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Zhou H, Zhu R, Xia Y, Zhang X, Wang Z, Lorimer GH, Ghiladi RA, Bayram H, Wang J. Neuropeptides affecting social behavior in mammals: Oxytocin. Peptides 2024; 177:171223. [PMID: 38626843 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2024.171223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT), a neuropeptide consisting of only nine amino acids, is synthesized in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the hypothalamus. Although OXT is best known for its role in lactation and parturition, recent research has shown that it also has a significant impact on social behaviors in mammals. However, a comprehensive review of this topic is still lacking. In this paper, we systematically reviewed the effects of OXT on social behavior in mammals. These effects of OXT from the perspective of five key behavioral dimensions were summarized: parental behavior, anxiety, aggression, attachment, and empathy. To date, researchers have agreed that OXT plays a positive regulatory role in a wide range of social behaviors, but there have been controversially reported results. In this review, we have provided a detailed panorama of the role of OXT in social behavior and, for the first time, delved into the underlying regulatory mechanisms, which may help better understand the multifaceted role of OXT. Levels of OXT in previous human studies were also summarized to provide insights for diagnosis of mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhou
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; International Center for Redox Biology & Precision Medicine of Hubei Province, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; International Center for Redox Biology & Precision Medicine of Hubei Province, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Yuqing Xia
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; International Center for Redox Biology & Precision Medicine of Hubei Province, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Xinming Zhang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; International Center for Redox Biology & Precision Medicine of Hubei Province, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | | | - Reza A Ghiladi
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Hasan Bayram
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Jun Wang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; International Center for Redox Biology & Precision Medicine of Hubei Province, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China.
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DelaCuesta-Barrutia J, Hidema S, Caldwell HK, Nishimori K, Erdozain AM, Peñagarikano O. In need of a specific antibody against the oxytocin receptor for neuropsychiatric research: A KO validation study. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:260-270. [PMID: 38554622 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Antibodies are one of the most utilized tools in biomedical research. However, few of them are rigorously evaluated, as there are no accepted guidelines or standardized methods for determining their validity before commercialization. Often, an antibody is considered validated if it detects a band by Western blot of the expected molecular weight and, in some cases, if blocking peptides result in loss of staining. Neither of these approaches are unquestionable proof of target specificity. Since the oxytocin receptor has recently become a popular target in neuropsychiatric research, the need for specific antibodies to be used in brain has arisen. In this work, we have tested the specificity of six commercially available oxytocin receptor antibodies, indicated by the manufacturers to be suitable for Western blot and with an available image showing the correct size band (45-55 KDa). Antibodies were first tested by Western blot in brain lysates of wild-type and oxytocin receptor knockout mice. Uterus tissue was also tested as control for putative differential tissue specificity. In brain, the six tested antibodies lacked target specificity, as both wild-type and receptor knockout samples resulted in a similar staining pattern, including the expected 45-55 KDa band. Five of the six antibodies detected a selective band in uterus (which disappeared in knockout tissue). These five specific antibodies were also tested for immunohistochemistry in uterus, where only one was specific. However, when the uterine-specific antibody was tested in brain tissue, it lacked specificity. In conclusion, none of the six tested commercial antibodies are suitable to detect oxytocin receptor in brain by either Western blot or immunohistochemistry, although some do specifically detect it in uterus. The present work highlights the need to develop standardized antibody validation methods, including a proper negative control, in order to grant quality and reproducibility of the generated data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon DelaCuesta-Barrutia
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, 48940, Spain
| | - Shizu Hidema
- Department of Obesity and Inflammation, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Heather K Caldwell
- Department of Biological Sciences and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Ohio, 44242, USA
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Department of Obesity and Inflammation, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Amaia M Erdozain
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, 48940, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Leioa, 48940, Spain
| | - Olga Peñagarikano
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, 48940, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Leioa, 48940, Spain.
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Dergacheva O, Polotsky VY, Mendelowitz D. Oxytocin mediated excitation of hypoglossal motoneurons: implications for treating obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep 2023; 46:zsad009. [PMID: 36846973 PMCID: PMC10091096 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsad009] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical studies have shown that oxytocin administered intranasally (IN) decreased the incidence and duration of obstructive events in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Although the mechanisms by which oxytocin promotes these beneficial effects are unknown, one possible target of oxytocin could be the excitation of tongue-projecting hypoglossal motoneurons in the medulla, that exert central control of upper airway patency. This study tested the hypothesis that IN oxytocin enhances tongue muscle activity via the excitation of hypoglossal motoneurons projecting to tongue protrudor muscles (PMNs). To test this hypothesis we performed in vivo and in vitro electrophysiological studies in C57BL6/J mice as well as fluorescent imaging studies in transgenic mice in which neurons that express oxytocin receptors co-express fluorescent protein. IN oxytocin significantly increased the amplitude of inspiratory-related tongue muscle activity. This effect was abolished by severing the medial branch of hypoglossal nerve that innervates PMNs of the tongue. Oxytocin receptor-positive neurons were more prevalent in the population of PMNs than in retractor-projecting hypoglossal motoneurons (RMNs). Oxytocin administration increased action potential firing in PMNs, but had no significant effect on firing activity in RMNs. In conclusion, IN oxytocin stimulates respiratory-relating tongue muscle activity likely acting on central hypoglossal motoneurons that provide tongue protrusion and upper airway opening. This mechanism may play a role in oxytocin-induced reductions in upper airway obstructions in patients with OSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Dergacheva
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Vsevolod Y Polotsky
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - David Mendelowitz
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA
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Maejima Y, Yokota S, Ono T, Yu Z, Yamachi M, Hidema S, Nollet KE, Nishimori K, Tomita H, Yaginuma H, Shimomura K. Identification of oxytocin expression in human and murine microglia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 119:110600. [PMID: 35842075 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxytocin is a neuropeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus. In addition to its role in parturition and lactation, oxytocin mediates social behavior and pair bonding. The possibility of using oxytocin to modify behavior in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, is of clinical interest. Microglia are tissue-resident macrophages with roles in neurogenesis, synapse pruning, and immunological mediation of brain homeostasis. Recently, oxytocin was found to attenuate microglial secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, but the source of this oxytocin was not established. This prompted us to investigate whether microglia themselves were the source. METHODS We examined oxytocin expression in human and murine brain tissue in both sexes using immunohistochemistry. Oxytocin mRNA expression and secretion were examined in isolated murine microglia from wild type and oxytocin-knockout mice. Also, secretion of oxytocin and cytokines was measured in cultured microglia (MG6) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). RESULTS We identified oxytocin expression in microglia of human brain tissue, cultured microglia (MG6), and primary murine microglia. Furthermore, LPS stimulation increased oxytocin mRNA expression in primary murine microglia and MG6 cells, and oxytocin secretion as well. A positive correlation between oxytocin and IL-1β, IL-10 secretion emerged, respectively. CONCLUSION This may be the first demonstration of oxytocin expression in microglia. Functionally, oxytocin might regulate inflammatory cytokine release from microglia in a paracrine/autocrine manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Maejima
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; Department of Obesity and Inflammation Research, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan.
| | - Shoko Yokota
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Ono
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; Department of Obesity and Inflammation Research, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Zhiqian Yu
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8573, Japan
| | - Megumi Yamachi
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Shizu Hidema
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kenneth E Nollet
- Department of Blood Transfusion and Transplantation Immunology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Department of Obesity and Inflammation Research, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tomita
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8573, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yaginuma
- Department of Neuroanatomy and Embryology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kenju Shimomura
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; Department of Obesity and Inflammation Research, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan.
