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Skandalakis GP, Neudorfer C, Payne CA, Bond E, Tavakkoli AD, Barrios-Martinez J, Trutti AC, Koutsarnakis C, Coenen VA, Komaitis S, Hadjipanayis CG, Stranjalis G, Yeh FC, Banihashemi L, Hong J, Lozano AM, Kogan M, Horn A, Evans LT, Kalyvas A. Establishing connectivity through microdissections of midbrain stimulation-related neural circuits. Brain 2024; 147:3083-3098. [PMID: 38808482 PMCID: PMC11370807 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive understanding of the neural circuits involving the ventral tegmental area is essential for elucidating the anatomofunctional mechanisms governing human behaviour, in addition to the therapeutic and adverse effects of deep brain stimulation for neuropsychiatric diseases. Although the ventral tegmental area has been targeted successfully with deep brain stimulation for different neuropsychiatric diseases, the axonal connectivity of the region is not fully understood. Here, using fibre microdissections in human cadaveric hemispheres, population-based high-definition fibre tractography and previously reported deep brain stimulation hotspots, we find that the ventral tegmental area participates in an intricate network involving the serotonergic pontine nuclei, basal ganglia, limbic system, basal forebrain and prefrontal cortex, which is implicated in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder, Alzheimer's disease, cluster headaches and aggressive behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios P Skandalakis
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens 10676, Greece
| | - Clemens Neudorfer
- Center for Brain Circuit Therapeutics Department of Neurology Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- MGH Neurosurgery & Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery (CNTR) at MGH Neurology Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Movement Disorder and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Caitlin A Payne
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Evalina Bond
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Armin D Tavakkoli
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | | | - Anne C Trutti
- Integrative Model-Based Cognitive Neuroscience Research Unit, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 15926, The Netherlands
| | - Christos Koutsarnakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens 10676, Greece
| | - Volker A Coenen
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg 79106, Germany
- Medical Faculty of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg 79110, Germany
- Center for Deep Brain Stimulation, Medical Center of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg 79106, Germany
| | - Spyridon Komaitis
- Queens Medical Center, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | | | - George Stranjalis
- Department of Neurosurgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens 10676, Greece
| | - Fang-Cheng Yeh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Layla Banihashemi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jennifer Hong
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Andres M Lozano
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - Michael Kogan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| | - Andreas Horn
- Center for Brain Circuit Therapeutics Department of Neurology Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- MGH Neurosurgery & Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery (CNTR) at MGH Neurology Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Movement Disorder and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Linton T Evans
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Aristotelis Kalyvas
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
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Lewis AF, Bohnenkamp R, Myers M, den Ouden DB, Fritz SL, Stewart JC. Effect of positive social comparative feedback on the resting state connectivity of dopaminergic neural pathways: A preliminary investigation. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2024; 212:107930. [PMID: 38692391 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2024.107930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Positive social comparative feedback is hypothesized to generate a dopamine response in the brain, similar to reward, by enhancing expectancies to support motor skill learning. However, no studies have utilized neuroimaging to examine this hypothesized dopaminergic mechanism. Therefore, the aim of this preliminary study was to investigate the effect of positive social comparative feedback on dopaminergic neural pathways measured by resting state connectivity. Thirty individuals practiced an implicit, motor sequence learning task and were assigned to groups that differed in feedback type. One group received feedback about their actual response time to complete the task (RT ONLY), while the other group received feedback about their response time with positive social comparison (RT + POS). Magnetic resonance imaging was acquired at the beginning and end of repetitive motor practice with feedback to measure practice-dependent changes in resting state brain connectivity. While both groups showed improvements in task performance and increases in performance expectancies, ventral tegmental area and the left nucleus accumbens (mesolimbic dopamine pathway) resting state connectivity increased in the RT + POS group but not in the RT ONLY group. Instead, the RT ONLY group showed increased connectivity between ventral tegmental area and primary motor cortex. Positive social comparative feedback during practice of a motor sequence task may induce a dopaminergic response in the brain along the mesolimbic pathway. However, given that absence of effects on expectancies and motor learning, more robust and individualized approaches may be needed to provide beneficial psychological and behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison F Lewis
