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Fujimura M. Gabapentin improves neuropathic pain in Minamata disease model rats. Environ Health Prev Med 2024; 29:31. [PMID: 38825526 PMCID: PMC11157338 DOI: 10.1265/ehpm.24-00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury (MeHg), the causative agent of Minamata disease, damages the cranial nervous system and causes specific sensory disturbances, especially hypoesthesia, in the extremities. However, recent reports demonstrate that patients with chronic Minamata disease conversely develop neuropathic pain in the lower extremities. Studies on our established Minamata disease model rats showed that MeHg-mediated neurodegeneration might induce neuropathic pain by over time through inducing rewiring with neuronal activation in the somatosensory cortex via microglial activation in the spinal dorsal horn. METHODS In this study, the effects of gabapentin, a potentially effective treatment for neuropathic pain, was evaluated using this Minamata disease model rats. To further elucidate the mechanism of its medicinal effects, histochemical and biochemical analyses of the nervous system of Minamata disease model rats were conducted. RESULTS Gabapentin treatment restored the reduction in the pain threshold caused by MeHg exposure in rats. Histochemical and biochemical analyses revealed that gabapentin showed no effect on MeHg-induced neurodegeneration in entire nervous system and microglial activation in the spinal dorsal horn. However, it was shown that gabapentin may reduce excessive synaptogenesis through its antagonist action on the alpha2-delta-1 subunit of calcium channels in the somatosensory cortex. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that gabapentin may alleviated neuropathic pain in MeHg poisoning, as typified by Minamata disease, by reversibly modulation synaptic rewiring in the somatosensory cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatake Fujimura
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
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Anti-Inflammatory Actions of G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor 1 (GPER) and Brain-Derived Estrogen Following Cerebral Ischemia in Ovariectomized Rats. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12010099. [PMID: 36671793 PMCID: PMC9855882 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Global cerebral ischemia can elicit rapid innate neuroprotective mechanisms that protect against delayed neuronal death. Brain-derived 17β-estradiol (BDE2), an endogenous neuroprotectant, is synthesized from testosterone by the enzyme aromatase (Aro) and is upregulated by brain ischemia and inflammation. Our recent study revealed that G1, a specific G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER) agonist, exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic roles after global cerebral ischemia (GCI). Herein, we aimed to elucidate whether G1 modulates the early inflammatory process and the potential underlying mechanisms in the ovariectomized rat hippocampal CA1 region. G1 was found to markedly reduce pro-inflammatory (iNOS, MHCII, and CD68) and to enhance anti-inflammatory (CD206, Arginase 1, IL1RA, PPARγ, and BDNF) markers after 1 and 3 days of reperfusion after GCI. Intriguingly, the neuroprotection of G1 was blocked by the Aro inhibitor, letrozole. Conversely, the GPER antagonist, G36, inhibited Aro-BDE2 signaling and exacerbated neuronal damage. As a whole, this work demonstrates a novel anti-inflammatory role of GPER, involving a synergistic mediation with BDE2 during the early stage of GCI.
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Fujimura M. Fasudil, a ROCK inhibitor, prevents neuropathic pain in Minamata disease model rats. Toxicol Lett 2022; 371:38-45. [PMID: 36244566 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg), an environmental toxicant, is known to cause sensory impairment by inducing neurodegeneration of sensory nervous systems. However, in recent years, it has been revealed that neuropathic pain occurs in the chronic phase of MeHg poisoning, that is, in current Minamata disease patients. Our recent study using Minamata disease model rats demonstrated that MeHg-mediated neurodegeneration in the sensory nervous system may induce inflammatory microglia production in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and subsequent somatosensory cortical rewiring, leading to neuropathic pain. We hypothesized that inhibition of the Rho-associated coiled coil-forming protein kinase (ROCK) pathway could prevent MeHg-induced neuropathic pain because the ROCK pathway is known to be involved in inducing the production of inflammatory microglia. Here, we showed for the first time that Fasudil, a ROCK inhibitor, can prevent neuropathic pain in Minamata disease model rats. In this model, Fasudil significantly suppressed nerve injury-induced inflammatory microglia production in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and prevented subsequent somatosensory cortical rewiring. These results suggest that the ROCK pathway is involved in the onset and development of neuropathic pain in the chronic phase of Minamata disease, and that its inhibition is effective in pain prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatake Fujimura
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, 4058-18 Hama, Minamata, Kumamoto 867-0008, Japan.
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Involvement of the ERK signaling pathways in the NAc in propofol-seeking behavior induced by cues in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 219:173447. [PMID: 35970339 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Propofol, an intravenous short-acting anesthetic, has the potential to induce craving and relapse. Accumulated evidence demonstrates that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) plays an essential role in drug reward and relapse. In the previous study, we demonstrated that the ERK signaling pathways in the Nucleus accumbens (NAc) were involved in propofol reward. However, the role of the ERK signaling pathways in propofol relapse is still unknown. We first trained rats to self-administer propofol for 14 days, then evaluated propofol-seeking behavior of relapse induced by a contextual cues and conditioned cues after 14-day withdrawal. Meanwhile, MEK inhibitor U0126 was used to investigate the role of the ERK signal pathways in propofol-seeking behavior induced by contextual cues and conditioned cues. Results showed that the number of active nose-poke responses in propofol-seeking behavior induced by conditioned cues was much higher compared to contextual cues. U0126 (5.0 μg/side, Lateral Ventricle (LV)) pretreatment significantly decreased the active responses induced by conditioned cues, which was associated with a large decline in the expression of p-ERK in the NAc. Moreover, microinjectionofU0126 (2.0 μg/side) in the NAc also attenuated the active responses of propofol-seeking behavior. Additionally, microinjections with U0126 in the LV (5.0 μg/side) or NAc (2.0 μg/side) both failed to alter sucrose self-administration or locomotor activity of rats. Therefore, we conclude that ERK phosphorylation in the NAc maybe involved in propofol relapse.
