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Cattaneo A, Begni V, Zonca V, Riva MA. Early life adversities, psychopathologies and novel pharmacological strategies. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 260:108686. [PMID: 38969307 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108686] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to adversities during early life stages (early life adversities - ELA), ranging from pregnancy to adolescence, represents a major risk factor for the vulnerability to mental disorders. Hence, it is important to understand the molecular and functional underpinning of such relationship, in order to develop strategies aimed at reducing the psychopathologic burden associated with ELA, which may eventually lead to a significant improvement in clinical practice. In this review, we will initially recapitulate clinical and preclinical evidence supporting the link between ELA and psychopathology and we will primarily discuss the main biological mechanisms that have been described as potential mediators of the effects of ELA on the psychopathologic risk, including the role for genetic factors as well as sex differences. The knowledge emerging from these studies may be instrumental for the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed not only at correcting the deficits that emerge from ELA exposure, but also in preventing the manifestation of a full-blown psychopathologic condition. With this respect, we will specifically focus on adolescence as a key time frame for disease onset as well as for early therapeutic intervention. We believe that incorporating clinical and preclinical research data in the context of early life adversities can be instrumental to elucidate the mechanisms contributing to the risk for psychopathology or that may promote resilience. This will ultimately allow the identification of 'at risk' individuals who may benefit from specific forms of interventions that, by interfering with disease trajectories, could result in more benign clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Cattaneo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Veronica Begni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Zonca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco A Riva
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
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2
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Smail MA, Lenz KM. Developmental Functions of Microglia: Impact of Psychosocial and Physiological Early Life Stress. Neuropharmacology 2024:110084. [PMID: 39025401 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110084] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Microglia play numerous important roles in brain development. From early embryonic stages through adolescence, these immune cells influence neuronal genesis and maturation, guide connectivity, and shape brain circuits. They also interact with other glial cells and structures, influencing the brain's supportive microenvironment. While this central role makes microglia essential, it means that early life perturbations to microglia can have widespread effects on brain development, potentially resulting in long-lasting behavioral impairments. Here, we will focus on the effects of early life psychosocial versus physiological stressors in rodent models. Psychosocial stress refers to perceived threats that lead to stress axes activation, including prenatal stress, or chronic postnatal stress, including maternal separation and resource scarcity. Physiological stress refers to with physical threats, including maternal immune activation, postnatal infection, and traumatic brain injury. Differing sources of early life stress have varied impacts on microglia, and these effects are moderated by factors such as developmental age, brain region, and sex. Overall, these stressors appear to either 1) upregulate basal microglia numbers and activity throughout the lifespan, while possibly blunting their responsivity to subsequent stressors, or 2) shift the developmental curve of microglia, resulting in differential timing and function, impacting the critical periods they govern. Either could contribute to behavioral dysfunctions that occur after the resolution of early life stress. Exploring how different stressors impact microglia, as well as how the experience of multiple stressors interacts to alter microglia's developmental functions, could deepen our understanding of how early life stress changes the brain's developmental trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa A Smail
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.
| | - Kathryn M Lenz
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; Chronic Brain Injury Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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3
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Warrington JP, Collins HE, Davidge ST, do Carmo JM, Goulopoulou S, Intapad S, Loria AS, Sones JL, Wold LE, Zinkhan EK, Alexander BT. Guidelines for in vivo models of developmental programming of cardiovascular disease risk. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 327:H221-H241. [PMID: 38819382 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00060.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Research using animals depends on the generation of offspring for use in experiments or for the maintenance of animal colonies. Although not considered by all, several different factors preceding and during pregnancy, as well as during lactation, can program various characteristics in the offspring. Here, we present the most common models of developmental programming of cardiovascular outcomes, important considerations for study design, and provide guidelines for producing and reporting rigorous and reproducible cardiovascular studies in offspring exposed to normal conditions or developmental insult. These guidelines provide considerations for the selection of the appropriate animal model and factors that should be reported to increase rigor and reproducibility while ensuring transparent reporting of methods and results.
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Grants
- 20YVNR35490079 American Heart Association (AHA)
- R01HL139348 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- R01HL135158 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- U54GM115428 HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
- R01AG057046 HHS | NIH | National Institute on Aging (NIA)
- P20 GM104357 NIGMS NIH HHS
- HL146562-04S1 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- P30 GM149404 NIGMS NIH HHS
- P20GM104357 HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
- P01HL51971 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- R01HL143459 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- R01HL146562 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- R01HL163003 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- R01HL163818 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- R01DK121411 HHS | NIH | National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
- R01HL147844 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- Excellence Faculty Support Grant Jewish Heritage Fund
- P30GM149404 HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
- P30GM14940 HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
- P20GM121334 HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
- 23SFRNPCS1067044 American Heart Association (AHA)
- R01 HL146562 NHLBI NIH HHS
- R56HL159447 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- P20GM135002 HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
- FS154313 CIHR
- U54 GM115428 NIGMS NIH HHS
- 1R01HL163076 HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
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Affiliation(s)
- Junie P Warrington
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States
| | - Helen E Collins
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Center for Cardiometabolic Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
| | - Sandra T Davidge
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jussara M do Carmo
- Department of Physiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
- Department of Gynecology, and Obstetrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
| | - Suttira Intapad
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
| | - Analia S Loria
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Jenny L Sones
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
| | - Loren E Wold
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Erin K Zinkhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah and Intermountain Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- Intermountain Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Barbara T Alexander
- Department of Physiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States
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4
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Zhang Y, Wang H, Liu L, Mo X, He D, Chen X, Xiao R, Cheng Q, Fatima M, Du Y, Xie P. Maternal separation regulates sensitivity of stress-induced depression in mice by affecting hippocampal metabolism. Physiol Behav 2024; 279:114530. [PMID: 38552706 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114530] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Depression is a serious mental illness. Previous studies found that early life stress (ELS) plays a vital role in the onset and progression of depression. However, relevant studies have not yet been able to explain the specific effects of early stress on stress-induced depression sensitivity and individual behavior during growth. Therefore, we constructed a maternal separation (MS) model and administered chronic social frustration stress at different stages of their growth while conducting metabolomics analysis on the hippocampus of mice. Our results showed that the immobility time of mice in the forced swimming test was significantly reduced at the end of MS. Meanwhile, mice with MS experience significantly decreased total movement distance in the open field test and sucrose preference ratio in the sucrose preference test when subjected to chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) during adolescence. In adulthood, the results were the opposite. In addition, we found that level changes in metabolites such as Beta-alanine, l-aspartic acid, 2-aminoadipic acid, and Glycine are closely related to behavioral changes. These metabolites are mainly enriched in Pantothenate, CoA biosynthesis, and Beta Alanine metabolism pathways. Our experiment revealed that the effects of ELS vary across different age groups. It will increase an individual's sensitivity to depression when facing CSDS in adolescence, but it will reduce their sensitivity to depression when facing CSDS in adulthood. This may be achieved by regulating the hippocampus's Pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis and Beta Alanine metabolism pathways represented by Beta-alanine, l-Aspartic acid, 2-aminoadipic acid, and Glycine metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangdong Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Haiyang Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Lanxiang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Xiaolong Mo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Dian He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xueyi Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Faculty of Basic Medicine, Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Rui Xiao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Faculty of Basic Medicine, Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Qisheng Cheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Madiha Fatima
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yamei Du
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Peng Xie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, China.
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5
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Moreau M, Dard R, Madani A, Kandiah J, Kassis N, Ziga J, Castiglione H, Day S, Bourgeois T, Matrot B, Vialard F, Janel N. Prenatal treatment with preimplantation factor improves early postnatal neurogenesis and cognitive impairments in a mouse model of Down syndrome. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:215. [PMID: 38739166 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05245-9] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disease characterized by a supernumerary chromosome 21. Intellectual deficiency (ID) is one of the most prominent features of DS. Central nervous system defects lead to learning disabilities, motor and language delays, and memory impairments. At present, a prenatal treatment for the ID in DS is lacking. Subcutaneous administration of synthetic preimplantation factor (sPIF, a peptide with a range of biological functions) in a model of severe brain damage has shown neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties by directly targeting neurons and microglia. Here, we evaluated the effect of PIF administration during gestation and until weaning on Dp(16)1Yey mice (a mouse model of DS). Possible effects at the juvenile stage were assessed using behavioral tests and molecular and histological analyses of the brain. To test the influence of perinatal sPIF treatment at the adult stage, hippocampus-dependent memory was evaluated on postnatal day 90. Dp(16)1Yey pups showed significant behavioral impairment, with impaired neurogenesis, microglial cell activation and a low microglial cell count, and the deregulated expression of genes linked to neuroinflammation and cell cycle regulation. Treatment with sPIF restored early postnatal hippocampal neurogenesis, with beneficial effects on astrocytes, microglia, inflammation, and cell cycle markers. Moreover, treatment with sPIF restored the level of DYRK1A, a protein that is involved in cognitive impairments in DS. In line with the beneficial effects on neurogenesis, perinatal treatment with sPIF was associated with an improvement in working memory in adult Dp(16)1Yey mice. Perinatal treatment with sPIF might be an option for mitigating cognitive impairments in people with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Moreau
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
| | - Rodolphe Dard
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, ENVA, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, France
- Département de Génétique, CHI de Poissy St Germain en Laye, Poissy, 78300, France
| | - Amélia Madani
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Cité, Paris, F-75019, France
| | - Janany Kandiah
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
| | - Nadim Kassis
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
| | - Jessica Ziga
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
| | | | - Solenn Day
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
| | - Thomas Bourgeois
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Cité, Paris, F-75019, France
| | - Boris Matrot
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Cité, Paris, F-75019, France
| | - François Vialard
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, ENVA, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, France
- Département de Génétique, CHI de Poissy St Germain en Laye, Poissy, 78300, France
| | - Nathalie Janel
- Université Paris Cité, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France.
- Laboratoire BFA, Université Paris Cité, 3 rue Marie-Andrée Lagroua Weill Hallé, Case, Paris cedex 13, 7104, F-75205, France.