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Savić B, Murphy D, Japundžić-Žigon N. The Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus in Control of Blood Pressure and Blood Pressure Variability. Front Physiol 2022; 13:858941. [PMID: 35370790 PMCID: PMC8966844 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.858941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) is a highly organized structure of the hypothalamus that has a key role in regulating cardiovascular and osmotic homeostasis. Functionally, the PVN is divided into autonomic and neuroendocrine (neurosecretory) compartments, both equally important for maintaining blood pressure (BP) and body fluids in the physiological range. Neurosecretory magnocellular neurons (MCNs) of the PVN are the main source of the hormones vasopressin (VP), responsible for water conservation and hydromineral balance, and oxytocin (OT), involved in parturition and milk ejection during lactation. Further, neurosecretory parvocellular neurons (PCNs) take part in modulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and stress responses. Additionally, the PVN takes central place in autonomic adjustment of BP to environmental challenges and contributes to its variability (BPV), underpinning the PVN as an autonomic master controller of cardiovascular function. Autonomic PCNs of the PVN modulate sympathetic outflow toward heart, blood vessels and kidneys. These pre-autonomic neurons send projections to the vasomotor nucleus of rostral ventrolateral medulla and to intermediolateral column of the spinal cord, where postganglionic fibers toward target organs arise. Also, PVN PCNs synapse with NTS neurons which are the end-point of baroreceptor primary afferents, thus, enabling the PVN to modify the function of baroreflex. Neuroendocrine and autonomic parts of the PVN are segregated morphologically but they work in concert when the organism is exposed to environmental challenges via somatodendritically released VP and OT by MCNs. The purpose of this overview is to address both neuroendocrine and autonomic PVN roles in BP and BPV regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bojana Savić
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - David Murphy
- Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Japundžić-Žigon
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- *Correspondence: Nina Japundžić-Žigon,
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Sanna F, Bratzu J, Angioni L, Pina Sorighe M, Cocco C, Argiolas A, Melis MR. Oxytocin-conjugated saporin injected into the substantia nigra of male rats alters the activity of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system: A behavioral and neurochemical study. Brain Res 2021; 1773:147705. [PMID: 34744015 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Saporin conjugated to oxytocin (OXY-SAP) destroys neurons expressing oxytocinergic receptors. When injected unilaterally in the substantia nigra of male rats, OXY-SAP causes a dose-dependent decrease up to 55 % in nigral Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH)-immunoreactivity compared to control mock peptide BLANK-SAP- and PBS-treated rats or the contralateral substantia nigra. TH decrease was parallel to a dopamine content decrease in the ipsilateral striatum compared to BLANK-SAP- or PBS-treated rats or the contralateral striatum. OXY-SAP-treated rats showed a small but significant increase of locomotor activity 28 days after intranigral injection in the Open field test compared to BLANK-SAP- or PBS-treated rats, in line with an inhibitory role of nigral oxytocin on locomotor activity. OXY-SAP-, but not BLANK-SAP- or PBS-treated rats, also showed marked dose-dependent rotational turning ipsilateral to the injected substantia nigra when challenged with d-amphetamine, but not with apomorphine. Under isoflurane anesthesia OXY-SAP-treated rats showed levels of extracellular dopamine in the dialysate from the ipsilateral striatum only half those of BLANK-SAP- or PBS-treated rats or the contralateral striatum. When treated with d-amphetamine, OXY-SAP_60/120 rats showed increased extracellular dopamine levels in the dialysate from the ipsilateral striatum two third/one third only of those found in BLANK-SAP- or PBS-treated rats or the contralateral striatum, respectively. These results show that OXY-SAP destroys nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons expressing oxytocin receptors leading to a reduced striatal dopamine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Jessica Bratzu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Laura Angioni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Neuro-Endocrine-Fluorescence (NEF) Laboratory, University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Maria Pina Sorighe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Cristina Cocco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Neuro-Endocrine-Fluorescence (NEF) Laboratory, University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Antonio Argiolas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Centre of Excellence for the Neurobiology of Addictions, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Cagliari Section, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Centre of Excellence for the Neurobiology of Addictions, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
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Oxytocin, Erectile Function and Sexual Behavior: Last Discoveries and Possible Advances. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910376. [PMID: 34638719 PMCID: PMC8509000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A continuously increasing amount of research shows that oxytocin is involved in numerous central functions. Among the functions in which oxytocin is thought to be involved are those that play a role in social and sexual behaviors, and the involvement of central oxytocin in erectile function and sexual behavior was indeed one of the first to be discovered in laboratory animals in the 1980s. The first part of this review summarizes the results of studies done in laboratory animals that support a facilitatory role of oxytocin in male and female sexual behavior and reveal mechanisms through which this ancient neuropeptide participates in concert with other neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in this complex function, which is fundamental for the species reproduction. The second part summarizes the results of studies done mainly with intranasal oxytocin in men and women with the aim to translate the results found in laboratory animals to humans. Unexpectedly, the results of these studies do not appear to confirm the facilitatory role of oxytocin found in male and female sexual behavior in animals, both in men and women. Possible explanations for the failure of oxytocin to improve sexual behavior in men and women and strategies to attempt to overcome this impasse are considered.
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Rahmani B, Ghashghayi E, Zendehdel M, Khodadadi M, Hamidi B. The Crosstalk Between Brain Mediators Regulating Food Intake Behavior in Birds: A Review. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10257-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Lapp HE, Bartlett AA, Zup SL, Hunter RG, Moore CL. Early experience alters developmental trajectory of central oxytocin systems involved in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulation in Long-Evans rats. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104822. [PMID: 32730760 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is important for postnatal developmental experiences for mothers, infants, and transactions between them. Oxytocin is also implicated in adult affiliative behaviors, including social buffering of stress. There is evidence for connections between early life experience and adult oxytocin system functioning, but effects of early experience on behavioral, endocrine, and neurophysiological outcomes related to adult social buffering are not well explored. We use a limited bedding and nesting (LBN) material paradigm as an environmental disruption of early experiences and assessed central oxytocin systems in brain regions related to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation (paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, hippocampus). We also assessed developmentally-appropriate social behaviors and HPA reactivity during social buffering testing in adulthood. LBN litters had larger huddles and more pups visible compared to control litters during the first two weeks of life. LBN also altered the developmental trajectory of oxytocin-expressing cells and oxytocin receptor cells, with increases in oxytocin receptor cells at P15 in LBN pups. By adulthood, LBN females had more and LBN males had fewer oxytocin and oxytocin receptor cells in these areas compared to sex-matched controls. Adult LBN females, but not LBN males, had behavioral changes during social interaction and social buffering testing. The sex-specific effects of early experience on central oxytocin systems and social behavior may contribute to female resilience to early life adversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E Lapp
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America.
| | - Andrew A Bartlett
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Susan L Zup
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Richard G Hunter
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Celia L Moore
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Department of Psychology, 100 Morrissey Rd., Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
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10
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McKay EC, Counts SE. Oxytocin Receptor Signaling in Vascular Function and Stroke. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:574499. [PMID: 33071746 PMCID: PMC7544744 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.574499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) is a G protein-coupled receptor with a diverse repertoire of intracellular signaling pathways, which are activated in response to binding oxytocin (OXT) and a similar nonapeptide, vasopressin. This review summarizes the cell and molecular biology of the OXTR and its downstream signaling cascades, particularly focusing on the vasoactive functions of OXTR signaling in humans and animal models, as well as the clinical applications of OXTR targeting cerebrovascular accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C McKay
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Scott E Counts
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.,Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Hauenstein Neurosciences Center, Mercy Health Saint Mary's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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11
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Sharma SR, Gonda X, Dome P, Tarazi FI. What's Love Got to do with it: Role of oxytocin in trauma, attachment and resilience. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 214:107602. [PMID: 32512017 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a neurohypophysial hormone and neuropeptide produced by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It has multiple physiological roles including stimulation of parturition and lactation, and promotion of pro-adaptive social behaviors necessary for mammalian survival. OT interacts with one receptor subtype: the OT receptor (OTR) which, upon stimulation, triggers different intracellular signal transduction cascades to mediate its physiological actions. Preclinical studies show that OT regulates social behaviors such as pair bonding, recognition and social interaction. It also coordinates the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the release of corticotrophin-releasing hormone. Further evidence suggests that OT plays an important role in regulating caloric intake and metabolism, and in maintaining electrolyte and cardiovascular homeostasis. OT is also involved in attenuating the neurophysiological and neurochemical effects of trauma on the brain and body by facilitating both physical attachment such as wound healing, and psychological/social attachment, thereby increasing resilience to subsequent traumatic events. Clinical trials have reported that intranasal administration of OT provides therapeutic benefits for patients diagnosed with traumatic stress-related diseases such as major depressive disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder. OT's therapeutic benefits may result from context-dependent interactions with key neural pathways (social, cognitive, and reward), neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and endogenous opioids), and biomarkers (adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), that lead to a decrease in stress -associated behaviors, and facilitate post-traumatic growth, ultimately leading to increased resilience, through improved social cohesion and attachment. OT induced-augmentation of physical and cognitive resilience may play a significant role in both the prevention of, and improved clinical outcomes for, traumatic stress-related disorders following either acute or enduring traumatic experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samata R Sharma
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Xenia Gonda
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; MTA-SE Neurochemistry and Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Laboratory of Suicide Prevention and Research, National Institute for Psychiatry and Addictions, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Peter Dome
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Laboratory of Suicide Prevention and Research, National Institute for Psychiatry and Addictions, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Frank I Tarazi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience Program, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
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Panaro MA, Benameur T, Porro C. Hypothalamic Neuropeptide Brain Protection: Focus on Oxytocin. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051534. [PMID: 32438751 PMCID: PMC7290962 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is hypothalamic neuropeptide synthetized in the brain by magnocellular and parvo cellular neurons of the paraventricular (PVN), supraoptic (SON) and accessory nuclei (AN) of the hypothalamus. OXT acts in the central and peripheral nervous systems via G-protein-coupled receptors. The classical physiological functions of OXT are uterine contractions, the milk ejection reflex during lactation, penile erection and sexual arousal, but recent studies have demonstrated that OXT may have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and regulate immune and anti-inflammatory responses. In the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases, microglia are present in an active form and release high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that are implicated in the process of neural injury. A promising treatment for neurodegenerative diseases involves new therapeutic approaches targeting activated microglia. Recent studies have reported that OXT exerts neuroprotective effects through the inhibition of production of pro-inflammatory mediators, and in the development of correct neural circuitry. The focus of this review is to attribute a new important role of OXT in neuroprotection through the microglia–OXT interaction of immature and adult brains. In addition, we analyzed the strategies that could enhance the delivery of OXT in the brain and amplify its positive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Panaro
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Benameur
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, 31982 Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Chiara Porro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
- Correspondence:
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13
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Statistical analysis of spatial expression patterns for spatially resolved transcriptomic studies. Nat Methods 2020; 17:193-200. [PMID: 31988518 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-019-0701-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Identifying genes that display spatial expression patterns in spatially resolved transcriptomic studies is an important first step toward characterizing the spatial transcriptomic landscape of complex tissues. Here we present a statistical method, SPARK, for identifying spatial expression patterns of genes in data generated from various spatially resolved transcriptomic techniques. SPARK directly models spatial count data through generalized linear spatial models. It relies on recently developed statistical formulas for hypothesis testing, providing effective control of type I errors and yielding high statistical power. With a computationally efficient algorithm, which is based on penalized quasi-likelihood, SPARK is also scalable to datasets with tens of thousands of genes measured on tens of thousands of samples. Analyzing four published spatially resolved transcriptomic datasets using SPARK, we show it can be up to ten times more powerful than existing methods and disclose biological discoveries that otherwise cannot be revealed by existing approaches.