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Effects of docosanyl ferulate, a constituent of Withania somnifera, on ethanol- and morphine-elicited conditioned place preference and ERK phosphorylation in the accumbens shell of CD1 mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:795-806. [PMID: 35088095 PMCID: PMC8891193 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06069-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Docosanyl ferulate (DF) is a behaviourally active GABAA receptor complex (GABAAR) agonist, recently isolated from the standardized methanolic extract of Withania somnifera Dunal (WSE) root. Previous studies have shown that WSE prevents both ethanol- and morphine-dependent acquisition and expression of conditioned place preference (CPP) and stimulation of dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh). AIMS The study aimed at determining (a) whether DF contributes to WSE's ability to affect the acquisition and expression of ethanol- and morphine-elicited CPP and, given that phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pERK) in the AcbSh is involved in associative learning and motivated behaviours, (b) whether WSE and DF may affect ethanol- and morphine-induced ERKs phosphorylation in the AcbSh. METHODS In adult male CD1 mice, DF's effects on the acquisition and expression of ethanol- and morphine-elicited CPP were evaluated by a classical place conditioning paradigm, whereas the effects of WSE and DF on ethanol- and morphine-elicited pERK in the AcbSh were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The study shows that DF, differently from WSE, affects only the acquisition but not the expression of ethanol- and morphine-induced CPP. Moreover, the study shows that both WSE and DF can prevent ethanol- and morphine-elicited pERK expression in the AcbSh. Overall, these results highlight subtle but critical differences for the role of GABAARs in the mechanism by which WSE affects these ethanol- and morphine-dependent behavioural and molecular/cellular responses and support the suggestion of WSE and DF for the control of different components of drug addiction.
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Fujimura M, Usuki F, Nakamura A. Methylmercury induces hyperalgesia/allodynia through spinal cord dorsal horn neuronal activation and subsequent somatosensory cortical circuit formation in rats. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:2151-2162. [PMID: 33847776 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03047-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is known to cause serious neurological deficits in humans. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of MeHg-mediated neuropathic pain and identified the underlying pathophysiological mechanism in a rat model of MeHg exposure. Rats were exposed to MeHg (20 ppm in drinking water) for 3 weeks. Neurological damage was observed in the primary afferent neuronal system, including the dorsal root nerve and the dorsal column of the spinal cord. The MeHg-exposed rats showed hyperalgesia/allodynia, compared to controls, as evidenced by a significant decrease in the threshold of mechanical pain evaluated using an algometer with calibrated forceps. Immunohistochemistry revealed the accumulation of activated microglia in the dorsal root nerve, dorsal column, and dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Western blot analyses of the dorsal part of the spinal cord demonstrated an increase in inflammotoxic and inflammatory cytokines and a neuronal activation related protein, phospho-CRE bunding protein (CREB). The results suggest that dorsal horn neuronal activation was mediated by inflammatory factors excreted by accumulated microglia. Furthermore, analyses of the cerebral cortex demonstrated increased expression of phospho-CREB and thrombospondin-1, which is known to be an important factor for excitatory synapse formation, specifically in the somatosensory cortical area. In addition, the expression of pre- and post-synaptic markers was increased in this cortex area. These results suggested that the new cortical circuit was wired specifically in the somatosensory cortex. In conclusion, MeHg-mediated dorsal horn neuronal activation with inflammatory microglia might induce somatosensory cortical rewiring, leading to hyperalgesia/allodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatake Fujimura
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Fusako Usuki
- Division of Neuroimmunology, Joint Research Center for Human Retrovirus Infection, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nakamura
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan
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The Role of CaMKII and ERK Signaling in Addiction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063189. [PMID: 33804804 PMCID: PMC8004038 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotine is the predominant addictive compound of tobacco and causes the acquisition of dependence through its interactions with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and various neurotransmitter releases in the central nervous system. The Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) play a pivotal role in synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. CaMKII is involved in long-term potentiation induction, which underlies the consolidation of learning and memory; however, the roles of CaMKII in nicotine and other psychostimulant-induced addiction still require further investigation. This article reviews the molecular mechanisms and crucial roles of CaMKII and ERK in nicotine and other stimulant drug-induced addiction. We also discuss dopamine (DA) receptor signaling involved in nicotine-induced addiction in the brain reward circuitry. In the last section, we introduce the association of polyunsaturated fatty acids and cellular chaperones of fatty acid-binding protein 3 in the context of nicotine-induced addiction in the mouse nucleus accumbens and provide a novel target for the treatment of drug abuse affecting dopaminergic systems.
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Fultz EK, Quadir SG, Martin D, Flaherty DM, Worley PF, Kippin TE, Szumlinski KK. ERK-Directed Phosphorylation of mGlu5 Gates Methamphetamine Reward and Reinforcement in Mouse. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031473. [PMID: 33540617 PMCID: PMC7867251 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MA) is a highly addictive psychomotor stimulant drug. In recent years, MA use has increased exponentially on a global scale, with the number of MA-involved deaths reaching epidemic proportions. There is no approved pharmacotherapy for treating MA use disorder, and we know relatively little regarding the neurobiological determinants of vulnerability to this disease. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) is an important signaling molecule implicated in the long-lasting neuroadaptations purported to underlie the development of substance use disorders, but the role for this kinase in the propensity to develop addiction, particularly MA use disorder, is uncharacterized. In a previous MA-induced place-conditioning study of C57BL/6J mice, we characterized mice as MA-preferring, -neutral, or -avoiding and collected tissue from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Using immunoblotting, we determined that elevated phosphorylated ERK expression within the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is a biochemical correlate of the affective valence of MA in a population of C57BL/6J mice. We confirmed the functional relevance for mPFC ERK activation for MA-induced place-preference via site-directed infusion of the MEK inhibitor U0126. By contrast, ERK inhibition did not have any effect upon MA-induced locomotion or its sensitization upon repeated MA treatment. Through studies of transgenic mice with alanine point mutations on T1123/S1126 of mGlu5 that disrupt ERK-dependent phosphorylation of the receptor, we discovered that ERK-dependent mGlu5 phosphorylation normally suppresses MA-induced conditioned place-preference (MA-CPP), but is necessary for this drug’s reinforcing properties. If relevant to humans, the present results implicate individual differences in the capacity of MA-associated cues/contexts to hyper-activate ERK signaling within mPFC in MA Use Disorder vulnerability and pose mGlu5 as one ERK-directed target contributing to the propensity to seek out and take MA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa K. Fultz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA; (E.K.F.); (S.G.Q.); (D.M.); (D.M.F.); (T.E.K.)
| | - Sema G. Quadir
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA; (E.K.F.); (S.G.Q.); (D.M.); (D.M.F.); (T.E.K.)
| | - Douglas Martin
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA; (E.K.F.); (S.G.Q.); (D.M.); (D.M.F.); (T.E.K.)
| | - Daniel M. Flaherty
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA; (E.K.F.); (S.G.Q.); (D.M.); (D.M.F.); (T.E.K.)
| | - Paul F. Worley
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Tod E. Kippin
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA; (E.K.F.); (S.G.Q.); (D.M.); (D.M.F.); (T.E.K.)