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6
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Dutcher EG, Verosky SC, Mendes WB, Mayer SE. Localizing somatic symptoms associated with childhood maltreatment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318128121. [PMID: 38687795 PMCID: PMC11087768 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318128121] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment has been linked to adult somatic symptoms, although this has rarely been examined in daily life. Furthermore, the localization of somatization associated with childhood maltreatment and its subtypes is unknown. This large-scale experience sampling study used body maps to examine the relationships between childhood maltreatment, its subtypes, and the intensity and location of negative somatic sensations in daily life. Participants (N = 2,234; 33% female and 67% male) were part of MyBPLab 2.0, a study conducted using a bespoke mobile phone application. Four categories of childhood maltreatment (emotional abuse, emotional neglect, physical abuse, and physical neglect) were measured using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Using gender-matched human silhouettes, participants indicated the location and intensity of feelings of negative activation in the body. Childhood maltreatment generally and its four measured subtypes were all positively associated with heightened negative activation on both the front and back body maps. For females, total childhood maltreatment was associated with negative activation in the abdomen and lower back, while for males, the association was localized to the lower back. Similarly, each of the four subscales had localized associations with negative activation in the abdomen and lower back in females and lower back in males, except for emotional abuse, which was also associated with negative activation in the abdomen in males. These associations likely reflect increased somatization in individuals exposed to childhood maltreatment, suggesting a role for psychotherapeutic interventions in alleviating associated distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan G. Dutcher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA94107
| | | | | | - Stefanie E. Mayer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA94107
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7
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Jeon D, Kim S, Lee SK, Chu K. Chronic social stress in early life can predispose mice to antisocial maltreating behavior. ENCEPHALITIS 2024; 4:23-30. [PMID: 38444108 PMCID: PMC11007547 DOI: 10.47936/encephalitis.2023.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose In our previous study, we developed an assay system to evaluate antisocial maltreating behavior of conspecific mice using a perpetrator-victim paradigm. We also generated a mouse model for the maltreating behavior by mimicking child maltreatment or abuse. Here, we further investigate the antisocial behavior using anti-aggressive and antipsychotic drugs. Methods Model mice sequentially subjected to maternal separation (MS), social defeat (SD), and social isolation (SI) in that order (MS/SD/SI model) were subjected to a maltreating behavioral task. The MS/SD/SI mice were treated with oxytocin (OXY), clozapine (CLZ), haloperidol (HAL), and 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT). Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used for protein analysis. Results A substantial portion of the MS/SD/SI model mice (46% of males and 40% of females) showed a higher number of nose pokes than the control. OXY or 8-OH-DPAT treatment reduced the high number of nose pokes by the MS/SD/SI mice, whereas HAL increased it. CLZ did not affect the number of nose pokes by the MS/SD/SI mice. Interestingly, although the OXY level in the MS/SD/SI mice was similar to that in the control, the amount of OXY receptor was lower in the MS/SD/SI mice. The amount of 5-HT1A receptor was also decreased in the MS/SD/SI mice. Conclusion Chronic social stress in childhood might predispose a mouse to antisocial behavior. Our maltreating behavior assay system, including the MS/SD/SI model, is a good animal system for research on and drug screening for brain disorders associated with antisocial or psychotic behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sangwoo Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Kun Lee
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kon Chu
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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8
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Martinez GJ, Appleton M, Kipp ZA, Loria AS, Min B, Hinds TD. Glucocorticoids, their uses, sexual dimorphisms, and diseases: new concepts, mechanisms, and discoveries. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:473-532. [PMID: 37732829 PMCID: PMC11281820 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The normal stress response in humans is governed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis through heightened mechanisms during stress, raising blood levels of the glucocorticoid hormone cortisol. Glucocorticoids are quintessential compounds that balance the proper functioning of numerous systems in the mammalian body. They are also generated synthetically and are the preeminent therapy for inflammatory diseases. They act by binding to the nuclear receptor transcription factor glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which has two main isoforms (GRα and GRβ). Our classical understanding of glucocorticoid signaling is from the GRα isoform, which binds the hormone, whereas GRβ has no known ligands. With glucocorticoids being involved in many physiological and cellular processes, even small disruptions in their release via the HPA axis, or changes in GR isoform expression, can have dire ramifications on health. Long-term chronic glucocorticoid therapy can lead to a glucocorticoid-resistant state, and we deliberate how this impacts disease treatment. Chronic glucocorticoid treatment can lead to noticeable side effects such as weight gain, adiposity, diabetes, and others that we discuss in detail. There are sexually dimorphic responses to glucocorticoids, and women tend to have a more hyperresponsive HPA axis than men. This review summarizes our understanding of glucocorticoids and critically analyzes the GR isoforms and their beneficial and deleterious mechanisms and the sexual differences that cause a dichotomy in responses. We also discuss the future of glucocorticoid therapy and propose a new concept of dual GR isoform agonist and postulate why activating both isoforms may prevent glucocorticoid resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genesee J Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Malik Appleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Zachary A Kipp
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Analia S Loria
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
- Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Booki Min
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Terry D Hinds
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
- Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
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9
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Faraji J, Bettenson D, Yong VW, Metz GAS. Early life stress aggravates disease pathogenesis in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: Support for a two-hit hypothesis of multiple sclerosis etiology. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 385:578240. [PMID: 37951203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Vision problems are one of the earliest diagnosed symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). The onset and progression of vision loss and the underlying pathogenesis in MS may be influenced by cumulative psychophysiological stress. Here, we used a two-hit model of stress in female mice to determine if early life stress (ELS, the first hit) influences the response to an immunization that induces experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE, the second hit) later in life. We hypothesized that ELS caused by animal transportation from a vendor during early postnatal development represents a co-factor which can exacerbate the clinical severity of EAE. Indeed, adult EAE mice with a history of ELS displayed more severe clinical signs and delayed recovery compared to non-stressed EAE mice. ELS also diminished visual acuity measured by optokinetic responses, as well as locomotion and exploratory behaviours in EAE mice. Notably, ELS accelerated vision loss and caused earlier onset of visual impairments in EAE. Exacerbated functional impairments in stressed EAE mice were highly correlated with circulating corticosterone levels. The findings show that the progression of induced EAE in adulthood can be significantly impacted by adverse early life experiences. These observations emphasize the importance of comprehensive behavioural testing, including non-motor functions, to enhance the translational value of preclinical animal models of MS. Moreover, shipment stress of laboratory animals should be considered a necessary variable in preclinical MS research. The consideration of cumulative lifetime stresses provides a new perspective of MS pathogenesis within a personalized medicine framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamshid Faraji
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada.
| | - Dennis Bettenson
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - V Wee Yong
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Gerlinde A S Metz
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada; Southern Alberta Genome Sciences Centre, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada.
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10
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Kessler RR, Schiml PA, McGraw SM, Tomlin EN, Hoeferlin MJ, Deak T, Hennessy MB. Examination of the role of adrenergic receptor stimulation in the sensitization of neuroinflammatory-based depressive-like behavior in isolated Guinea pig pups. Stress 2023; 26:2239366. [PMID: 37529896 PMCID: PMC10421631 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2023.2239366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-life attachment disruption appears to sensitize neuroinflammatory signaling to increase later vulnerability for stress-related mental disorders, including depression. How stress initiates this process is unknown, but studies with adult rats and mice suggest sympathetic nervous system activation and/or cortisol elevations during the early stress are key. Guinea pig pups isolated from their mothers exhibit an initial active behavioral phase characterized by anxiety-like vocalizing. This is followed by inflammatory-dependent depressive-like behavior and fever that sensitize on repeated isolation. Using strategies that have been successful in adult studies, we assessed whether sympathetic nervous system activity and cortisol contributed to the sensitization process in guinea pig pups. In Experiment 1, the adrenergic agonist ephedrine (3 or 10 mg/kg), either alone or with cortisol (2.5 mg/kg), did not increase depressive-like behavior or fever during initial isolation the following day as might have been expected to if this stimulation was sufficient to account for the sensitization process. In Experiment 2, both depressive-like behavior and fever sensitized with repeated isolation, but beta-adrenergic receptor blockade with propranolol (10 or 20 mg/kg) did not affect either of these responses or their sensitization. The high dose of propranolol did, however, reduce vocalizing. These results suggest sympathetic nervous system activation is neither necessary nor sufficient to induce the presumptive neuroinflammatory signaling underlying sensitization of depressive-like behavioral or febrile responses in developing guinea pigs. Thus, processes mediating sensitization of neuroinflammatory-based depressive-like behavior following early-life attachment disruption in this model appear to differ from those previously found to underlie neuroinflammatory priming in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel R. Kessler
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, Dayton OH, 45435, United States
| | - Patricia A. Schiml
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, Dayton OH, 45435, United States
| | - Sean M. McGraw
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, Dayton OH, 45435, United States
| | - Erin N. Tomlin
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, Dayton OH, 45435, United States
| | - Mikayla J. Hoeferlin
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, Dayton OH, 45435, United States
| | - Terrence Deak
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902, United States
| | - Michael B. Hennessy
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, Dayton OH, 45435, United States
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11
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Stupart O, Robbins TW, Dalley JW. "The wrong tools for the right job": a critical meta-analysis of traditional tests to assess behavioural impacts of maternal separation. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:2239-2256. [PMID: 36418564 PMCID: PMC10593619 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06275-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Unconditioned tasks in rodents have been the mainstay of behavioural assessment for decades, but their validity and sensitivity to detect the behavioural consequences of early life stress (ELS) remains contentious and highly variable. OBJECTIVES In the present study, we carried out a meta-analysis to investigate whether persistent behavioural effects, as assessed using unconditioned procedures in rats, are a reliable consequence of early repeated maternal separation, a commonly used procedure in rodents to study ELS. METHODS A literature search identified 100 studies involving maternally separated rats and the following unconditioned procedures: the elevated plus maze (EPM); open field test (OFT); sucrose preference test (SPT) and forced swim task (FST). Studies were included for analysis if the separation of offspring from the dam was at least 60 min every day during the pre-weaning period prior to the start of adolescence. RESULTS Our findings show that unconditioned tasks are generally poor at consistently demonstrating differences between control and separated groups with pooled effect sizes that were either small or non-existent (EPM: Hedge's g = - 0.35, p = 0.01, OFT: Hedge's g = - 0.32, p = 0.05, SPT: Hedge's g = - 0.33, p = 0.21, FST: Hedge's g = 0.99, p = 0.0001). Despite considerable procedural variability between studies, heterogeneity statistics were low; indicating the lack of standardization in the maternal separation protocol was the not the cause of these inconsistent effects. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that in general, unconditioned tests of depression and anxiety are not sufficient to reveal the full behavioural repertoire of maternal separation stress should not be relied upon in isolation. We argue that more objective tasks that sensitively detect specific cognitive processes are better suited for translational research on stress-related disorders such as depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Stupart
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Trevor W Robbins
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Jeffrey W Dalley
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry, Hershel Smith Building for Brain and Mind Sciences, Cambridge, CB2 OSZ, UK.