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14
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Sun LH, Tzeng WY, Liao YH, Deng WT, Cherng CG, Yu L. Relevance of number and physiological status of conspecifics in preventing stress-induced decreases in newly proliferated cells and neuroblasts. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:3329-3339. [PMID: 31201477 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05290-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE The presence of three conspecifics prevents stress-induced decreases in newly proliferated cells and neuroblasts in mouse dentate gyrus (DG). In this study, we sought to determine how many conspecifics are required to exert these protective effects against stress. In addition, we manipulated the physiological status of those conspecifics in the context of their stress-buffering effects and used airborne oxytocin exposure as a substitute for the presence of conspecifics. MATERIALS AND METHODS Bromodeoxyuridine staining was used to indicate the newly proliferated cells and co-staining with doublecortin to reveal the proliferative neuroblasts. RESULTS Presentation of three intact and lipopolysaccharide-treated conspecifics prevented the stress-induced decreases in the number of newly proliferated cells and neuroblasts in DG. Presentation of one saline- or oxytocin (OT)-treated conspecific did not exert observable stress-buffering effects. In contrast, airborne oxytocin prevented the stress-induced decreases in DG cell proliferation and early neurogenesis, while pretreatment with L-371,257, a selective OT receptor antagonist, abolished the buffering effects of OT. CONCLUSIONS Physical interaction with the conspecifics and conspecifics' sickness, at best, play a minor role in mediating the buffering effects against stress-induced decreases in DG cell proliferation or early neurogenesis. Moreover, stress-buffering effects are negligible with the presence of only one conspecific. Finally, airborne OT produced stress-buffering effects possibly via its stimulation of OT receptors. Oxytocin merits further study as a substitute for the stress-buffering effects of companions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Han Sun
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University College of Medicine, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wen-Yu Tzeng
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University College of Medicine, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yi-Han Liao
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University College of Medicine, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wen-Ting Deng
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University College of Medicine, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chianfang G Cherng
- Education Center of Humanities and Social Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 102, Taiwan, Republic of China.
| | - Lung Yu
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University College of Medicine, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China. .,Institute of Behavioral Medicine, National Cheng Kung University College of Medicine, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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15
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Surface-Functionalized Nanoparticles as Efficient Tools in Targeted Therapy of Pregnancy Complications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153642. [PMID: 31349643 PMCID: PMC6695948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimizing exposure of the fetus to medication and reducing adverse off-target effects in the mother are the primary challenges in developing novel drugs to treat pregnancy complications. Nanomedicine has introduced opportunities for the development of novel platforms enabling targeted delivery of drugs in pregnancy. This review sets out to discuss the advances and potential of surface-functionalized nanoparticles in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications. We first describe the human placental anatomy, which is fundamental for developing placenta-targeted therapy, and then we review current knowledge of nanoparticle transplacental transport mechanisms. Meanwhile, recent surface-functionalized nanoparticles for targeting the uterus and placenta are examined. Indeed, surface-functionalized nanoparticles could help prevent transplacental passage and promote placental-specific drug delivery, thereby enhancing efficacy and improving safety. We have achieved promising results in targeting the placenta via placental chondroitin sulfate A (plCSA), which is exclusively expressed in the placenta, using plCSA binding peptide (plCSA-BP)-decorated nanoparticles. Others have also focused on using placenta- and uterus-enriched molecules as targets to deliver therapeutics via surface-functionalized nanoparticles. Additionally, we propose that placenta-specific exosomes and surface-modified exosomes might be potential tools in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications. Altogether, surface-functionalized nanoparticles have great potential value as clinical tools in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications.
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Quintana DS, Rokicki J, van der Meer D, Alnæs D, Kaufmann T, Córdova-Palomera A, Dieset I, Andreassen OA, Westlye LT. Oxytocin pathway gene networks in the human brain. Nat Commun 2019; 10:668. [PMID: 30737392 PMCID: PMC6368605 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08503-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide involved in animal and human reproductive and social behavior. Three oxytocin signaling genes have been frequently implicated in human social behavior: OXT (structural gene for oxytocin), OXTR (oxytocin receptor), and CD38 (oxytocin secretion). Here, we characterized the distribution of OXT, OXTR, and CD38 mRNA across the human brain by creating voxel-by-voxel volumetric expression maps, and identified putative gene pathway interactions by comparing gene expression patterns across 20,737 genes. Expression of the three selected oxytocin pathway genes was enriched in subcortical and olfactory regions and there was high co-expression with several dopaminergic and muscarinic acetylcholine genes, reflecting an anatomical basis for critical gene pathway interactions. fMRI meta-analysis revealed that the oxytocin pathway gene maps correspond with the processing of anticipatory, appetitive, and aversive cognitive states. The oxytocin signaling system may interact with dopaminergic and muscarinic acetylcholine signaling to modulate cognitive state processes involved in complex human behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Quintana
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Jaroslav Rokicki
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0373, Norway
| | - Dennis van der Meer
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dag Alnæs
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tobias Kaufmann
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aldo Córdova-Palomera
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingrid Dieset
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ole A Andreassen
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars T Westlye
- NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo, and Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4956, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0373, Norway
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17
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Preventing preterm birth: New approaches to labour therapeutics using Nanoparticles. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018; 52:48-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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18
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Baracz SJ, Everett NA, Cornish JL. The impact of early life stress on the central oxytocin system and susceptibility for drug addiction: Applicability of oxytocin as a pharmacotherapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 110:114-132. [PMID: 30172802 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Early life trauma is strongly associated with an increased vulnerability to abuse illicit drugs and the impairment of neural development. This includes alterations to the development of the oxytocin system, which plays a pivotal role in the regulation of social behaviours and emotion. Dysregulation of this important system also contributes to increased susceptibility to develop drug addiction. In this review, we provide an overview of the animal models of early life stress that are widely used, and discuss the impact that early life stress has on drug-taking behaviour in adolescence and adulthood in both sexes. We link this to the changes that early life stress has on the endogenous oxytocin system, and how exogenously administered oxytocin may help to re-establish functioning of the system, and in turn, reduce drug-taking behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Baracz
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Nicholas A Everett
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Cornish
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2109, Australia
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19
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Jurek B, Neumann ID. The Oxytocin Receptor: From Intracellular Signaling to Behavior. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1805-1908. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00031.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 408] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The many facets of the oxytocin (OXT) system of the brain and periphery elicited nearly 25,000 publications since 1930 (see FIGURE 1 , as listed in PubMed), which revealed central roles for OXT and its receptor (OXTR) in reproduction, and social and emotional behaviors in animal and human studies focusing on mental and physical health and disease. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of OXT expression and release, expression and binding of the OXTR in brain and periphery, OXTR-coupled signaling cascades, and their involvement in behavioral outcomes to assemble a comprehensive picture of the central and peripheral OXT system. Traditionally known for its role in milk let-down and uterine contraction during labor, OXT also has implications in physiological, and also behavioral, aspects of reproduction, such as sexual and maternal behaviors and pair bonding, but also anxiety, trust, sociability, food intake, or even drug abuse. The many facets of OXT are, on a molecular basis, brought about by a single receptor. The OXTR, a 7-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor capable of binding to either Gαior Gαqproteins, activates a set of signaling cascades, such as the MAPK, PKC, PLC, or CaMK pathways, which converge on transcription factors like CREB or MEF-2. The cellular response to OXT includes regulation of neurite outgrowth, cellular viability, and increased survival. OXTergic projections in the brain represent anxiety and stress-regulating circuits connecting the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, or the medial prefrontal cortex. Which OXT-induced patterns finally alter the behavior of an animal or a human being is still poorly understood, and studying those OXTR-coupled signaling cascades is one initial step toward a better understanding of the molecular background of those behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Jurek
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D. Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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20
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Zhang B, Tan L, Yu Y, Wang B, Chen Z, Han J, Li M, Chen J, Xiao T, Ambati BK, Cai L, Yang Q, Nayak NR, Zhang J, Fan X. Placenta-specific drug delivery by trophoblast-targeted nanoparticles in mice. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:2765-2781. [PMID: 29774074 PMCID: PMC5957008 DOI: 10.7150/thno.22904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: The availability of therapeutics to treat pregnancy complications is severely lacking, mainly due to the risk of harm to the fetus. In placental malaria, Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes (IEs) accumulate in the placenta by adhering to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) on the surfaces of trophoblasts. Based on this principle, we have developed a method for targeted delivery of payloads to the placenta using a synthetic placental CSA-binding peptide (plCSA-BP) derived from VAR2CSA, a CSA-binding protein expressed on IEs. Methods: A biotinylated plCSA-BP was used to examine the specificity of plCSA-BP binding to mouse and human placental tissue in tissue sections in vitro. Different nanoparticles, including plCSA-BP-conjugated nanoparticles loaded with indocyanine green (plCSA-INPs) or methotrexate (plCSA-MNPs), were administered intravenously to pregnant mice to test their efficiency at drug delivery to the placenta in vivo. The tissue distribution and localization of the plCSA-INPs were monitored in live animals using an IVIS imaging system. The effect of plCSA-MNPs on fetal and placental development and pregnancy outcome were examined using a small-animal high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) imaging system, and the concentrations of methotrexate in fetal and placental tissues were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: plCSA-BP binds specifically to trophoblasts and not to other cell types in the placenta or to CSA-expressing cells in other tissues. Moreover, we found that intravenously administered plCSA-INPs accumulate in the mouse placenta, and ex vivo analysis of the fetuses and placentas confirmed placenta-specific delivery of these nanoparticles. We also demonstrate successful delivery of methotrexate specifically to placental cells by plCSA-BP-conjugated nanoparticles, resulting in dramatic impairment of placental and fetal development. Importantly, plCSA-MNPs treatment had no apparent adverse effects on maternal tissues. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that plCSA-BP-guided nanoparticles could be used for the targeted delivery of payloads to the placenta and serve as a novel placenta-specific drug delivery option.
