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Balasubramanian R, Schneider E, Gunnigle E, Cotter PD, Cryan JF. Fermented foods: Harnessing their potential to modulate the microbiota-gut-brain axis for mental health. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 158:105562. [PMID: 38278378 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, whole food supplementation strategies have been leveraged to target mental health. In addition, there has been increasing attention on the ability of gut microbes, so called psychobiotics, to positively impact behaviour though the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Fermented foods offer themselves as a combined whole food microbiota modulating intervention. Indeed, they contain potentially beneficial microbes, microbial metabolites and other bioactives, which are being harnessed to target the microbiota-gut-brain axis for positive benefits. This review highlights the diverse nature of fermented foods in terms of the raw materials used and type of fermentation employed, and summarises their potential to shape composition of the gut microbiota, the gut to brain communication pathways including the immune system and, ultimately, modulate the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Throughout, we identify knowledge gaps and challenges faced in designing human studies for investigating the mental health-promoting potential of individual fermented foods or components thereof. Importantly, we also suggest solutions that can advance understanding of the therapeutic merit of fermented foods to modulate the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Balasubramanian
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Food Biosciences Department, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, P61C996, County Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Eoin Gunnigle
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paul D Cotter
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Food Biosciences Department, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, P61C996, County Cork, Ireland.
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Yan L, Li H, Qian Y, Zhang J, Cong S, Zhang X, Wu L, Wang Y, Wang M, Yu T. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation: a new strategy for Alzheimer's disease intervention through the brain-gut-microbiota axis? Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1334887. [PMID: 38476661 PMCID: PMC10927744 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1334887] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is an emerging non-invasive technique designed to stimulate branches of the vagus nerve distributed over the body surface. Studies suggest a correlation between the brain-gut-microbiota (BGM) axis and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The BGM axis represents a complex bidirectional communication system, with the vagus nerve being a crucial component. Therefore, non-invasive electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve might have the potential to modify-most of the time probably in a non-physiological way-the signal transmission within the BGM axis, potentially influencing the progression or symptoms of AD. This review explores the interaction between percutaneous vagus nerve stimulation and the BGM axis, emphasizing its potential effects on AD. It examines various aspects, such as specific brain regions, gut microbiota composition, maintenance of intestinal environmental homeostasis, inflammatory responses, brain plasticity, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation. The review suggests that tVNS could serve as an effective strategy to modulate the BGM axis and potentially intervene in the progression or treatment of Alzheimer's disease in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Yan
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- Graduate Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Li
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- Graduate Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yulin Qian
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- Graduate Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shan Cong
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- Graduate Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuemin Zhang
- Graduate Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Linna Wu
- Graduate Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Wang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Meng Wang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Yu
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
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Kim KJ, Hwang J, Lee KW, Kim J, Han Y, Namgung U. Neuron-Microglia Interaction is Involved in Anti-inflammatory Response by Vagus Nerve Stimulation in the Prefrontal Cortex of Rats Injected with Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic Acid. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04054-2. [PMID: 38383920 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04054-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Injection of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) into experimental animals induces neuroimmunological responses and thus has been used for the study of neurological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue. Here, we investigated the effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on poly(I:C)-induced neuroinflammation and associated behavioral consequences in rats. The microglia in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) displayed the activated form of morphology in poly(I:C)-injected rats and changed to a normal shape after acute VNS (aVNS). Production of phospho-NF-κB, phospho-IκB, IL-1β, and cleaved caspase 3 was elevated by poly(I:C) and downregulated by aVNS. In contrast, phospho-Akt levels were decreased by poly(I:C) and increased by aVNS. Neuronal production of fractalkine (CX3CL1) in the PFC was markedly reduced by poly(I:C), but recovered by aVNS. Fractalkine interaction with its receptor CX3CR1 was highly elevated by VNS. We further demonstrated that the pharmacological blockade of CX3CR1 activity counteracted the production of IL-1β, phospho-Akt, and cleaved form of caspase 3 that was modulated by VNS, suggesting the anti-inflammatory effects of fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling as a mediator of neuron-microglia interaction. Behavioral assessments of pain and temperature sensations by von Frey and hot/cold plate tests showed significant improvement by chronic VNS (cVNS) and forced swimming and marble burying tests revealed that the depressive-like behaviors caused by poly(I:C) injection were rescued by cVNS. We also found that the recognition memory which was impaired by poly(I:C) administration was improved by cVNS. This study suggests that VNS may play a role in regulating neuroinflammation and somatosensory and cognitive functions in poly(I:C)-injected animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Joong Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Jinyeon Hwang
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Kang-Woo Lee
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Yunha Han
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Uk Namgung
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea.
