1
|
Mirmoosavi M, Aminitabar A, Mirfathollahi A, Shalchyan V. Exploring altered oscillatory activity in the anterior cingulate cortex after nerve injury: Insights into mechanisms of neuropathic allodynia. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 190:106381. [PMID: 38114049 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106381] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
While neural oscillations play a critical role in sensory perception, it remains unclear how these rhythms function under conditions of neuropathic allodynia. Recent studies demonstrated that the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is associated with the affective-aversive component of pain, and plasticity changes in this region are closely linked to abnormal allodynic sensations. Here, to study the mechanisms of allodynia, we recorded local field potentials (LFPs) in the bilateral ACC of awake-behaving rats and compared the spectral power and center frequency of brain oscillations between healthy and CCI (chronic constriction injury) induced neuropathic pain conditions. Our results indicated that activation of the ACC occurs bilaterally in the presence of neuropathic pain, similar to the healthy condition. Furthermore, CCI affects both spontaneous and stimulus-induced activity of ACC neurons. Specifically, we observed an increase in spontaneous beta activity after nerve injury compared to the healthy condition. By stimulating operated or unoperated paws, we found more intense event-related desynchronization (ERD) responses in the theta, alpha, and beta frequency bands and faster alpha center frequency after CCI compared to before CCI. Although the behavioral manifestation of allodynia was more pronounced in the operated paw than the unoperated paw following CCI, there was no significant difference in the center frequency and ERD responses observed in the ACC between stimulation of the operated and unoperated limbs. Our findings offer evidence supporting the notion that aberrancies in ACC oscillations may contribute to the maintenance and development of neuropathic allodynia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahnoosh Mirmoosavi
- Neuroscience and Neuroengineering Research Lab., Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Electrical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Narmak, Tehran 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Amir Aminitabar
- Neuroscience and Neuroengineering Research Lab., Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Electrical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Narmak, Tehran 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Alavie Mirfathollahi
- Neuroscience and Neuroengineering Research Lab., Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Electrical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Narmak, Tehran 16846-13114, Iran; Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran 16583-44575, Iran
| | - Vahid Shalchyan
- Neuroscience and Neuroengineering Research Lab., Biomedical Engineering Department, School of Electrical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Narmak, Tehran 16846-13114, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang TZ, Wang F, Tian ZC, Li ZZ, Liu WN, Ding H, Xie TT, Cao ZX, Li HT, Sun ZC, Xie RG, Wu SX, Pan ZX, Luo C. Cingulate cGMP-dependent protein kinase I facilitates chronic pain and pain-related anxiety and depression. Pain 2023; 164:2447-2462. [PMID: 37326662 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Patients with chronic pain often experience exaggerated pain response and aversive emotion, such as anxiety and depression. Central plasticity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is assumed to be a critical interface for pain perception and emotion, which has been reported to involve activation of NMDA receptors. Numerous studies have documented the key significance of cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (PKG-I) as a crucial downstream target for the NMDA receptor-NO-cGMP signaling cascade in regulating neuronal plasticity and pain hypersensitivity in specific regions of pain pathway, ie, dorsal root ganglion or spinal dorsal horn. Despite this, whether and how PKG-I in the ACC contributes to cingulate plasticity and comorbidity of chronic pain and aversive emotion has remained elusive. Here, we uncovered a crucial role of cingulate PKG-I in chronic pain and comorbid anxiety and depression. Chronic pain caused by tissue inflammation or nerve injury led to upregulation of PKG-I expression at both mRNA and protein levels in the ACC. Knockdown of ACC-PKG-I relieved pain hypersensitivity as well as pain-associated anxiety and depression. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that PKG-I might act to phosphorylate TRPC3 and TRPC6, leading to enhancement of calcium influx and neuronal hyperexcitability as well as synaptic potentiation, which results in the exaggerated pain response and comorbid anxiety and depression. We believe this study sheds new light on the functional capability of ACC-PKG-I in modulating chronic pain as well as pain-associated anxiety and depression. Hence, cingulate PKG-I may represent a new therapeutic target against chronic pain and pain-related anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao-Zhi Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Medical Experiment Center, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Tian
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wan-Neng Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Ding
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting-Ting Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zi-Xuan Cao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- The Twenty-second Squadron of the Sixth Regiment, School of Basal Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hai-Tao Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- The Fourteenth Squadron of the Fourth Regiment, School of Basal Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhi-Chuan Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xi'an Daxing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Rou-Gang Xie
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Sheng-Xi Wu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhen-Xiang Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ceng Luo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abbasi Z, Baluchnejadmojarad T, Roghani M, Susanabadi A, Farbin M, Mehrabi S. Acamprosate effect on neuropathic pain in rats: With emphasis on the role of ERK/MAPK pathway and SCN9A sodium channel. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 131:102282. [PMID: 37142001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain is a chronic pain owing to nerve damage or diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). The expression of SCN9A, which encodes the Nav1.7 voltage-gated sodium channel and ERK have been found to change significantly in many cases of neuropathic pain. Here, we investigated effects of acamprosate on neuropathic pain, taking into account the crucial roles of SCN9A, the ERK signaling pathway, and inflammatory markers in a rat model of chronic constriction injury (CCI). METHODS Acamprosate (300 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 14 days. The tail-immersion, acetone, and formalin tests were used to determine behavioral tests such as heat allodynia, cold allodynia, and chemical hyperalgesia, respectively. Lumbar spinal cord was extracted and processed for Nissl staining. The amount of spinal SCN9A expression and ERK phosphorylation were examined using ELISA assay. RESULTS The expression of SCN9A, ERK, inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α), allodynia and hyperalgesia significantly increased on days 7 and 14 following CCI. The treatment not only reduced neuropathic pain but also blocked CCI's effects on SCN9A upregulation and ERK phosphorylation. CONCLUSION This research demonstrated that acamprosate reduces the neuropathic pain induced by CCI of the sciatic nerve in rats by preventing cell loss, inhibiting spinal SCN9A expression, ERK phosphorylation, and inflammatory cytokines, suggesting potential therapeutic implications of acamprosate administration for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Abbasi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tourandokht Baluchnejadmojarad
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Roghani
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Susanabadi
- Department of Anesthesia and pain medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mitra Farbin
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soraya Mehrabi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ge J, Song J, Sun B, Yang X, Du B, Sun X, Zhang J, Ge J, Xie H. Downregulated CAV-1 in mouse spinal cord may alleviate bone cancer pain by inhibiting the ERK/CREB pathway. Mutat Res 2023; 827:111829. [PMID: 37418818 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2023.111829] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to assess the potential function of Caveolin-1 (CAV-1) in mice with bone cancer pain. METHOD Using a mice bone cancer pain model we explored the contribution of CAV-1 expression to bone cancer pain on the 14th day after surgery, mice in the tumor group were randomized and treated with increasing doses of the CAV-1 inhibitor, methyl-beta-cyclodextrin. Pain was assessed by monitoring the number of spontaneous flinches (NSF) and paw withdrawal mechanical threshold (PMWT)mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT). The localization and expression of CAV-1 in mouse neurons was also determined. Additionally, the protein levels of CAV-1, extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) were monitored in mouse spinal cord tissues by western blotting. RESULTS CAV-1 was remarkably upregulated in the spinal cord of the tumor group on the 4th day after surgery, then downregulated on day 10, and upregulated again at day 14. Such CAV-1 levels were maintained until day 28. In the tumor group, the expression of p-ERK1/2 and p-CERB were upregulated at day 14 after surgery. Intrathecal injection of methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (MCD) downregulated p-ERK1/2 and p-CERB expression which correlated with alleviation of pain. CONCLUSION Inhibition of CAV-1 in the spinal cord alleviates bone cancer pain in mice which correlates with inhibition of the ERK/CREB pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, China
| | - Jie Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Bo Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, China
| | - Xuefeng Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Boxiang Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jiejie Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jianlin Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kim N, Chung G, Son SR, Park JH, Lee YH, Park KT, Cho IH, Jang DS, Kim SK. Magnolin Inhibits Paclitaxel-Induced Cold Allodynia and ERK1/2 Activation in Mice. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2283. [PMID: 37375908 DOI: 10.3390/plants12122283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect of anti-cancer drugs. The main symptoms often include sensory disturbances and neuropathic pain, and currently there is no effective treatment for this condition. This study aimed to investigate the suppressive effects of magnolin, an extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor substance derived from a 95% EtOH extract of the seeds of Magnolia denudata, on the symptoms of CIPN. A taxol-based anti-cancer drug paclitaxel (PTX) was repeatedly injected (2 mg/kg/day, total 8 mg/kg) into mice to induce CIPN. A neuropathic pain symptom was assessed using a cold allodynia test that scores behaviors of licking and shaking paw after plantar administration of acetone drop. Magnolin was administered intraperitoneally (0.1, 1, or 10 mg/kg) and behavioral changes to acetone drop were measured. The effect of magnolin administration on ERK expression in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was investigated using western blot analysis. The results showed that the repeated injections of PTX induced cold allodynia in mice. Magnolin administration exerted an analgesic effect on the PTX-induced cold allodynia and inhibited the ERK phosphorylation in the DRG. These results suggest that magnolin could be developed as an alternative treatment to suppress paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nari Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Geehoon Chung
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - So-Ri Son
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Park
- Department of East-West Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hyun Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon-Tae Park
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Sik Jang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Kwang Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of East-West Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kim K, Nan G, Kim L, Kwon M, Lee KH, Cha M, Lee BH. Insular cortex stimulation alleviates neuropathic pain via ERK phosphorylation in neurons. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:1636-1648. [PMID: 36806498 PMCID: PMC10173725 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The clinical use of brain stimulation is attractive for patients who have side effects or tolerance. However, studies on insular cortex (IC) stimulation are lacking in neuropathic pain. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of IC stimulation (ICS) on neuropathic pain and to determine how ICS modulates pain. METHODS Changes in pain behaviors were observed following ICS with various parameters in neuropathic rats. Western blotting was performed to assess molecular changes in the expression levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pERK), neurons, astrocytes, and microglia between experimental groups. Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the colocalization of pERK with different cell types. RESULTS The most effective pain-relieving effect was induced at 50 Hz-120 μA in single trial of ICS and it maintained 4 days longer after the termination of repetitive ICS. The expression levels of pERK, astrocytes, and microglia were increased in neuropathic rats. However, after ICS, the expression levels of pERK were decreased, and colocalization of pERK and neurons was reduced in layers 2-3 of the IC. CONCLUSION These results indicated that ICS attenuated neuropathic pain by the regulation of pERK in neurons located in layers 2-3 of the IC. This preclinical study may enhance the potential use of ICS and identify the therapeutic mechanisms of ICS in neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyeongmin Kim
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Guanghai Nan
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Leejeong Kim
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Minjee Kwon
- Department of Nursing, Kyungil University, Gyeongsan, Korea
| | - Kyung Hee Lee
- Department of Dental Hygiene, Division of Health Science, Dongseo University, Busan, Korea
| | - Myeounghoon Cha
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bae Hwan Lee