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology and the Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Institute for Collaborative Biotechnologies, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Karen K. Szumlinski
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA; (E.K.F.); (S.G.Q.); (D.M.); (D.M.F.); (T.E.K.)
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology and the Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-805-893-2987; Fax: +1-805-893-4303
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Porru S, Maccioni R, Bassareo V, Peana AT, Salamone JD, Correa M, Acquas E. Effects of caffeine on ethanol-elicited place preference, place aversion and ERK phosphorylation in CD-1 mice. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:1357-1370. [PMID: 33103552 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120965892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological studies indicate a rise in the combined consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can lead to increased risk of alcoholic-beverage overconsumption. However, the effects of the combination of caffeine and ethanol in animal models related to aspects of drug addiction are still underexplored. AIMS To characterize the pharmacological interaction between caffeine and ethanol and establish if caffeine can affect the ability of ethanol (2 g/kg) to elicit conditioned place preference and conditioned place aversion, we administered caffeine (3 or 15 mg/kg) to male CD-1 mice before saline or ethanol. Moreover, we determined if these doses of caffeine could affect ethanol (2 g/kg) elicited extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation in brain areas, nucleus accumbens, bed nucleus of stria terminalis, central nucleus of the amygdala, and basolateral amygdala, previously associated with this type of associative learning. RESULTS In the place-conditioning paradigm, caffeine did not have an effect on its own, whereas ethanol elicited significant conditioned-place preference and conditioned-place aversion. Caffeine (15 mg/kg) significantly prevented the acquisition of ethanol-elicited conditioned-place preference and, at both doses, also prevented the acquisition of ethanol-elicited conditioned-place aversion. Moreover, both doses of caffeine also prevented ethanol-elicited extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation expression in all brain areas examined. CONCLUSIONS The present data indicate a functional antagonistic action of caffeine and ethanol on associative learning and extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation after an acute interaction. These results could provide exciting grounds for further studies, also in a translational perspective, of their pharmacological interaction modulating other processes involved in drug consumption and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Porru
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy.,Department of Psychobiology, University Jaume I, Castelló, Spain
| | - Riccardo Maccioni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Valentina Bassareo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Alessandra T Peana
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - John D Salamone
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Mercè Correa
- Department of Psychobiology, University Jaume I, Castelló, Spain
| | - Elio Acquas
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy.,Centre of Excellence on Neurobiology of Addiction, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Chen BP, Huang XX, Dong DM, Wu H, Zhu TQ, Wang BF. The role of NMDA receptors in rat propofol self-administration. BMC Anesthesiol 2020; 20:149. [PMID: 32539742 PMCID: PMC7294660 DOI: 10.1186/s12871-020-01056-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Propofol is among the most frequently used anesthetic agents, and it has the potential for abuse. The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are key mediators neural plasticity, neuronal development, addiction, and neurodegeneration. In the present study, we explored the role of these receptors in the context of rat propofol self-administration. METHODS Sprague-Dawley Rats were trained to self-administer propofol (1.7 mg/kg/infusion) using a fixed-ratio (FR) schedule over the course of 14 sessions (3 h/day). After training, rats were intraperitoneally administered the non-competitive NDMA receptor antagonist MK-801, followed 10 min later by a propofol self-administration session. RESULTS After training, rats successfully underwent acquisition of propofol self-administration, as evidenced by a significant and stable rise in the number of active nose-pokes resulting in propofol administration relative to the number of control inactive nose-pokes (P < 0.01). As compared to control rats, rats that had been injected with 0.2 mg/kg MK-801 exhibited a significantly greater number of propofol infusions (F (3, 28) = 4.372, P < 0.01), whereas infusions were comparable in the groups administered 0.1 mg/kg and 0.4 mg/kg of this compound. In addition, MK-801 failed to alter the numbers of active (F (3, 28) = 1.353, P > 0.05) or inactive (F (3, 28) = 0.047, P > 0.05) responses in these study groups. Animals administered 0.4 mg/kg MK-801 exhibited significantly fewer infusions than animals administered 0.2 mg/kg MK-801 (P = 0.006, P < 0.01). In contrast, however, animals in the 0.4 mg/kg MK-801 group displayed a significant reduction in the number of active nose-poke responses (F (3, 20) = 20.8673, P < 0.01) and the number of sucrose pellets (F (3, 20) = 23.77, P < 0.01), while their locomotor activity was increased (F (3, 20) = 22.812, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION These findings indicate that NMDA receptors may play a role in regulating rat self-administration of propofol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei-Ping Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroendocrinology, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan Western Road, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Shangcai village, Nanbaixiang town, Ouhai District, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xi-Xi Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroendocrinology, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan Western Road, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dong-Mei Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Shangcai village, Nanbaixiang town, Ouhai District, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Shangcai village, Nanbaixiang town, Ouhai District, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tian-Qi Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Shangcai village, Nanbaixiang town, Ouhai District, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ben-Fu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroendocrinology, Wenzhou Medical University, 109 Xueyuan Western Road, Wenzhou City, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Sharma N, Shin EJ, Kim NH, Cho EH, Nguyen BT, Jeong JH, Jang CG, Nah SY, Kim HC. Far-infrared Ray-mediated Antioxidant Potentials are Important for Attenuating Psychotoxic Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 17:990-1002. [PMID: 30819085 PMCID: PMC7052827 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666190228114318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Far-infrared ray (FIR) is an electromagnetic wave that produces various health benefits against pathophysiological conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, renocardiovascular disorders, stress, and depression etc. However, the therapeutic ap-plication on the FIR-mediated protective potentials remains to be further extended. To achieve better understanding on FIR-mediated therapeutic potentials, we summarized additional findings in the present study that exposure to FIR ameliorates stressful condition, memory impairments, drug dependence, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the central nervous system. In this review, we underlined that FIR requires modulations of janus kinase 2 / signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3), nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), muscarinic M1 acetylcholine receptor (M1 mAChR), dopamine D1 receptor, protein kinase C δ gene, and glutathione peroxidase-1 gene for exerting the protective potentials in response to neuropsychotoxic conditions
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Sharma
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, BK21 PLUS Project, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea
| | - Eun-Joo Shin
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, BK21 PLUS Project, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea
| | - Nam Hun Kim
- College of Forest and Environmental Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea
| | - Eun-Hee Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea
| | - Bao Trong Nguyen
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, BK21 PLUS Project, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Jeong
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Choon Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, BK21 PLUS Project, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea
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Active avoidance learning differentially activates ERK phosphorylation in the primary auditory and visual cortices of Roman high- and low-avoidance rats. Physiol Behav 2019; 201:31-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Early Life Sleep Deprivation: Role of Oxido-Inflammatory Processes. Neuroscience 2019; 406:22-37. [PMID: 30826520 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The adverse consequences of early-life sleep deprivation on mental health are well recognized, yet many aspects remain unknown, therefore, animal studies can offer useful insights. Male Sprague-Dawley rats at postnatal day (PND) 19 were subjected to sleep deprivation (SD) for 14 days (6-8 hours/day). Control (CON) rats were gently handled. Behavior tests were done on PND33, PND60 and PND90. SD rats exhibited anxiety-like behavior at PND33 and PND60, when compared to CON rats. Depression-like behavior was observed at PND90. Evaluation of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers revealed interesting results. Plasma 8-isoprostane and antioxidant defense enzymes; hemeoxygenase-1, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), were upregulated in SD rats at PND33 but not at PND90. PFC interleukin-6 protein expression was elevated at PND33 and PND90. PFC mitogen activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1) and p-38 protein expression were upregulated at PND90. PFC expression of glutamate receptor subunits, post synaptic density protein (PSD-95), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), were significantly reduced in SD rats at PND33 and PND90. PFC brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) were reduced in SD rats at PND90. Our postulation is that SD by increasing PFC oxido-inflammation, negatively affects glutamate receptor subunits and PSD95 expression, which disrupts synapse formation and maturation, potentially causing anxiety-like behavior at PND33. Oxido-inflammation further results in MKP-1 and CaMKII-mediated blockade of ERK1/2 activation, which inhibits CREB dependent BDNF expression. This most likely disrupts neuronal circuit development, leading to depression-like behavior at PND90.