- University of South Carolina, Department of Exercise Science, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Rachel Bohnenkamp
- University of South Carolina, Department of Exercise Science, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Makenzie Myers
- University of South Carolina, Department of Exercise Science, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Dirk B den Ouden
- University of South Carolina, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Stacy L Fritz
- University of South Carolina, Department of Exercise Science, Columbia, SC, USA
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Hammad MA, Al-Otaibi MN, Awed HS. Child maltreatment among deaf and hard-of-hearing adolescent students: associations with depression and anxiety. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1287741. [PMID: 38414873 PMCID: PMC10897975 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1287741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Child abuse and neglect have several short- and long-term consequences for the victim. Though Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children are at higher risk of being maltreated as compared to hearing children, little research in Saudi Arabia has focused on this population. To determine the prevalence of child maltreatment and to examine its association with depression and anxiety among a sample of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students in Saudi Arabia, recruited from secondary schools in southern Saudi Arabia. Methods The sample included 186 Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students aged 14-17 years (M = 15.7 years; SD = 3.41 years). Data were collected using the Child Abuse Self-Report Scale, Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire. Bivariate and Linear regression analyses were conducted using SPSS 20. Results About 47.3% of the students were exposed severe to very severe child maltreatment. The severity of maltreatment varied based on parents' educational and income level, number of children in the family, the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing student's gender, and parents' hearing status. Linear regression analysis indicated that child maltreatment was a significant predictor of depression and anxiety in this sample. Conclusion Considering the socio-demographic factors influencing the prevalence of maltreatment in the present study, it seems important to work with parents of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children to improve their skills in rearing a child with special needs. Addressing the social stigma and social barriers experienced by DHH individuals through familial, institutional, and community interventions may be a first step toward long-term prevention of maltreatment among DHH children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ahmed Hammad
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mansour Nayef Al-Otaibi
- Department of Education and Psychology, College of Education, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Huda Shaaban Awed
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
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Mortazavi L, MacNiven KH, Knutson B. Blunted Neurobehavioral Loss Anticipation Predicts Relapse to Stimulant Drug Use. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:256-265. [PMID: 37567334 PMCID: PMC10840879 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with stimulant use disorder experience high rates of relapse. While neurobehavioral mechanisms involved in initiating drug use have been studied extensively, less research has focused on relapse. METHODS To assess motivational processes involved in relapse and diagnosis, we acquired functional magnetic resonance imaging responses to nondrug (monetary) gains and losses in detoxified patients with stimulant use disorder (n = 68) and community control participants (n = 42). In a prospective multimodal design, we combined imaging of brain function, brain structure, and behavior to longitudinally track subsequent risk for relapse. RESULTS At the 6-month follow-up assessment, 27 patients remained abstinent, but 33 had relapsed. Patients with blunted anterior insula (AIns) activity during loss anticipation were more likely to relapse, an association that remained robust after controlling for potential confounds (i.e., craving, negative mood, years of use, age, and gender). Lower AIns activity during loss anticipation was associated with lower self-reported negative arousal to loss cues and slower behavioral responses to avoid losses, which also independently predicted relapse. Furthermore, AIns activity during loss anticipation was associated with the structural coherence of a tract connecting the AIns and the nucleus accumbens, as was functional connectivity between the AIns and nucleus accumbens during loss processing. However, these neurobehavioral responses did not differ between patients and control participants. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the results of the current study show that neurobehavioral markers predicted relapse above and beyond conventional self-report measures, with a cross-validated accuracy of 72.7%. These findings offer convergent multimodal evidence that implicates blunted avoidance motivation in relapse to stimulant use and may therefore guide interventions targeting individuals who are most vulnerable to relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leili Mortazavi
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Kelly H MacNiven
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Brian Knutson
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California.