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alam MJ, Chen JDZ. Electrophysiology as a Tool to Decipher the Network Mechanism of Visceral Pain in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:627. [PMID: 36832115 PMCID: PMC9955347 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal pain, including visceral pain, is prevalent in functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders (FGIDs), affecting the overall quality of a patient's life. Neural circuits in the brain encode, store, and transfer pain information across brain regions. Ascending pain signals actively shape brain dynamics; in turn, the descending system responds to the pain through neuronal inhibition. Pain processing mechanisms in patients are currently mainly studied with neuroimaging techniques; however, these techniques have a relatively poor temporal resolution. A high temporal resolution method is warranted to decode the dynamics of the pain processing mechanisms. Here, we reviewed crucial brain regions that exhibited pain-modulatory effects in an ascending and descending manner. Moreover, we discussed a uniquely well-suited method, namely extracellular electrophysiology, that captures natural language from the brain with high spatiotemporal resolution. This approach allows parallel recording of large populations of neurons in interconnected brain areas and permits the monitoring of neuronal firing patterns and comparative characterization of the brain oscillations. In addition, we discussed the contribution of these oscillations to pain states. In summary, using innovative, state-of-the-art methods, the large-scale recordings of multiple neurons will guide us to better understanding of pain mechanisms in FGIDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Jahangir Alam
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jiande D. Z. Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Segmental Upregulation of ASIC1 Channels in the Formalin Acute Pain Mouse Model. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15121539. [PMID: 36558990 PMCID: PMC9784454 DOI: 10.3390/ph15121539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hindpaw injection of formalin in rodents is used to assess acute persistent pain. The response to formalin is biphasic. The initial response (first minutes) is thought to be linked to inflammatory, peripheral mechanisms, while the latter (around 30 min after the injection), is linked to central mechanisms. This model is useful to analyze the effect of drugs at one or both phases, and the involvement of ion channels in the response. Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) regulate synaptic activities and play important roles in pain conditions. Recently, psalmotoxin-1 (Pctx-1), a toxin that inhibits ASIC1a-constituted channels, and antisense ASIC1a-RNA, intrathecal administered in mice were shown to affect both phases of the test. METHODS The mouse formalin test was performed on C57/BL6 7- to 9-week-old mice. Behavioral tests were conducted and tissue was extracted to detect proteins (ASIC1 and pERK) and ASIC1-mRNA and mir485-5p levels. RESULTS The injection of formalin was accompanied by an increase in ASIC1 levels. This was detected at the contralateral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) compared to the ipsilateral side, and both sides of the ACC of vehicle-injected animals. At the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia, ASIC1 levels followed a gradient stronger at lumbar (L) 3 and decreased towards L5. Gender differences were detected at the ACC; with female mice showing higher ASIC1a levels at the ACC. No significant changes in ASIC1-mRNA levels were detected. Evidence suggests ASIC1 upregulation depends on regulatory microRNAs. CONCLUSION This work highlights the important role of ASIC1 in pain and the potential role of pharmacological therapies aimed at this channel.
Collapse
|
9
|
Dai X, Wang Y, Li Y, Zhong Y, Pei M, Long J, Dong X, Chen YL, Wang Q, Wang G, Gold BG, Vandenbark AA, Neve KA, Offner H, Wang C. Tyrphostin A9 protects axons in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis through activation of ERKs. Life Sci 2022; 294:120383. [PMID: 35143827 PMCID: PMC8920308 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Small molecule compound tyrphostin A9 (A9), an inhibitor of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor, was previously reported by our group to stimulate extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) and 2 (ERK2) in neuronal cells in a PDGF receptor-irrelevant manner. The study aimed to investigate whether A9 could protect axons in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis through activation of ERKs. MAIN METHODS A9 treatment on the protection on neurite outgrowth in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and primary substantia nigra neuron cultures from the neurotoxin MPP+ were analyzed. Then, clinical symptoms as well as ERK1/2 activation, axonal protection induction, and the abundance increases of the regeneration biomarker GAP-43 in the CNS in the relapsing-remitting experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model were verified. KEY FINDINGS A9 treatment could stimulate neurite outgrowth in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and protect primary substantia nigra neuron cultures from the neurotoxin MPP+. In the relapsing-remitting EAE model, oral administration of A9 successfully ameliorated clinical symptoms, activated ERK1/2, induced axonal protection, and increased the abundance of the regeneration biomarker GAP-43 in the CNS. Interestingly, gene deficiency of ERK1 or ERK2 disrupted the beneficial effects of A9 in MOG-35-55-induced EAE. SIGNIFICANCE These results demonstrated that small molecule compounds that stimulate persistent ERK activation in vitro and in vivo may be useful in protective or restorative treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Axons/drug effects
- Disease Models, Animal
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/etiology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/metabolism
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/pathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/prevention & control
- Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases/genetics
- Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases/metabolism
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Humans
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Neuroblastoma/drug therapy
- Neuroblastoma/metabolism
- Neuroblastoma/pathology
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Tyrphostins/pharmacology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Dai
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yongmei Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yuexin Li
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Yongping Zhong
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Min Pei
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Jing Long
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Xingchen Dong
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yi-Li Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Qi Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Guifeng Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China.
| | - Bruce G Gold
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Arthur A Vandenbark
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Kim A Neve
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Halina Offner
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Chunhe Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200126, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China; Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America; Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ng SY, Ariffin MZ, Khanna S. Neurokinin receptor mechanisms in forebrain medial septum modulate nociception in the formalin model of inflammatory pain. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24358. [PMID: 34934106 PMCID: PMC8692436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03661-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study has explored the hypothesis that neurokinin1 receptors (NK1Rs) in medial septum (MS) modulate nociception evoked on hind paw injection of formalin. Indeed, the NK1Rs in MS are localized on cholinergic neurons which have been implicated in nociception. In anaesthetized rat, microinjection of L-733,060, an antagonist at NK1Rs, into MS antagonized the suppression of CA1 population spike (PS) evoked on peripheral injection of formalin or on intraseptal microinjection of substance P (SP), an agonist at NK1Rs. The CA1 PS reflects the synaptic excitability of pyramidal cells in the region. Furthermore, microinjection of L-733,060 into MS, but not LS, attenuated formalin-induced theta activation in both anaesthetized and awake rat, where theta reflects an oscillatory information processing by hippocampal neurons. The effects of L-733,060 on microinjection into MS were nociceptive selective as the antagonist did not block septo-hippocampal response to direct MS stimulation by the cholinergic receptor agonist, carbachol, in anaesthetized animal or on exploration in awake animal. Interestingly, microinjection of L-733,060 into both MS and LS attenuated formalin-induced nociceptive flinches. Collectively, the foregoing novel findings highlight that transmission at NK1R provide an affective valence to septo-hippocampal information processing and that peptidergic transmission in the septum modulates nociceptive behaviours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Si Yun Ng
- grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, MD9, 2 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117593 Singapore ,grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mohammed Zacky Ariffin
- grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, MD9, 2 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117593 Singapore ,grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sanjay Khanna
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, MD9, 2 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117593, Singapore. .,Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kasanetz F, Nevian T. Increased burst coding in deep layers of the ventral anterior cingulate cortex during neuropathic pain. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24240. [PMID: 34930957 PMCID: PMC8688462 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03652-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain induces changes in neuronal excitability and synaptic connectivity in deep layers of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) that play a central role in the sensory, emotional and affective consequences of the disease. However, how this impacts ACC in vivo activity is not completely understood. Using a mouse model, we found that neuropathic pain caused an increase in ACC in vivo activity, as measured by the indirect activity marker c-Fos and juxtacellular electrophysiological recordings. The enhanced firing rate of ACC neurons in lesioned animals was based on a change in the firing pattern towards bursting activity. Despite the proportion of ACC neurons recruited by noxious stimuli was unchanged during neuropathic pain, responses to noxious stimuli were characterized by increased bursting. Thus, this change in coding pattern may have important implications for the processing of nociceptive information in the ACC and could be of great interest to guide the search for new treatment strategies for chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Kasanetz
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Bühlplatz 5, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Sistemas, IFIBIO Houssay - CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 piso 7, (1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Thomas Nevian
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Bühlplatz 5, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cucinello-Ragland JA, Mitchell-Cleveland R, Bradley Trimble W, Urbina AP, Yeh AY, Edwards KN, Molina PE, Simon Peter L, Edwards S. Alcohol amplifies cingulate cortex signaling and facilitates immobilization-induced hyperalgesia in female rats. Neurosci Lett 2021; 761:136119. [PMID: 34280506 PMCID: PMC8387454 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a musculoskeletal pain condition that often develops after limb injury and/or immobilization. Although the exact mechanisms underlying CRPS are unknown, the syndrome is associated with central and autonomic nervous system dysregulation and peripheral hyperalgesia symptoms. These symptoms also manifest in alcoholic neuropathy, suggesting that the two conditions may be pathophysiologically accretive. Interestingly, people assigned female at birth (AFAB) appear to be more sensitive to both CRPS and alcoholic neuropathy. To better understand the biobehavioral mechanisms underlying these conditions, we investigated a model of combined CRPS and alcoholic neuropathy in female rats. Animals were pair-fed either a Lieber-DeCarli alcohol liquid diet or a control diet for ten weeks. CRPS was modeled via unilateral hind limb cast immobilization for seven days, allowing for the other limb to serve as a within-subject control for hyperalgesia measures. To investigate the role of circulating ovarian hormones on pain-related behaviors, half of the animals underwent ovariectomy (OVX). Using the von Frey procedure to record mechanical paw withdrawal thresholds, we found that cast immobilization and chronic alcohol drinking separately and additively produced mechanical hyperalgesia observed 3 days after cast removal. We then examined neuroadaptations in AMPA GluR1 and NMDA NR1 glutamate channel subunits, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) in bilateral motor and cingulate cortex across all groups. Consistent with increased pain-related behavior, chronic alcohol drinking increased GluR1, NR1, ERK, and CREB phosphorylation in the cingulate cortex. OVX did not alter any of the observed effects. Our results suggest accretive relationships between CRPS and alcoholic neuropathy symptoms and point to novel therapeutic targets for these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Cucinello-Ragland
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | | | - W Bradley Trimble
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Amy P Urbina
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Alice Y Yeh
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Kimberly N Edwards
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Patricia E Molina
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Liz Simon Peter
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology and School of Medicine, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Neuroscience Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States; Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Optogenetic Stimulation of the Anterior Cingulate Cortex Modulates the Pain Processing in Neuropathic Pain: A Review. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 72:1-8. [PMID: 34505976 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01898-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is characterized by hypersensitivity, hyperalgesia, and allodynia, which is caused by damage to the somatosensory nervous system. It substantially impairs the quality of life. The management of neuropathic pain is challenging and should comprise alternative therapies. Researchers working on neural modulation methods in the field of optogenetics have recently referred to novel techniques that involve the activation or inhibition of signaling proteins by specific wavelengths of light. The use of optogenetics in neuropathic pain facilitates the investigation of pain pathways involved in chronic pain and has the potential for therapeutic use. Neuropathic pain is often accompanied by negative stimuli involving a broad network of brain regions. In particular, the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is a part of the limbic system that has highly interconnected structures involved in processing components of pain. The ACC is a key region for acute pain perception as well as the development of neuropathic pain, characterized by long-term potentiation induced in pain pathways. The exact mechanism for neuropathic pain in the ACC is unclear. Current evidence supports the potential of optogenetics methods to modulate the neuronal activity in the ACC for neuropathic pain. We anticipate the neuronal modulation in the ACC will be used widely to manage neuropathic pain.