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK.
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12
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Minjoz S, Sinniger V, Hot P, Bonaz B, Pellissier S. The burden of early life stress in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. J Health Psychol 2023; 28:1204-1216. [PMID: 37203800 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231173918] [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] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of early life stress (ELS) in a population with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and to estimate its burden on mental, physical, and digestive health. Ninety-three participants with IBD were asked to anonymously complete questionnaires (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form, Early Life Event Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Ways of Coping Checklist, Gastro-Intestinal Quality of Life Index questionnaire, and ad hoc questions about symptoms). The prevalence of patients with IBD who were exposed to at least one childhood abuse was 53%. Mental health and quality of life were significantly poorer in patients with IBD who were exposed to early abuse than in those who were not. Patients exposed to ELS had also more digestive perturbations and fatigue. These results suggest that early abuse should be considered a component of IBD care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Séphora Minjoz
- Université Savoie Mont Blanc, Université Grenoble Alpes, LIP/PC2S, France
- Université Savoie Mont Blanc, Université Grenoble Alpes, LPNC, France
| | - Valérie Sinniger
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, CHU Grenoble Alpes, France
| | - Pascal Hot
- Université Savoie Mont Blanc, Université Grenoble Alpes, LPNC, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, France
| | - Bruno Bonaz
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, CHU Grenoble Alpes, France
| | - Sonia Pellissier
- Université Savoie Mont Blanc, Université Grenoble Alpes, LIP/PC2S, France
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13
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Edwards PT, Soni KG, Conner ME, Fowler SW, Foong JPP, Stavely R, Cheng LS, Preidis GA. Site-specific pathophysiology in a neonatal mouse model of gastroparesis. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2023; 35:e14676. [PMID: 37772676 PMCID: PMC11023621 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-life events impact maturation of the gut microbiome, enteric nervous system, and gastrointestinal motility. We examined three regions of gastric tissue to determine how maternal separation and gut microbes influence the structure and motor function of specific regions of the neonatal mouse stomach. METHODS Germ-free and conventionally housed C57BL/6J mouse pups underwent timed maternal separation (TmSep) or nursed uninterrupted (controls) until 14 days of life. We assessed gastric emptying by quantifying the progression of gavaged fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran. With isolated rings of forestomach, corpus, and antrum, we measured tone and contractility by force transduction, gastric wall thickness by light microscopy, and myenteric plexus neurochemistry by whole-mount immunostaining. KEY RESULTS Regional gastric sampling revealed site-specific differences in contractile patterns and myenteric plexus structure. In neonatal mice, TmSep prolonged gastric emptying. In the forestomach, TmSep increased contractile responses to carbachol, decreased muscularis externa and mucosa thickness, and increased the relative proportion of myenteric plexus nNOS+ neurons. Germ-free conditions did not appreciably alter the structure or function of the neonatal mouse stomach and did not impact the changes caused by TmSep. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES A regional sampling approach facilitates site-specific investigations of murine gastric motor physiology and histology to identify site-specific alterations that may impact gastrointestinal function. Delayed gastric emptying in TmSep is associated with a thinner muscle wall, exaggerated cholinergic contractile responses, and increased proportions of inhibitory myenteric plexus nNOS+ neurons in the forestomach. Gut microbes do not profoundly affect the development of the neonatal mouse stomach or the gastric pathophysiology that results from TmSep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Price T. Edwards
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krishnakant G. Soni
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Margaret E. Conner
- Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Department of Education, Innovation and Technology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie W. Fowler
- Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Department of Education, Innovation and Technology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jaime P. P. Foong
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lily S. Cheng
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children’s Surgical Oncology Program, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Geoffrey A. Preidis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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14
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Trofimova I. Anticipatory attractors, functional neurochemistry and "Throw & Catch" mechanisms as illustrations of constructivism. Rev Neurosci 2023; 34:737-762. [PMID: 36584323 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2022-0120] [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: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This review explores several rarely discussed examples illustrating constructivism principles, generative and selective features of neuronal regulation of behaviour. First, the review highlights Walter Freeman's experiments and mathematical analysis that uncovered the existence of anticipatory attractors, i.e. non-random dynamical patterns in neurodynamics. Since Freeman's work did not extend to neurochemistry, this paper then points to the proposed earlier neurochemical framework summarizing the managerial roles of monoaminergic, cholinergic and opioid receptor systems likely contributing to anticipatory attractors in line with functional constructivism. As a third example, neurochemistry's evidence points to the "Throw & Catch" (T&C) principle in neurodynamics. This principle refers to the pro-active, neurochemically expensive, massive but topical increase of potentials ("Throw") within electrodynamics and neurotransmission in the brain whenever there is an uncertainty in selection of degrees of freedom (DFs). The T&C also underlines the relay-like processes during the selection of DFs. The "Throw" works as an internally generated "flashlight" that, contrarily to the expectations of entropy reduction, increases entropy and variance observed in processes related to orientation and action-formation. The discussed examples highlight the deficiency of structures-oriented projects and excitation-inhibition concepts in neuroscience. The neural regulation of behaviour appears to be a fluid, constructive process, constantly upgrading the choice of behavioural DFs, to ensure the compatibility between the environmental and individual's individuals' needs and capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Trofimova
- Laboratory of Collective Intelligence, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton L8S 2T6, ON, Canada
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15
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Schmidt R, Welzel B, Löscher W. Effects of season, daytime, sex, and stress on the incidence, latency, frequency, severity, and duration of neonatal seizures in a rat model of birth asphyxia. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 147:109415. [PMID: 37729684 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal seizures are common in newborn infants after birth asphyxia. They occur more frequently in male than female neonates, but it is not known whether sex also affects seizure severity or duration. Furthermore, although stress and diurnal, ultradian, circadian, or multidien cycles are known to affect epileptic seizures in adults, their potential impact on neonatal seizures is not understood. This prompted us to examine the effects of season, daytime, sex, and stress on neonatal seizures in a rat model of birth asphyxia. Seizures monitored in 176 rat pups exposed to asphyxia on 40 experimental days performed over 3 years were evaluated. All rat pups exhibited seizures when exposed to asphyxia at postnatal day 11 (P11), which in terms of cortical development corresponds to term human babies. A first examination of these data indicated a seasonal variation, with the highest seizure severity in the spring. Sex and daytime did not affect seizure characteristics. However, when rat pups were subdivided into animals that were exposed to acute (short-term) stress after asphyxia (restraint and i.p. injection of vehicle) and animals that were not exposed to this stress, the seizures in stress-exposed rats were more severe but less frequent. Acute stress induced an increase in hippocampal microglia density in sham-exposed rat pups, which may have an additive effect on microglia activation induced by asphyxia. When seasonal data were separately analyzed for stress-exposed vs. non-stress-exposed rat pups, no significant seasonal variation was observed. This study illustrates that without a detailed analysis of all factors, the data would have erroneously indicated significant seasonal variability in the severity of neonatal seizures. Instead, the study demonstrates that even mild, short-lasting postnatal stress has a profound effect on asphyxia-induced seizures, most likely by increasing the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. It will be interesting to examine how postnatal stress affects the treatment and adverse outcomes of birth asphyxia and neonatal seizures in the rat model used here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Schmidt
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover, Germany
| | - Björn Welzel
- Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover, Germany; Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, NIFE, Department of Experimental Otology of the ENT Clinics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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16
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Hing B, Mitchell SB, Eberle M, Filali Y, Hultman I, Matkovich M, Kasturirangan M, Wyche W, Jimenez A, Velamuri R, Johnson M, Srivastava S, Hultman R. Single Cell Transcriptome of Stress Vulnerability Network in mouse Prefrontal Cortex. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.14.540705. [PMID: 37662266 PMCID: PMC10473598 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.14.540705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Increased vulnerability to stress is a major risk factor for the manifestation of several mood disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD). Despite the status of MDD as a significant donor to global disability, the complex integration of genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the behavioral display of such disorders has made a thorough understanding of related etiology elusive. Recent developments suggest that a brain-wide network approach is needed, taking into account the complex interplay of cell types spanning multiple brain regions. Single cell RNA-sequencing technologies can provide transcriptomic profiling at the single-cell level across heterogenous samples. Furthermore, we have previously used local field potential oscillations and machine learning to identify an electrical brain network that is indicative of a predisposed vulnerability state. Thus, this study combined single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-Seq) with electrical brain network measures of the stress-vulnerable state, providing a unique opportunity to access the relationship between stress network activity and transcriptomic changes within individual cell types. We found especially high numbers of differentially expressed genes between animals with high and low stress vulnerability brain network activity in astrocytes and glutamatergic neurons but we estimated that vulnerability network activity depends most on GABAergic neurons. High vulnerability network activity included upregulation of microglia and mitochondrial and metabolic pathways, while lower vulnerability involved synaptic regulation. Genes that were differentially regulated with vulnerability network activity significantly overlapped with genes identified as having significant SNPs by human GWAS for depression. Taken together, these data provide the gene expression architecture of a previously uncharacterized stress vulnerability brain state, enabling new understanding and intervention of predisposition to stress susceptibility.
