID: 10890307 DOI: 10.1177/026988110001400202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The frontal cortex (FCX) plays a key role in processes that control mood, cognition and motor behaviour, functions which are compromised in depression, schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. In this regard, there is considerable evidence that a perturbation of monoaminergic input to the FCX is involved in the pathogenesis of these states. Correspondingly, the modulation of monoaminergic transmission in the FCX and other corticolimbic structures plays an important role in the actions of antipsychotic and antidepressant agents. In order to further understand the significance of monoaminergic systems in psychiatric disorders and their treatment, it is essential to characterize mechanisms underlying their modulation. Within this framework, the present commentary focuses on our electrophysiological and dialysis analyses of the complex and reciprocal pattern of auto- and heteroreceptor mediated control of dopaminergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic transmission in the FCX. The delineation of such interactions provides a framework for an interpretation of the influence of diverse classes of antidepressant agent upon extracellular levels of dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin in FCX. Moreover, it also generates important insights into strategies for the potential improvement in the therapeutic profiles of antidepressant agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Millan
- Psychopharmacology Department, Institut de Recherches Servier, Centre de Recherches de Croissy, Croissy-sur-Seine, France
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Chapter 2. Recent advances in selective serotonin receptor modulation. ANNUAL REPORTS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0065-7743(00)35003-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Fink G, Sumner B, Rosie R, Wilson H, McQueen J. Androgen actions on central serotonin neurotransmission: relevance for mood, mental state and memory. Behav Brain Res 1999; 105:53-68. [PMID: 10553690 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-4328(99)00082-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids exert potent effects on mood and mental state in the human. Our previous experimental findings in female rats suggest that these effects may be mediated, in part, by the action of estrogen on the 5-hydroxytryptamine2A receptor (5-HT(2A)R) and serotonin transporter (SERT) in brain. Here we review our recent findings on the effect of acute (approximately 32 h) testosterone manipulation on central 5-HT(2A)R and SERT in male rats. Castration decreased while testosterone or estrogen, but not 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (5alpha-DHT), increased significantly the content of 5-HT(2A)R mRNA and SERT mRNA in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DR) and the density of 5-HT(2A)R and SERT binding sites in higher centers of the brain. The lack of effect of 5alpha-DHT, a potent androgen which cannot be converted to estrogen, suggests that the action of testosterone depends upon its conversion to estrogen by aromatase. This may also explain why estrogen, but not testosterone or 5alpha-DHT, increased the density of 5-HT(2A)R binding sites in the caudate-putamen, a brain region where aromatase is scarce. The estrogen induction of SERT mRNA is most prominent in the rostral DR and this together with the correlation between sensitivity of DR serotonin neurons to estrogen and neurotoxic amphetamine derivatives provides a potential topochemical handle with which to investigate testosterone/estrogen regulation of SERT gene expression. These findings are discussed in relation to the possible role of interactions between sex steroids and serotonin mechanisms in mood disorders, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Fink
- MRC Brain Metabolism Unit, University Department of Neuroscience, Edinburgh, UK.
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Murphy DL, Wichems C, Li Q, Heils A. Molecular manipulations as tools for enhancing our understanding of 5-HT neurotransmission. Trends Pharmacol Sci 1999; 20:246-52. [PMID: 10366867 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-6147(99)01325-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A developing trend in exploring the sites at which drugs act is to use molecular rather than chemical agents to alter receptors, intracellular signalling mechanisms or gene expression. The 5-HT neurotransmission system is targeted by drugs useful in many behavioural disorders, including anxiety, depression, psychosis and eating disorders. It also regulates many physiological functions and provides some examples of the potential use of these new molecular approaches. This article reviews the progress made in the molecular manipulation of 5-HT receptors and discusses the potential of such tools for the treatment of diseases associated with the 5-HT transmission system.
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Affiliation(s)
- D L Murphy
- Laboratory of Clinical Science, National Institute of Mental Health, Building 10, Room 3D41, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1264, Bethesda, MD 20892-1264, USA
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Rioux A, Fabre V, Lesch KP, Moessner R, Murphy DL, Lanfumey L, Hamon M, Martres MP. Adaptive changes of serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in mice lacking the serotonin transporter. Neurosci Lett 1999; 262:113-6. [PMID: 10203244 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(99)00049-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) plays a key-role in the control of serotoninergic neurotransmission and is the target of some antidepressants. Possible adaptive changes in brain 5-HT2A receptors were investigated in knock-out mice that do not express the 5-HTT. Autoradiographic labeling of these receptors by the selective antagonist [3H]MDL 100,907 and saturation experiments with cortical membranes revealed: (1) a new localization of these receptors in the external field of striatum (possibly in striosomes); (2) regional variations in adaptive changes in the density of 5-HT2A receptors in 5-HT(-/-) mutants (-30-40% in the claustrum, cerebral cortex and lateral striatum; no significant change in the striatum core) as compared to wild-type mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rioux
- INSERM U288, NeuroPsychoPharmacologie Moléculaire, Cellulaire et Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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Szklarczyk AW, Kaczmarek L. Brain as a unique antisense environment. ANTISENSE & NUCLEIC ACID DRUG DEVELOPMENT 1999; 9:105-16. [PMID: 10192296 DOI: 10.1089/oli.1.1999.9.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
During the last few years, antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotides (asODN) have become a commonly used tool for blocking of gene expression in the mammalian central nervous system. Successful gene inhibition has been reported for such diverse targets as those encoding neurotransmitter receptors, neuropeptides, trophic factors, transcription factors, cytokines, transporters, ion channels, and others. This review presents a discussion of recent studies on ODN in the brain, with a focus on specific approaches taken by the researchers in this field and especially on peculiar features of this organ as a milieu for asODN action. It is concluded that from the presented literature survey no coherent view on how to rationally design ODN for brain studies has emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W Szklarczyk
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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