Collapse
|
14
|
Tang J, Bair M, Descalzi G. Reactive Astrocytes: Critical Players in the Development of Chronic Pain. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:682056. [PMID: 34122194 PMCID: PMC8192827 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.682056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is associated with long term plasticity of nociceptive pathways in the central nervous system. Astrocytes can profoundly affect synaptic function and increasing evidence has highlighted how altered astrocyte activity may contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic pain. In response to injury, astrocytes undergo a shift in form and function known as reactive astrogliosis, which affects their release of cytokines and gliotransmitters. These neuromodulatory substances have been implicated in driving the persistent changes in central nociceptive activity. Astrocytes also release lactate which neurons can use to produce energy during synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, recent research has provided insight into lactate's emerging role as a signaling molecule in the central nervous system, which may be involved in directly modulating neuronal and astrocytic activity. In this review, we present evidence for the involvement of astrocyte-derived tumor necrosis factor alpha in pain-associated plasticity, in addition to research suggesting the potential involvement of gliotransmitters D-serine and adenosine-5'-triphosphate. We also discuss work implicating astrocyte-neuron metabolic coupling, and the possible role of lactate, which has been sparsely studied in the context of chronic pain, in supporting pathological changes in central nociceptive activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giannina Descalzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nociceptor-localized cGMP-dependent protein kinase I is a critical generator for central sensitization and neuropathic pain. Pain 2021; 162:135-151. [PMID: 32773598 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Patients with neuropathic pain often experience exaggerated pain and anxiety. Central sensitization has been linked with the maintenance of neuropathic pain and may become an autonomous pain generator. Conversely, emerging evidence accumulated that central sensitization is initiated and maintained by ongoing nociceptive primary afferent inputs. However, it remains elusive what mechanisms underlie this phenomenon and which peripheral candidate contributes to central sensitization that accounts for pain hypersensitivity and pain-related anxiety. Previous studies have implicated peripherally localized cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (PKG-I) in plasticity of nociceptors and spinal synaptic transmission as well as inflammatory hyperalgesia. However, whether peripheral PKG-I contributes to cortical plasticity and hence maintains nerve injury-induced pain hypersensitivity and anxiety is unknown. Here, we demonstrated significant upregulation of PKG-I in ipsilateral L3 dorsal root ganglia (DRG), no change in L4 DRG, and downregulation in L5 DRG upon spared nerve injury. Genetic ablation of PKG-I specifically in nociceptors or post-treatment with intervertebral foramen injection of PKG-I antagonist, KT5823, attenuated the development and maintenance of spared nerve injury-induced bilateral pain hypersensitivity and anxiety. Mechanistic analysis revealed that activation of PKG-I in nociceptors is responsible for synaptic potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex upon peripheral neuropathy through presynaptic mechanisms involving brain-derived neurotropic factor signaling. Our results revealed that PKG-I expressed in nociceptors is a key determinant for cingulate synaptic plasticity after nerve injury, which contributes to the maintenance of pain hypersensitivity and anxiety. Thereby, this study presents a strong basis for opening up a novel therapeutic target, PKG-I, in nociceptors for treatment of comorbidity of neuropathic pain and anxiety with least side effects.
Collapse
|
16
|
Hama A, Yano M, Sotogawa W, Fujii R, Awaga Y, Natsume T, Hayashi I, Takamatsu H. Pharmacological modulation of brain activation to non-noxious stimulation in a cynomolgus macaque model of peripheral nerve injury. Mol Pain 2021; 17:17448069211008697. [PMID: 33853400 PMCID: PMC8053757 DOI: 10.1177/17448069211008697] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo neuroimaging could be utilized as a noninvasive tool for elaborating the CNS mechanism of chronic pain and for elaborating mechanisms of potential analgesic therapeutics. A model of unilateral peripheral neuropathy was developed in the cynomolgus macaque, a species that is phylogenetically close to humans. Nerve entrapment was induced by placing a 4 mm length of polyvinyl cuff around the left common sciatic nerve. Prior to nerve injury, stimulation of the foot with a range of non-noxious von Frey filaments (1, 4, 8, 15, and 26 g) did not evoke brain activation as observed with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Two weeks after injury, stimulation of the ipsilateral foot with non-noxious filaments activated the contralateral insula/secondary somatosensory cortex (Ins/SII) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). By contrast, no activation was observed with stimulation of the contralateral foot. Robust bilateral activation of thalamus was observed three to five weeks after nerve injury. Treatment with the clinical analgesic pregabalin reduced evoked activation of Ins/SII, thalamus and ACC whereas treatment with the NK1 receptor antagonist aprepitant reduced activation of the ipsilateral (left) thalamus. Twelve to 13 weeks after nerve injury, treatment with pregabalin reduced evoked activation of all regions of interest (ROI). By contrast, brain activation persisted in most ROI, except the ACC, following aprepitant treatment. Activation of the contralateral Ins/SII and bilateral thalamus was observed six months after nerve injury and pregabalin treatment suppressed activation of these nuclei. The current findings demonstrated persistent changes in CNS neurons following nerve injury as suggested by activation with non-painful mechanical stimulation. Furthermore, it was possible to functionally distinguish between a clinically efficacious analgesic drug, pregabalin, from a drug that has not demonstrated significant clinical analgesic efficacy, aprepitant. In vivo neuroimaging in the current nonhuman model could enhance translatability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aldric Hama
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research Inc., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Mizuho Yano
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research Inc., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | | | | | - Yuji Awaga
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research Inc., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | | | - Ikuo Hayashi
- Hamamatsu Pharma Research USA, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Xiao X, Ding M, Zhang YQ. Role of the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Translational Pain Research. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:405-422. [PMID: 33566301 PMCID: PMC7954910 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00615-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most common symptomatic reason to seek medical consultation, pain is a complex experience that has been classified into different categories and stages. In pain processing, noxious stimuli may activate the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). But the function of ACC in the different pain conditions is not well discussed. In this review, we elaborate the commonalities and differences from accumulated evidence by a variety of pain assays for physiological pain and pathological pain including inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer pain in the ACC, and discuss the cellular receptors and signaling molecules from animal studies. We further summarize the ACC as a new central neuromodulation target for invasive and non-invasive stimulation techniques in clinical pain management. The comprehensive understanding of pain processing in the ACC may lead to bridging the gap in translational research between basic and clinical studies and to develop new therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Ministry of Education; Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Ming Ding
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Ministry of Education; Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yu-Qiu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Brain Science; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yousuf MS, Shiers SI, Sahn JJ, Price TJ. Pharmacological Manipulation of Translation as a Therapeutic Target for Chronic Pain. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:59-88. [PMID: 33203717 PMCID: PMC7736833 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction in regulation of mRNA translation is an increasingly recognized characteristic of many diseases and disorders, including cancer, diabetes, autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, and chronic pain. Approximately 50 million adults in the United States experience chronic pain. This economic burden is greater than annual costs associated with heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined. Treatment options for chronic pain are inadequately efficacious and riddled with adverse side effects. There is thus an urgent unmet need for novel approaches to treating chronic pain. Sensitization of neurons along the nociceptive pathway causes chronic pain states driving symptoms that include spontaneous pain and mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. More than a decade of preclinical research demonstrates that translational mechanisms regulate the changes in gene expression that are required for ongoing sensitization of nociceptive sensory neurons. This review will describe how key translation regulation signaling pathways, including the integrated stress response, mammalian target of rapamycin, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and mitogen-activated protein kinase-interacting kinases, impact the translation of different subsets of mRNAs. We then place these mechanisms of translation regulation in the context of chronic pain states, evaluate currently available therapies, and examine the potential for developing novel drugs. Considering the large body of evidence now published in this area, we propose that pharmacologically manipulating specific aspects of the translational machinery may reverse key neuronal phenotypic changes causing different chronic pain conditions. Therapeutics targeting these pathways could eventually be first-line drugs used to treat chronic pain disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Translational mechanisms regulating protein synthesis underlie phenotypic changes in the sensory nervous system that drive chronic pain states. This review highlights regulatory mechanisms that control translation initiation and how to exploit them in treating persistent pain conditions. We explore the role of mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin and mitogen-activated protein kinase-interacting kinase inhibitors and AMPK activators in alleviating pain hypersensitivity. Modulation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α phosphorylation is also discussed as a potential therapy. Targeting specific translation regulation mechanisms may reverse changes in neuronal hyperexcitability associated with painful conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saad Yousuf
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas (M.S.Y., S.I.S., T.J.P.) and 4E Therapeutics Inc, Austin, Texas (J.J.S.)