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21
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Yang W, Zhang N, Shi B, Zhang S, Zhang L, Zhang W. Isotocin Regulates Growth Hormone but Not Prolactin Release From the Pituitary of Ricefield Eels. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:166. [PMID: 29706934 PMCID: PMC5906535 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurohypophyseal hormone oxytocin (Oxt) has been shown to stimulate prolactin (Prl) synthesis and release from the adenohypophysis in rats. However, little is known about the functional roles of Oxt-like neuropeptides in the adenohypophysis of non-mammalian vertebrates. In this study, cDNAs encoding ricefield eel oxytocin-like receptors (Oxtlr), namely isotocin (Ist) receptor 1 (Istr1) and 2 (Istr2), were isolated and specific antisera were generated, respectively. RT-PCR and Western blot analysis detected the presence of both Istr1 and Istr2 in the brain and pituitary, but differential expression in some peripheral tissues, including the liver and kidney, where only Istr1 was detected. In the pituitary, immunoreactive Istr1 and Istr2 were differentially distributed, with the former mainly in adenohypophyseal cell layers adjacent to the neurohypophysis, whereas the latter in peripheral areas of the adenohypophysis. Double immunofluorescent images showed that immunostaining of Istr1, but not Istr2 was localized to growth hormone (Gh) cells, but neither of them was expressed in Prl cells. Ist inhibited Gh release in primary pituitary cells of ricefield eels and increased Gh contents in the pituitary gland of ricefield eels at 6 h after in vivo administration. Ist inhibition of Gh release is probably mediated by cAMP, PKC/DAG, and IP3/Ca2+ pathways. In contrast, Ist did not affect either prl gene expression or Prl contents in primary pituitary cells. Results of this study demonstrated that Ist may not be involved in the regulation of Prl, but inhibit Gh release via Istr1 rather than Istr2 in ricefield eels, and provided evidence for the direct regulation of Gh cells by oxytocin-like neuropeptides in the pituitary of non-mammalian vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Boyang Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shen Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihong Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lihong Zhang, ; Weimin Zhang,
| | - Weimin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biology Department, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lihong Zhang, ; Weimin Zhang,
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22
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Mennigen JA, Volkoff H, Chang JP, Trudeau VL. The nonapeptide isotocin in goldfish: Evidence for serotonergic regulation and functional roles in the control of food intake and pituitary hormone release. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 254:38-49. [PMID: 28927876 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Nonapeptides are a highly conserved family of peptides synthesized in the neuroendocrine brain and acting on central and peripheral receptors to regulate physiological functions in vertebrates. While the evolution of the two gene families of oxytocin-like and vasopressin-like nonapeptides and their receptors, as well as the neuroanatomy of their independent neuronal circuits have been well-characterized across vertebrate species, comparative studies on the physiological roles across vertebrates are lagging behind. In the current study, we focused on the comparative neuroendocrine functions and regulation of isotocin, the teleost homologue of mammalian oxytocin. Specifically, we address the hypothesis that isotocin exerts opposing effects on food intake and reproduction, which are well-established effects of its homologue oxytocin in mammalian species. Using goldfish, a well-characterized model of neuroendocrine regulation of both food intake and reproduction, we here showed that isotocin acts as an anorexigenic factor while exerting stimulatory effects on pituitary luteinizing hormone and growth hormone release. Given the dual inhibitory and stimulatory roles of serotonin on food intake and pituitary release of reproductive hormone in goldfish, we also investigated the potential crosstalk between both systems using immunohistochemistry and pharmacological approaches. Results provide neuroanatomical and pharmacological evidence for serotonergic regulation of magnocellular isotocinergic neurons in the preoptic area and pituitary. Together, these findings firstly provide the basis to investigate neuroendocrine cross-talk between serotonergic and nonapeptidergic systems in the regulation of both food intake and reproduction in goldfish, and secondly point to a conserved function of oxytocin-like peptides in the differential neuroendocrine control of both physiological processes in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan A Mennigen
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada.
| | - Hélène Volkoff
- Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL, Canada
| | - John P Chang
- CW405 Biological Sciences Building, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
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23
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Leong KC, Freeman LR, Berini CR, Ghee SM, See RE, Reichel CM. Oxytocin Reduces Cocaine Cued Fos Activation in a Regionally Specific Manner. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2017; 20:844-854. [PMID: 28977525 PMCID: PMC5737335 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyx058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxytocin may be a possible treatment for multiple neuropsychiatric disorders, including cocaine addiction. Little is known about the site-specific effects of oxytocin on various drug addiction-related brain regions. Furthermore, sexually dimorphic effects of oxytocin on neural function in the addiction circuit have not been established. Here, we studied Fos expression following cocaine-cued reinstatement in both male and female rats. METHODS Male and female rats underwent self-administration, extinction, and reinstatement tests. On test days, rats were given oxytocin or vehicle, and lever pressing was measured in response to conditioned cocaine cues. Rats were perfused and Fos staining measured in the central amygdala, medial prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens core, and subthalamic nucleus. Fos/oxytocin double labeling occurred in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. RESULTS Rats reinstated to cocaine cues relative to extinction responding and oxytocin reduced cocaine seeking. Oxytocin combined with contingent cue presentations increased Fos+ oxytocin cell bodies within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus relative to vehicle. Fos expression robustly increased in the central amygdala following oxytocin administration. Oxytocin reversed cue-induced Fos expression in the medial prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens core, and subthalamic nucleus. Central oxytocin infusion also attenuated reinstated cocaine seeking. CONCLUSIONS Oxytocin decreased reinstated cocaine seeking, increased Fos activation in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and central amygdala, but normalized cue-induced Fos activation in the medial prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens core, and subthalamic nucleus, thereby demonstrating regionally specific activation patterns. No sex differences were seen for the effects of oxytocin on cocaine seeking and Fos activation, indicating that oxytocin acts on similar central neural circuits critical to reinstated cocaine seeking in both males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kah-Chung Leong
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of
Neurosciences, Charleston, South
Carolina (Dr Leong, Ms Berini, Ms Ghee, and Dr Reichel); Furman
University, Department of Biology, Greenville, South Carolina (Dr Freeman);
Westmont College, Department of Psychology, Santa Barbara,
California (Dr See)
| | - Linnea R Freeman
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of
Neurosciences, Charleston, South
Carolina (Dr Leong, Ms Berini, Ms Ghee, and Dr Reichel); Furman
University, Department of Biology, Greenville, South Carolina (Dr Freeman);
Westmont College, Department of Psychology, Santa Barbara,
California (Dr See)
| | - Carole R Berini
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of
Neurosciences, Charleston, South
Carolina (Dr Leong, Ms Berini, Ms Ghee, and Dr Reichel); Furman
University, Department of Biology, Greenville, South Carolina (Dr Freeman);
Westmont College, Department of Psychology, Santa Barbara,
California (Dr See)
| | - Shannon M Ghee
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of
Neurosciences, Charleston, South
Carolina (Dr Leong, Ms Berini, Ms Ghee, and Dr Reichel); Furman
University, Department of Biology, Greenville, South Carolina (Dr Freeman);
Westmont College, Department of Psychology, Santa Barbara,
California (Dr See)
| | - Ronald E See
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of
Neurosciences, Charleston, South
Carolina (Dr Leong, Ms Berini, Ms Ghee, and Dr Reichel); Furman
University, Department of Biology, Greenville, South Carolina (Dr Freeman);
Westmont College, Department of Psychology, Santa Barbara,
California (Dr See)
| | - Carmela M Reichel
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of
Neurosciences, Charleston, South
Carolina (Dr Leong, Ms Berini, Ms Ghee, and Dr Reichel); Furman
University, Department of Biology, Greenville, South Carolina (Dr Freeman);
Westmont College, Department of Psychology, Santa Barbara,
California (Dr See).,Correspondence: Carmela M. Reichel, PhD, Department of Neurosciences,
Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425
()
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24
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Peripheral oxytocin receptors inhibit the nociceptive input signal to spinal dorsal horn wide-dynamic-range neurons. Pain 2017; 158:2117-2128. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Paul JW, Hua S, Ilicic M, Tolosa JM, Butler T, Robertson S, Smith R. Drug delivery to the human and mouse uterus using immunoliposomes targeted to the oxytocin receptor. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017; 216:283.e1-283.e14. [PMID: 27567564 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ability to provide safe and effective pharmacotherapy during obstetric complications, such as preterm labor or postpartum hemorrhage, is hampered by the systemic toxicity of therapeutic agents leading to adverse side effects in the mother and fetus. Development of novel strategies to target tocolytic and uterotonic agents specifically to uterine myocytes would improve therapeutic efficacy while minimizing the risk of side effects. Ligand-targeted liposomes have emerged as a reliable and versatile platform for targeted drug delivery to specific cell types, tissues or organs. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to develop a targeted drug delivery system for the uterus utilizing an immunoliposome platform targeting the oxytocin receptor. STUDY DESIGN We conjugated liposomes to an antibody that recognizes an extracellular domain of the oxytocin receptor. We then examined the ability of oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes to deliver contraction-blocking (nifedipine, salbutamol and rolipram) or contraction-enhancing (dofetilide) agents to strips of spontaneously contracting myometrial tissue in vitro (human and mouse). We evaluated the ability of oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes to localize to uterine tissue in vivo, and assessed if targeted liposomes loaded with indomethacin were capable of preventing lipopolysaccharide-induced preterm birth in mice. RESULTS Oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes loaded with nifedipine, salbutamol or rolipram consistently abolished human myometrial contractions in vitro, while oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes loaded with dofetilide increased contraction duration. Nontargeted control liposomes loaded with these agents had no effect. Similar results were observed in mouse uterine strips. Following in vivo administration to pregnant mice, oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes localized specifically to the uterine horns and mammary tissue. Targeting increased localization to the uterus 7-fold. Localization was not detected in the maternal brain or fetus. Targeted and nontargeted liposomes also localized to the liver. Oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes loaded with indomethacin were effective in reducing rates of preterm birth in mice, whereas nontargeted liposomes loaded with indomethacin had no effect. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes can be used to either inhibit or enhance human uterine contractions in vitro. In vivo, the liposomes localized to the uterine tissue of pregnant mice and were effective in delivering agents for the prevention of inflammation-induced preterm labor. The potential clinical advantage of targeted liposomal drug delivery to the myometrium is reduced dose and reduced toxicity to both mother and fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Susan Hua
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Marina Ilicic
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Jorge M Tolosa
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Trent Butler
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Sarah Robertson
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia; Robinson Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia; John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton, Australia.