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Sharma N, Shin EJ, Kim NH, Cho EH, Jeong JH, Jang CG, Nah SY, Nabeshima T, Yoneda Y, Cadet JL, Kim HC. Protective potentials of far-infrared ray against neuropsychotoxic conditions. Neurochem Int 2019; 122:144-148. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2018.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Endocannabinoid System and Alcohol Abuse Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1162:89-127. [PMID: 31332736 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21737-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary active component in Cannabis sativa preparations such as hashish and marijuana, signals by binding to cell surface receptors. Two types of receptors have been cloned and characterized as cannabinoid (CB) receptors. CB1 receptors (CB1R) are ubiquitously present in the central nervous system (CNS) and are present in both inhibitory interneurons and excitatory neurons at the presynaptic terminal. CB2 receptors (CB2R) are demonstrated in microglial cells, astrocytes, and several neuron subpopulations and are present in both pre- and postsynaptic terminals. The majority of studies on these receptors have been conducted in the past two and half decades after the identification of the molecular constituents of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system that started with the characterization of CB1R. Subsequently, the seminal discovery was made, which suggested that alcohol (ethanol) alters the eCB system, thus establishing the contribution of the eCB system in the motivation to consume ethanol. Several preclinical studies have provided evidence that CB1R significantly contributes to the motivational and reinforcing properties of ethanol and that the chronic consumption of ethanol alters eCB transmitters and CB1R expression in the brain nuclei associated with addiction pathways. Additionally, recent seminal studies have further established the role of the eCB system in the development of ethanol-induced developmental disorders, such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). These results are augmented by in vitro and ex vivo studies, showing that acute and chronic treatment with ethanol produces physiologically relevant alterations in the function of the eCB system during development and in the adult stage. This chapter provides a current and comprehensive review of the literature concerning the role of the eCB system in alcohol abuse disorders (AUD).
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Fujimura M, Usuki F. Methylmercury induces oxidative stress and subsequent neural hyperactivity leading to cell death through the p38 MAPK-CREB pathway in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. Neurotoxicology 2018; 67:226-233. [PMID: 29913201 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) induces site-specific cerebrocortical neuronal cell death. In our previous study using an in vivo mouse model, we reported that MeHg-induced cerebrocortical neuronal cell death may be due to neural hyperactivity triggered by activation of kinase pathways. However, the detailed molecular mechanism remained to be completely understood. In this study, we analyzed detailed signaling pathways for MeHg-induced neuronal cell death using all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, which show neuron-like morphological changes and express neuron/synapse markers for cerebrocortical neurons. Time course studies revealed that MeHg-induced upregulation of c-fos, a marker of neural activation, preceded neuronal cell death. These results were similar to those observed in a MeHg-intoxicated mouse model. We observed early expression of the oxidative stress marker thymidine glycol followed by activation of p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and p38 MAPK, and an increase in cAMP response element binding protein (CREB). Investigation of the effects of specific kinase inhibitors revealed that SB203580, a specific inhibitor for p38 MAPK, significantly blocked the upregulation of c-fos and the subsequent neuronal cell death. In contrast, PD98059 and U0126, specific inhibitors for p44/p42 MAPK, showed no effects on MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. Furthermore, the antioxidants Trolox and edaravone significantly suppressed MeHg-induced thymidine glycol expression, p38 MAPK-CREB pathway activation, and neurotoxicity. Altogether, these results suggest that MeHg-induced oxidative stress and subsequent activation of the p38 MAPK-CREB pathway contribute to cerebrocortical neuronal hyperactivity and subsequent neuronal cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatake Fujimura
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Fusako Usuki
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan
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Mai HN, Sharma N, Shin EJ, Nguyen BT, Nguyen PT, Jeong JH, Cho EH, Lee YJ, Kim NH, Jang CG, Nabeshima T, Kim HC. Exposure to far-infrared ray attenuates methamphetamine-induced impairment in recognition memory through inhibition of protein kinase C δ in male mice: Comparison with the antipsychotic clozapine. J Neurosci Res 2018; 96:1294-1310. [PMID: 29476655 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 01/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that repeated treatment with methamphetamine (MA) results in a recognition memory impairment via upregulation of protein kinase C (PKC) δ and downregulation of the glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx-1)-dependent antioxidant system. We also demonstrated that far-infrared ray (FIR) attenuates acute restraint stress via induction of the GPx-1 gene. Herein, we investigated whether exposure to FIR modulates MA-induced recognition memory impairment in male mice, and whether cognitive potentials mediated by FIR require modulation of the PKCδ gene, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, and glutathione-dependent system. Repeated treatment with MA significantly increased PKCδ expression and its phosphorylation out of PKC isoenzymes (i.e., PKCα, PKCβI, PKCβII, PKCζ, and PKCδ expression) in the prefrontal cortex of mice. Exposure to FIR significantly attenuated MA-induced increase in phospho-PKCδ and decrease in phospho-ERK 1/2. In addition, FIR further facilitated the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-dependent glutathione synthetic system. Moreover, L-buthionine-(S, R)-sulfoximine, an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis, counteracted the FIR-mediated phospho-ERK 1/2 induction and memory-enhancing activity against MA insult. More important, positive effects of FIR are comparable to those of genetic depletion of PKCδ or the antipsychotic clozapine. Our results indicate that FIR protects against MA-induced memory impairment via activations of the Nrf2-dependent glutathione synthetic system, and ERK 1/2 signaling by inhibition of the PKCδ gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huynh Nhu Mai