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17
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Solano JL, Menard C. A gut feeling: The stressed brain drives intestinal inflammation. Immunity 2023; 56:1709-1711. [PMID: 37557079 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Communication between the central nervous system and the periphery contributes to stress responses and mood disorders. In a recent issue of Cell, Schneider et al. report that psychological stress exacerbates gut inflammation and dysmotility by modifying enteric glia and neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- José L Solano
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Université Laval, and CERVO Brain Research Center, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Caroline Menard
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Université Laval, and CERVO Brain Research Center, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
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18
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Battista JT, Piacentino D, Schwandt ML, Lee MR, Faulkner ML, Farokhnia M, Leggio L. Investigating the relationship between early life adversity, inflammation and alcohol use. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13274. [PMID: 37186442 PMCID: PMC10214493 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Early life adversity (ELA) has long-lasting and potentially harmful effects on adult mental and physical health, including a higher likelihood of developing psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety and alcohol use disorder (AUD). It has been suggested that inflammation may play a role in linking ELA to the development of AUD. Here, we evaluated a number of predictive factors of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a key inflammatory marker, and the potential mediating role of hsCRP in the relationship between ELA and alcohol misuse in adulthood. Data was collected from participants who participated in NIAAA screening protocols between January 2013 and December 2019. In this secondary analysis, we first tested, via multiple linear regression, potential predictors of hsCRP levels among adults with AUD (N = 781) and non-AUD (N = 440) individuals. We subsequently conducted mediation analyses to evaluate the potential role of hsCRP in the relationship between early life stress and alcohol use. Regression analysis showed that stress in early life, but not childhood trauma, significantly predicted increased hsCRP levels in adulthood (p < 0.05). Additionally, a greater amount of alcohol drinking, but not a diagnosis of AUD, significantly predicted increased hsCRP levels (p < 0.05). Furthermore, hsCRP mediated the relationship between early life stress and alcohol consumption. Early life stress and heavier alcohol drinking both predicted increased hsCRP levels; however, an AUD diagnosis did not. Elevated inflammation, due to and/or predicted by greater early life stress, may contribute to the development of unhealthy alcohol use in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian T. Battista
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daria Piacentino
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA
- Center on Compulsive Behaviors, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Melanie L. Schwandt
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mary R. Lee
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Monica L. Faulkner
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mehdi Farokhnia
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA
- Center on Compulsive Behaviors, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA
- Center on Compulsive Behaviors, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Medication Development Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Division of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, USA
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19
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Farzan M, Farzan M, Amini-Khoei H, Shahrani M, Bijad E, Anjomshoa M, Shabani S. Protective effects of vanillic acid on autistic-like behaviors in a rat model of maternal separation stress: Behavioral, electrophysiological, molecular and histopathological alterations. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110112. [PMID: 37030116 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Compounds derived from herbs exhibit a range of biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. However, the exact mechanism of action of these compounds in various neurological disorders is not fully discovered yet. Herein, the present work detected the effect of Vanillic acid (VA), a widely-used flavoring agent derived from vanillin, on autistic-like behaviors to assess the probable underlying mechanisms that mediate behavioral, electrophysiological, molecular, and histopathological alterations in the rat model of maternal separation (MS) stress. Maternal separated rats were treated with VA (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg interperitoneally for 14 days). In addition, anxiety-like, autistic-like behaviors, and learning and memory impairment were evaluated using various behavioral tests. Hippocampus samples were assessed histopathologically by H&E staining. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant capacity (by the FRAP method), as well as nitrite levels, were measured in brain tissue. Moreover, gene expression of inflammatory markers (IL-1β, TLR-4, TNF-α, and NLRP3) was evaluated in the hippocampus. Electrophysiological alterations were also estimated in the hippocampus by long-term potentiation (LTP) assessments. Results showed that VA reversed the negative effects of MS on behavior. VA increased the diameter and decreased the percentage of dark neurons in the CA3 area. Accordingly, VA decreased MDA and nitrite levels and increased the antioxidant capacity in brain samples and decreased the expression of all inflammatory genes. VA treated rats showed significant improvements in all LTP parameters. This study provided evidence suggesting a possible role for VA in preventing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by regulating immune signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahour Farzan
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Mahan Farzan
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Hossein Amini-Khoei
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Shahrani
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Elham Bijad
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Maryam Anjomshoa
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Sahreh Shabani
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
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20
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Sandhu TR, Xiao B, Lawson RP. Transdiagnostic computations of uncertainty: towards a new lens on intolerance of uncertainty. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 148:105123. [PMID: 36914079 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
People radically differ in how they cope with uncertainty. Clinical researchers describe a dispositional characteristic known as "intolerance of uncertainty", a tendency to find uncertainty aversive, reported to be elevated across psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions. Concurrently, recent research in computational psychiatry has leveraged theoretical work to characterise individual differences in uncertainty processing. Under this framework, differences in how people estimate different forms of uncertainty can contribute to mental health difficulties. In this review, we briefly outline the concept of intolerance of uncertainty within its clinical context, and we argue that the mechanisms underlying this construct may be further elucidated through modelling how individuals make inferences about uncertainty. We will review the evidence linking psychopathology to different computationally specified forms of uncertainty and consider how these findings might suggest distinct mechanistic routes towards intolerance of uncertainty. We also discuss the implications of this computational approach for behavioural and pharmacological interventions, as well as the importance of different cognitive domains and subjective experiences in studying uncertainty processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Sandhu
- Department of Psychology, Downing Place, University of Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK; MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, 15 Chaucer Road, CB2 7EF, UK.
| | - Bowen Xiao
- Department of Psychology, Downing Place, University of Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Rebecca P Lawson
- Department of Psychology, Downing Place, University of Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK; MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, 15 Chaucer Road, CB2 7EF, UK
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Dutcher EG, Lopez-Cruz L, Pama EAC, Lynall ME, Bevers ICR, Jones JA, Khan S, Sawiak SJ, Milton AL, Clatworthy MR, Robbins TW, Bullmore ET, Dalley JW. Early-life stress biases responding to negative feedback and increases amygdala volume and vulnerability to later-life stress. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:81. [PMID: 36882404 PMCID: PMC9992709 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02385-7] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) or adversity, particularly in the form of childhood neglect and abuse, is associated with poor mental and physical health outcomes in adulthood. However, whether these relationships are mediated by the consequences of ELS itself or by other exposures that frequently co-occur with ELS is unclear. To address this question, we carried out a longitudinal study in rats to isolate the effects of ELS on regional brain volumes and behavioral phenotypes relevant to anxiety and depression. We used the repeated maternal separation (RMS) model of chronic ELS, and conducted behavioral measurements throughout adulthood, including of probabilistic reversal learning (PRL), responding on a progressive ratio task, sucrose preference, novelty preference, novelty reactivity, and putative anxiety-like behavior on the elevated plus maze. Our behavioral assessment was combined with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for quantitation of regional brain volumes at three time points: immediately following RMS, young adulthood without further stress, and late adulthood with further stress. We found that RMS caused long-lasting, sexually dimorphic biased responding to negative feedback on the PRL task. RMS also slowed response time on the PRL task, but without this directly impacting task performance. RMS animals were also uniquely sensitive to a second stressor, which disproportionately impaired their performance and slowed their responding on the PRL task. MRI at the time of the adult stress revealed a larger amygdala volume in RMS animals compared with controls. These behavioral and neurobiological effects persisted well into adulthood despite a lack of effects on conventional tests of 'depression-like' and 'anxiety-like' behavior, and a lack of any evidence of anhedonia. Our findings indicate that ELS has long-lasting cognitive and neurobehavioral effects that interact with stress in adulthood and may have relevance for understanding the etiology of anxiety and depression in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan G Dutcher
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Laura Lopez-Cruz
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - E A Claudia Pama
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Mary-Ellen Lynall
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SZ, UK
- Molecular Immunity Unit, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 OQH, UK
| | - Iris C R Bevers
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, 6525 XZ, The Netherlands
| | - Jolyon A Jones
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Shahid Khan
- GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Stephen J Sawiak
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EL, UK
- Wolfson Brain Imaging Centre, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Amy L Milton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Menna R Clatworthy
- Molecular Immunity Unit, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 OQH, UK
| | - Trevor W Robbins
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Edward T Bullmore
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SZ, UK
| | - Jeffrey W Dalley
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SZ, UK.
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Solarz A, Majcher-Maślanka I, Kryst J, Chocyk A. Early-life stress affects peripheral, blood-brain barrier, and brain responses to immune challenge in juvenile and adult rats. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 108:1-15. [PMID: 36400335 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) may affect brain maturation and neuroimmune interactions and, consequently, the inflammatory response to subsequent environmental factors later in life. Recently, the coexistence of blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and inflammation has been implicated in the etiology and progression of mental and/or neurodegenerative diseases. There are sex differences in the prevalence and outcomes of these disorders. The number of studies reporting the effects of ELS and sex on BBB functioning and neuroinflammatory processes in response to immune challenge is very limited, and the data are inconsistent. In the present study, we examined whether ELS, based on the maternal separation (MS) paradigm in rats, can condition male and female subjects to subsequent lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced immune challenge in juvenility or adulthood. Twenty-four hours after acute LPS injection, serum proinflammatory cytokines were measured, and BBB permeability in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus (HP) was evaluated. Additionally, the mRNA expression of neuroinflammatory markers and BBB-related genes was also studied. We found that a single LPS challenge induced a proinflammatory response both in the periphery and in the mPFC and HP and increased BBB permeability in a sex-dependent fashion. Moreover, MS enhanced the neuroinflammatory response to LPS challenge in males (especially juveniles), whereas MS females showed no difference or a blunted central response to LPS compared with control females, mainly during adulthood. These results suggest that ELS may precondition individuals to subsequent environmental factors later in life in a sex-specific manner and potentially determine their susceptibility or resilience to mental and/or neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Solarz
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Smętna Street 12, Poland
| | - Iwona Majcher-Maślanka
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Smętna Street 12, Poland
| | - Joanna Kryst
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Smętna Street 12, Poland; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute for Basics Sciences, Faculty of Physiotherapy, University of Physical Education, Jana Pawła II Av. 78, 31-571 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Chocyk
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Smętna Street 12, Poland.
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23
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Points of divergence on a bumpy road: early development of brain and immune threat processing systems following postnatal adversity. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:269-283. [PMID: 35705633 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01658-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Lifelong indices of maladaptive behavior or illness often stem from early physiological aberrations during periods of dynamic development. This is especially true when dysfunction is attributable to early life adversity (ELA), when the environment itself is unsuitable to support development of healthy behavior. Exposure to ELA is strongly associated with atypical sensitivity and responsivity to potential threats-a characteristic that could be adaptive in situations where early adversity prepares individuals for lifelong danger, but which often manifests in difficulties with emotion regulation and social relationships. By synthesizing findings from animal research, this review will consider threat sensitivity through the lenses of associated corticolimbic brain circuitry and immune mechanisms, both of which are immature early in life to maximize adaptation for protection against environmental challenges to an individual's well-being. The forces that drive differential development of corticolimbic circuits include caretaking stimuli, physiological and psychological stressors, and sex, which influences developmental trajectories. These same forces direct developmental processes of the immune system, which bidirectionally communicates with sensory systems and emotion regulation circuits within the brain. Inflammatory signals offer a further force influencing the timing and nature of corticolimbic plasticity, while also regulating sensitivity to future threats from the environment (i.e., injury or pathogens). The early development of these systems programs threat sensitivity through juvenility and adolescence, carving paths for probable function throughout adulthood. To strategize prevention or management of maladaptive threat sensitivity in ELA-exposed populations, it is necessary to fully understand these early points of divergence.