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Intranasal Oxytocin Selectively Modulates Social Perception, Craving, and Approach Behavior in Subjects With Alcohol Use Disorder. J Addict Med 2017; 10:182-9. [PMID: 27159342 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A pharmacotherapy that both improves social abilities and promotes abstinence may be particularly helpful for the treatment of alcohol use disorder. Recent clinical and preclinical evidence suggests that oxytocin has prosocial and antiaddiction effects. We performed a pilot, laboratory-based, preclinical trial of oxytocin in subjects with alcohol abuse (as per Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4 Edition criteria) to evaluate therapeutic potential and assess tolerability. METHODS Social perceptual ability, cue-induced craving, and approach bias for alcohol and appetitive imagery were quantified after intranasal oxytocin and placebo administration to 32 nontreatment-seeking individuals with alcohol abuse in a double-blind, crossover study. Because attachment style can moderate the effects of oxytocin, we also explored whether attachment style moderated oxytocin's effects on our behavioral measures. RESULTS Oxytocin significantly improved recognition of easier items on a social perception task, but had no significant group-level effect on cue-induced craving. However, oxytocin effects on craving were moderated by attachment anxiety, with oxytocin reducing craving in more anxiously attached individuals and increasing craving in less anxiously attached individuals. Subjects did not display an approach bias to alcohol images on the placebo day, preventing meaningful analysis of this measure. Subjects did display an approach bias to appetitive images on the placebo day, which was significantly reduced by oxytocin administration. No adverse reactions were observed. CONCLUSIONS Intranasal oxytocin has potential to improve social perception, reduce cue-induced alcohol cravings, and reduce appetitive approach bias in subjects with alcohol abuse, and can be safely tolerated in this population. The effects of oxytocin are complex, however, and require further investigation.
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Garcia AN, Bezner K, Depena C, Yin W, Gore AC. The effects of long-term estradiol treatment on social behavior and gene expression in adult female rats. Horm Behav 2017; 87:145-154. [PMID: 27871902 PMCID: PMC5203957 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study tested the effects of long-term estradiol (E2) replacement on social behavior and gene expression in brain nuclei involved in the regulation of these social behaviors in adult female rats. We developed an ultrasonic vocalization (USV) test and a sociability test to examine communications, social interactions, and social preference, using young adult female cagemates. All rats were ovariectomized (OVX) and implanted with a Silastic capsule containing E2 or vehicle, and housed in same-treatment pairs for a 3-month period. Then, rats were behaviorally tested, euthanized, and 5 nuclei in the brain's social decision-making circuit were selected for neuromolecular profiling by a multiplex qPCR method. Our novel USV test proved to be a robust tool to measure numbers and types of calls emitted by cagemates that had been reintroduced after a 1-week separation. Results also showed that E2-treated OVX rats had profoundly decreased numbers of USV calls compared to vehicle-treated OVX rats. In a test of sociability, in which a female was allowed to choose between her cagemate or a same-treatment novel rat, we found few effects of E2 compared to vehicle, although interestingly, rats chose the cagemate over an unfamiliar conspecific. Gene expression results revealed that the supraoptic nucleus had the greatest number of gene changes caused by E2: Oxt, Oxtr and Avp were increased, and Drd2, Htr1a, Grin2b, and Gabbr1 were decreased, by E2. No genes were affected in the prefrontal cortex, and 1-4 genes were changed in paraventricular nucleus (Pgr), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (Oxtr, Esr2, Dnmt3a), and medial amygdala (Oxtr, Ar, Foxp1, Tac3). Thus, E2 changes communicative interactions between adult female rats, together with selected expression of genes in the brain, especially in the supraoptic nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra N Garcia
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Kelsey Bezner
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Christina Depena
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Weiling Yin
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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Mirnaghizadeh SV, Zendehdel M, Babapour V. Involvement of histaminergic and noradrenergic receptors in the oxytocin-induced food intake in neonatal meat-type chicks. Vet Res Commun 2016; 41:57-66. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-016-9672-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Mickey BJ, Heffernan J, Heisel C, Peciña M, Hsu DT, Zubieta JK, Love TM. Oxytocin modulates hemodynamic responses to monetary incentives in humans. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:3905-3919. [PMID: 27614896 PMCID: PMC5106343 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4423-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Oxytocin is a neuropeptide widely recognized for its role in regulating social and reproductive behavior. Increasing evidence from animal models suggests that oxytocin also modulates reward circuitry in non-social contexts, but evidence in humans is lacking. OBJECTIVES We examined the effects of oxytocin administration on reward circuit function in 18 healthy men as they performed a monetary incentive task. METHODS The blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) signal was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging in the context of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of intranasal oxytocin. RESULTS We found that oxytocin increases the BOLD signal in the midbrain (substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area) during the late phase of the hemodynamic response to incentive stimuli. Oxytocin's effects on midbrain responses correlated positively with its effects on positive emotional state. We did not detect an effect of oxytocin on responses in the nucleus accumbens. Whole-brain analyses revealed that oxytocin attenuated medial prefrontal cortical deactivation specifically during anticipation of loss. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that intranasal administration of oxytocin modulates human midbrain and medial prefrontal function during motivated behavior. These findings suggest that endogenous oxytocin is a neurochemical mediator of reward behaviors in humans-even in a non-social context-and that the oxytocinergic system is a potential target of pharmacotherapy for psychiatric disorders that involve dysfunction of reward circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Mickey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Joseph Heffernan
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Curtis Heisel
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marta Peciña
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - David T Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Jon-Kar Zubieta
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Tiffany M Love
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Baracz SJ, Cornish JL. The neurocircuitry involved in oxytocin modulation of methamphetamine addiction. Front Neuroendocrinol 2016; 43:1-18. [PMID: 27546878 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The role of oxytocin in attenuating the abuse of licit and illicit drugs, including the psychostimulant methamphetamine, has been examined with increased ferocity in recent years. This is largely driven by the potential application of oxytocin as a pharmacotherapy. However, the neural mechanisms by which oxytocin modulates methamphetamine abuse are not well understood. Recent research identified an important role for the accumbens core and subthalamic nucleus in this process, which likely involves an interaction with dopamine, glutamate, GABA, and vasopressin. In addition to providing an overview of methamphetamine, the endogenous oxytocin system, and the effects of exogenous oxytocin on drug abuse, we propose a neural circuit through which exogenous oxytocin modulates methamphetamine abuse, focusing on its interaction with neurochemicals within the accumbens core and subthalamic nucleus. A growing understanding of exogenous oxytocin effects at a neurochemical and neurobiological level will assist in its evaluation as a pharmacotherapy for drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Baracz
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Jennifer L Cornish
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Angioni L, Cocco C, Ferri GL, Argiolas A, Melis MR, Sanna F. Involvement of nigral oxytocin in locomotor activity: A behavioral, immunohistochemical and lesion study in male rats. Horm Behav 2016; 83:23-38. [PMID: 27189764 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin is involved in the control of different behaviors, from sexual behavior and food consumption to empathy, social and affective behaviors. An imbalance of central oxytocinergic neurotransmission has been also associated with different mental pathologies, from depression, anxiety and anorexia/bulimia to schizophrenia, autism and drug dependence. This study shows that oxytocin may also play a role in the control of locomotor activity. Accordingly, intraperitoneal oxytocin (0.5-2000μg/kg) reduced locomotor activity of adult male rats. This effect was abolished by d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)(2)-Orn(8)-vasotocin, an oxytocin receptor antagonist, given into the lateral ventricles at the dose of 2μg/rat, which was ineffective on locomotor activity. Oxytocin (50-200ng/site) also reduced and d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)(2)-Orn(8)-vasotocin (2μg/site) increased locomotor activity when injected bilaterally into the substantia nigra, a key area in the control of locomotor activity. Conversely, the destruction of nigral neurons bearing oxytocin receptors by the recently characterized neurotoxin oxytocin-saporin injected into the substantia nigra, increased basal locomotor activity. Since oxytocin-saporin injected into the substantia nigra caused a marked reduction of neurons immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase (e.g., nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons) and for vesicular glutamate transporters VGluT1, VGluT2 and VGluT3 (e.g., glutamatergic neurons), but not for glutamic acid decarboxylase (e.g., GABAergic neurons), together these findings suggest that oxytocin influences locomotor activity by acting on receptors localized presynaptically in nigral glutamatergic nerve terminals (which control the activity of nigral GABAergic efferent neurons projecting to brain stem nuclei controlling locomotor activity), rather than on receptors localized in the cell bodies/dendrites of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Angioni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cytomorphology, NEF Laboratory, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Cristina Cocco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cytomorphology, NEF Laboratory, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Gian-Luca Ferri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cytomorphology, NEF Laboratory, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Antonio Argiolas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Neuropsychobiology Laboratory, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Neuropsychobiology Laboratory, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Neuropsychobiology Laboratory, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy.