| | - Stephanie I Shiers
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas (M.S.Y., S.I.S., T.J.P.) and 4E Therapeutics Inc, Austin, Texas (J.J.S.)
| | - James J Sahn
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas (M.S.Y., S.I.S., T.J.P.) and 4E Therapeutics Inc, Austin, Texas (J.J.S.)
| | - Theodore J Price
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas (M.S.Y., S.I.S., T.J.P.) and 4E Therapeutics Inc, Austin, Texas (J.J.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gabapentin and Duloxetine Prevent Oxaliplatin- and Paclitaxel-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy by Inhibiting Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) Phosphorylation in Spinal Cords of Mice. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 14:ph14010030. [PMID: 33396362 PMCID: PMC7824557 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common factor in limiting therapy which can result in therapy cessation or dose reduction. Gabapentin, a calcium channel inhibitor, and duloxetine, a serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, are used to treat a variety of pain conditions such as chronic low back pain, postherpetic neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy. It has been reported that administration of gabapentin suppressed oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced mechanical hyperalgesia in rats. Moreover, duloxetine has been shown to suppress oxaliplatin-induced cold allodynia in rats. However, the mechanisms by which these drugs prevent oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced neuropathy remain unknown. Behavioral assays were performed using cold plate and the von Frey test. The expression levels of proteins were examined using western blot analysis. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms by which gabapentin and duloxetine prevent oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced neuropathy in mice. We found that gabapentin and duloxetine prevented the development of oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced cold and mechanical allodynia. In addition, our results revealed that gabapentin and duloxetine suppressed extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation in the spinal cord of mice. Moreover, PD0325901 prevented the development of oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced neuropathic-like pain behavior by inhibiting ERK1/2 activation in the spinal cord of mice. In summary, our findings suggest that gabapentin, duloxetine, and PD0325901 prevent the development of oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced neuropathic-like pain behavior by inhibiting ERK1/2 phosphorylation in mice. Therefore, inhibiting ERK1/2 phosphorylation could be an effective preventive strategy against oxaliplatin- and paclitaxel-induced neuropathy.
Collapse
|
20
|
Song SY, Zhai XM, Dai JH, Lu LL, Shan CJ, Hong J, Cao JL, Zhang LC. The CSF-Contacting Nucleus Receives Anatomical Inputs From the Cerebral Cortex: A Combination of Retrograde Tracing and 3D Reconstruction Study in Rat. Front Neuroanat 2020; 14:600555. [PMID: 33328908 PMCID: PMC7714914 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2020.600555] [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: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the direct monosynaptic projections from cortical functional regions to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-contacting nucleus for understanding the functions of the CSF-contacting nucleus. Methods The Sprague-Dawley rats received cholera toxin B subunit (CB) injections into the CSF-contacting nucleus. After 7-10 days of survival time, the rats were perfused, and the whole brain and spinal cord were sliced under a freezing microtome at 40 μm. All sections were treated with the CB immunofluorescence reaction. The retrogradely labeled neurons in different cortical areas were revealed under a confocal microscope. The distribution features were further illustrated under 3D reconstruction. Results The retrogradely labeled neurons were identified in the olfactory, orbital, cingulate, insula, retrosplenial, somatosensory, motor, visual, auditory, association, rhinal, and parietal cortical areas. A total of 12 functional areas and 34 functional subregions showed projections to the CSF-contacting nucleus in different cell intensities. Conclusion According to the connectivity patterns, we conclude that the CSF-contacting nucleus participates in cognition, emotion, pain, visceral activity, etc. The present study firstly reveals the cerebral cortex→CSF-contacting nucleus connections, which implies the multiple functions of this special nucleus in neural and body fluid regulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yuan Song
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Meng Zhai
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jia-Hao Dai
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Lei-Lei Lu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Jing Shan
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jia Hong
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jun-Li Cao
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Li-Cai Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Qin J, Li A, Huang Y, Teng RH, Yang Y, Yao YX. CXCR3 contributes to neuropathic pain via ERK activation in the anterior cingulate cortex. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 531:166-171. [PMID: 32782146 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.07.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is activated by noxious stimuli and is involved in the affective component of pain processing; but its role in the sensory component of pain remains largely unknown. Studies have verified that Chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 3 (CXCR3) is involved in nociceptive sensitization in the spinal cord after peripheral nerve injury; however, the expression of CXCR3 in the ACC and its role in neuropathic pain has not been reported. Here, we showed that CXCR3 co-localized with neurons in the ACC and the upregulation of CXCR3 corresponded with hypersensitive behaviors after a chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve. Pharmacological blockade of CXCR3 using local injection of its inhibitor, AMG487, into the ACC significantly attenuated hyperalgesia induced by chronic constriction injury and suppressed the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Collectively, these results suggest that CXCR3 in the ACC is involved in hyperalgesia induced by peripheral nerve injury and ERK may be a downstream target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Qin
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China; Department of Anesthesia, Tinglin Hospital of Jinshan District, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China.
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China; Department of Anesthesia, the Central Hospital of Lishui City, Lishui, PR China.
| | - Run-Hua Teng
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, PR China.
| | - Yan Yang
- Centre for Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China.
| | - Yong-Xing Yao
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Adrienne McGinn M, Edwards KN, Edwards S. Chronic inflammatory pain alters alcohol-regulated frontocortical signaling and associations between alcohol drinking and thermal sensitivity. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2020; 8:100052. [PMID: 33005820 PMCID: PMC7509777 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2020.100052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic, relapsing psychiatric disorder that is characterized by the emergence of negative affective states. The transition from recreational, limited intake to uncontrolled, escalated intake is proposed to involve a transition from positive to negative reinforcement mechanisms for seeking alcohol. Past work has identified the emergence of significant hyperalgesia/allodynia in alcohol-dependent animals, which may serve as a key negative reinforcement mechanism. Chronic pain has been associated with enhanced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity in cortical and subcortical nociceptive areas. Additionally, both pain and AUD have been associated with increased activity of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a key mediator of stress responsiveness. The objectives of the current study were to first determine relationships between thermal nociceptive sensitivity and alcohol drinking in male Wistar rats. While inflammatory pain induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) administration did not modify escalation of home cage drinking in animals over four weeks, the relationship between drinking levels and hyperalgesia symptoms reversed between acute (1 week) and chronic (3-4 week) periods post-CFA administration, suggesting that either the motivational or analgesic effects of alcohol may be altered over the time course of chronic pain. We next examined ERK and GR phosphorylation in pain-related brain areas (including the central amygdala and prefrontal cortex subregions) in animals experiencing acute withdrawal from binge alcohol administration (2 g/kg, 6 h withdrawal) and CFA administration (four weeks) to model the neurobiological consequences of binge alcohol exposure in the context of pain. We observed a significant interaction between alcohol and pain state, whereby alcohol withdrawal increased ERK phosphorylation across all four frontocortical areas examined, although this effect was absent in animals experiencing chronic inflammatory pain. Alcohol withdrawal also increased GR phosphorylation across all four frontocortical areas, but these changes were not altered by CFA. Interestingly, we observed significant inter-brain regional correlations in GR phosphorylation between the insula and other regions investigated only in animals exposed to both alcohol and CFA, suggesting coordinated activity in insula circuitry and glucocorticoid signaling in this context. The results of these studies provide a greater understanding of the neurobiology of AUD and will contribute to the development of effective treatment strategies for comorbid AUD and pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Adrienne McGinn
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse IRP, United States
| | - Kimberly N. Edwards
- Department of Physiology, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
- Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
- Alcohol & Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
- Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health-New Orleans, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Okine BN, Mc Laughlin G, Gaspar JC, Harhen B, Roche M, Finn DP. Antinociceptive Effects of the GPR55 Antagonist CID16020046 Injected into the Rat Anterior Cingulate Cortex. Neuroscience 2020; 443:19-29. [PMID: 32673629 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The G-protein coupled receptor, GPR55, modulates nociceptive processing. Given the expression of GPR55 in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a key brain region involved in the cognitive and affective dimensions of pain, the present study tested the hypothesis that GPR55 signalling in the ACC facilitates inflammatory pain behaviour in rats. The expression of GPR55 in the ACC was confirmed by both western blotting and immunostaining, with evidence for neuronal localisation. Microinjection of the selective GPR55 antagonist CID16020046 into the ACC of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats significantly reduced second phase formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour compared with vehicle-treated controls. CID16020046 administration was associated with a reduction in phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), a downstream target of GPR55 activation, in the ACC. Intra-ACC administration of CID16020046 prevented the formalin-induced increases in expression of mRNA coding for the immediate early gene and marker of neuronal activity, c-Fos, in the ipsilateral dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Intra-plantar injection of formalin reduced tissue levels of the endogenous GPR55 ligand 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoinositol (2-AGPI) in the ACC, likely reflecting its increased release/utilisation. These data suggest that endogenous activation of GPR55 signalling and increased ERK phosphorylation in the ACC facilitates inflammatory pain via top-down modulation of descending pain control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bright N Okine
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gemma Mc Laughlin
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Jessica C Gaspar
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Brendan Harhen
- Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Michelle Roche
- Physiology, School of Medicine, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Humo M, Ayazgök B, Becker LJ, Waltisperger E, Rantamäki T, Yalcin I. Ketamine induces rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects in chronic pain induced depression: Role of MAPK signaling pathway. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 100:109898. [PMID: 32109506 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.109898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pain produces psychologic distress, which often leads to mood disorders such as depression. Co-existing chronic pain and depression pose a serious socio-economic burden and result in disability affecting millions of individuals, which urges the development of treatment strategies targeting this comorbidity. Ketamine, a noncompetitive antagonist of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, is shown to be efficient in treating both pain and depression-related symptoms. However, the molecular characteristics of its role in chronic pain-induced depression remain largely unexplored. Hence, we studied the behavioral and molecular effects of a single systemic administration of ketamine (15 mg/kg, i.p.) on mechanical hypersensitivity and depressive-like consequences of chronic neuropathic pain. We showed that ketamine transiently alleviated mechanical hypersensitivity (lasting <24 h), while its antidepressant effect was observed even 72 h after administration. In addition, ketamine normalized the upregulated expression of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatase 1 (MKP-1) and the downregulated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pERK) in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of mice displaying neuropathic pain-induced depressive-like behaviors. This effect of ketamine on the MKP-1 was first detected 30 min after the ketamine administration and persisted until up to 72 h. Altogether, these findings provide insight into the behavioral and molecular changes associated with single ketamine administration in the comorbidity of chronic pain and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muris Humo