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Münz F, Wolfschmitt EM, Zink F, Abele N, Hogg M, Hoffmann A, Gröger M, Calzia E, Waller C, Radermacher P, Merz T. Porcine blood cell and brain tissue energy metabolism: Effects of "early life stress". Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1113570. [PMID: 37138659 PMCID: PMC10150084 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1113570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Early Life Stress (ELS) may exert long-lasting biological effects, e.g., on PBMC energy metabolism and mitochondrial respiration. Data on its effect on brain tissue mitochondrial respiration is scarce, and it is unclear whether blood cell mitochondrial activity mirrors that of brain tissue. This study investigated blood immune cell and brain tissue mitochondrial respiratory activity in a porcine ELS model. Methods: This prospective randomized, controlled, animal investigation comprised 12 German Large White swine of either sex, which were weaned at PND (postnatal day) 28-35 (control) or PND21 (ELS). At 20-24 weeks, animals were anesthetized, mechanically ventilated and surgically instrumented. We determined serum hormone, cytokine, and "brain injury marker" levels, superoxide anion (O2 •¯) formation and mitochondrial respiration in isolated immune cells and immediate post mortem frontal cortex brain tissue. Results: ELS animals presented with higher glucose levels, lower mean arterial pressure. Most determined serum factors did not differ. In male controls, TNFα and IL-10 levels were both higher than in female controls as well as, no matter the gender in ELS animals. MAP-2, GFAP, and NSE were also higher in male controls than in the other three groups. Neither PBMC routine respiration and brain tissue oxidative phosphorylation nor maximal electron transfer capacity in the uncoupled state (ETC) showed any difference between ELS and controls. There was no significant relation between brain tissue and PBMC, ETC, or brain tissue, ETC, and PBMC bioenergetic health index. Whole blood O2 •¯ concentrations and PBMC O2 •¯ production were comparable between groups. However, granulocyte O2 •¯ production after stimulation with E. coli was lower in the ELS group, and this effect was sex-specific: increased O2 •¯ production increased upon stimulation in all control animals, which was abolished in the female ELS swine. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that ELS i) may, gender-specifically, affect the immune response to general anesthesia as well as O2 •¯ radical production at sexual maturity, ii) has limited effects on brain and peripheral blood immune cell mitochondrial respiratory activity, and iii) mitochondrial respiratory activity of peripheral blood immune cells and brain tissue do not correlate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Münz
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- Clinic for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Wolfschmitt
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Fabian Zink
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Nadja Abele
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Melanie Hogg
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Andrea Hoffmann
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael Gröger
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Enrico Calzia
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christiane Waller
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Nuremberg General Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Peter Radermacher
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tamara Merz
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- Clinic for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- *Correspondence: Tamara Merz,
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25
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McMurray KMJ, Sah R. Neuroimmune mechanisms in fear and panic pathophysiology. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1015349. [PMID: 36523875 PMCID: PMC9745203 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1015349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Panic disorder (PD) is unique among anxiety disorders in that the emotional symptoms (e.g., fear and anxiety) associated with panic are strongly linked to body sensations indicative of threats to physiological homeostasis. For example, panic attacks often present with feelings of suffocation that evoke hyperventilation, breathlessness, or air hunger. Due to the somatic underpinnings of PD, a major focus has been placed on interoceptive signaling and it is recognized that dysfunctional body-to-brain communication pathways promote the initiation and maintenance of PD symptomatology. While body-to-brain signaling can occur via several pathways, immune and humoral pathways play an important role in communicating bodily physiological state to the brain. Accumulating evidence suggests that neuroimmune mediators play a role in fear and panic-associated disorders, although this has not been systematically investigated. Currently, our understanding of the role of immune mechanisms in the etiology and maintenance of PD remains limited. In the current review, we attempt to summarize findings that support a role of immune dysregulation in PD symptomology. We compile evidence from human studies and panic-relevant rodent paradigms that indicate a role of systemic and brain immune signaling in the regulation of fear and panic-relevant behavior and physiology. Specifically, we discuss how immune signaling can contribute to maladaptive body-to-brain communication and conditioned fear that are relevant to spontaneous and conditioned symptoms of PD and identify putative avenues warranting future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M. J. McMurray
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Renu Sah
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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26
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Mahony C, O'Ryan C. A molecular framework for autistic experiences: Mitochondrial allostatic load as a mediator between autism and psychopathology. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:985713. [PMID: 36506457 PMCID: PMC9732262 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.985713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular autism research is evolving toward a biopsychosocial framework that is more informed by autistic experiences. In this context, research aims are moving away from correcting external autistic behaviors and toward alleviating internal distress. Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASCs) are associated with high rates of depression, suicidality and other comorbid psychopathologies, but this relationship is poorly understood. Here, we integrate emerging characterizations of internal autistic experiences within a molecular framework to yield insight into the prevalence of psychopathology in ASC. We demonstrate that descriptions of social camouflaging and autistic burnout resonate closely with the accepted definitions for early life stress (ELS) and chronic adolescent stress (CAS). We propose that social camouflaging could be considered a distinct form of CAS that contributes to allostatic overload, culminating in a pathophysiological state that is experienced as autistic burnout. Autistic burnout is thought to contribute to psychopathology via psychological and physiological mechanisms, but these remain largely unexplored by molecular researchers. Building on converging fields in molecular neuroscience, we discuss the substantial evidence implicating mitochondrial dysfunction in ASC to propose a novel role for mitochondrial allostatic load in the relationship between autism and psychopathology. An interplay between mitochondrial, neuroimmune and neuroendocrine signaling is increasingly implicated in stress-related psychopathologies, and these molecular players are also associated with neurodevelopmental, neurophysiological and neurochemical aspects of ASC. Together, this suggests an increased exposure and underlying molecular susceptibility to ELS that increases the risk of psychopathology in ASC. This article describes an integrative framework shaped by autistic experiences that highlights novel avenues for molecular research into mechanisms that directly affect the quality of life and wellbeing of autistic individuals. Moreover, this framework emphasizes the need for increased access to diagnoses, accommodations, and resources to improve mental health outcomes in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colleen O'Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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27
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Faraji J, Gustafson C, Bettenson D, Negoro H, Yong VW, Metz GAS. Bladder dysfunction in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis reflects clinical severity: A pilot study. J Neuroimmunol 2022; 372:577973. [PMID: 36209613 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577973] [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: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is commonly associated with bladder dysfunction resulting in a progressive loss of voluntary control for urination over time. Here, we used the voided stain on paper (VSOP) method to investigate bladder function in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of MS. Using the VSOP test, we show that bladder dysfunction reflects pro-inflammatory processes of EAE and severity of clinical EAE symptoms, as characterized by increased urine voided volume per micturition (UVVM) on post-induction day 7 and decreased UVVM on post-induction day 14. The UVVM was closely related to a clinical disease index of EAE symptoms and plasma granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) cytokine levels. UVVM was also sensitive to early life stress caused by animal transportation, which diminished UVVM at the peak of symptoms on post-induction day 14 in EAE mice. The results indicate that symptoms and progression of EAE can be reliably measured by VSOP as a non-motor function assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamshid Faraji
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada.
| | - Connor Gustafson
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Dennis Bettenson
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Hiromitsu Negoro
- Department of Urology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - V Wee Yong
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Gerlinde A S Metz
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada; Southern Alberta Genome Sciences Centre, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada.
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28
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Smiley CE, Wood SK. Stress- and drug-induced neuroimmune signaling as a therapeutic target for comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 239:108212. [PMID: 35580690 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Stress and substance use disorders remain two of the most highly prevalent psychiatric conditions and are often comorbid. While individually these conditions have a debilitating impact on the patient and a high cost to society, the symptomology and treatment outcomes are further exacerbated when they occur together. As such, there are few effective treatment options for these patients, and recent investigation has sought to determine the neural processes underlying the co-occurrence of these disorders to identify novel treatment targets. One such mechanism that has been linked to stress- and addiction-related conditions is neuroimmune signaling. Increases in inflammatory factors across the brain have been heavily implicated in the etiology of these disorders, and this review seeks to determine the nature of this relationship. According to the "dual-hit" hypothesis, also referred to as neuroimmune priming, prior exposure to either stress or drugs of abuse can sensitize the neuroimmune system to be hyperresponsive when exposed to these insults in the future. This review completes an examination of the literature surrounding stress-induced increases in inflammation across clinical and preclinical studies along with a summarization of the evidence regarding drug-induced alterations in inflammatory factors. These changes in neuroimmune profiles are also discussed within the context of their impact on the neural circuitry responsible for stress responsiveness and addictive behaviors. Further, this review explores the connection between neuroimmune signaling and susceptibility to these conditions and highlights the anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapies that may be used for the treatment of stress and substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cora E Smiley
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience; University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America; WJB Dorn Veterans Administration Medical Center, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America.
| | - Susan K Wood
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience; University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America; WJB Dorn Veterans Administration Medical Center, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America.