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Bali ZK, Nagy LV, Bruszt N, Bodó K, Engelmann P, Hernádi Z, Göntér K, Tadepalli SA, Hernádi I. Increased brain cytokine level associated impairment of vigilance and memory in aged rats can be alleviated by alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist treatment. GeroScience 2024; 46:645-664. [PMID: 37994990 PMCID: PMC10828177 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-01019-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related neurocognitive disorders are common problems in developed societies. Aging not only affects memory processes, but may also disturb attention, vigilance, and other executive functions. In the present study, we aimed to investigate age-related cognitive deficits in rats and associated molecular alterations in the brain. We also aimed to test the effects of the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist PHA-543613 on memory as well as on the sustained attention and vigilance of aged rats. Short- and long-term spatial memories of the rats were tested using the Morris water maze (MWM) task. To measure attention and vigilance, we designed a rat version of the psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) that is frequently used in human clinical examinations. At the end of the behavioral experiments, mRNA and protein expression of alpha7 nAChRs, cytokines, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were quantitatively measured in the hippocampus, frontal cortex, striatum, and cerebellum. Aged rats showed marked cognitive deficits in both the MWM and the PVT. The deficit was accompanied by increased IL-1beta and TNFalpha mRNA expression and decreased BDNF protein expression in the hippocampus. PHA-543613 significantly improved the reaction time of aged rats in the PVT, especially for unexpectedly appearing stimuli, while only slightly (non-significantly) alleviating spatial memory deficits in the MWM. These results indicate that targeting alpha7 nAChRs may be an effective strategy for the amelioration of attention and vigilance deficits in age-related neurocognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Kristóf Bali
- Grastyán Endre Translational Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.
| | - Lili Veronika Nagy
- Grastyán Endre Translational Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Nóra Bruszt
- Grastyán Endre Translational Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kornélia Bodó
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Virology, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Péter Engelmann
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Hernádi
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kitti Göntér
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Sai Ambika Tadepalli
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - István Hernádi
- Grastyán Endre Translational Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Yan Q, Chen J, Ren X, Song Y, Xu J, Xuan S, Jiang X, Kuang Z, Tang Z. Vagus Nerve Stimulation Relives Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the Associated Depression via α7nAChR-mediated Anti-inflammatory Pathway. Neuroscience 2023; 530:26-37. [PMID: 37625687 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study is designed to investigate the role of vagus nerve in the treatments of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the associated central nervous system disorders. METHODS An IBS animal model was established by giving acetic acid and chronic-acute stress (AA-CAS) treatment in adult male Wistar rats. Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy (SDV) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) were performed to intervene the excitability of vagus nerve. Permeability of blood brain barrier (BBB) was measured and agonist and antagonist of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) were used to explore the relevant mechanisms. RESULTS AA-CAS treatment resulted in abnormal fecal output, increased visceral sensitivity, depressive-like behaviors, and overexpression of inflammatory mediators, all of which were reversed by VNS treatment. The effects of VNS could also be observed when α7nAChR agonist was applied. Whereas α7nAChR antagonist (methyllycaconitine, MLA) reversed VNS's effects. Interestingly, VNS also reduced the increased permeability of blood brain barrier (BBB) following AA-CAS treatment in IBS rats. SDV treatment only show temporary efficacy on AA-CAS-induced symptoms and had no effect on the permeability of BBB. CONCLUSION The intestinal abnormalities and depressive symptoms in IBS rats can be improved by VNS treatment. This positive effect of VNS was achieved through α7nAChR-mediated inflammatory pathway and may also be associated with the decreased of BBB permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qizhi Yan
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Jiawei Chen
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Xiuying Ren
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Yibo Song
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Shaoyan Xuan
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China
| | - Xi Jiang
- Zhejiang University Mingzhou Hospital, Ningbo 315000, China
| | - Zhijian Kuang
- Zhejiang University Mingzhou Hospital, Ningbo 315000, China
| | - Zhihua Tang
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing 312000, China.