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Beyza Ayazgök
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Hacettepe, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Léa J Becker
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Elisabeth Waltisperger
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Tomi Rantamäki
- Laboratory of Neurotherapeutics, Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Finland; SleepWell Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ipek Yalcin
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kummer KK, Mitrić M, Kalpachidou T, Kress M. The Medial Prefrontal Cortex as a Central Hub for Mental Comorbidities Associated with Chronic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3440. [PMID: 32414089 PMCID: PMC7279227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain patients frequently develop and suffer from mental comorbidities such as depressive mood, impaired cognition, and other significant constraints of daily life, which can only insufficiently be overcome by medication. The emotional and cognitive components of pain are processed by the medial prefrontal cortex, which comprises the anterior cingulate cortex, the prelimbic, and the infralimbic cortex. All three subregions are significantly affected by chronic pain: magnetic resonance imaging has revealed gray matter loss in all these areas in chronic pain conditions. While the anterior cingulate cortex appears hyperactive, prelimbic, and infralimbic regions show reduced activity. The medial prefrontal cortex receives ascending, nociceptive input, but also exerts important top-down control of pain sensation: its projections are the main cortical input of the periaqueductal gray, which is part of the descending inhibitory pain control system at the spinal level. A multitude of neurotransmitter systems contributes to the fine-tuning of the local circuitry, of which cholinergic and GABAergic signaling are particularly emerging as relevant components of affective pain processing within the prefrontal cortex. Accordingly, factors such as distraction, positive mood, and anticipation of pain relief such as placebo can ameliorate pain by affecting mPFC function, making this cortical area a promising target region for medical as well as psychosocial interventions for pain therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Michaela Kress
- Institute of Physiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.K.K.); (M.M.); (T.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chen QY, Zhang ZL, Liu Q, Chen CJ, Zhang XK, Xu PY, Zhuo M. Presynaptic long-term potentiation requires extracellular signal-regulated kinases in the anterior cingulate cortex. Mol Pain 2020; 16:1744806920917245. [PMID: 32264746 PMCID: PMC7144679 DOI: 10.1177/1744806920917245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinases are widely expressed protein kinases in neurons, which serve as important intracellular signaling molecules for central plasticity such as long-term potentiation. Recent studies demonstrate that there are two major forms of long-term potentiation in cortical areas related to pain: postsynaptic long-term potentiation and presynaptic long-term potentiation. In particular, presynaptic long-term potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex has been shown to contribute to chronic pain-related anxiety. In this review, we briefly summarized the components and roles of extracellular signal-regulated kinases in neuronal signaling, especially in the presynaptic long-term potentiation of anterior cingulate cortex, and discuss the possible molecular mechanisms and functional implications in pain-related emotional disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Yu Chen
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zhi-Ling Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qin Liu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao-Jun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Chinese Medical Integrated Hospital (Huadu), Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Kang Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Gan-Nan Medical University, Ganzhopu, China
| | - Ping-Yi Xu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zhuo
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Alotaibi G, Rahman S. Effects of glial glutamate transporter activator in formalin‐induced pain behaviour in mice. Eur J Pain 2018. [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ghallab Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy South Dakota State University Brookings South Dakota
| | - Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy South Dakota State University Brookings South Dakota
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Alotaibi G, Rahman S. Effects of glial glutamate transporter activator in formalin-induced pain behaviour in mice. Eur J Pain 2018; 23:765-783. [PMID: 30427564 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nociceptive pain remains a prevalent clinical problem and often poorly responsive to the currently available analgesics. Previous studies have shown that astroglial glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1) in the hippocampus and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is critically involved in pain processing and modulation. However, the role of astroglial GLT-1 in nociceptive pain involving the hippocampus and ACC remains unknown. We investigated the role of 3-[[(2-Methylphenyl) methyl]thio]-6-(2-pyridinyl)-pyridazine (LDN-212320), a GLT-1 activator, in nociceptive pain model and hippocampal-dependent behavioural tasks in mice. METHODS We evaluated the effects of LDN-212320 in formalin-induced nociceptive pain model. In addition, formalin-induced impaired hippocampal-dependent behaviours were measured using Y-maze and object recognition test. Furthermore, GLT-1 expression and extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation (pERK1/2) were measured in the hippocampus and ACC using Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The LDN-212320 (10 or 20 mg/kg, i.p) significantly attenuated formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour. The antinociceptive effects of LDN-212320 were reversed by systemic administration of DHK (10 mg/kg, i.p), a GLT-1 antagonist. Moreover, LDN-212320 (10 or 20 mg/kg, i.p) significantly reversed formalin-induced impaired hippocampal-dependent behaviour. In addition, LDN-212320 (10 or 20 mg/kg, i.p) increased GLT-1 expressions in the hippocampus and ACC. On the other hand, LDN-212320 (20 mg/kg, i.p) significantly reduced formalin induced-ERK phosphorylation, a marker of nociception, in the hippocampus and ACC. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the GLT-1 activator LDN-212320 prevents nociceptive pain by upregulating astroglial GLT-1 expression in the hippocampus and ACC. Therefore, GLT-1 activator could be a novel drug candidate for nociceptive pain. SIGNIFICANCE The present study provides new insights and evaluates the role of GLT-1 activator in the modulation of nociceptive pain involving hippocampus and ACC. Here, we provide evidence that GLT-1 activator could be a potential therapeutic utility for the treatment of nociceptive pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ghallab Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota
| | - Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Increasing evidence consistently indicates that cortical mechanisms play important roles in chronic pain and its emotional disorders. Central synapses, especially excitatory synapses, are undergoing long-term memory-like plastic changes after peripheral injury. These changes not only occur at the single synaptic level, but also take place at cortical and subcortical circuits. Consequently, neuronal responses to peripheral sensory stimuli, or even to sensory inputs triggered by normal physiological signals such as touch and movement, are significantly potentiated or increased. Such prolonged cortical excitation likely contributes to chronic pain and its related emotional changes. In this short review article, I will summarize recent progress using animal models and explore possible different mechanisms that may contribute to chronic pain in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhuo
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada; Centre for the Study of Pain, University of Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Watanabe K, Hirano S, Kojima K, Nagashima K, Mukai H, Sato T, Takemoto M, Matsumoto K, Iimori T, Isose S, Omori S, Shibuya K, Sekiguchi Y, Beppu M, Amino H, Suichi T, Yokote K, Uno T, Kuwabara S, Misawa S. Altered cerebral blood flow in the anterior cingulate cortex is associated with neuropathic pain. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2018; 89:1082-1087. [PMID: 29627772 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2017-316601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the cerebral blood flow (CBF) in patients with diabetic neuropathic pain, and its changes after duloxetine therapy. METHODS Using iodine-123-N-isopropyl-p-iodoamphetamine single-photon emission computed tomography (IMP-SPECT), we performed a cross-sectional study of 44 patients with diabetes, and compared CBF in those with (n = 24) and without neuropathic pain (n = 20). In patients with neuropathic pain, we also longitudinally assessed changes in CBF 3 months after treatment with duloxetine. RESULTS IMP-SPECT with voxel-based analyses showed a significant increase in cerebral blood flow in the right anterior cingulate cortex and a decrease in the left ventral striatum in patients with neuropathic pain, compared with those without pain. After duloxetine treatment, volume of interest analyses revealed a decrease in cerebral blood flow in the anterior cingulate cortex in patients with significant pain relief but not in non-responders. Furthermore, voxel-based whole brain correlation analyses demonstrated that greater baseline CBF in the anterior cingulate cortex was associated with better pain relief on the numerical rating scale. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the development of neuropathic pain is associated with increased activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, and greater baseline activation of this region may predict treatment responsiveness to pharmacological intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER UMIN000017130;Results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Watanabe
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shigeki Hirano
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kazuho Kojima
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kengo Nagashima
- Clinical Research Center, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroki Mukai
- Diagnostic Radiology and Radiation Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takatoshi Sato
- Clinical Research Center, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Minoru Takemoto
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Koji Matsumoto
- Department of Radiology, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takashi Iimori
- Department of Radiology, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Sagiri Isose
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shigeki Omori
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kazumoto Shibuya
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yukari Sekiguchi
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Minako Beppu
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Amino
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tomoki Suichi
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Koutaro Yokote
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takashi Uno
- Diagnostic Radiology and Radiation Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kuwabara
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Sonoko Misawa
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Alkali Burn Induced Corneal Spontaneous Pain and Activated Neuropathic Pain Matrix in the Central Nervous System in Mice. Cornea 2018; 36:1408-1414. [PMID: 28991854 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000001336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore whether alkali burn causes corneal neuropathic pain and activates the neuropathic pain matrix in the central nervous system in mice. METHODS A corneal alkali burn mouse model (grade II) was used. The mechanical threshold in the cauterized area was tested using Von Frey hairs. Spontaneous pain behavior was investigated with conditioned place preference. Phosphor extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), which is a marker for neuronal activation in chronic pain processing, was investigated in several representative areas of the neuropathic pain matrix: the 2 regions of the spinal trigeminal nucleus (subnucleus interpolaris/caudalis, Vi/Vc; subnucleus caudalis/upper cervical cord, Vc/C1), insular cortex, anterior cingulated cortex (ACC), and the rostroventral medulla (RVM). Furthermore, pharmacologically blocking pERK activation in the ACC of alkali burn mice was performed in a separate study. RESULTS Corneal alkali burn caused long-lasting damage to the corneal subbasal nerve fibers, and mice exhibited spontaneous pain behavior. By testing in several representative areas of the neuropathic pain matrix in the higher nervous system, phosphor ERK was significantly activated in Vc/C1, but not in Vi/Vc. Also, ERK was activated in the insular cortex, ACC, and RVM. Furthermore, pharmacologically blocking ERK activation in the ACC abolished alkali burn induced corneal spontaneous pain. CONCLUSIONS Alkali burn could cause corneal spontaneous pain and activate the neuropathic pain matrix in the central nervous system. Furthermore, activation of ERK in the ACC is required for alkali burn induced corneal spontaneous pain.