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The ventromedial hypothalamus oxytocin induces locomotor behavior regulated by estrogen. Physiol Behav 2016; 164:107-12. [PMID: 27237044 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.05.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our previous studies demonstrated that excitation of neurons in the rat ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) induced locomotor activity. An oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) exists in the VMH and plays a role in regulating sexual behavior. However, the role of Oxtr in the VMH in locomotor activity is not clear. In this study we examined the roles of oxytocin in the VMH in running behavior, and also investigated the involvement of estrogen in this behavioral change. Microinjection of oxytocin into the VMH induced a dose-dependent increase in the running behavior in male rats. The oxytocin-induced running activity was inhibited by simultaneous injection of Oxtr-antagonist, (d(CH2)5(1), Try(Me)(2), Orn(8))-oxytocin. Oxytocin injection also induced running behavior in ovariectomized (OVX) female rats. Pretreatment of the OVX rats with estrogen augmented the oxytocin-induced running activity twofold, and increased the Oxtr mRNA in the VMH threefold. During the estrus cycle locomotor activity spontaneously increased in the dark period of proestrus. The Oxtr mRNA was up-regulated in the proestrus afternoon. Blockade of oxytocin neurotransmission by its antagonist before the onset of the dark period of proestrus decreased the following nocturnal locomotor activity. These findings demonstrate that Oxtr in the VMH is involved in the induction of running behavior and that estrogen facilitates this effect by means of Oxtr up-regulation, suggesting the involvement of oxytocin in the locomotor activity of proestrus female rats.
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Grundwald NJ, Benítez DP, Brunton PJ. Sex-Dependent Effects of Prenatal Stress on Social Memory in Rats: A Role for Differential Expression of Central Vasopressin-1a Receptors. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28. [PMID: 26613552 PMCID: PMC4950027 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 11/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal stress (PNS) affects a number of traits in the offspring, including stress axis regulation, emotionality and cognition; however, much less is known about the effects of PNS on social memory and the underlying central mechanisms. In the present study, we investigated social preference, social memory under basal and stress conditions and olfactory memory for social and nonsocial odours in the adult offspring of dams exposed to social stress during late pregnancy. Given the key roles that the central oxytocin and vasopressin systems play in facilitating social memory, we further investigated the effects of PNS on the central expression of mRNA for oxytocin (Oxtr) and vasopressin-1a (Avpr1a) receptors. PNS did not affect social preference in either sex; however, social memory was impaired under basal conditions in PNS females but not PNS males. Accordingly, Avpr1a mRNA expression in the lateral septum and bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST) was unaltered in males but was significantly lower in PNS females compared to controls. No differences in Oxtr mRNA expression were detected between control and PNS offspring in either sex in any of the brain regions examined. Social memory deficits in PNS females persisted when social odours were used; however, this does not appear to be a result of impaired olfaction because memory for nonsocial odours was similar in control and PNS females. Under acute stress conditions, deficits in social memory were observed in both male and female control offspring; however, PNS males were unaffected. Moreover, acute stress facilitated social memory in PNS females and this was associated with an up-regulation of Avpr1a mRNA in the lateral septum and BNST. Our data support a role for altered signalling via central Avpr1a in PNS-induced sex-dependent changes in social memory and may have implications for understanding the aetiology of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by social behaviour deficits in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Grundwald
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute and R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - D P Benítez
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute and R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - P J Brunton
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute and R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
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Baracz SJ, Everett NA, McGregor IS, Cornish JL. Oxytocin in the nucleus accumbens core reduces reinstatement of methamphetamine-seeking behaviour in rats. Addict Biol 2016; 21:316-25. [PMID: 25399704 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The psychostimulant methamphetamine (METH) is an addictive illicit drug. Systemic administration of the neuropeptide oxytocin modulates METH-related reward and METH-seeking behaviour. Recent findings demonstrated a reduction in METH-induced reward by oxytocin administration into the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core. It is not known, however, if oxytocin acts in this region to reduce relapse to METH-seeking behaviour. Using the drug reinstatement paradigm in rats experienced at METH self-administration, we aimed to determine whether oxytocin pre-treatment within the NAc core would reduce relapse to METH use and if this could be reversed by the co-administration of the oxytocin receptor (OTR) antagonist desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT. Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent surgery to implant an intravenous jugular vein catheter and bilateral microinjection cannulae in the NAc core. Rats were then trained to self-administer intravenous METH (0.1 mg/kg/infusion) by lever press during 2-hour fixed ratio 1 scheduled sessions for 20 days. Following extinction of lever press activity, the effect of microinjecting saline, oxytocin (0.5 pmol, 1.5 pmol, 4.5 pmol) or co-administration of oxytocin (1.5 pmol) and desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT (1 nmol, 3 nmol) in the NAc core (500 nl/side) was examined on METH-primed (1 mg/kg, i.p.) reinstatement of drug-seeking behaviour. Our results showed oxytocin directly administered into the NAc core decreased METH-primed reinstatement in a dose-dependent manner. Co-administration of the selective OTR antagonist did not specifically reverse the inhibitory effects of oxytocin on METH priming, suggesting mediation by receptors other than the OTR. These findings highlight an important modulatory effect of oxytocin in the NAc core on relapse to METH seeking.
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Leong KC, Zhou L, Ghee SM, See RE, Reichel CM. Oxytocin decreases cocaine taking, cocaine seeking, and locomotor activity in female rats. Exp Clin Psychopharmacol 2016; 24:55-64. [PMID: 26523890 PMCID: PMC4821810 DOI: 10.1037/pha0000058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin has been shown to decrease cocaine taking and seeking in male rats, suggesting potential treatment efficacy for drug addiction. In the present study, we extended these findings to the assessment of cocaine seeking and taking in female rats. Further, we made direct comparisons of oxytocin's impact on cocaine induced locomotor activity in both males and females. In females, systemic oxytocin (0.3, 1.0, 3.0 mg/kg) attenuated lever pressing for cocaine during self-administration and oxytocin (1.0 mg/kg) attenuated cue-induced cocaine seeking following extinction. Cocaine increased baseline locomotor activity to a greater degree in females relative to males. Oxytocin (0.1, 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg/kg) reduced cocaine-induced locomotor activity in females, but not significantly in males. These data illustrate sex similarities in oxytocin's attenuation of cocaine seeking, but sex differences in cocaine-induced locomotor effects. While reductions in cocaine seeking cannot be attributed to a reduction in locomotor activity in males, attenuation of locomotor function cannot be entirely ruled out as an explanation for a decrease in cocaine seeking in females suggesting that oxytocin's effect on cocaine seeking may be mediated by different mechanisms in male and females.
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Somato-axodendritic release of oxytocin into the brain due to calcium amplification is essential for social memory. J Physiol Sci 2015; 66:275-82. [PMID: 26586001 PMCID: PMC4893072 DOI: 10.1007/s12576-015-0425-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is released into the brain from the cell soma, axons, and dendrites of neurosecretory cells in the hypothalamus. Locally released OT can activate OT receptors, form inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate and elevate intracellular free calcium (Ca2+) concentrations [(Ca2+)i] in self and neighboring neurons in the hypothalamus, resulting in further OT release: i.e., autocrine or paracrine systems of OT-induced OT release. CD38-dependent cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) is also involved in this autoregulation by elevating [Ca2+]i via Ca2+ mobilization through ryanodine receptors on intracellular Ca2+ pools that are sensitive to both Ca2+ and cADPR. In addition, it has recently been reported that heat stimulation and hyperthermia enhance [Ca2+]i increases by Ca2+ influx, probably through TRPM2 cation channels, suggesting that cADPR and TRPM2 molecules act as Ca2+ signal amplifiers. Thus, OT release is not simply due to depolarization–secretion coupling. Both of these molecules play critical roles not only during labor and milk ejection in reproductive females, but also during social behavior in daily life in both genders. This was clearly demonstrated in CD38 knockout mice in that social behavior was impaired by reduction of [Ca2+]i elevation and subsequent OT secretion. Evidence for the associations of CD38 with social behavior and psychiatric disorder is discussed, especially in subjects with autism spectrum disorder.