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Naveen Sharma
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Joo Shin
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Bao Trong Nguyen
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Phuong Tram Nguyen
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Jeong
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Hee Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Jeung Lee
- Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Hun Kim
- College of Forest and Environmental Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University Suwon, Korea
| | - Toshitaka Nabeshima
- Advanced Diagnostic System Research Laboratory, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Aichi, Japan.,Aino University, Ibaragi, Japan
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
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Krania P, Dimou E, Bantouna M, Kouvaros S, Tsiamaki E, Papatheodoropoulos C, Sarantis K, Angelatou F. Adenosine A 2A receptors are required for glutamate mGluR5- and dopamine D1 receptor-evoked ERK1/2 phosphorylation in rat hippocampus: involvement of NMDA receptor. J Neurochem 2018; 145:217-231. [PMID: 29205377 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Interaction between mGluR5 and NMDA receptors (NMDAR) is vital for synaptic plasticity and cognition. We recently demonstrated that stimulation of mGluR5 enhances NMDAR responses in hippocampus by phosphorylating NR2B(Tyr1472) subunit, and this reaction was enabled by adenosine A2A receptors (A2A R) (J Neurochem, 135, 2015, 714). In this study, by using in vitro phosphorylation and western blot analysis in hippocampal slices of male Wistar rats, we show that mGluR5 stimulation or mGluR5/NMDARs co-stimulation synergistically activate ERK1/2 signaling leading to c-Fos expression. Interestingly, both reactions are under the permissive control of endogenous adenosine acting through A2A Rs. Moreover, mGluR5-mediated ERK1/2 phosphorylation depends on NMDAR, which however exhibits a metabotropic way of function, since no ion influx through its ion channel is required. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that mGluR5 and mGluR5/NMDAR-evoked ERK1/2 activation correlates well with the mGluR5/NMDAR-evoked NR2B(Tyr1472) phosphorylation, since both phenomena coincide temporally, are Src dependent, and are both enabled by A2A Rs. This indicates a functional involvement of NR2B(Tyr1472) phosphorylation in the ERK1/2 activation. Our biochemical results are supported by electrophysiological data showing that in CA1 region of hippocampus, the theta burst stimulation (TBS)-induced long-term potentiation coincides temporally with an increase in ERK1/2 activation and both phenomena are dependent on the tripartite A2A , mGlu5, and NMDARs. Furthermore, we show that the dopamine D1 receptors evoked ERK1/2 activation as well as the NR2B(Tyr1472) phosphorylation are also regulated by endogenous adenosine and A2A Rs. In conclusion, our results highlight the A2A Rs as a crucial regulator not only for NMDAR responses, but also for regulating ERK1/2 signaling and its downstream pathways, leading to gene expression, synaptic plasticity, and memory consolidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Krania
- Physiology Department, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Eleni Dimou
- Physiology Department, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Bantouna
- Physiology Department, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Stylianos Kouvaros
- Physiology Department, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Eirini Tsiamaki
- Physiology Department, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Fevronia Angelatou
- Physiology Department, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Matamales M, Skrbis Z, Hatch RJ, Balleine BW, Götz J, Bertran-Gonzalez J. Aging-Related Dysfunction of Striatal Cholinergic Interneurons Produces Conflict in Action Selection. Neuron 2017; 90:362-73. [PMID: 27100198 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Revised: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
For goal-directed action to remain adaptive, new strategies are required to accommodate environmental changes, a process for which parafascicular thalamic modulation of cholinergic interneurons in the striatum (PF-to-CIN) appears critical. In the elderly, however, previously acquired experience frequently interferes with new learning, yet the source of this effect has remained unexplored. Here, combining sophisticated behavioral designs, cell-specific manipulation, and extensive neuronal imaging, we investigated the involvement of the PF-to-CIN pathway in this process. We found functional alterations of this circuit in aged mice that were consistent with their incapacity to update initial goal-directed learning, resulting in faulty activation of projection neurons in the striatum. Toxicogenetic ablation of CINs in young mice reproduced these behavioral and neuronal defects, suggesting that age-related deficits in PF-to-CIN function reduce the ability of older individuals to resolve conflict between actions, likely contributing to impairments in adaptive goal-directed action and executive control in aging. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Matamales
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Zala Skrbis
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Robert J Hatch
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Bernard W Balleine
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia; School of Psychology, University of NSW, Kensington, NSW 2033, Australia
| | - Jürgen Götz
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Jesus Bertran-Gonzalez
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia.