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
It is documented that sensory transmission, including pain, is subject to endogenous inhibitory and facilitatory modulation at the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Descending facilitation has received a lot of attention, due to its potentially important roles in chronic pain. Recent investigation using neurobiological approaches has further revealed the link between cortical potentiation and descending facilitation. Cortical-spinal top-down facilitation, including those relayed through brainstem neurons, provides powerful control for pain transmission at the level of the spinal cord. It also provides the neuronal basis to link emotional disorders such as anxiety, depression, and loss of hope to somatosensory pain and sufferings. In this review, I will review a brief history of the discovery of brainstem-spinal descending facilitation and explore new information and hypothesis for descending facilitation in chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhuo
- 1 Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,2 Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chen NF, Chen WF, Sung CS, Lu CH, Chen CL, Hung HC, Feng CW, Chen CH, Tsui KH, Kuo HM, Wang HMD, Wen ZH, Huang SY. Contributions of p38 and ERK to the antinociceptive effects of TGF-β1 in chronic constriction injury-induced neuropathic rats. J Headache Pain 2016; 17:72. [PMID: 27541934 PMCID: PMC4991976 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-016-0665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transforming growth factor-βs (TGF-βs) are a group of multifunctional proteins that have neuroprotective roles in various experimental models. We previously reported that intrathecal (i.t.) injections of TGF-β1 significantly inhibit neuropathy-induced thermal hyperalgesia, spinal microglia and astrocyte activation, as well as upregulation of tumor necrosis factor-α. However, additional cellular mechanisms for the antinociceptive effects of TGF-β1, such as the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, have not been elucidated. During persistent pain, activation of MAPKs, especially p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), have crucial roles in the induction and maintenance of pain hypersensitivity, via both nontranscriptional and transcriptional regulation. In the present study, we used a chronic constriction injury (CCI) rat model to explore the role of spinal p38 and ERK in the analgesic effects of TGF-β1. Methods We investigated the cellular mechanisms of the antinociceptive effects of i.t. injections of TGF-β1 in CCI induced neuropathic rats by spinal immunohistofluorescence analyses. Results The results demonstrated that the antinociceptive effects of TGF-β1 (5 ng) were maintained at greater than 50 % of the maximum possible effect in rats with CCI for at least 6 h after a single i.t. administration. Thus, we further examined these alterations in spinal p38 and ERK from 0.5 to 6 h after i.t. administration of TGF-β1. TGF-β1 significantly attenuated CCI-induced upregulation of phosphorylated p38 (phospho-p38) and phosphorylated ERK (phospho-ERK) expression in the dorsal horn of the lumbar spinal cord. Double immunofluorescence staining illustrated that upregulation of spinal phospho-p38 was localized to neurons, activated microglial cells, and activated astrocytes in rats with CCI. Additionally, increased phospho-ERK occurred in activated microglial cells and activated astrocytes. Furthermore, i.t. administration of TGF-β1 markedly inhibited phospho-p38 upregulation in neurons, microglial cells, and astrocytes. However, i.t. injection of TGF-β1 also reduced phospho-ERK upregulation in microglial cells and astrocytes. Conclusions The present results demonstrate that suppressing p38 and ERK activity affects TGF-β1-induced analgesia during neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan-Fu Chen
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan.,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital, Kaohsiung, 80284, Taiwan.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Fu Chen
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, 83301, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Sung Sung
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsiang Lu
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital, Kaohsiung, 80284, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Lin Chen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital, Kaohsiung, 80284, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chun Hung
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan.,Doctoral Degree Program in Marine Biotechnology, National Sun Yat-sen University and Academia Sinica, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wei Feng
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan.,Doctoral Degree Program in Marine Biotechnology, National Sun Yat-sen University and Academia Sinica, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hong Chen
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan.,Doctoral Degree Program in Marine Biotechnology, National Sun Yat-sen University and Academia Sinica, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, 81362, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy and Graduate Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Tajen University, Pingtung, 90741, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Mei Kuo
- Center for Neuroscience, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Min David Wang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan.,Center for Stem Cell Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan.,College of Oceanology and Food Scienece, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Wen
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan. .,Doctoral Degree Program in Marine Biotechnology, National Sun Yat-sen University and Academia Sinica, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan. .,Marine Biomedical Laboratory and Center for Translational Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan.
| | - Shi-Ying Huang
- Center for Neuroscience, National Sun Yat-sen University, #70 Lien-Hai Rd, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan. .,College of Oceanology and Food Scienece, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou, 362000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is activated in both acute and chronic pain. In this Review, we discuss increasing evidence from rodent studies that ACC activation contributes to chronic pain states and describe several forms of synaptic plasticity that may underlie this effect. In particular, one form of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the ACC, which is triggered by the activation of NMDA receptors and expressed by an increase in AMPA-receptor function, sustains the affective component of the pain state. Another form of LTP in the ACC, which is triggered by the activation of kainate receptors and expressed by an increase in glutamate release, may contribute to pain-related anxiety.
Collapse
|
35
|
Yamanaka M, Tian Z, Darvish-Ghane S, Zhuo M. Pre-LTP requires extracellular signal-regulated kinase in the ACC. Mol Pain 2016; 12:12/0/1744806916647373. [PMID: 27178245 PMCID: PMC4956388 DOI: 10.1177/1744806916647373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular signal-regulated kinase is an important protein kinase for cortical plasticity. Long-term potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex is believed to play important roles in chronic pain, fear, and anxiety. Previous studies of extracellular signal-regulated kinase are mainly focused on postsynaptic form of long-term potentiation (post-long-term potentiation). Little is known about the relationship between extracellular signal-regulated kinase and presynaptic long-term potentiation (pre-long-term potentiation) in cortical synapses. In this study, we examined whether pre-long-term potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex requires the activation of presynaptic extracellular signal-regulated kinase. We found that p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors, PD98059 and U0126, suppressed the induction of pre-long-term potentiation. By contrast, these inhibitors did not affect the maintenance of pre-long-term potentiation. Using pharmacological inhibitors, we found that pre-long-term potentiation recorded for 1 h did not require transcriptional or translational processes. Our results strongly indicate that the activation of presynaptic extracellular signal-regulated kinase is required for the induction of pre-long-term potentiation, and this involvement may explain the contribution of extracellular signal-regulated kinase to mood disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Yamanaka
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Shanxi, China Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zhen Tian
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Shanxi, China Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Soroush Darvish-Ghane
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Min Zhuo
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Shanxi, China Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Nishinaka T, Nakamoto K, Tokuyama S. Early life stress induces sex-dependent increases in phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase in brains of mice with neuropathic pain. Eur J Pain 2016; 20:1346-56. [DOI: 10.1002/ejp.860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. Nishinaka
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Kobe Gakuin University; Kobe Japan
| | - K. Nakamoto
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Kobe Gakuin University; Kobe Japan
| | - S. Tokuyama
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Kobe Gakuin University; Kobe Japan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wang J, Li ZH, Feng B, Zhang T, Zhang H, Li H, Chen T, Cui J, Zang WD, Li YQ. Corticotrigeminal Projections from the Insular Cortex to the Trigeminal Caudal Subnucleus Regulate Orofacial Pain after Nerve Injury via Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Activation in Insular Cortex Neurons. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:493. [PMID: 26733817 PMCID: PMC4689789 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cortical neuroplasticity alterations are implicated in the pathophysiology of chronic orofacial pain. However, the relationship between critical cortex excitability and orofacial pain maintenance has not been fully elucidated. We recently demonstrated a top-down corticospinal descending pain modulation pathway from the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) to the spinal dorsal horn that could directly regulate nociceptive transmission. Thus, we aimed to investigate possible corticotrigeminal connections that directly influence orofacial nociception in rats. Infraorbital nerve chronic constriction injury (IoN-CCI) induced significant orofacial nociceptive behaviors as well as pain-related negative emotions such as anxiety/depression in rats. By combining retrograde and anterograde tract tracing, we found powerful evidence that the trigeminal caudal subnucleus (Vc), especially the superficial laminae (I/II), received direct descending projections from granular and dysgranular parts of the insular cortex (IC). Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), an important signaling molecule involved in neuroplasticity, was significantly activated in the IC following IoN-CCI. Moreover, in IC slices from IoN-CCI rats, U0126, an inhibitor of ERK activation, decreased both the amplitude and the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) and reduced the paired-pulse ratio (PPR) of Vc-projecting neurons. Additionally, U0126 also reduced the number of action potentials in the Vc-projecting neurons. Finally, intra-IC infusion of U0126 obviously decreased Fos expression in the Vc, accompanied by the alleviation of both nociceptive behavior and negative emotions. Thus, the corticotrigeminal descending pathway from the IC to the Vc could directly regulate orofacial pain, and ERK deactivation in the IC could effectively alleviate neuropathic pain as well as pain-related negative emotions in IoN-CCI rats, probably through this top–down pathway. These findings may help researchers and clinicians to better understand the underlying modulation mechanisms of orofacial neuropathic pain and indicate a novel mechanism of ERK inhibitor-induced analgesia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Li
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ban Feng
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Cui
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei-Dong Zang
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yun-Qing Li
- Department of Anatomy and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'an, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Shao XM, Shen Z, Sun J, Fang F, Fang JF, Wu YY, Fang JQ. Strong Manual Acupuncture Stimulation of "Huantiao" (GB 30) Reduces Pain-Induced Anxiety and p-ERK in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:235491. [PMID: 26770252 PMCID: PMC4681793 DOI: 10.1155/2015/235491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2015] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Persistent neuropathic pain is associated with anxiety. The phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays an important role in pain-induced anxiety. Acupuncture is widely used for pain and anxiety. However, little is known about which acupuncture technique is optimal on pain-induced anxiety and the relationship between acupuncture effect and p-ERK. The rat model was induced by L5 spinal nerve ligation (SNL). Male adult SD rats were randomly divided into control, SNL, strong manual acupuncture (sMA), mild manual acupuncture (mMA), and electroacupuncture (EA) group. Bilateral "Huantiao" (GB 30) were stimulated by sMA, mMA, and EA, respectively. The pain withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) and anxiety behavior were measured, and p-ERK protein expression and immunoreactivity cells in ACC were detected. PWTs increased significantly in both sMA and EA groups. Meanwhile, anxiety-like behavior was improved significantly in the sMA and mMA groups. Furthermore, the overexpression of p-ERK induced by SNL was downregulated by strong and mild manual acupuncture. Therefore, strong manual acupuncture on bilateral "Huantiao" (GB 30) could be a proper therapy relieving both pain and pain-induced anxiety. The effect of different acupuncture techniques on pain-induced anxiety may arise from the regulation of p-ERK in ACC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-mei Shao
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Zui Shen
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jun-fan Fang
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yuan-yuan Wu
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jian-qiao Fang
- Department of Neurobiology & Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Differential effects of general anesthetics on anxiety-like behavior in formalin-induced pain: involvement of ERK activation in the anterior cingulate cortex. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2015; 232:4433-44. [PMID: 26400403 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-4071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Pain-related anxiety and depression are well known to be comorbid with chronic pain and adversely affect patient quality of life. Recent studies have shown that anxiety-like behaviors also develop with acute surgical pain, but the effects of general anesthetics on acute pain-related anxiety are unknown. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to compare the effects of different general anesthetics on anxiety-like behaviors that follow formalin-induced acute pain in a rat model. METHODS Formalin-induced acute inflammatory pain was established by intraplantar injection of 1% formalin without anesthesia or with anesthesia using the clinical anesthetics sevoflurane, propofol, or pentobarbital sodium. Anxiety-like behaviors were studied using the open-field test and elevated plus maze. Phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) 1/2 expression in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and spinal cord was examined using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Anxiety-like behaviors were observed at 24 and 72 h post-formalin injection. Concomitantly, p-ERK 1/2 expression was upregulated in the ACC at 1 and 24 h post-formalin injection. While all three general anesthetics effectively blocked nociceptive responses and activation of ERK in the rat ACC following formalin injection during anesthesia, only sevoflurane inhibited ERK activation in the spinal cord and ACC at 24 h post-injection. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that sevoflurane, but not intravenous anesthetics, inhibits pain-related anxiety, along with ERK activation in the ACC, probably through inhibition of spinal nociceptive transmission. Intraoperative application of inhaled anesthetics may be a better choice to reduce postoperative anxiety.