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Baracz SJ, Everett NA, Cornish JL. The Involvement of Oxytocin in the Subthalamic Nucleus on Relapse to Methamphetamine-Seeking Behaviour. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0136132. [PMID: 26284529 PMCID: PMC4540453 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The psychostimulant methamphetamine (METH) is an addictive drug of abuse. The neuropeptide oxytocin has been shown to modulate METH-related reward and METH-seeking behaviour. Recent findings implicated the subthalamic nucleus (STh) as a key brain region in oxytocin modulation of METH-induced reward. However, it is unclear if oxytocin acts in this region to attenuate relapse to METH-seeking behaviour, and if this action is through the oxytocin receptor. We aimed to determine whether oxytocin pretreatment administered into the STh would reduce reinstatement to METH use in rats experienced at METH self-administration, and if this could be reversed by the co-administration of the oxytocin receptor antagonist desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT. Male Sprague Dawley rats underwent surgery to implant an intravenous jugular vein catheter and bilateral microinjection cannulae into the STh under isoflourane anaesthesia. Rats were then trained to self-administer intravenous METH (0.1 mg/kg/infusion) by lever press during 2-hour sessions under a fixed ratio 1 schedule for 20 days. Following extinction of lever press activity, the effect of microinjecting saline, oxytocin (0.2 pmol, 0.6 pmol, 1.8 pmol, 3.6 pmol) or co-administration of oxytocin (3.6 pmol) and desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT (3 nmol) into the STh (200 nl/side) was examined on METH-primed reinstatement (1 mg/kg; i.p.). We found that local administration of the highest oxytocin dose (3.6 pmol) into the STh decreased METH-induced reinstatement and desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT had a non-specific effect on lever press activity. These findings highlight that oxytocin modulation of the STh is an important modulator of relapse to METH abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Jane Baracz
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia, 2109
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Gonzalez-Iglesias AE, Fletcher PA, Arias-Cristancho JA, Cristancho-Gordo R, Helena CV, Bertram R, Tabak J. Direct stimulatory effects of oxytocin in female rat gonadotrophs and somatotrophs in vitro: comparison with lactotrophs. Endocrinology 2015; 156:600-12. [PMID: 25406939 PMCID: PMC4298322 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The peptide oxytocin (OT) is secreted by hypothalamic neurons and exerts numerous actions related to reproduction. OT stimulation of prolactin secretion in female rats is important during the estrous cycle, pregnancy, and lactation. Here we report that OT also stimulates transients of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in somatotrophs and gonadotrophs as well as the release of GH and LH in a dose-dependent manner with EC50 values that closely correspond to the ligand affinity of the OT receptor (OTR). Remarkably, the hormone-releasing effect of OT in these two cell types is 2 orders of magnitude more sensitive than that in lactotrophs. The specific OTR agonist [Thr(4),Gly(7)]-oxytocin acutely stimulated the release of LH, GH, and prolactin from female rat pituitary cells in primary culture and increased intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in gonadotrophs, somatotrophs, and lactotrophs. In these three cell types, the effects on hormone release and intracellular Ca(2+) of both OT and [Thr(4),Gly(7)]oxytocin were abolished by the specific OT receptor antagonist desGly-NH2-d(CH2)5[D-Tyr(2),Thr(4)]OVT but not by the highly selective vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5[Tyr(Me)(2),Dab(5)]AVP. Furthermore, 10 nM arginine vasopressin stimulated LH and GH release comparably with a dose of OT that was at least 10 times lower. Finally, the presence of the OTR-like immunoreactivity could be observed in all three cell types. Taken together, these results show that OT directly stimulates gonadotrophs, somatotrophs, and lactotrophs through OT receptors and suggest that OT signaling may serve to coordinate the release of different pituitary hormones during specific physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo E Gonzalez-Iglesias
- Program in Neuroscience and Department of Mathematics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306
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Grinevich V, Desarménien MG, Chini B, Tauber M, Muscatelli F. Ontogenesis of oxytocin pathways in the mammalian brain: late maturation and psychosocial disorders. Front Neuroanat 2015; 8:164. [PMID: 25767437 PMCID: PMC4341354 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2014.00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT), the main neuropeptide of sociality, is expressed in neurons exclusively localized in the hypothalamus. During the last decade, a plethora of neuroendocrine, metabolic, autonomic and behavioral effects of OT has been reported. In the urgency to find treatments to syndromes as invalidating as autism, many clinical trials have been launched in which OT is administered to patients, including adolescents and children. However, the impact of OT on the developing brain and in particular on the embryonic and early postnatal maturation of OT neurons, has been only poorly investigated. In the present review we summarize available (although limited) literature on general features of ontogenetic transformation of the OT system, including determination, migration and differentiation of OT neurons. Next, we discuss trajectories of OT receptors (OTR) in the perinatal period. Furthermore, we provide evidence that early alterations, from birth, in the central OT system lead to severe neurodevelopmental diseases such as feeding deficit in infancy and severe defects in social behavior in adulthood, as described in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). Our review intends to propose a hypothesis about developmental dynamics of central OT pathways, which are essential for survival right after birth and for the acquisition of social skills later on. A better understanding of the embryonic and early postnatal maturation of the OT system may lead to better OT-based treatments in PWS or autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valery Grinevich
- Schaller Research Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center and CellNetwork Cluster of Excellence of the University of Heidelberg Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michel G Desarménien
- Institute of Functional Genomics, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Montpellier 1, Université Montpellier 2 Montpellier, France
| | - Bice Chini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Institute of Neuroscience Milan, Italy
| | - Maithé Tauber
- Reference Centre for Prader-Willi Syndrome - Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Hôpital des Enfants Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse 330 Toulouse, France ; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité Mixe de Recherche 1043, Paul Sabatier University Toulouse III Toulouse, France
| | - Françoise Muscatelli
- Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée Unité Mixe de Recherche U901, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Parc Scientifique de Luminy Marseille, France ; Aix-Marseille Université, Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée Unité Mixe de Recherche 901 Marseille, France
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Lozić M, Greenwood M, Šarenac O, Martin A, Hindmarch C, Tasić T, Paton J, Murphy D, Japundžić-Žigon N. Overexpression of oxytocin receptors in the hypothalamic PVN increases baroreceptor reflex sensitivity and buffers BP variability in conscious rats. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:4385-98. [PMID: 24834854 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus is an important integrative site for neuroendocrine control of the circulation. We investigated the role of oxytocin receptors (OT receptors) in PVN in cardiovascular homeostasis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Experiments were performed in conscious male Wistar rats equipped with a radiotelemetric device. The PVN was unilaterally co-transfected with an adenoviral vector (Ad), engineered to overexpress OT receptors, and an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) tag. Control groups: PVN was transfected with an Ad expressing eGFP alone or untransfected, sham rats (Wt). Recordings were obtained without and with selective blockade of OT receptors (OTX), during both baseline and stressful conditions. Baroreceptor reflex sensitivity (BRS) and cardiovascular short-term variability were evaluated using the sequence method and spectral methodology respectively. KEY RESULTS Under baseline conditions, rats overexpressing OT receptors (OTR) exhibited enhanced BRS and reduced BP variability compared to control groups. Exposure to stress increased BP, BP variability and HR in all rats. In control groups, but not in OTR rats, BRS decreased during stress. Pretreatment of OTR rats with OTX reduced BRS and enhanced BP and HR variability under baseline and stressful conditions. Pretreatment of Wt rats with OTX, reduced BRS and increased BP variability under baseline and stressful conditions, but only increased HR variability during stress. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OT receptors in PVN are involved in tonic neural control of BRS and cardiovascular short-term variability. The failure of this mechanism could critically contribute to the loss of autonomic control in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Lozić
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Immunohistochemical localization of oxytocin receptors in human brain. Neuroscience 2013; 253:155-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.08.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Revised: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Oxytocin activates calcium signaling in rat sensory neurons through a protein kinase C-dependent mechanism. J Physiol Biochem 2013; 70:43-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s13105-013-0278-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Hostinar CE, Sullivan RM, Gunnar MR. Psychobiological mechanisms underlying the social buffering of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis: a review of animal models and human studies across development. Psychol Bull 2013; 140:256-82. [PMID: 23607429 DOI: 10.1037/a0032671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 452] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Discovering the stress-buffering effects of social relationships has been one of the major findings in psychobiology in the last century. However, an understanding of the underlying neurobiological and psychological mechanisms of this buffering is only beginning to emerge. An important avenue of this research concerns the neurocircuitry that can regulate the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis. The present review is a translational effort aimed at integrating animal models and human studies of the social regulation of the HPA axis from infancy to adulthood, specifically focusing on the process that has been named social buffering. This process has been noted across species and consists of a dampened HPA axis stress response to threat or challenge that occurs with the presence or assistance of a conspecific. We describe aspects of the relevant underlying neurobiology when enough information exists and expose major gaps in our understanding across all domains of the literatures we aimed to integrate. We provide a working conceptual model focused on the role of oxytocinergic systems and prefrontal neural networks as 2 of the putative biological mediators of this process, and propose that the role of early experiences is critical in shaping later social buffering effects. This synthesis points to both general future directions and specific experiments that need to be conducted to build a more comprehensive model of the HPA social buffering effect across the life span that incorporates multiple levels of analysis: neuroendocrine, behavioral, and social.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Regina M Sullivan