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Fang YT, Lin YT, Tseng WL, Tseng P, Hua GL, Chao YJ, Wu YJ. Neuroimmunomodulation of vagus nerve stimulation and the therapeutic implications. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1173987. [PMID: 37484689 PMCID: PMC10358778 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1173987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a technology that provides electrical stimulation to the cervical vagus nerve and can be applied in the treatment of a wide variety of neuropsychiatric and systemic diseases. VNS exerts its effect by stimulating vagal afferent and efferent fibers, which project upward to the brainstem nuclei and the relayed circuits and downward to the internal organs to influence the autonomic, neuroendocrine, and neuroimmunology systems. The neuroimmunomodulation effect of VNS is mediated through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that regulates immune cells and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Traditional and non-invasive VNS have Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications for patients with drug-refractory epilepsy, treatment-refractory major depressive disorders, and headaches. The number of clinical trials and translational studies that explore the therapeutic potentials and mechanisms of VNS is increasing. In this review, we first introduced the anatomical and physiological bases of the vagus nerve and the immunomodulating functions of VNS. We covered studies that investigated the mechanisms of VNS and its therapeutic implications for a spectrum of brain disorders and systemic diseases in the context of neuroimmunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Fang
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ye-Ting Lin
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Lung Tseng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Philip Tseng
- Cross College Elite Program, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain and Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gia-Linh Hua
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jui Chao
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Wu
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Fallahi MS, Azadnajafabad S, Maroufi SF, Pour-Rashidi A, Khorasanizadeh M, Sattari SA, Faramarzi S, Slavin KV. Application of Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation. World Neurosurg 2023; 174:11-24. [PMID: 36858292 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.02.101] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a prevalent devastating condition causing significant morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries. The pathophysiology of SCI involves ischemia, neuroinflammation, cell death, and scar formation. Due to the lack of definitive therapy for SCI, interventions mainly focus on rehabilitation to reduce deterioration and improve the patient's quality of life. Currently, rehabilitative exercises and neuromodulation methods such as functional electrical stimulation, epidural electrical stimulation, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation are being tested in patients with SCI. Other spinal stimulation techniques are being developed and tested in animal models. However, often these methods require complex surgical procedures and solely focus on motor function. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is currently used in patients with epilepsy, depression, and migraine and is being investigated for its application in other disorders. In animal models of SCI, VNS significantly improved locomotor function by ameliorating inflammation and improving plasticity, suggesting its use in human subjects. SCI patients also suffer from nonmotor complications, including pain, gastrointestinal dysfunction, cardiovascular disorders, and chronic conditions such as obesity and diabetes. VNS has shown promising results in alleviating these conditions in non-SCI patients, which makes it a possible therapeutic option in SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sadegh Fallahi
- Neurosurgical Research Network (NRN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Azadnajafabad
- Neurosurgical Research Network (NRN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Department of Surgery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Farzad Maroufi
- Neurosurgical Research Network (NRN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Pour-Rashidi
- Neurosurgical Research Network (NRN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Department of Neurosurgery, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - MirHojjat Khorasanizadeh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shahab Aldin Sattari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sina Faramarzi
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Konstantin V Slavin
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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Mylavarapu RV, Kanumuri VV, de Rivero Vaccari JP, Misra A, McMillan DW, Ganzer PD. Importance of timing optimization for closed-loop applications of vagus nerve stimulation. Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:8. [PMID: 37101239 PMCID: PMC10134677 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00110-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy has become widely used for clinical applications including epilepsy, depression, and enhancing the effects of rehabilitation. However, several questions remain regarding optimization of this therapy to maximize clinical outcomes. Although stimulation parameters such as pulse width, amplitude, and frequency are well studied, the timing of stimulation delivery both acutely (with respect to disease events) and chronically (over the timeline of a disease's progression) has generally received less attention. Leveraging such information would provide a framework for the implementation of next generation closed-loop VNS therapies. In this mini-review, we summarize a number of VNS therapies and discuss (1) general timing considerations for these applications and (2) open questions that could lead to further therapy optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vivek V Kanumuri
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Amrit Misra
- Newton Wellesley Neurology Associates, Newton, MA, USA
| | - David W McMillan