Collapse
|
40
|
Ang ST, Lee ATH, Foo FC, Ng L, Low CM, Khanna S. GABAergic neurons of the medial septum play a nodal role in facilitation of nociception-induced affect. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15419. [PMID: 26487082 PMCID: PMC4614072 DOI: 10.1038/srep15419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study explored the functional details of the influence of medial septal region (MSDB) on spectrum of nociceptive behaviours by manipulating intraseptal GABAergic mechanisms. Results showed that formalin-induced acute nociception was not affected by intraseptal microinjection of bicuculline, a GABAA receptor antagonist, or on selective lesion of septal GABAergic neurons. Indeed, the acute nociceptive responses were dissociated from the regulation of sensorimotor behaviour and generation of theta-rhythm by the GABAergic mechanisms in MSDB. The GABAergic lesion attenuated formalin-induced unconditioned cellular response in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and blocked formalin-induced conditioned place avoidance (F-CPA), and as well as the contextual fear induced on conditioning with brief footshock. The effects of lesion on nociceptive-conditioned cellular responses were, however, variable. Interestingly, the lesion attenuated the conditioned representation of experimental context in dorsal hippocampus field CA1 in the F-CPA task. Collectively, the preceding suggests that the MSDB is a nodal centre wherein the GABAergic neurons mediate nociceptive affect-motivation by regulating cellular mechanisms in ACC that confer an aversive value to the noxious stimulus. Further, in conjunction with a modulatory influence on hippocampal contextual processing, MSDB may integrate affect with context as part of associative learning in the F-CPA task.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seok Ting Ang
- Departments of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
- Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore
| | - Andy Thiam Huat Lee
- Departments of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
- Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore
| | - Fang Chee Foo
- Departments of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
- Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore
| | - Lynn Ng
- Departments of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
| | - Chian-Ming Low
- Departments of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
- Departments of Anaesthesia, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
- Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore
| | - Sanjay Khanna
- Departments of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore
- Neurobiology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Tochiki KK, Maiarù M, Miller JRC, Hunt SP, Géranton SM. Short-term anesthesia inhibits formalin-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex but not in the spinal cord. Mol Pain 2015; 11:49. [PMID: 26272725 PMCID: PMC4536792 DOI: 10.1186/s12990-015-0052-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC) has been implicated in the negative affective response to injury, and importantly, it has been shown that activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling in the rACC contributes to the full expression of the affective component of pain in rodents. In this study, we investigated whether administration of anesthesia at the time of injury could reduce phosphorylated-ERK (PERK) expression in the rACC, which might eliminate the negative affective component of noxious stimulation. Intraplantar hindpaw formalin stimulation, an aversive event in the awake animal, was given with or without general isoflurane anesthesia, and PERK expression was subsequently quantified in the rACC using immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, as numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of spinal ERK signaling in the regulation of nociceptive behaviour, we also examined PERK in the superficial dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Findings Formalin injection with and without short-term (<10 min) general isoflurane anesthesia induced the same level of PERK expression in spinal cord laminae I–II. However, PERK expression was significantly inhibited across all laminae of the rACC in animals anesthetized during formalin injection. The effect of anesthesia was such that levels of PERK were the same in formalin and sham treated anesthesized animals. Conclusions This study is the first to demonstrate that isoflurane anesthesia can inhibit formalin-induced PERK in the rACC and therefore might eliminate the unpleasantness of restraint associated with awake hindpaw injection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keri K Tochiki
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Maria Maiarù
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - James R C Miller
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Stephen P Hunt
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Sandrine M Géranton
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Borges G, Berrocoso E, Mico JA, Neto F. ERK1/2: Function, signaling and implication in pain and pain-related anxio-depressive disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2015; 60:77-92. [PMID: 25708652 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2015.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite the increasing knowledge regarding pain modulation, the understanding of the mechanisms behind a complex and pathologic chronic pain condition is still insufficient. These knowledge gaps might result in ineffective therapeutic approaches to relieve painful sensations. As a result, severe untreated chronic pain frequently triggers the onset of new disorders such as depression and/or anxiety, and therefore, both the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from chronic pain become seriously compromised, prompting a self-perpetuating cycle of symptomatology. The extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) are molecules strongly implicated in the somatic component of pain at the spinal cord level and have been emerging as mediators of the emotional-affective component as well. Although these molecules might represent good biomarkers, their use as pharmacological targets is still open to discussion as paradoxical information has been obtained. Here we review the current scientific literature regarding ERK1/2 signaling in the modulation of pain, depression and anxiety, including the emotional-affective spheres of the pain experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Borges
- Neuropsycopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience (Pharmacology and Psychiatry), University of Cádiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain; Departamento de Biologia Experimental, Centro de Investigação Médica da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (CIM-FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Grupo de Morfofisiologia do Sistema Nervoso, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Porto, Portugal
| | - Esther Berrocoso
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Psychobiology Area, Department of Psychology, University of Cádiz, 11510 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Mico
- Neuropsycopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience (Pharmacology and Psychiatry), University of Cádiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fani Neto
- Departamento de Biologia Experimental, Centro de Investigação Médica da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (CIM-FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Grupo de Morfofisiologia do Sistema Nervoso, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Caveolin-1 in the anterior cingulate cortex modulates chronic neuropathic pain via regulation of NMDA receptor 2B subunit. J Neurosci 2015; 35:36-52. [PMID: 25568101 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1161-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is still a basic science and clinical challenge. Unraveling of the neurobiological mechanisms involved in chronic pain will offer novel targets for the development of therapeutic strategies. It is well known that central sensitization in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays a critical role in initiation, development, and maintenance of chronic pain. However, the underlying mechanisms still remain elusive. Here, we reported that caveolin-1 (Cav-1), a scaffolding protein in membrane rafts, was persistently upregulated and activated in the ACC neurons after chronic constriction injury (CCI) in mice. Knockdown or blocking of Cav-1 in the contralateral ACC to the injury side reversed CCI-induced pain behavioral and neuronal sensitization and overexpression of Cav-1 in the ipsilateral ACC-induced pain behavior in the unaffected hindpaw. Furthermore, we found that Cav-1 directly binding with NMDA receptor 2B subunit (NR2B) and promotion of NR2B surface levels in the ACC contributed to modulation of chronic neuropathic pain. Disrupting the interaction of Cav-1 and NR2B through microinjection of a short peptide derived from the C-terminal of NR2B into the ACC exhibited a significant anti-nociception effect associated with decrease of surface NR2B expression. Moreover, Cav-1 increased intracellular Ca(2+) concentration and activated the ERK/CREB signaling pathway in an NR2B-dependent manner in the ACC. Our findings implicate that Cav-1 in the ACC neurons modulates chronic neuropathic pain via regulation of NR2B and subsequent activation of ERK/CREB signaling, suggesting a possible caveolin-mediated process would participate in neuronal transmission pathways implicated in pain modulation.