- Emotional Brain Institute, Nathan S. Kline Institute, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center
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Loke SY, Tanaka K, Ong WY. Comprehensive gene expression analyses of the rat prefrontal cortex after oxysterol treatment. J Neurochem 2013; 124:770-81. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 01/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sau-Yeen Loke
- Department of Anatomy; National University of Singapore; Singapore
| | - Kazuhiro Tanaka
- Department of Physiology; National University of Singapore; Singapore
| | - Wei-Yi Ong
- Department of Anatomy; National University of Singapore; Singapore
- Neurobiology and Ageing Research Programme; National University of Singapore; Singapore
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Sanna F, Argiolas A, Melis MR. Oxytocin-induced yawning: sites of action in the brain and interaction with mesolimbic/mesocortical and incertohypothalamic dopaminergic neurons in male rats. Horm Behav 2012; 62:505-14. [PMID: 22981942 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2012] [Revised: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 08/29/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (80 ng) induces yawning when injected into the caudal part of the ventral tegmental area, the hippocampal ventral subiculum and the posteromedial nucleus of the amygdala of male rats. The behavioural response occurred concomitantly with an increase in the concentration of extracellular dopamine and its main metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the dialysate obtained from the shell of the nucleus accumbens and of the prelimbic medial prefrontal cortex by means of intracerebral microdialysis. Both oxytocin responses were significantly reduced by d(CH₂)₅Tyr(Me)²-Orn⁸-vasotocin, a selective oxytocin receptor antagonist, injected in the above brain areas 15 min before oxytocin. Similar results were obtained by activating central oxytocinergic neurons originating in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and projecting to the ventral tegmental area, the hippocampus and the amygdala, with the dopamine agonist apomorphine given at a dose that induces yawning when injected into the paraventricular nucleus. Since oxytocin is considered a key regulator of emotional and social reward that enhances amygdala-dependent, socially reinforced learning and emotional empathy, mesolimbic and mesocortical dopamine neurons play a key role in motivation and reward, and yawning in mammals is considered a primitive, unconscious form of empathy, the present results support the hypothesis that oxytocinergic neurons originating in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and projecting to the above brain areas and mesolimbic and mesocortical dopaminergic neurons participate in the complex neural circuits that play a role in the above mentioned functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience Section, and Centre of Excellence for the Neurobiology of Addictions, University of Cagliari, and Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Cagliari Section, 09042 Monserrato Cagliari, Italy
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Viero C, Shibuya I, Kitamura N, Verkhratsky A, Fujihara H, Katoh A, Ueta Y, Zingg HH, Chvatal A, Sykova E, Dayanithi G. REVIEW: Oxytocin: Crossing the bridge between basic science and pharmacotherapy. CNS Neurosci Ther 2010; 16:e138-56. [PMID: 20626426 PMCID: PMC2972642 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2010.00185.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Is oxytocin the hormone of happiness? Probably not. However, this small nine amino acid peptide is involved in a wide variety of physiological and pathological functions such as sexual activity, penile erection, ejaculation, pregnancy, uterus contraction, milk ejection, maternal behavior, osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer, social bonding, and stress, which makes oxytocin and its receptor potential candidates as targets for drug therapy. In this review, we address the issues of drug design and specificity and focus our discussion on recent findings on oxytocin and its heterotrimeric G protein‐coupled receptor OTR. In this regard, we will highlight the following topics: (i) the role of oxytocin in behavior and affectivity, (ii) the relationship between oxytocin and stress with emphasis on the hypothalamo–pituitary–adrenal axis, (iii) the involvement of oxytocin in pain regulation and nociception, (iv) the specific action mechanisms of oxytocin on intracellular Ca2+ in the hypothalamo neurohypophysial system (HNS) cell bodies, (v) newly generated transgenic rats tagged by a visible fluorescent protein to study the physiology of vasopressin and oxytocin, and (vi) the action of the neurohypophysial hormone outside the central nervous system, including the myometrium, heart and peripheral nervous system. As a short nine amino acid peptide, closely related to its partner peptide vasopressin, oxytocin appears to be ideal for the design of agonists and antagonists of its receptor. In addition, not only the hormone itself and its binding to OTR, but also its synthesis, storage and release can be endogenously and exogenously regulated to counteract pathophysiological states. Understanding the fundamental physiopharmacology of the effects of oxytocin is an important and necessary approach for developing a potential pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric Viero
- Department of Cardiology, Wales Heart Research Institute, Cardiff University, UK
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Oxytocin induces penile erection when injected into the ventral subiculum: Role of nitric oxide and glutamic acid. Neuropharmacology 2010; 58:1153-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2010.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2009] [Revised: 01/31/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Amina S, Hashii M, Ma WJ, Yokoyama S, Lopatina O, Liu HX, Islam MS, Higashida H. Intracellular calcium elevation induced by extracellular application of cyclic-ADP-ribose or oxytocin is temperature-sensitive in rodent NG108-15 neuronal cells with or without exogenous expression of human oxytocin receptors. J Neuroendocrinol 2010; 22:460-6. [PMID: 20163520 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2010.01978.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
ADP-ribosyl cyclase and/or CD38 are activated after oxytocin receptor stimulation in the hypothalamus and pituitary in adult mice, leading to facilitation of oxytocin secretion. Although cyclic adenosine 5'-diphosphoribose (cADPR) primarily acts as an intracellular second messenger, it has been suggested that extracellular cADPR stimulates intracellular ryanodine receptors after internalisation via the nucleotide-transporting capacity of CD38 in fibroblasts and astrocytes. However, little is known about whether extracellular cADPR activates neurones. To address this question, we used a model neuronal cell line, NG108-15 mouse neuroblastoma x rat glioma hybrid cells possessing CD38 but not oxytocin receptors, and measured cytosolic free calcium concentrations ([Ca(2+)](i)). Extracellular application of cADPR to NG108-15 cells elevated [Ca(2+)](i) at 35 degrees C. The elevation was significantly enhanced when measured at 40 degrees C. The cADPR and heat-induced [Ca(2+)](i) increase were blocked under extracellular Ca(2+)-free conditions and by 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an antagonist of melastatin-related transient receptor potential channel 2 (TRPM2) cation channels. Reverse transcriptation-polymerase chain reaction analyses indicated that TRPM2 channels were expressed in NG108-15 cells. Application of oxytocin elevated [Ca(2+)](i) in NG108-15 cells transformed to transiently express cloned human oxytocin receptors. The oxytocin-induced [Ca(2+)](i) response was also enhanced by heat. These results indicate that the extracellular application of cADPR, together with heat, activates cation influx downstream of oxytocin receptor signalling in NG108-15 neuronal cells, and suggest the possible involvement of TRPM2 channels in oxytocin release in the mammalian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Amina
- Department of Biophysical Genetics, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan.
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Melis MR, Succu S, Sanna F, Boi A, Argiolas A. Oxytocin injected into the ventral subiculum or the posteromedial cortical nucleus of the amygdala induces penile erection and increases extracellular dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens of male rats. Eur J Neurosci 2009; 30:1349-57. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2009.06912.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Matsunaga M, Konagaya T, Nogimori T, Yoneda M, Kasugai K, Ohira H, Kaneko H. Inhibitory effect of oxytocin on accelerated colonic motility induced by water-avoidance stress in rats. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2009; 21:856-e59. [PMID: 19298230 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2009.01286.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have indicated that brain and gut activities are interrelated and exposure to several stressors, such as water-avoidance stress, stimulates the motor function of the gut through corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-signalling pathways in the brain. Central oxytocin is known to attenuate stress responses, including CRF expression in the brain. Here, we examined whether central oxytocin attenuated the acceleration of colonic motility induced by water-avoidance stress. A force transducer was attached to the distal colon of male rat, and the colonic motility and faecal pellet output were recorded while the rats were exposed to water-avoidance stress. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of oxytocin (5, 50 and 500 pmol) and the oxytocin receptor antagonist tocinoic acid (25 microg) were administered before exposure to water-avoidance stress, and the effect of oxytocin on colonic motor function was determined. Centrally administered oxytocin inhibited the accelerated colonic motility induced by water-avoidance stress. The effective dose ranged between 5 and 50 pmol on i.c.v. injection. Oxytocin also decreased the number of CRF-positive cells in the paraventricular nucleus and corticosterone release. The inhibitory effect of oxytocin on accelerated colonic motility was blocked by pretreatment with oxytocin receptor antagonist. Furthermore, centrally administered tocinoic acid enhanced the acceleration of colonic motility. These results suggested that endogenous central oxytocin may contribute to the regulation of colonic function and inhibit the brain CRF-signalling pathways targeting the gut, resulting in the inhibition of stress-induced colonic contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Matsunaga
- Department of Neurology, Ban Buntane Hotokukai Hospital, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan
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