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Patrick D Ganzer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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Mineur YS, Soares AR, Etherington IM, Abdulla ZI, Picciotto MR. Pathophysiology of nAChRs: limbic circuits and related disorders. Pharmacol Res 2023; 191:106745. [PMID: 37011774 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Human epidemiological studies have identified links between nicotine intake and stress disorders, including anxiety, depression and PTSD. Here we review the clinical evidence for activation and desensitization of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) relevant to affective disorders. We go on to describe clinical and preclinical pharmacological studies suggesting that nAChR function may be involved in the etiology of anxiety and depressive disorders, may be relevant targets for medication development, and may contribute to the antidepressant efficacy of non-nicotinic therapeutics. We then review what is known about nAChR function in a subset of limbic system areas (amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex), and how this contributes to stress-relevant behaviors in preclinical models that may be relevant to human affective disorders. Taken together, the preclinical and clinical literature point to a clear role for ACh signaling through nAChRs in regulation of behavioral responses to stress. Disruption of nAChR homeostasis is likely to contribute to the psychopathology observed in anxiety and depressive disorders. Targeting specific nAChRs may therefore be a strategy for medication development to treat these disorders or to augment the efficacy of current therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexa R Soares
- Department of Psychiatry, USA; Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT 06508, USA
| | - Ian M Etherington
- Department of Psychiatry, USA; Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor Research, New Haven, CT 06508, USA
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Guo B, Zhang M, Hao W, Wang Y, Zhang T, Liu C. Neuroinflammation mechanisms of neuromodulation therapies for anxiety and depression. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:5. [PMID: 36624089 PMCID: PMC9829236 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02297-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders are associated with elevated inflammation, and the reduction of symptoms after multiple treatments is often accompanied by pro-inflammation restoration. A variety of neuromodulation techniques that regulate regional brain activities have been used to treat refractory mood disorders. However, their efficacy varies from person to person and lack reliable indicator. This review summarizes clinical and animal studies on inflammation in neural circuits related to anxiety and depression and the evidence that neuromodulation therapies regulate neuroinflammation in the treatment of neurological diseases. Neuromodulation therapies, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial electrical stimulation (TES), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), photobiomodulation (PBM), transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), all have been reported to attenuate neuroinflammation and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory factors, which may be one of the reasons for mood improvement. This review provides a better understanding of the effective mechanism of neuromodulation therapies and indicates that inflammatory biomarkers may serve as a reference for the assessment of pathological conditions and treatment options in anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingqi Guo
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053 China ,grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100053 China
| | - Mengyao Zhang
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053 China ,grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100053 China
| | - Wensi Hao
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053 China ,grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100053 China
| | - Yuping Wang
- grid.413259.80000 0004 0632 3337Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053 China ,grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100053 China ,grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XInstitute of sleep and consciousness disorders, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069 China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100053, China.
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100053, China.
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Dunn Rosenberg J, Jannasch A, Binsted K, Landry S. Biobehavioral and psychosocial stress changes during three 8-12 month spaceflight analog missions with Mars-like conditions of isolation and confinement. Front Physiol 2022; 13:898841. [PMID: 36569765 PMCID: PMC9768546 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.898841] [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: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prior theories about individual and team adaptation to living and working in an isolated and confined environment (ICE) have been derived from the experiences of individuals who winter-over in Antarctica or deploy for long durations in submarines. These theories are typically described as a 3- to 4-stage process with phases of excitement and elevated alertness, then followed by difficult phases, including depression and volatility. To further evaluate the applicability of these theories to long-duration human spaceflight missions, longitudinal stress responses to prolonged isolation and confinement of three 6-person crews during 8-12 months simulated Mars missions were characterized through metabolite profiling (biomarkers in hair and urine samples), wearables monitoring (sleep and activity levels), and self-reported ratings of stress, mood, social participation, and perceived health. These data were normalized, aggregated, and clustered to analyze longitudinal trends in biobehavioral and psychosocial stress measures. As a result, this analysis presents a theoretical model that triangulates aspects of prior theories with new evidence to describe ICE stress at HI-SEAS as 1) eustress of initial adaptation (high stress hormone levels at mission start), 2) deprivation due to prolonged isolation and confinement (decreasing dopamine and serotonin levels), 3) disruption of individual and team dynamics (changes in activity levels, mood, perceived stress, and social participation) and 4) asynchronous coping (changes in sleep-wake cycles, outlook, and team cohesion). These findings support several aspects of prior theories in combination, such as the elevated alertness at mission start and that adverse conditions are most likely to develop after the halfway point of a mission (e.g. for HI-SEAS 8-12 months missions, after approximately 6 months) followed by a period of volatility until the end (e.g. as stated in Rohrer's theory, ups and downs until the end, not a renewed outlook at the end as described in 3rd quarter phenomenon theory).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Dunn Rosenberg