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Srivastav S, Cui X, Varela RB, Kesby JP, Eyles D. Increasing dopamine synthesis in nigrostriatal circuits increases phasic dopamine release and alters dorsal striatal connectivity: implications for schizophrenia. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 9:69. [PMID: 37798312 PMCID: PMC10556015 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-023-00397-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the most robust neurochemical abnormalities reported in patients with schizophrenia is an increase in dopamine (DA) synthesis and release, restricted to the dorsal striatum (DS). This hyper functionality is strongly associated with psychotic symptoms and progresses in those who later transition to schizophrenia. To understand the implications of this progressive neurobiology on brain function, we have developed a model in rats which we refer to as EDiPs (Enhanced Dopamine in Prodromal schizophrenia). The EDiPs model features a virally mediated increase in dorsal striatal (DS) DA synthesis capacity across puberty and into adulthood. This protocol leads to progressive changes in behaviour and neurochemistry. Our aim in this study was to explore if increased DA synthesis capacity alters the physiology of DA release and DS connectivity. Using fast scan cyclic voltammetry to assess DA release we show that evoked/phasic DA release is increased in the DS of EDiPs rats, whereas tonic/background levels of DA remain unaffected. Using quantitative immunohistochemistry methods to quantify DS synaptic architecture we show a presynaptic marker for DA release sites (Bassoon) was elevated within TH axons specifically within the DS, consistent with the increased phasic DA release in this region. Alongside changes in DA systems, we also show increased density of vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGluT1) synapses in the EDiPs DS suggesting changes in cortical connectivity. Our data may prove relevant in understanding the long-term implications for DS function in response to the robust and prolonged increases in DA synthesis uptake and release reported in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Srivastav
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Xiaoying Cui
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - James P Kesby
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Darryl Eyles
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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Koban L, Lee S, Schelski DS, Simon MC, Lerman C, Weber B, Kable JW, Plassmann H. An fMRI-Based Brain Marker of Individual Differences in Delay Discounting. J Neurosci 2023; 43:1600-1613. [PMID: 36657973 PMCID: PMC10008056 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1343-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Individual differences in delay discounting-how much we discount future compared to immediate rewards-are associated with general life outcomes, psychopathology, and obesity. Here, we use machine learning on fMRI activity during an intertemporal choice task to develop a functional brain marker of these individual differences in human adults. Training and cross-validating the marker in one dataset (Study 1, N = 110 male adults) resulted in a significant prediction-outcome correlation (r = 0.49), generalized to predict individual differences in a completely independent dataset (Study 2: N = 145 male and female adults, r = 0.45), and predicted discounting several weeks later. Out-of-sample responses of the functional brain marker, but not discounting behavior itself, differed significantly between overweight and lean individuals in both studies, and predicted fasting-state blood levels of insulin, c-peptide, and leptin in Study 1. Significant predictive weights of the marker were found in cingulate, insula, and frontoparietal areas, among others, suggesting an interplay among regions associated with valuation, conflict processing, and cognitive control. This new functional brain marker is a step toward a generalizable brain model of individual differences in delay discounting. Future studies can evaluate it as a potential transdiagnostic marker of altered decision-making in different clinical and developmental populations.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT People differ substantially in how much they prefer smaller sooner rewards or larger later rewards such as spending money now versus saving it for retirement. These individual differences are generally stable over time and have been related to differences in mental and bodily health. What is their neurobiological basis? We applied machine learning to brain-imaging data to identify a novel brain activity pattern that accurately predicts how much people prefer sooner versus later rewards, and which can be used as a new brain-based measure of intertemporal decision-making in future studies. The resulting functional brain marker also predicts overweight and metabolism-related blood markers, providing new insight into the possible links between metabolism and the cognitive and brain processes involved in intertemporal decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Koban
- Marketing Area, INSEAD, F-77300 Fontainebleau, France
- Control-Interoception-Attention Team, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
- CNRS, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon CRNL U1028 UMR5292, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69500 Bron, France
| | - Sangil Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6018
| | - Daniela S Schelski
- Center for Economics and Neuroscience, University of Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Marie-Christine Simon
- Institute for Nutrition and Food Science, Nutrition and Microbiota, University of Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Caryn Lerman
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033
| | - Bernd Weber
- Center for Economics and Neuroscience, University of Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Joseph W Kable
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6018
| | - Hilke Plassmann
- Marketing Area, INSEAD, F-77300 Fontainebleau, France