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Yuan LH, Chen XL, Di Y, Liu ML. CCR7/p-ERK1/2/VEGF signaling promotes retinal neovascularization in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. Int J Ophthalmol 2017; 10:862-869. [PMID: 28730075 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2017.06.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the role of CCR7/p-ERK1/2/VEGF signaling in the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). METHODS Neonatal C57BL/6J mice were evenly randomized into four groups: normoxia, OIR, OIR control (treated with scramble siRNA), and OIR treated (treated with CCR7 siRNA). Normoxia group was not specially handled. Postnatal day 7 (P7) mice in the OIR group were exposed to 75%±5% oxygen for 5d (P7-P12) and then maintained under normoxic conditions for 5d (P12-P17). Mice in the OIR control and OIR treated groups were given injections of scramble or CCR7 siRNA plasmid on P12 before returning to normoxic conditions for 5d (P12-P17). Retina samples were collected from all mice on P17, stained with adenosine diphosphatase (ADPase), and retinal neovascularization (RNV) was assessed. Retinas were also stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for RNV quantitation. The distribution and expression of CCR7, p-ERK1/2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were assessed via immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS High oxygen promoted retinal neovascularization (P<0.05) and increased the number of endothelial nuclei in new vessels extending from the retina to the vitreous body; CCR7 promoted this process (P<0.05). CCR7 and VEGF mRNA were expressed at higher levels in the OIR and OIR control groups than in the normoxia and OIR treated groups. CCR7, p-ERK1/2, and VEGF protein were expressed in the retinas of mice in the OIR and OIR control groups. Intravitreal injection of CCR7 siRNA significantly reduced CCR7, p-ERK1/2, and VEGF expression in the OIR mouse model (all P<0.05). CCR7 significantly enhanced the neovascularization and non-perfusion areas in the OIR group (P<0.05). CCR7 siRNA significantly reduced levels of p-ERK1/2 and VEGF as compared to OIR controls (P<0.05). CONCLUSION These results suggest that CCR7/p-ERK 1/2/VEGF signaling plays an important role in OIR. CCR7 may be a potential target for the prevention and treatment of retinopathy of prematurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Hui Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiao-Long Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yu Di
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Mei-Lin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, Liaoning Province, China
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Wang B, Yang X, Sun A, Xu L, Wang S, Lin W, Lai M, Zhu H, Zhou W, Lian Q. Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase in Nucleus Accumbens Mediates Propofol Self-Administration in Rats. Neurosci Bull 2016; 32:531-537. [PMID: 27783327 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-016-0066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical and animal studies have indicated that propofol has potential for abuse, but the specific neurobiological mechanism underlying propofol reward is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signal transduction pathways in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in propofol self-administration. We tested the expression of p-ERK in the NAc following the maintenance of propofol self-administration in rats. We also assessed the effect of administration of SCH23390, an antagonist of the D1 dopamine receptor, on the expression of p-ERK in the NAc in propofol self-administering rats, and examined the effects of intra-NAc injection of U0126, an MEK inhibitor, on propofol reinforcement in rats. The results showed that the expression of p-ERK in the NAc increased significantly in rats maintained on propofol, and pre-treatment with SCH23390 inhibited the propofol self-administration and diminished the expression of p-ERK in the NAc. Moreover, intra-NAc injection of U0126 (4 µg/side) attenuated the propofol self-administration. The data suggest that ERK signal transduction pathways coupled with D1 dopamine receptors in the NAc may be involved in the maintenance of propofol self-administration and its rewarding effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benfu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiaowei Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Anna Sun
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Ningbo Addiction Research and Treatment Center, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China
| | - Lanman Xu
- Department of Infection and Liver Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Sicong Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Wenxuan Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Miaojun Lai
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Ningbo Addiction Research and Treatment Center, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China
| | - Huaqiang Zhu
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Ningbo Addiction Research and Treatment Center, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China
| | - Wenhua Zhou
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Ningbo Addiction Research and Treatment Center, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China.
| | - Qingquan Lian
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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Abstract
The variety of physiological functions controlled by dopamine in the brain and periphery is mediated by the D1, D2, D3, D4 and D5 dopamine GPCRs. Drugs acting on dopamine receptors are significant tools for the management of several neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and Parkinson's disease. Recent investigations of dopamine receptor signalling have shown that dopamine receptors, apart from their canonical action on cAMP-mediated signalling, can regulate a myriad of cellular responses to fine-tune the expression of dopamine-associated behaviours and functions. Such signalling mechanisms may involve alternate G protein coupling or non-G protein mechanisms involving ion channels, receptor tyrosine kinases or proteins such as β-arrestins that are classically involved in GPCR desensitization. Another level of complexity is the growing appreciation of the physiological roles played by dopamine receptor heteromers. Applications of new in vivo techniques have significantly furthered the understanding of the physiological functions played by dopamine receptors. Here we provide an update of the current knowledge regarding the complex biology, signalling, physiology and pharmacology of dopamine receptors.
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Faccidomo S, Salling MC, Galunas C, Hodge CW. Operant ethanol self-administration increases extracellular-signal regulated protein kinase (ERK) phosphorylation in reward-related brain regions: selective regulation of positive reinforcement in the prefrontal cortex of C57BL/6J mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2015; 232:3417-30. [PMID: 26123321 PMCID: PMC4537834 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-3993-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Extracellular-signal regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) is activated by ethanol in reward-related brain regions. Accordingly, systemic inhibition of ERK1/2 potentiates ethanol reinforcement. However, the brain region(s) that mediate this effect are unknown. OBJECTIVE This study aims to pharmacologically inhibit ERK1/2 in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC), nucleus accumbens (NAC), and amygdala (AMY) prior to ethanol or sucrose self-administration, and evaluate effects of operant ethanol self-administration on ERK1/2 phosphorylation (pERK1/2). METHODS Male C57BL/6J mice were trained to lever press on a fixed-ratio-4 schedule of 9% ethanol + 2% sucrose (ethanol) or 2% sucrose (sucrose) reinforcement. Mice were sacrificed immediately after the 30th self-administration session and pERK1/2 immunoreactivity was quantified in targeted brain regions. Additional groups of mice were injected with SL 327 (0-1.7 μg/side) in PFC, NAC, or AMY prior to self-administration. RESULTS pERK1/2 immunoreactivity was significantly increased by operant ethanol (g/kg = 1.21 g/kg; BAC = 54.9 mg/dl) in the PFC, NAC (core and shell), and AMY (central nucleus) as compared to sucrose. Microinjection of SL 327 (1.7 μg) into the PFC selectively increased ethanol self-administration. Intra-NAC injection of SL 327 had no effect on ethanol- but suppressed sucrose-reinforced responding. Intra-AMY microinjection of SL 327 had no effect on either ethanol- or sucrose-reinforced responding. Locomotor activity was unaffected under all conditions. CONCLUSIONS Operant ethanol self-administration increases pERK1/2 activation in the PFC, NAC, and AMY. However, ERK1/2 activity only in the PFC mechanistically regulates ethanol self-administration. These data suggest that ethanol-induced activation of ERK1/2 in the PFC is a critical pharmacological effect that mediates the reinforcing properties of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Faccidomo