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29
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Sex-specific effects of neonatal paternal deprivation on microglial cell density in adult California mouse (Peromyscus californicus) dentate gyrus. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 106:1-10. [PMID: 35908654 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.07.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adverse early-life experiences are risk factors for psychiatric disease development, resulting in stress-related neuronal modeling and neurobehavioral changes. Stressful experiences modulate the immune system, contributing to neuronal damage in higher cortical regions, like the hippocampus. Moreover, early-life stressors dysregulate the function of microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, in the developing hippocampus. Paternal deprivation, an early-life stressor in many biparental species, facilitates sex-dependent inhibitions in hippocampal plasticity, but parental contributors to these sex-specific outcomes are unknown. Also, neurobiological mechanisms contributing to impairments in hippocampal neuroplasticity are less known. Thus, our goals were to 1) determine whether parental behavior is altered in maternal females following removal of the paternal male, 2) assess the effects of paternal deprivation on dentate gyrus (DG) volume and microglia proliferation, and 3) determine if early-life experimental handling mitigates sex-specific reductions in DG cell survival. California mice were born to multiparous breeders and reared by both parents (biparental care) or by their mother alone (i.e., father removed on postnatal day 1; paternal deprivation). One cohort of offspring underwent offspring retrieval tests for eight days beginning on postnatal day 2. On PND 68, these offspring (and a second cohort of mice without behavioral testing) were euthanized and brains visualized for bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and neuron-specific class III beta-tubulin (TuJ-1) or ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1). While mate absence did not impair maternal retrieval, paternal deprivation reduced DG volume, but Iba1+ cell density was only higher in paternally-deprived females. Neither sex or paternal deprivation significantly altered the number of BrdU+ or Tuj1+ cells in the DG - an absence of a reduction in cell survival may be related to daily handing during early offspring retrieval tests. Together, these data suggest that paternal deprivation impairs hippocampal plasticity; however, sex and early environment may influence the magnitude of these outcomes.
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30
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Jeon D, Kim S, Choi J, Yang AR, Lee SK, Chu K. Chronic social stress during early development is involved in antisocial maltreatment behavior in mice. ENCEPHALITIS 2022; 2:98-107. [PMID: 37469995 PMCID: PMC10295919 DOI: 10.47936/encephalitis.2022.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Early-life stress can cause brain inflammation and affect social behavior in adulthood. In humans, maltreated (abused or neglected) children often exhibit antisocial behavior, including violent and sadistic behavior, in adulthood. However, it is unknown whether maltreatment behavior occurs in rodents. Here, we developed an assay system to evaluate conspecific maltreatment behavior in the mouse. Methods To assess maltreatment behavior, we devised a two-chamber apparatus separated by a transparent partition, in which one chamber was provided with a nose-poking hole that would trigger foot shocks onto the other. Lidocaine was used to inhibit neural activity in vivo. Brain oscillations were investigated by electroencephalograph. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used for protein assay. The mouse model was sequentially subjected to maternal separation (MS), social defeat (SD), and social isolation (SI) in that order (MS/SD/SI model). Results Inactivation of the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex increased the level of nose-poking. Maltreatment behavior provoked changes in oxytocin, corticosterone, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels. MS/SD/SI mice exhibited more sustained nose-poking behavior during the experiment, resulting in increased foot shocks to the mouse in the opposite chamber. Abnormal brain oscillations were observed in the MS/SD/SI mice. Conclusion The MS/SD/SI model and maltreatment-behavior assay may be useful not only to study the relationship between social stress in childhood and antisocial behavior in adulthood, but also for study of etiology, pathology, or treatment for brain disorders, such as psychopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sangwoo Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiye Choi
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Ah Reum Yang
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Kun Lee
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kon Chu
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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31
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Naudé PJW, Pariante C, Hoffman N, Koopowitz SM, Donald KA, Zar HJ, Stein DJ. Antenatal maternal depression, early life inflammation and neurodevelopment in a South African birth cohort. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 105:160-168. [PMID: 35803482 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antenatal exposure to maternal psychological adversity, including depression, increases the risk of impaired neurodevelopment in children. The underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear, especially in early life during critical windows of development and maturation. This study investigated the association of antenatal maternal depression, maternal and early life inflammatory markers and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children at 2 years of age. METHODS A subgroup of mothers and their children (n = 255) that were enrolled in a South African birth cohort study, the Drakenstein Child Health Study, were followed from the antenatal period through to 2 years of child age. Maternal depressive symptoms were measured by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) at 26 weeks gestation. Serum inflammatory markers [granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)] were measured in mothers at enrolment and in their children at 6-10 weeks and at 2 years. Neurodevelopment was assessed at 2 years using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development III. RESULTS Antenatal depressive symptoms (present in 25% of the mothers) were significantly associated with higher levels of IL-7 (p = 0.008), IL-8 (p = 0.019) and TNF-α (p = 0.031) in the mothers after correcting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Serum IL-1β and NGAL levels were significantly elevated over time in children born to mothers with depressive symptoms compared to those without depression, after controlling for maternal and child health and sociodemographic factors. Elevated infant IL-1β at 6-10 weeks of age partially mediated the association of maternal depressive symptoms with poorer language scores at 2 years. CONCLUSION Alterations in early life immunity, as reflected by elevated IL-1β, is a potential pathway through which antenatal maternal depressive symptoms may impact language development in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petrus J W Naudé
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa; Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Carmine Pariante
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - Nadia Hoffman
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Kirsten A Donald
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Heather J Zar
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa; SA-MRC Unit on Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa; Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, South Africa; SU/UCT MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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Ji NN, Xia M. Enriched environment alleviates adolescent visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors induced by neonatal maternal separation. Transl Pediatr 2022; 11:1398-1407. [PMID: 36072545 PMCID: PMC9442205 DOI: 10.21037/tp-22-410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal maternal separation (NMS), a major kind of early life stress, increases the risk of visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in adulthood. An enriched environment (EE) has been shown to successfully rescue the brain from various early life psychological stressors. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether NMS induces visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in adolescents and to evaluate the impact of EE in infancy on these symptoms. METHODS Male C57BL/6 J mice that had been subjected to NMS were used in this study. The visceral pain threshold test (PTT), open field test (OFT), and sucrose preference test (SPT) were conducted to evaluate visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in mice, respectively. An enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β, (IL-1β), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) was performed to assess neuroinflammatory responses. Then, the effects of EE (free-turning running wheels, pipes, stairs, and various colored ocean balls, etc.) on NMS-induced behaviors and neuroinflammatory factors were examined. RESULTS The impacts of NMS included adolescent visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), basolateral amygdala (BLA), and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were biased towards pro-inflammatory features. Further, EE alleviated adolescent visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. The application of EE up-regulated the expression of IL-10, and down-regulated the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α in mPFC, BLA, and PVN. CONCLUSIONS The effects of NMS include adolescent visceral pain, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, accompanied by an imbalance of neuroinflammation. Intervention with EE in pediatric mice relieved these symptoms by reducing neuroinflammation in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning-Ning Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ming Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Effects of early life stress on brain cytokines: A systematic review and meta-analysis of rodent studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 139:104746. [PMID: 35716876 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to early life stress (ELS) may lead to long-lasting neurobiological and behavioral impairments. Alterations in the immune system and neuroinflammatory state induced by ELS exposure are considered risk factors for developing psychiatric disorders. Here, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of rodent studies investigating the short and long-term effects of ELS exposure on anti and pro-inflammatory cytokines in brain tissues. Our analysis shows that animals exposed to ELS present an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. On the other hand, no alteration was observed in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Meta-regression revealed that alterations were more prominent in the hippocampus of adult animals that were exposed to more extended periods of ELS. These inflammatory effects were not permanent since few alterations were identified in aged animals. Our findings suggest that ELS exposure alters pro-inflammatory cytokines expression and may act as a primer for a secondary challenge that may induce lifelong immune alterations. Moreover, the actual evidence is insufficient to comprehend the relationship between anti-inflammatory cytokines and ELS fully.
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Srivastava RK, Lutz B, Ruiz de Azua I. The Microbiome and Gut Endocannabinoid System in the Regulation of Stress Responses and Metabolism. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:867267. [PMID: 35634468 PMCID: PMC9130962 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.867267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, with its receptors and ligands, is present in the gut epithelium and enteroendocrine cells, and is able to modulate brain functions, both indirectly through circulating gut-derived factors and directly through the vagus nerve, finally acting on the brain’s mechanisms regarding metabolism and behavior. The gut endocannabinoid system also regulates gut motility, permeability, and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, microbiota composition has been shown to influence the activity of the endocannabinoid system. This review examines the interaction between microbiota, intestinal endocannabinoid system, metabolism, and stress responses. We hypothesize that the crosstalk between microbiota and intestinal endocannabinoid system has a prominent role in stress-induced changes in the gut-brain axis affecting metabolic and mental health. Inter-individual differences are commonly observed in stress responses, but mechanisms underlying resilience and vulnerability to stress are far from understood. Both gut microbiota and the endocannabinoid system have been implicated in stress resilience. We also discuss interventions targeting the microbiota and the endocannabinoid system to mitigate metabolic and stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Kamal Srivastava
- Department of Zoology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Anuppur, India
- *Correspondence: Raj Kamal Srivastava,
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), Mainz, Germany
| | - Inigo Ruiz de Azua
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), Mainz, Germany
- Inigo Ruiz de Azua,
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Chang B, Liu Y, Hu J, Tang Z, Qiu Z, Song Z, Jia A, Zhang Y. Bupleurum chinense DC improves CUMS-induced depressive symptoms in rats through upregulation of the cAMP/PKA/CREB signalling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 289:115034. [PMID: 35092825 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Bupleurum chinense DC. (B. chinense) is the dried root of B. chinense, belonging to the Umbelliferae family. B. chinense has been reported since ancient times for its effect of soothing the liver and relieving depression. Additionally, its important role in treating depression, depressed mood disorders and anti-inflammation has been proven in previous studies. However, its specific mechanism of action remains unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY The key targets and metabolites of the antidepressant effect of B. chinense were investigated based on the cAMP signalling pathway. The study examined the mechanism for the antidepressant effect of B. chinense by target prediction, analysis of related metabolites and potential metabolic pathways. MATERIALS AND METHODS A network pharmacology approach was used to predict the antidepressant targets and pathways of B. chinense. A depression rat model was established through the CUMS (chronic unpredictable mild stress) procedure. The depression model was assessed by body weight, sugar-water preference, water maze and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) indicators (5hydroxytryptamine, etc.). The key metabolic pathways were screened by correlations between metabolites and key targets. Finally, a quantitative analysis of key targets and metabolites was experimentally validated. RESULTS B. chinense significantly ameliorated the reduction in body weight, sugar-water preference rate and cognitive performance in the water maze experiment in rats with depression induced by CUMS. ELISA, Western blotting (WB) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays showed that B. chinense significantly improves the expression of protein kinase cyclic adenylic acid (cAMP)-activated catalytic subunit alpha (PRKACA), cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) and cAMP activation in the rat brain induced by CUMS. According to metabolic pathway analysis, B. chinense shows an antidepressant effect primarily by regulating the cAMP metabolic pathway. CONCLUSION B. chinense upregulated PRKACA and CREB expression and the level of the key metabolite cAMP in the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway while reducing the inflammatory response to depression treatment. These new findings support future research on the antidepressant effects of B. chinense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baijin Chang
- Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, 130117, Chang Chun, PR China; Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712083, Xianyang, PR China
| | - Yanru Liu
- Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712083, Xianyang, PR China.