- Control-Interoception-Attention Team, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
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Elliott BL, D'Ardenne K, Murty VP, Brewer GA, McClure SM. Midbrain-Hippocampus Structural Connectivity Selectively Predicts Motivated Memory Encoding. J Neurosci 2022; 42:9426-9434. [PMID: 36332978 PMCID: PMC9794367 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0945-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Motivation is a powerful driver of learning and memory. Functional MRI studies show that interactions among the dopaminergic midbrain substantia nigra/ventral tegmental area (SN/VTA), hippocampus, and nucleus accumbens (NAc) are critical for motivated memory encoding. However, it is not known whether these effects are transient and purely functional, or whether individual differences in the structure of this circuit underlie motivated memory encoding. To quantify individual differences in structure, diffusion-weighted MRI and probabilistic tractography were used to quantify SN/VTA-striatum and SN/VTA-hippocampus pathways associated with motivated memory encoding in humans. Male and female participants completed a motivated source memory paradigm. During encoding, words were randomly assigned to one of three conditions, reward ($1.00), control ($0.00), or punishment (-$1.00). During retrieval, participants were asked to retrieve item and source information of the previously studied words and were rewarded or penalized according to their performance. Source memory for words assigned to both reward and punishment conditions was greater than those for control words, but there were no differences in item memory based on value. Anatomically, probabilistic tractography results revealed a heterogeneous, topological arrangement of the SN/VTA. Tract density measures of SN/VTA-hippocampus pathways were positively correlated with individual differences in reward-and-punishment-modulated memory performance, whereas density of SN/VTA-striatum pathways showed no association. This novel finding suggests that pathways emerging from the human SV/VTA are anatomically separable and functionally heterogeneous. Individual differences in structural connectivity of the dopaminergic hippocampus-VTA loop are selectively associated with motivated memory encoding.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Functional MRI studies show that interactions among the SN/VTA, hippocampus, and NAc are critical for motivated memory encoding. This has led to competing theories that posit either SN/VTA-NAc reward prediction errors or SN/VTA-hippocampus signals underlie motivated memory encoding. Additionally, it is not known whether these effects are transient and purely functional or whether individual differences in the structure of these circuits underlie motivated memory encoding. Using diffusion-weighted MRI and probabilistic tractography, we show that tract density measures of SN/VTA-hippocampus pathways are positively correlated with motivated memory performance, whereas density of SN/VTA-striatum pathways show no association. This finding suggests that anatomic individual differences of the dopaminergic hippocampus-VTA loop are selectively associated with motivated memory encoding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake L Elliott
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122
| | | | - Vishnu P Murty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122
| | - Gene A Brewer
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85721
| | - Samuel M McClure
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85721
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Tisdall L, MacNiven KH, Padula CB, Leong JK, Knutson B. Brain tract structure predicts relapse to stimulant drug use. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2116703119. [PMID: 35727973 PMCID: PMC9245633 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2116703119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffusion tractography allows identification and measurement of structural tracts in the human brain previously associated with motivated behavior in animal models. Recent findings indicate that the structural properties of a tract connecting the midbrain to nucleus accumbens (NAcc) are associated with a diagnosis of stimulant use disorder (SUD), but not relapse. In this preregistered study, we used diffusion tractography in a sample of patients treated for SUD (n = 60) to determine whether qualities of tracts projecting from medial prefrontal, anterior insular, and amygdalar cortices to NAcc might instead foreshadow relapse. As predicted, reduced diffusion metrics of a tract projecting from the right anterior insula to the NAcc were associated with subsequent relapse to stimulant use, but not with previous diagnosis. These findings highlight a structural target for predicting relapse to stimulant use and further suggest that distinct connections to the NAcc may confer risk for relapse versus diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loreen Tisdall
- Center for Cognitive and Decision Sciences, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-2130
| | - Kelly H. MacNiven
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-2130
| | | | - Josiah K. Leong
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
| | - Brian Knutson
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-2130
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Bracht T, Mertse N, Walther S, Lüdi K, Breit S, Federspiel A, Wiest R, Denier N. Link between structural connectivity of the medial forebrain bundle, functional connectivity of the ventral tegmental area, and anhedonia in unipolar depression. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 34:102961. [PMID: 35152053 PMCID: PMC8844724 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.102961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Tract volume and number of tracts are reduced in the left slMFB. Those microstructural alterations are related to depression severity and anhedonia. There is increased VTA-PFC functional connectivity in depression. Those increases are more pronounced in patients with severe anhedonia. Our results extend pathophysiological models of anhedonia in depression.
The ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens (NAcc), and prefrontal cortex (PFC) are essential for experiencing pleasure and initiating motivated behaviour. The VTA, NAcc, and PFC are connected through the medial forebrain bundle (MFB). In humans, two branches have been described: an infero-medial branch (imMFB) and a supero-lateral branch (slMFB). This study aimed to explore the associations between structural connectivity of the MFB, functional connectivity (FC) of the VTA, anhedonia, and depression severity in patients with depression. Fifty-six patients with unipolar depression and 22 healthy controls matched for age, sex, and handedness were recruited at the University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy in Bern, Switzerland. Diffusion-weighted imaging and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were acquired. Using manual tractography, the imMFB and slMFB were reconstructed bilaterally for each participant. Seed-based resting-state FC was computed from the VTA to the PFC. Hedonic tone was assessed using the Fawcett-Clark Pleasure Scale. We identified reduced tract volume and reduced number of tracts in the left slMFB. There was an increase in FC between the VTA and right medial PFC in patients with depression. Depression severity was associated with reduced tract volume and fewer tracts in the left slMFB. Reduced hedonic tone was associated with reduced tract volume. Conversely, reduced hedonic tone was associated with increased FC between the VTA and the PFC. In conclusion, our results suggest reduced structural connectivity of the slMFB in patients with depression. Increases in FC between the VTA and PFC may be associated with anhedonia or compensatory hyperactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Bracht
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Nicolas Mertse
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Walther
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Karin Lüdi
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sigrid Breit
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Federspiel
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Roland Wiest
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus Denier
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Lu Q, Liu W, Zhuo Z, Li Y, Duan Y, Yu P, Qu L, Ye C, Liu Y. A Transfer Learning Approach to Few-shot Segmentation of Novel White Matter Tracts. Med Image Anal 2022; 79:102454. [DOI: 10.1016/j.media.2022.102454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Coenen VA, Schlaepfer TE, Sajonz BEA, Reinacher PC, Döbrössy MD, Reisert M. "The Heart Asks Pleasure First"-Conceptualizing Psychiatric Diseases as MAINTENANCE Network Dysfunctions through Insights from slMFB DBS in Depression and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Brain Sci 2022; 12:438. [PMID: 35447971 PMCID: PMC9028695 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
More than a decade ago, deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the superolateral medial forebrain bundle (slMFB), as part of the greater MFB system, had been proposed as a putative yet experimental treatment strategy for therapy refractory depression (TRD) and later for obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD). Antidepressant and anti-OCD efficacy have been shown in open case series and smaller trials and were independently replicated. The MFB is anato-physiologically confluent with the SEEKING system promoting euphoric drive, reward anticipation and reward; functions realized through the mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic system. Growing clinical experience concerning surgical and stimulation aspects from a larger number of patients shows an MFB functionality beyond SEEKING and now re-informs the scientific rationale concerning the MFB's (patho-) physiology. In this white paper, we combine observations from more than 75 cases of slMFB DBS. We integrate these observations with a selected literature review to provide a new neuroethological view on the MFB. We here formulate a re-interpretation of the MFB as the main structure of an integrated SEEKING/MAINTENANCE circuitry, allowing for individual homeostasis and well-being through emotional arousal, basic and higher affect valence, bodily reactions, motor programing, vigor and flexible behavior, as the basis for the antidepressant and anti-OCD efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker A. Coenen
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (B.E.A.S.); (P.C.R.); (M.D.D.); (M.R.)
- Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Center for Deep Brain Stimulation, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Laboratory of Stereotaxy and Interventional Neurosciences, Department of Stereotactic and Functional, Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas E. Schlaepfer
- Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Center for Deep Brain Stimulation, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Interventional Biological Psychiatry, Medical Center of University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bastian E. A. Sajonz
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (B.E.A.S.); (P.C.R.); (M.D.D.); (M.R.)
- Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
| | - Peter C. Reinacher
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (B.E.A.S.); (P.C.R.); (M.D.D.); (M.R.)
- Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Máté D. Döbrössy
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (B.E.A.S.); (P.C.R.); (M.D.D.); (M.R.)
- Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Laboratory of Stereotaxy and Interventional Neurosciences, Department of Stereotactic and Functional, Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco Reisert
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (B.E.A.S.); (P.C.R.); (M.D.D.); (M.R.)
- Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center of University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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12
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Puccetti NA, Villano WJ, Fadok JP, Heller AS. Temporal dynamics of affect in the brain: Evidence from human imaging and animal models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 133:104491. [PMID: 34902442 PMCID: PMC8792368 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Emotions are time-varying internal states that promote survival in the face of dynamic environments and shifting homeostatic needs. Research in non-human organisms has recently afforded specific insights into the neural mechanisms that support the emergence, persistence, and decay of affective states. Concurrently, a separate affective neuroscience literature has begun to dissect the neural bases of affective dynamics in humans. However, the circuit-level mechanisms identified in animals lack a clear mapping to the human neuroscience literature. As a result, critical questions pertaining to the neural bases of affective dynamics in humans remain unanswered. To address these shortcomings, the present review integrates findings from humans and non-human organisms to highlight the neural mechanisms that govern the temporal features of emotional states. Using the theory of affective chronometry as an organizing framework, we describe the specific neural mechanisms and modulatory factors that arbitrate the rise-time, intensity, and duration of emotional states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki A Puccetti
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - William J Villano
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Jonathan P Fadok
- Department of Psychology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Aaron S Heller
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA.
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13
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Schulz J, Zimmermann J, Sorg C, Menegaux A, Brandl F. Magnetic resonance imaging of the dopamine system in schizophrenia - A scoping review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:925476. [PMID: 36203848 PMCID: PMC9530597 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.925476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, aberrant dopamine transmission has been proposed to play a central role in schizophrenia pathophysiology. These theories are supported by human in vivo molecular imaging studies of dopamine transmission, particularly positron emission tomography. However, there are several downsides to such approaches, for example limited spatial resolution or restriction of the measurement to synaptic processes of dopaminergic neurons. To overcome these limitations and to measure complementary aspects of dopamine transmission, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based approaches investigating the macrostructure, metabolism, and connectivity of dopaminergic nuclei, i.e., substantia nigra pars compacta and ventral tegmental area, can be employed. In this scoping review, we focus on four dopamine MRI methods that have been employed in patients with schizophrenia so far: neuromelanin MRI, which is thought to measure long-term dopamine function in dopaminergic nuclei; morphometric MRI, which is assumed to measure the volume of dopaminergic nuclei; diffusion MRI, which is assumed to measure fiber-based structural connectivity of dopaminergic nuclei; and resting-state blood-oxygenation-level-dependent functional MRI, which is thought to measure functional connectivity of dopaminergic nuclei based on correlated blood oxygenation fluctuations. For each method, we describe the underlying signal, outcome measures, and downsides. We present the current state of research in schizophrenia and compare it to other disorders with either similar (psychotic) symptoms, i.e., bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, or dopaminergic abnormalities, i.e., substance use disorder and Parkinson's disease. Finally, we discuss overarching issues and outline future research questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Schulz
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,TUM-NIC Neuroimaging Center, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Juliana Zimmermann
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,TUM-NIC Neuroimaging Center, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Sorg
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,TUM-NIC Neuroimaging Center, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Aurore Menegaux
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,TUM-NIC Neuroimaging Center, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Felix Brandl
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,TUM-NIC Neuroimaging Center, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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14
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Rusche T, Kaufmann J, Voges J. Nucleus accumbens projections: Validity and reliability of fiber reconstructions based on high-resolution diffusion-weighted MRI. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:5888-5910. [PMID: 34528323 PMCID: PMC8596959 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical effects of deep brain stimulation are largely mediated by the activation of myelinated axons. Hence, increasing attention has been paid in the past on targeting white matter tracts in addition to gray matter. Aims of the present study were: (i) visualization of discrete afferences and efferences of the nucleus accumbens (NAc), supposed to be a major hub of neural networks relating to mental disorders, using probabilistic fiber tractography and a data driven approach, and (ii) validation of the applied methodology for standardized routine clinical applications. MR‐data from 11 healthy subjects and 7 measurement sessions each were acquired on a 3T MRI‐scanner. For probabilistic fiber tracking the NAc as a seed region and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), amygdala (AMY), hippocampus (HPC), dorsomedial thalamus (dmT) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) as target regions were segmented for each subject and both hemispheres. To quantitatively assess the reliability and stability of the reconstructions, we filtered and clustered the individual fiber‐tracts (NAc to target) for each session and subject and performed a point‐by‐point calculation of the maximum cluster distances for intra‐subject comparison. The connectivity patterns formed by the obtained fibers were in good concordance with published data from tracer and/or fiber‐dissection studies. Furthermore, the reliability assessment of the (NAc to target)‐fiber‐tracts yielded to high correlations between the obtained clustered‐tracts. Using DBS with directional lead technology, the workflow elaborated in this study may guide selective electrical stimulation of NAc projections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Rusche
- Department of Stereotactic Neurosurgery, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Radiology, Clinic of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Basel, University Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörn Kaufmann
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Voges
- Department of Stereotactic Neurosurgery, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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15
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Coenen VA, Döbrössy MD, Teo SJ, Wessolleck J, Sajonz BEA, Reinacher PC, Thierauf-Emberger A, Spittau B, Leupold J, von Elverfeldt D, Schlaepfer TE, Reisert M. Diverging prefrontal cortex fiber connection routes to the subthalamic nucleus and the mesencephalic ventral tegmentum investigated with long range (normative) and short range (ex-vivo high resolution) 7T DTI. Brain Struct Funct 2021; 227:23-47. [PMID: 34482443 PMCID: PMC8741702 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-021-02373-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Uncertainties
concerning anatomy and function of cortico-subcortical projections have arisen during the recent years. A clear distinction between cortico-subthalamic (hyperdirect) and cortico-tegmental projections (superolateral medial forebrain bundle, slMFB) so far is elusive. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) of the slMFB (for major depression, MD and obsessive compulsive disorders, OCD) has on the one hand been interpreted as actually involving limbic (prefrontal) hyperdirect pathways. On the other hand slMFB’s stimulation region in the mesencephalic ventral tegmentum is said to impact on other structures too, going beyond the antidepressant (or anti OCD) efficacy of sole modulation of the cortico-tegmental reward-associated pathways. We have here used a normative diffusion MRT template (HCP, n = 80) for long-range tractography and augmented this dataset with ex-vivo high resolution data (n = 1) in a stochastic brain space. We compared this data with histological information and used the high resolution ex-vivo data set to scrutinize the mesencephalic tegmentum for small fiber pathways present. Our work resolves an existing ambiguity between slMFB and prefrontal hyperdirect pathways which—for the first time—are described as co-existent. DBS of the slMFB does not appear to modulate prefrontal hyperdirect cortico-subthalamic but rather cortico-tegmental projections. Smaller fiber structures in the target region—as far as they can be discerned—appear not to be involved in slMFB DBS. Our work enfeebles previous anatomical criticism and strengthens the position of the slMFB DBS target for its use in MD and OCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker A Coenen
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Breisacher STraße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany. .,Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany. .,Center for Deep Brain Stimulation, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany. .,Laboratory of Stereotaxy and Interventional Neurosciences, Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Máté D Döbrössy
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Breisacher STraße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.,Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Laboratory of Stereotaxy and Interventional Neurosciences, Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Shi Jia Teo
- Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Johanna Wessolleck
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Breisacher STraße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.,Laboratory of Stereotaxy and Interventional Neurosciences, Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bastian E A Sajonz
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Breisacher STraße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.,Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Peter C Reinacher
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Breisacher STraße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.,Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT), Aachen, Germany
| | - Annette Thierauf-Emberger
- Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Björn Spittau
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany.,Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Department of Molecular Embryologie, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Leupold
- Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominik von Elverfeldt
- Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas E Schlaepfer
- Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Deep Brain Stimulation, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Division of Interventional Biological Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco Reisert
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of Freiburg University, Breisacher STraße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.,Medical Faculty of Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Physics, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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16
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Coenen VA. Commentary: Posteromedial Hypothalamic Deep Brain Stimulation for Refractory Aggressiveness in a Patient With Weaver Syndrome: Clinical, Technical Report and Operative Video. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown) 2021; 21:E226-E228. [PMID: 34038954 DOI: 10.1093/ons/opab165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Volker A Coenen