- School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States,*Correspondence: Jocelyn Dunn Rosenberg,
| | - Amber Jannasch
- Metabolite Profiling Facility, Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Kim Binsted
- Information and Computer Sciences Department, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Steven Landry
- School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States,The Harold and Inge Marcus Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
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12
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Namgung U, Kim KJ, Jo BG, Park JM. Correction to: Vagus nerve stimulation modulates hippocampal inflammation caused by continuous stress in rats. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:175. [PMID: 35794628 PMCID: PMC9261053 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02536-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Uk Namgung
- Department of Oriental Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak-ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea.
| | - Ki-Joong Kim
- Department of Oriental Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak-ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Byung-Gon Jo
- Department of Oriental Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak-ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Jong-Min Park
- Department of Oriental Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak-ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
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Ahmed U, Chang YC, Zafeiropoulos S, Nassrallah Z, Miller L, Zanos S. Strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:9. [PMID: 35637543 PMCID: PMC9150383 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-022-00091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve is involved in the autonomic regulation of physiological homeostasis, through vast innervation of cervical, thoracic and abdominal visceral organs. Stimulation of the vagus with bioelectronic devices represents a therapeutic opportunity for several disorders implicating the autonomic nervous system and affecting different organs. During clinical translation, vagus stimulation therapies may benefit from a precision medicine approach, in which stimulation accommodates individual variability due to nerve anatomy, nerve-electrode interface or disease state and aims at eliciting therapeutic effects in targeted organs, while minimally affecting non-targeted organs. In this review, we discuss the anatomical and physiological basis for precision neuromodulation of the vagus at the level of nerve fibers, fascicles, branches and innervated organs. We then discuss different strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation, including fascicle- or fiber-selective cervical vagus nerve stimulation, stimulation of vagal branches near the end-organs, and ultrasound stimulation of vagus terminals at the end-organs themselves. Finally, we summarize targets for vagus neuromodulation in neurological, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders and suggest potential precision neuromodulation strategies that could form the basis for effective and safe therapies.
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Renz-Polster H, Tremblay ME, Bienzle D, Fischer JE. The Pathobiology of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: The Case for Neuroglial Failure. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:888232. [PMID: 35614970 PMCID: PMC9124899 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.888232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) has a specific and distinctive profile of clinical features, the disease remains an enigma because causal explanation of the pathobiological matrix is lacking. Several potential disease mechanisms have been identified, including immune abnormalities, inflammatory activation, mitochondrial alterations, endothelial and muscular disturbances, cardiovascular anomalies, and dysfunction of the peripheral and central nervous systems. Yet, it remains unclear whether and how these pathways may be related and orchestrated. Here we explore the hypothesis that a common denominator of the pathobiological processes in ME/CFS may be central nervous system dysfunction due to impaired or pathologically reactive neuroglia (astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes). We will test this hypothesis by reviewing, in reference to the current literature, the two most salient and widely accepted features of ME/CFS, and by investigating how these might be linked to dysfunctional neuroglia. From this review we conclude that the multifaceted pathobiology of ME/CFS may be attributable in a unifying manner to neuroglial dysfunction. Because the two key features - post exertional malaise and decreased cerebral blood flow - are also recognized in a subset of patients with post-acute sequelae COVID, we suggest that our findings may also be pertinent to this entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Renz-Polster
- Division of General Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPD-BW), University Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marie-Eve Tremblay
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
- Département de Médecine Moléculaire, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Center for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dorothee Bienzle
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Joachim E. Fischer
- Division of General Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPD-BW), University Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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