| | - Jingting Hu
- The Third Clinical Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, 130117, Chang chun, PR China
| | - Zhishu Tang
- Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, 130117, Chang Chun, PR China; Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712083, Xianyang, PR China; China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100700, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Zhidong Qiu
- Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, 130117, Chang Chun, PR China
| | - Zhongxing Song
- Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712083, Xianyang, PR China
| | - Ailing Jia
- Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, 130117, Chang Chun, PR China
| | - Yuru Zhang
- Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 712083, Xianyang, PR China
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Chelini G, Pangrazzi L, Bozzi Y. At the Crossroad Between Resiliency and Fragility: A Neurodevelopmental Perspective on Early-Life Experiences. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:863866. [PMID: 35465609 PMCID: PMC9023311 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.863866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Postnatal development of the brain is characterized by sensitive windows during which, local circuitry are drastically reshaped by life experiences. These critical periods (CPs) occur at different time points for different brain functions, presenting redundant physiological changes in the underlying brain regions. Although circuits malleability during CPs provides a valuable window of opportunity for adaptive fine-tuning to the living environment, this aspect of neurodevelopment also represents a phase of increased vulnerability for the development of a variety of disorders. Consistently, accumulating epidemiological studies point to adverse childhood experience as a major risk factor for many medical conditions, especially stress- and anxiety-related conditions. Thanks to creative approaches to manipulate rodents’ rearing environment, neurobiologist have uncovered a pivotal interaction between CPs and early-life experiences, offering an interesting landscape to improve our understanding of brain disorders. In this short review, we discuss how early-life experience impacts cellular and molecular players involved in CPs of development, translating into long-lasting behavioral consequences in rodents. Bringing together findings from multiple laboratories, we delineate a unifying theory in which systemic factors dynamically target the maturation of brain functions based on adaptive needs, shifting the balance between resilience and vulnerability in response to the quality of the rearing environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Chelini
- CIMeC-Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gabriele Chelini,
| | - Luca Pangrazzi
- CIMeC-Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Yuri Bozzi
- CIMeC-Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy
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Jeon D, Choi J, Yang AR, Yoo JS, Kim S, Lee SK, Chu K. Chronic social stress during early development elicits unique behavioral changes in adulthood. ENCEPHALITIS 2022; 2:45-53. [PMID: 37469652 PMCID: PMC10295912 DOI: 10.47936/encephalitis.2021.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Chronic social stress is known to induce inflammation in the brain, and early-life stress affects the brain and social behavior in adulthood. To study the relationship between social stress in childhood development and social behavior in adulthood, we subjected mice to a sequential early-life social stresses and characterized their adult behavioral phenotypes. Methods C57BL/6 mice were sequentially subjected to maternal separation (MS), social defeat (SD), and social isolation (SI) in that order. The body weights of the MS/SD/SI mice were measured. Behavioral tasks related to anxiety, depression, locomotion, learning/memory, and repetitive/compulsive-like behavior were conducted. Social behaviors suggesting sociability, social interaction, aggression, and social fear were investigated. Results MS/SD/SI mice weighed less than the control mice. At 7 and 8 weeks of age. These mice displayed normal behaviors in anxiety-, depression-, and learning/memory-related tasks, but they exhibited increased locomotor activity and a low level of repetitive/compulsive-like behavior. Notably, they exhibited increased social interaction, impaired empathy-related fear, reduced predator fear, and increased defensive aggressiveness. Conclusion Social stress during childhood development resulted in behavioral alterations, and MS/SD/SI mice generated by mimicking child abuse or maltreatment showed unique abnormalities in social behaviors. MS/SD/SI mice might be useful not only to study the relationship between social stress and brain inflammation but also psychosocial behaviors observed in individuals with brain disorders, such as psychopaths.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiye Choi
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Ah Reum Yang
- Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung-Seok Yoo
- Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sangwoo Kim
- Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Kun Lee
- Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kon Chu
- Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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Chaudhari PR, Singla A, Vaidya VA. Early Adversity and Accelerated Brain Aging: A Mini-Review. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:822917. [PMID: 35392273 PMCID: PMC8980717 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.822917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early adversity is an important risk factor that influences brain aging. Diverse animal models of early adversity, including gestational stress and postnatal paradigms disrupting dam-pup interactions evoke not only persistent neuroendocrine dysfunction and anxio-depressive behaviors, but also perturb the trajectory of healthy brain aging. The process of brain aging is thought to involve hallmark features such as mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, evoking impairments in neuronal bioenergetics. Furthermore, brain aging is associated with disrupted proteostasis, progressively defective epigenetic and DNA repair mechanisms, the build-up of neuroinflammatory states, thus cumulatively driving cellular senescence, neuronal and cognitive decline. Early adversity is hypothesized to evoke an “allostatic load” via an influence on several of the key physiological processes that define the trajectory of healthy brain aging. In this review we discuss the evidence that animal models of early adversity impinge on fundamental mechanisms of brain aging, setting up a substratum that can accelerate and compromise the time-line and nature of brain aging, and increase risk for aging-associated neuropathologies.
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Metcalf CA, Johnson RL, Novick AM, Freeman EW, Sammel MD, Anthony LG, Epperson CN. Adverse childhood experiences interact with inflammation and menopause transition stage to predict verbal memory in women. Brain Behav Immun Health 2022; 20:100411. [PMID: 35079709 PMCID: PMC8777090 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2022.100411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Women with more adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may face a triple threat of risk factors for cognitive concerns during the menopause transition: reduced estradiol, increased inflammation, and early life stress sequelae. Our objective was to determine the extent to which ACEs and peripheral basal inflammatory markers associate with verbal memory across the menopause transition. METHODS Penn Ovarian Aging cohort participants (n = 167) were assessed for ACEs (low (0-1) or high (≥2)) and had remaining stored blood samples at study end assayed for interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1-beta (IL-1β), C-reactive protein (CRP), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Annual assessment included a verbal memory test (the Buschke Selective Reminding Test) and menopause stage determination. To estimate the effects of menopause stage, ACEs, and cytokines on verbal memory, repeated cognitive outcome measures were modeled in generalized estimating equations. Covariates included body mass index, smoking, race, education, age at baseline, and baseline verbal memory performance. Cytokine levels were log-transformed. RESULTS Advancing menopause stage was associated with worse performance on immediate verbal recall and delayed verbal recall (ps < 0.001). During perimenopause, higher ACE exposure was associated with worse immediate verbal recall at higher levels of TNF-α (slope difference p = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS Inflammation may mechanistically link ACEs and verbal memory for high ACE women during perimenopause. Reducing inflammation for these individuals may have positive impact on verbal memory across the menopause transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A. Metcalf
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Rachel L. Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew M. Novick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Ellen W. Freeman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Mary D. Sammel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Laura G. Anthony
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - C. Neill Epperson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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Tan X, Zhang L, Wang D, Guan S, Lu P, Xu X, Xu H. Influence of early life stress on depression: from the perspective of neuroendocrine to the participation of gut microbiota. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:25588-25601. [PMID: 34890365 PMCID: PMC8714134 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Depression is the most common mental disorder and has become a heavy burden in modern society. Clinical studies have identified early life stress as one of the high-risk factors for increased susceptibility to depression. Alteration of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in response to stress is one of the key risk factors for depression susceptibility related to early life stress. Laboratory animal studies have demonstrated that maternal separation (MS) for extended periods elicits HPA axis changes. These changes persist into adulthood and resemble those present in depressed adult individuals, including hyperactivity of the HPA axis. In addition, there is growing evidence that inflammation plays an important role in depression susceptibility concerned with early life stress. Individuals that have experienced MS have higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and are susceptible to depression. Recently, it has been found that the gut microbiota plays an important role in regulating behavior and is also associated with depression. The translocation of gut microbiota and the change of gut microbiota composition caused by early stress may be a reason. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms by which early life stress contributes to the development of depression in terms of these factors. These studies have facilitated a systematic understanding of the pathogenesis of depression related to early life stress and will provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Tan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Longqing Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Danning Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shaodi Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Pei Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaolin Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Zhou WBS, Meng J, Zhang J. Does Low Grade Systemic Inflammation Have a Role in Chronic Pain? Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:785214. [PMID: 34858140 PMCID: PMC8631544 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.785214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the major clinical manifestations of peripheral neuropathy, either resulting from trauma or diseases, is chronic pain. While it significantly impacts patients’ quality of life, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive, and treatment is not satisfactory. Systemic chronic inflammation (SCI) that we are referring to in this perspective is a state of low-grade, persistent, non-infective inflammation, being found in many physiological and pathological conditions. Distinct from acute inflammation, which is a protective process fighting against intruders, SCI might have harmful effects. It has been associated with many chronic non-communicable diseases. We hypothesize that SCI could be a predisposing and/or precipitating factor in the development of chronic pain, as well as associated comorbidities. We reviewed evidence from human clinical studies indicating the coexistence of SCI with various types of chronic pain. We also collated existing data about the sources of SCI and who could have it, showing that those individuals or patients having SCI usually have higher prevalence of chronic pain and psychological comorbidities. We thus elaborate on the need for further research in the connection between SCI and chronic pain. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain these complex interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Bo Sam Zhou
- The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - JingWen Meng
- The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ji Zhang
- The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Liu W, Zhang A, He H, Zhao X, Tao F, Sun Y. Inflammatory burden in adolescents with prolonged parent-child separation. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 98:257-262. [PMID: 34454061 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.08.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prolonged parent-child separation is associated with a broad array of poor developmental outcomes. A potential pathway may be through changes in inflammatory processes. However, relatively little is known about the relationship between parent-child separation pattern (timing and duration) and inflammatory burden. The aim of this study was to investigate whether parent-child separation since birth is associated with inflammatory burden in adolescents. METHODS A total of 574 adolescents (mean age 12.07 years, SD: 0.62) were enrolled from rural areas of Chizhou, Anhui Province, China. Parent-child separation was reported mainly by primary caregivers, and other adverse childhood adversities (ACEs) were derived from adolescents semi-structured interview or questionnaire. Blood samples were collected from venepuncture for C-reactive protein (CRP) as well as soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR). RESULTS Nearly 40% (232/574) participants experienced parent-child separation, among which more than 1 of 4 persistently separated from both parents since birth. Both CRP and suPAR levels were significantly higher among adolescents persistently separated from both parents, compared with those who did not separate from both parents (CRP: 1.75 vs. 1.36 mg/L, P < 0.001; suPAR: 2.85 ng/mL vs. 2.55 ng/mL, P < 0.001). After adjusted for demographic covariates, body mass index, ACEs as well as parental characteristics, persistent parent-child separation was associated with elevated suPAR (B = 0.30; 95% CI, 0.12-0.48) and CRP (B = 1.34; 95% CI, 1.02-1.75). No similar associations were observed between inflammatory burden with current or early childhood parent-child separation groups. Adolescents who exposed to persistent parent-child separation were more likely to have elevated suPAR levels even if they did not have elevated CRP levels (aOR, 4.26, 95% CI, 1.23-14.80; P = 0.022). CONCLUSION Elevated inflammatory burden observed in persistent parent-child separation adolescents highlights the need to support children and adolescents undergoing separation from both parents in order to minimize the long-term impact on disease vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanxu Liu
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Anhui Zhang
- Department of Child Health Care, Wuhu Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Center, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Haiyan He
- Department of Child Health Care, Wuhu Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Center, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University) Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health&Aristogenics, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University) Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health&Aristogenics, Hefei, Anhui Province, China.