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Freiburg University Medical Center and Medical Faculty, Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Deep Brain Stimulation, Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
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17
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Bracht T, Soravia L, Moggi F, Stein M, Grieder M, Federspiel A, Tschümperlin R, Batschelet HM, Wiest R, Denier N. The role of the orbitofrontal cortex and the nucleus accumbens for craving in alcohol use disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:267. [PMID: 33947835 PMCID: PMC8097061 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01384-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate structural and functional alterations of the reward system and the neurobiology of craving in alcohol use disorder (AUD). We hypothesized reduced volume of the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), reduced structural connectivity of the segment of the supero-lateral medial forebrain bundle connecting the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) with the NAcc (OFC-NAcc), and reduced resting-state OFC-NAcc functional connectivity (FC). Furthermore, we hypothesized that craving is related to an increase of OFC-NAcc FC. Thirty-nine recently abstinent patients with AUD and 18 healthy controls (HC) underwent structural (T1w-MP2RAGE, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)) and functional (resting-state fMRI) MRI-scans. Gray matter volume of the NAcc, white matter microstructure (fractional anisotropy (FA)) and macrostructure (tract length) of the OFC-NAcc connection and OFC-NAcc FC were compared between AUD and HC using a mixed model MANCOVA controlling for age and gender. Craving was assessed using the thoughts subscale of the obsessive-compulsive drinking scale (OCDS) scale and was correlated with OFC-NAcc FC. There was a significant main effect of group. Results were driven by a volume reduction of bilateral NAcc, reduced FA in the left hemisphere, and reduced tract length of bilateral OFC-NAcc connections in AUD patients. OFC-NAcc FC did not differ between groups. Craving was associated with increased bilateral OFC-NAcc FC. In conclusion, reduced volume of the NAcc and reduced FA and tract length of the OFC-NAcc network suggest structural alterations of the reward network in AUD. Increased OFC-NAcc FC is associated with craving in AUD, and may contribute to situational alcohol-seeking behavior in AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Bracht
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Leila Soravia
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Clinic Suedhang, Kirchlindach, Switzerland
| | - Franz Moggi
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Maria Stein
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Grieder
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Federspiel
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Raphaela Tschümperlin
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hallie M Batschelet
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Roland Wiest
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus Denier
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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18
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Leong JK, Ho TC, Colich NL, Sisk L, Knutson B, Gotlib IH. White-matter tract connecting anterior insula to nucleus accumbens predicts greater future motivation in adolescents. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2021; 47:100881. [PMID: 33373886 PMCID: PMC7776926 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2020.100881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The motivation to approach or avoid incentives can change during adolescence. Advances in neuroimaging allow researchers to characterize specific brain circuits that underlie these developmental changes. Whereas activity in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) can predict approach toward incentive gain, activity in anterior insula (AIns) is associated with avoidance of incentive loss. Recent research characterized the structural white-matter tract connecting the two brain regions, but the tract has neither been characterized in adolescence nor linked to functional activity during incentive anticipation. In this study, we collected diffusion MRI and characterized the tract connecting the AIns to the NAcc for the first time in early adolescents. We then measured NAcc functional activity during a monetary incentive delay task and found that structural coherence of the AIns-NAcc tract is correlated with decreased functional activity at the NAcc terminal of the tract during anticipation of no incentives. In adolescents who completed an assessment 2 years later, we found that AIns-NAcc tract coherence could predict greater future self-reported motivation, and that NAcc functional activity could statistically mediate this association. Together, the findings establish links from brain structure to function to future motivation and provide targets to study the reciprocal development of brain structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiah K Leong
- University of Arkansas, Department of Psychological Science, Fayetteville, AR, United States; Indiana University, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Bloomington, IN, United States.
| | - Tiffany C Ho
- Stanford University, Department of Psychology, Stanford, CA, United States; University of California, San Francisco, Department of Psychology & Weill Institute for Neurosciences, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Natalie L Colich
- University of Washington, Department of Psychology, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Lucinda Sisk
- Yale University, Department of Psychology, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Brian Knutson
- Stanford University, Department of Psychology, Stanford, CA, United States; Stanford University, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ian H Gotlib
- Stanford University, Department of Psychology, Stanford, CA, United States; Stanford University, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
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