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Michael C Salling
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Christina Galunas
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Clyde W Hodge
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
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Liu H, Yang J, Liu Q, Jin C, Wu S, Lu X, Zheng L, Xi Q, Cai Y. Lanthanum chloride impairs spatial memory through ERK/MSK1 signaling pathway of hippocampus in rats. Neurochem Res 2014; 39:2479-91. [PMID: 25316495 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1452-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Revised: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Rare earth elements (REEs) are used in many fields for their diverse physical and chemical properties. Surveys have shown that REEs can impair learning and memory in children and cause neurobehavioral defects in animals. However, the mechanism underlying these impairments has not yet been completely elucidated. Lanthanum (La) is often selected to study the effects of REEs. The aim of this study was to investigate the spatial memory impairments induced by lanthanum chloride (LaCl3) and the probable underlying mechanism. Wistar rats were exposed to LaCl3 in drinking water at 0 % (control, 0 mM), 0.25 % (18 mM), 0.50 % (36 mM), and 1.00 % (72 mM) from birth to 2 months after weaning. LaCl3 considerably impaired the spatial learning and memory of rats in the Morris water maze test, damaged the synaptic ultrastructure and downregulated the expression of p-MEK1/2, p-ERK1/2, p-MSK1, p-CREB, c-FOS and BDNF in the hippocampus. These results indicate that LaCl3 exposure impairs the spatial learning and memory of rats, which may be attributed to disruption of the synaptic ultrastructure and inhibition of the ERK/MSK1 signaling pathway in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiying Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, China Medical University, 92 North 2nd Road, Heping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
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He RJ, Yu ZH, Zhang RY, Zhang ZY. Protein tyrosine phosphatases as potential therapeutic targets. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2014; 35:1227-46. [PMID: 25220640 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2014.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein tyrosine phosphorylation is a key regulatory process in virtually all aspects of cellular functions. Dysregulation of protein tyrosine phosphorylation is a major cause of human diseases, such as cancers, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and neurological diseases. Indeed, protein tyrosine phosphorylation-mediated signaling events offer ample therapeutic targets, and drug discovery efforts to date have brought over two dozen kinase inhibitors to the clinic. Accordingly, protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are considered next-generation drug targets. For instance, PTP1B is a well-known targets of type 2 diabetes and obesity, and recent studies indicate that it is also a promising target for breast cancer. SHP2 is a bona-fide oncoprotein, mutations of which cause juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and solid tumors. In addition, LYP is strongly associated with type 1 diabetes and many other autoimmune diseases. This review summarizes recent findings on several highly recognized PTP family drug targets, including PTP1B, Src homology phosphotyrosyl phosphatase 2(SHP2), lymphoid-specific tyrosine phosphatase (LYP), CD45, Fas associated phosphatase-1 (FAP-1), striatal enriched tyrosine phosphatases (STEP), mitogen-activated protein kinase/dual-specificity phosphatase 1 (MKP-1), phosphatases of regenerating liver-1 (PRL), low molecular weight PTPs (LMWPTP), and CDC25. Given that there are over 100 family members, we hope this review will serve as a road map for innovative drug discovery targeting PTPs.
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Collins LM, Downer EJ, Toulouse A, Nolan YM. Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Phosphatase (MKP)-1 in Nervous System Development and Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 51:1158-67. [PMID: 24957007 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8786-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase (MKP)-1 provides a negative feedback mechanism for regulating mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity and thus a variety of cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, growth and apoptosis. MKP-1 is established as a central regulator of a variety of functions in the immune, metabolic and cardiovascular systems, and it is now increasingly acknowledged as having a role to play in the nervous system. It has been implicated in regulating processes of neuronal cell development and death as well as in glial cell function. Reduced MKP-1 levels have been observed in models of neurological conditions including Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, ischemia and cerebral hypoxia. It has also been suggested to have a role to play in psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder. Here, we discuss the role of MKP-1 in nervous system development and disease and examine current evidence providing insight into MKP-1 as a potential therapeutic target for various diseases of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M Collins
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Western Gate Building, Cork, Ireland
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Early stress evokes temporally distinct consequences on the hippocampal transcriptome, anxiety and cognitive behaviour. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 17:289-301. [PMID: 24025219 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145713001004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The early stress of maternal separation (ES) exerts long-lasting effects on cognition and anxiety. Recent evidence indicates enhanced hippocampus-dependent spatial learning in young adult ES animals, which shifts towards a decline in long-term memory in middle-aged life. Further, we find that ES animals exhibit enhanced anxiety in young adulthood that does not persist into middle-aged life. Here, we demonstrate unique, predominantly non-overlapping, hippocampal transcriptomes in young adult and middle-aged ES animals that accompany the temporally-specific behavioural consequences. Strikingly, the extent of gene dysregulation in middle-aged ES animals was substantially higher than in young adulthood. Functional analysis revealed distinct biological processes enriched at the two ages, highlighting the temporal shift in ES-evoked gene regulation. Our results suggest that ES history interacts with aging to exacerbate age-associated transcriptional changes and cognitive decline. qPCR profiling of histone deacetylases (Hdacs) and histone methyltransferases (HMTs) revealed an age-dependent, opposing regulation with decreased expression noted in young adult ES animals (Hdac 2, 7, 8, 9 and Suv39h1) and enhanced levels in middle-aged life (Hdac 2, 6, 8 and Suv39h1). While altered expression of histone modifying enzymes did not translate into global histone acetylation or methylation changes, we noted differential enrichment of histone acetylation and methylation modifications at the promoters of multiple genes regulated in the hippocampi of young adult and middle-aged ES animals. Our results highlight the differential molecular and behavioural consequences of ES across a life-span, and suggest a possible role for epigenetic mechanisms in contributing to the temporally-specific transcriptional changes following ES.