Collapse
|
44
|
Wang XQ, Zhong XL, Li ZB, Wang HT, Zhang J, Li F, Zhang JY, Dai RP, Xin-Fu Z, Li CQ, Li ZY, Bi FF. Differential roles of hippocampal glutamatergic receptors in neuropathic anxiety-like behavior after partial sciatic nerve ligation in rats. BMC Neurosci 2015; 16:14. [PMID: 25884414 PMCID: PMC4372276 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-015-0150-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain evoked by nerve injury is frequently accompanied by deterioration of emotional behaviors, but the underlying signaling mechanisms remain elusive. Glutamate (Glu) is the major mediator of excitatory synaptic transmission throughout the brain, and abnormal activity of the glutamatergic system has been implicated in the pathophysiology of pain and associated emotional comorbidities. In this study we used the partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL) model of neuropathic pain in rats to characterize the development of anxiety-like behavior, the expression of glutamatergic receptors, and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in the hippocampus, the region that encodes memories related to emotions. RESULTS We found that the mechanical withdrawal threshold was significantly reduced and an anxiety-like behavior was increased as determined via open field tests and elevated plus-maze tests at 28 days after injury. No significant differences were found in the ratio of sucrose preference and immobility time detected by sucrose preference tests and forced swimming tests respectively, possibly due to the timing factor. The expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subtypes NR1 and NR2B, but not NR2A, GluR1, or GluR2 (the main subtype of the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid [AMPA] receptor) in the hippocampus of injured rats was significantly reduced. Moreover, PSNL resulted in decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in the hippocampus. Intriguingly, treatment with D-serine (a co-agonist of NMDA receptor, 1 g/kg intraperitoneally) reduced the anxiety-like behavior but not the mechanical hypersensitivity induced by PSNL. CONCLUSIONS PSNL can induce significant anxiety-like but not depression-like behavior, and trigger down-regulation of NMDA but not AMPA receptors in the hippocampus at 28 days after injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Qin Wang
- Center for Experimental Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 138, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 138, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Xiao-Lin Zhong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhi-Bin Li
- Department of Neurology, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, XiangYa Road 88, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Hong-Tao Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Jian-Yi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Ru-Ping Dai
- Department of Anesthesia, the Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Ren-Min Road 86, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhou Xin-Fu
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
| | - Chang-Qi Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhi-Yuan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Tongzipo Road 172, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Fang-Fang Bi
- Department of Neurology, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, XiangYa Road 88, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Electroacupuncture alleviates retrieval of pain memory and its effect on phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein in anterior cingulate cortex in rats. Behav Brain Funct 2015; 11:9. [PMID: 25886521 PMCID: PMC4364627 DOI: 10.1186/s12993-015-0055-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent evidence suggests that persistent pain and recurrent pain are due to the pain memory which is related to the phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB) in anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Eletroacupuncture (EA), as a complementary Chinese medical procedure, has a significant impact on the treatment of pain and is now considered as a mind-body therapy. Methods The rat model of pain memory was induced by two injections of carrageenan into the paws, which was administered separately by a 14-day interval, and treated with EA therapy. The paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) of animals were measured and p-CREB expressions in ACC were detected by using immunofluorescence (IF) and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Statistical comparisons among different groups were made by one-way, repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results The second injection of carrageenan caused the decrease of PWTs in the non-injected hind paw. EA stimulation applied prior to the second injection, increased the values of PWTs. In ACC, the numbers of p-CREB positive cells were significantly increased in pain memory model rats, which were significantly reduced by EA. EMSA results showed EA also down-regulated the combining capacity of p-CREB with its DNA. Furthermore, the co-expression of p-CREB with GFAP, OX-42, or NeuN in ACC was strengthened in the pain memory model rats. EA inhibited the co-expression of p-CREB with GFAP or OX-42, but not NeuN in ACC. Conclusions The present results suggest the retrieval of pain memory could be alleviated by the pre-treatment of EA, which is at least partially attributed to the down-regulated expression and combining capacity of p-CREB and the decreased expression of p-CREB in astrocytes and microglia cells.
Collapse
|
46
|
BDNF-dependent plasticity induced by peripheral inflammation in the primary sensory and the cingulate cortex triggers cold allodynia and reveals a major role for endogenous BDNF as a tuner of the affective aspect of pain. J Neurosci 2015; 34:14739-51. [PMID: 25355226 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0860-14.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Painful experiences are multilayered, composed of sensory, affective, cognitive and behavioral facets. Whereas it is well accepted that the development of chronic pain is due to maladaptive neuronal changes, the underlying molecular mechanisms, their relationship to the different pain modalities, and indeed the localization of these changes are still unknown. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an activity-dependent neuromodulator in the adult brain, which enhances neuronal excitability. In the spinal cord, BDNF underlies the development and maintenance of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Here, we hypothesized that BDNF could be a trigger of some of these plastic changes. Our results demonstrate that BDNF is upregulated in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the primary sensory cortex (S1) in rats with inflammatory pain. Injections of recombinant BDNF (into the ACC) or a viral vector synthesizing BDNF (into the ACC or S1) triggered both neuronal hyperexcitability, as shown by elevated long-term potentiation, and sustained pain hypersensitivity. Finally, pharmacological blockade of BDNF-tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling in the ACC, through local injection of cyclotraxin-B (a novel, highly potent, and selective TrkB antagonist) prevented neuronal hyperexcitability, the emergence of cold hypersensitivity, and passive avoidance behavior. These findings show that BDNF-dependent neuronal plasticity in the ACC, a structure known to be involved in the affective-emotional aspect of pain, is a key mechanism in the development and maintenance of the emotional aspect of chronic pain.
Collapse
|
47
|
Galan-Arriero I, Avila-Martin G, Ferrer-Donato A, Gomez-Soriano J, Bravo-Esteban E, Taylor J. Oral administration of the p38α MAPK inhibitor, UR13870, inhibits affective pain behavior after spinal cord injury. Pain 2014; 155:2188-98. [PMID: 25180015 DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2014.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The p38α mitogenous activated protein kinase (MAPK) cell signaling pathway is a key mechanism of microglia activation and has been studied as a target for neuropathic pain. The effect of UR13870, a p38α MAPK inhibitor, on microglia expression in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and spinal dorsal horn was addressed after T9 contusion spinal cord injury (SCI) in the rat, in addition to behavioral testing of pain-related aversion and anxiety. Administration of intravenous UR13870 (1mg/kg i.v.) and pregabalin (30 mg/kg i.v.) reduced place escape avoidance paradigm (PEAP) but did not affect open-field anxiety behavior 42 days after SCI. PEAP behavior was also reduced in animals administered daily with oral UR13870 (10mg/kg p.o.) and preserved spinal tissue 28 days after SCI. Although UR13870 (10mg/kg p.o.) failed to reduce OX-42 and glial fibrillar acid protein immunoreactivity within the spinal dorsal horn, a reduction toward the control level was observed close to the SCI site. In the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a significant increase in OX-42 immunoreactivity was identified after SCI. UR13870 (10mg/kg p.o.) treatment significantly reduced OX-42, metabotropic glutamate type 5 receptor (mGluR5), and NMDA (N-methyl-d-aspartate) 2B subunit receptor (NR2B) expression in the ACC after SCI. To conclude, oral treatment with a p38α MAPK inhibitor reduces the affective behavioral component of pain after SCI in association with a reduction of microglia and specific glutamate receptors within the ACC. Nevertheless the role of neuroinflammatory processes within the vicinity of the SCI site in the development of affective neuropathic pain cannot be excluded.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iriana Galan-Arriero
- Sensorimotor Function Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
| | - Gerardo Avila-Martin
- Sensorimotor Function Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
| | - Agueda Ferrer-Donato
- Sensorimotor Function Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
| | - Julio Gomez-Soriano
- Sensorimotor Function Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain; E.U.E. Fisioterapia de Toledo, Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Bravo-Esteban
- Sensorimotor Function Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain; IAI, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Arganda del Rey, Spain
| | - Julian Taylor
- Sensorimotor Function Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Edelmayer RM, Brederson JD, Jarvis MF, Bitner RS. Biochemical and pharmacological assessment of MAP-kinase signaling along pain pathways in experimental rodent models: a potential tool for the discovery of novel antinociceptive therapeutics. Biochem Pharmacol 2014; 87:390-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Revised: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 11/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
49
|
Liu MG, Zhuo M. Loss of long-term depression in the insular cortex after tail amputation in adult mice. Mol Pain 2014; 10:1. [PMID: 24398034 PMCID: PMC3912895 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-10-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The insular cortex (IC) is an important forebrain structure involved in pain perception and taste memory formation. Using a 64-channel multi-electrode array system, we recently identified and characterized two major forms of synaptic plasticity in the adult mouse IC: long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). In this study, we investigate injury-related metaplastic changes in insular synaptic plasticity after distal tail amputation. We found that tail amputation in adult mice produced a selective loss of low frequency stimulation-induced LTD in the IC, without affecting (RS)-3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG)-evoked LTD. The impaired insular LTD could be pharmacologically rescued by priming the IC slices with a lower dose of DHPG application, a form of metaplasticity which involves activation of protein kinase C but not protein kinase A or calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II. These findings provide important insights into the synaptic mechanisms of cortical changes after peripheral amputation and suggest that restoration of insular LTD may represent a novel therapeutic strategy against the synaptic dysfunctions underlying the pathophysiology of phantom pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Zhuo
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institute of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhuo M. Long-term potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex and chronic pain. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 369:20130146. [PMID: 24298148 PMCID: PMC3843878 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2013.0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate is the primary excitatory transmitter of sensory transmission and perception in the central nervous system. Painful or noxious stimuli from the periphery ‘teach’ humans and animals to avoid potentially dangerous objects or environments, whereas tissue injury itself causes unnecessary chronic pain that can even last for long periods of time. Conventional pain medicines often fail to control chronic pain. Recent neurobiological studies suggest that synaptic plasticity taking place in sensory pathways, from spinal dorsal horn to cortical areas, contributes to chronic pain. Injuries trigger long-term potentiation of synaptic transmission in the spinal cord dorsal horn and anterior cingulate cortex, and such persistent potentiation does not require continuous neuronal activity from the periphery. At the synaptic level, potentiation of excitatory transmission caused by injuries may be mediated by the enhancement of glutamate release from presynaptic terminals and potentiated postsynaptic responses of AMPA receptors. Preventing, ‘erasing’ or reducing such potentiation may serve as a new mechanism to inhibit chronic pain in patients in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhuo
- Center for Neuron and Disease, Frontier Institutes of Life Science, Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, , Xi'an 710049, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|