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Lopizzo N, Marizzoni M, Begni V, Mazzelli M, Provasi S, Borruso L, Riva MA, Cattaneo A. Social isolation in adolescence and long-term changes in the gut microbiota composition and in the hippocampal inflammation: Implications for psychiatric disorders - Dirk Hellhammer Award Paper 2021. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 133:105416. [PMID: 34593267 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to early adverse experiences induces persistent changes in physiological, emotional and behavioural functions predisposing the individual to an enhanced vulnerability to develop different disorders during lifespan. The adverse outcomes depend upon the timing of the stressful experiences, and in this contest, adolescence represents a key sensitive period for brain development. Among the biological systems involved, gut microbiota has recently been proposed to act on the interplay between the stress response, brain functions and immune system, through the gut-brain axis communication. In the current study we aimed to evaluate, in a preclinical model, changes over time in the microbiota community structure in physiological condition and in response to stress during adolescence. We also aimed to correlate the microbiota composition to the inflammatory status in brain. We used the preclinical model of social deprivation in rats during adolescence, based on the lack of all social contacts, for four weeks after weaning, followed by re-socialization until adulthood. We collected fecal samples at different post-natal days to investigate the short- and long-lasting effects of social isolation on gut microbiota composition and we collected brain areas (dorsal and ventral hippocampus) samples at killing to measure a panel of inflammatory and microglia activation markers. 16 S metataxonomic sequencing analysis revealed that microbial changes were influenced by age in both isolated and controls rats, regardless of sex, whereas social isolation impacted the microbial composition in a sex-dependent manner. A multivariate analysis showed that social isolation induced short-term gut microbiota alterations in females but not in males. We also identified several stress-related genera associated with social isolation condition. In brain areas we found a specific inflammatory pattern, in dorsal and ventral hippocampus, that significantly correlated with gut microbiota composition. Overall, in this study we reported a novel sex-specific association between gut microbiota composition and inflammatory response related to social isolation paradigm during adolescence, suggesting that stressful experiences during this sensitive period could have a long-lasting impact on the development of different biological systems that could in turn influence the vulnerability to develop mental disorders later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Lopizzo
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Moira Marizzoni
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroimaging and Alzheimer's Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Veronica Begni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Mazzelli
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Provasi
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luigimaria Borruso
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen/Bolzano, piazza Università 5, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Marco Andrea Riva
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Annamaria Cattaneo
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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NLRP3 Inflammasome Is Involved in Cocaine-Mediated Potentiation on Behavioral Changes in CX3CR1-Deficient Mice. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11100963. [PMID: 34683104 PMCID: PMC8540128 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11100963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the primary immunocompetent cells of the brain, are suggested to play a role in the development of drug addiction. Previous studies have identified the microglia-derived pro-inflammatory factor IL1β can promote the progression of cocaine addiction. Additionally, the activation status of microglia and “two-hit hypothesis” have been proposed in the field of drug addiction to explain how early life stress (ELS) could significantly increase the incidence of drug addiction in later life. However, the mechanisms underlying microglia prime and full activation and their roles in drug addiction remain greatly unexplored. Here, we employed CX3CR1-GFP mice (CX3CR1 functional deficiency, CX3CR1−/−) to explore whether primed microglia could potentiate cocaine-mediated behavioral changes and the possible underlying mechanisms. CX3CR1−/− mice revealed higher hyperlocomotion activity and conditional place preference than wild-type (WT) mice did under cocaine administration. In parallel, CX3CR1−/− mice showed higher activity of NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome than WT mice. Interestingly, CX3CR1 deficiency itself could prime NLRP3 signaling by increasing the expression of NLPR3 and affect lysosome biogenesis under basal conditions. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that the functional status of microglia could have an impact on cocaine-mediated reward effects, and NLRP3 inflammasome activity was associated with this phenomenon. This study was consistent with the two-hit hypothesis and provided solid evidence to support the involvement of microglia in drug addiction. Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome may represent a novel therapeutic approach for ameliorating or blocking the development of drug addiction.
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Solarz A, Majcher-Maślanka I, Chocyk A. Effects of early-life stress and sex on blood-brain barrier permeability and integrity in juvenile and adult rats. Dev Neurobiol 2021; 81:861-876. [PMID: 34320279 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) is considered a relevant etiological factor for neurodegenerative and mental disorders. In the present study, we hypothesized that ELS may persistently and sex dependently influence blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and function during critical periods of brain development and consequently determine susceptibility to and sex-related prevalence of chronic diseases in adult life. We used the maternal separation (MS) procedure in rats to model ELS and evaluated BBB permeability and gene expression of selected tight junction (TJ) proteins, glucose transporter type 1 (Slc2a1) and aquaporin 4 (Aqp4) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), dorsal striatum (dSTR) and hippocampus of juvenile and adult rats. Serum concentrations of a peripheral marker of BBB function (S100β) and proinflammatory cytokines were also assessed. We observed developmental sealing of the BBB and sex differences in the permeability of the BBB and the mRNA expression of TJ proteins and Slc2a1. Adult females showed lower BBB permeability and higher levels of Cldn3, Cldn5, Ocln, and Slc2a1 in the mPFC and dSTR than males. MS temporarily increased BBB permeability in the dSTR of juvenile males and affected mRNA expression of the majority of studied proteins related to BBB function in age-, region- and sex-dependent manners. Additionally, MS sex dependently decreased serum S100β levels and did not affect proinflammatory cytokine concentrations. In general, our study did not reveal a clear or strong negative effect of MS on BBB integrity. However, the results suggest that ELS may induce adaptive/maladaptive changes or compensatory mechanisms within the BBB of unknown yet consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Solarz
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Iwona Majcher-Maślanka
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Chocyk
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
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Do changes in microglial status underlie neurogenesis impairments and depressive-like behaviours induced by psychological stress? A systematic review in animal models. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 15:100356. [PMID: 34355047 PMCID: PMC8319800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress may have a negative effect on mental health and is the primary environmental risk factor in the aetiology of depression. Nevertheless, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying this mood disorder remain poorly characterized. The hippocampus is a target structure of the adverse effects of stress, and hippocampal neurogenesis plays a crucial role. However, we do not know the mechanisms by which stress impacts neurogenesis. Recent studies indicate that changes in neuroinflammation, primarily via microglial cells, may play an essential role in this process. However, the relationship between stress, microglial changes, and alterations in neurogenesis and their involvement in the development of depression is poorly characterized. For this reason, this systematic review aims to synthesise and evaluate current studies that have investigated the relationship between these variables. Taken together, the revised data, although not entirely conclusive, seem to suggest that microglial changes induced by psychological stress regulate neurogenesis and in turn may be responsible for the development of depressive-like behaviours, but other factors that influence these stressful experiences should not be dismissed.
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Leite Dantas R, Freff J, Ambrée O, Beins EC, Forstner AJ, Dannlowski U, Baune BT, Scheu S, Alferink J. Dendritic Cells: Neglected Modulators of Peripheral Immune Responses and Neuroinflammation in Mood Disorders? Cells 2021; 10:941. [PMID: 33921690 PMCID: PMC8072712 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040941] [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: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Affective disorders (AD) including major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) are common mood disorders associated with increased disability and poor health outcomes. Altered immune responses characterized by increased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neuroinflammation are common findings in patients with AD and in corresponding animal models. Dendritic cells (DCs) represent a heterogeneous population of myeloid cells that orchestrate innate and adaptive immune responses and self-tolerance. Upon sensing exogenous and endogenous danger signals, mature DCs secrete proinflammatory factors, acquire migratory and antigen presenting capacities and thus contribute to neuroinflammation in trauma, autoimmunity, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, little is known about the involvement of DCs in the pathogenesis of AD. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on DCs in peripheral immune responses and neuroinflammation in MDD and BD. In addition, we consider the impact of DCs on neuroinflammation and behavior in animal models of AD. Finally, we will discuss therapeutic perspectives targeting DCs and their effector molecules in mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Leite Dantas
- Department of Mental Health, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (J.F.); (U.D.); (B.T.B.)
- Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Jana Freff
- Department of Mental Health, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (J.F.); (U.D.); (B.T.B.)
- Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Oliver Ambrée
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Osnabrück, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany;
- Center of Cellular Nanoanalytics, University of Osnabrück, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Eva C. Beins
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (E.C.B.); (A.J.F.)
| | - Andreas J. Forstner
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (E.C.B.); (A.J.F.)
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Center Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Udo Dannlowski
- Department of Mental Health, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (J.F.); (U.D.); (B.T.B.)
| | - Bernhard T. Baune
- Department of Mental Health, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (J.F.); (U.D.); (B.T.B.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Stefanie Scheu
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany;
| | - Judith Alferink
- Department of Mental Health, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (J.F.); (U.D.); (B.T.B.)
- Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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