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Cruz FC, Koya E, Guez-Barber DH, Bossert JM, Lupica CR, Shaham Y, Hope BT. New technologies for examining the role of neuronal ensembles in drug addiction and fear. Nat Rev Neurosci 2013; 14:743-54. [PMID: 24088811 DOI: 10.1038/nrn3597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Correlational data suggest that learned associations are encoded within neuronal ensembles. However, it has been difficult to prove that neuronal ensembles mediate learned behaviours because traditional pharmacological and lesion methods, and even newer cell type-specific methods, affect both activated and non-activated neurons. In addition, previous studies on synaptic and molecular alterations induced by learning did not distinguish between behaviourally activated and non-activated neurons. Here, we describe three new approaches--Daun02 inactivation, FACS sorting of activated neurons and Fos-GFP transgenic rats--that have been used to selectively target and study activated neuronal ensembles in models of conditioned drug effects and relapse. We also describe two new tools--Fos-tTA transgenic mice and inactivation of CREB-overexpressing neurons--that have been used to study the role of neuronal ensembles in conditioned fear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio C Cruz
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse-National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
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Hawes SL, Gillani F, Evans RC, Benkert EA, Blackwell KT. Sensitivity to theta-burst timing permits LTP in dorsal striatal adult brain slice. J Neurophysiol 2013; 110:2027-36. [PMID: 23926032 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00115.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term potentiation (LTP) of excitatory afferents to the dorsal striatum likely occurs with learning to encode new skills and habits, yet corticostriatal LTP is challenging to evoke reliably in brain slice under physiological conditions. Here we test the hypothesis that stimulating striatal afferents with theta-burst timing, similar to recently reported in vivo temporal patterns corresponding to learning, evokes LTP. Recording from adult mouse brain slice extracellularly in 1 mM Mg(2+), we find LTP in dorsomedial and dorsolateral striatum is preferentially evoked by certain theta-burst patterns. In particular, we demonstrate that greater LTP is produced using moderate intraburst and high theta-range frequencies, and that pauses separating bursts of stimuli are critical for LTP induction. By altering temporal pattern alone, we illustrate the importance of burst-patterning for LTP induction and demonstrate that corticostriatal long-term depression is evoked in the same preparation. In accord with prior studies, LTP is greatest in dorsomedial striatum and relies on N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors. We also demonstrate a requirement for both Gq- and Gs/olf-coupled pathways, as well as several kinases associated with memory storage: PKC, PKA, and ERK. Our data build on previous reports of activity-directed plasticity by identifying effective values for distinct temporal parameters in variants of theta-burst LTP induction paradigms. We conclude that those variants which best match reports of striatal activity during learning behavior are most successful in evoking dorsal striatal LTP in adult brain slice without altering artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Future application of this approach will enable diverse investigations of plasticity serving striatal-based learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Hawes
- Molecular Neuroscience Department, The Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
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Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase (MKP)-1 as a neuroprotective agent: promotion of the morphological development of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Neuromolecular Med 2013; 15:435-46. [PMID: 23584919 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-013-8230-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A greater understanding of the mechanisms that promote the survival and growth of dopaminergic neurons is essential for the advancement of cell replacement therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD). Evidence supports a role for the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 in the demise of dopaminergic neurons, while mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), which negatively regulates p38 activity, has not yet been investigated in this context. Here, we show that MKP-1 is expressed in dopaminergic neurons cultured from E14 rat ventral mesencephalon (VM). When dopaminergic neurons were transfected to overexpress MKP-1, they displayed a more complex morphology than their control counterparts in vitro. Specifically, MKP-1-transfection induced significant increases in neurite length and branching with a maximum increase observed in primary branches. We demonstrate that inhibition of dopaminergic neurite growth induced by treatment of rat VM neurons with the dopaminergic neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in vitro is mediated by p38 and is concomitant with a significant and selective decrease in MKP-1 expression in these neurons. We further show that overexpression of MKP-1 in dopaminergic neurons contributes to neuroprotection against the effects of 6-OHDA. Collectively, we report that MKP-1 can promote the growth and elaboration of dopaminergic neuronal processes and can help protect them from the neurotoxic effects of 6-OHDA. Thus, we propose that strategies aimed at augmenting MKP-1 expression or activity may be beneficial in protecting dopaminergic neurons and may provide potential therapeutic approaches for PD.
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Brain-derived neurotrophic factor induces matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression in neurons via the serum response factor/c-Fos pathway. Mol Cell Biol 2013; 33:2149-62. [PMID: 23508111 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00008-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of the transcription of genes that encode proplasticity proteins. In the present study, we provide evidence that stimulation of rat primary cortical neurons with BDNF upregulates matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) mRNA and protein levels and increases enzymatic activity. The BDNF-induced MMP-9 transcription was dependent on extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway and c-Fos expression. Overexpression of AP-1 dimers in neurons led to MMP-9 promoter activation, with the most potent being those that contained c-Fos, whereas knockdown of endogenous c-Fos by small hairpin RNA (shRNA) reduced BDNF-mediated MMP-9 transcription. Additionally, mutation of the proximal AP-1 binding site in the MMP-9 promoter inhibited the activation of MMP-9 transcription. BDNF stimulation of neurons induced binding of endogenous c-Fos to the proximal MMP-9 promoter region. Furthermore, as the c-Fos gene is a known target of serum response factor (SRF), we investigated whether SRF contributes to MMP-9 transcription. Inhibition of SRF and its cofactors by either overexpression of dominant negative mutants or shRNA decreased MMP-9 promoter activation. In contrast, MMP-9 transcription was not dependent on CREB activity. Finally, we showed that neuronal activity stimulates MMP-9 transcription in a tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB)-dependent manner.
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Maharana C, Sharma KP, Sharma SK. Feedback mechanism in depolarization-induced sustained activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase in the hippocampus. Sci Rep 2013; 3:1103. [PMID: 23346360 PMCID: PMC3551232 DOI: 10.1038/srep01103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphorylation plays important roles in several processes including synaptic plasticity and memory. The critical role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in these processes is well established. ERK is activated in a sustained manner by different stimuli. However, the mechanisms of sustained ERK activation are not completely understood. Here we show that KCl depolarization-induced sustained ERK activation in the hippocampal slices is critically dependent on protein synthesis and transcription. In addition, the sustained ERK activation requires receptor tyrosine kinase(s) activity. In support of a role for a growth factor in sustained ERK activation, KCl depolarization enhances the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Furthermore, BDNF antibody blocks KCl-induced sustained ERK activation. These results suggest a positive feed-back loop in which depolarization-induced BDNF maintains ERK activation in the sustained phase.
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Yang D, Chen M, Russo-Neustadt A. Antidepressants are neuroprotective against nutrient deprivation stress in rat hippocampal neurons. Eur J Neurosci 2012; 36:2573-87. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2012.08187.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Cervical spinal erythropoietin induces phrenic motor facilitation via extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase and Akt signaling. J Neurosci 2012; 32:5973-83. [PMID: 22539857 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3873-11.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO) is typically known for its role in erythropoiesis but is also a potent neurotrophic/neuroprotective factor for spinal motor neurons. Another trophic factor regulated by hypoxia-inducible factor-1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), signals via ERK and Akt activation to elicit long-lasting phrenic motor facilitation (pMF). Because EPO also signals via ERK and Akt activation, we tested the hypothesis that EPO elicits similar pMF. Using retrograde labeling and immunohistochemical techniques, we demonstrate in adult, male, Sprague Dawley rats that EPO and its receptor, EPO-R, are expressed in identified phrenic motor neurons. Intrathecal EPO at C4 elicits long-lasting pMF; integrated phrenic nerve burst amplitude increased >90 min after injection (63 ± 12% baseline 90 min after injection; p < 0.001). EPO increased phosphorylation (and presumed activation) of ERK (1.6-fold vs controls; p < 0.05) in phrenic motor neurons; EPO also increased pAkt (1.6-fold vs controls; p < 0.05). EPO-induced pMF was abolished by the MEK/ERK inhibitor U0126 [1,4-diamino-2,3-dicyano-1,4-bis(o-aminophenylmercapto)butadiene] and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt inhibitor LY294002 [2-(4-morpholinyl)-8-phenyl-1(4H)-benzopyran-4-one], demonstrating that ERK MAP kinases and Akt are both required for EPO-induced pMF. Pretreatment with U0126 and LY294002 decreased both pERK and pAkt in phrenic motor neurons (p < 0.05), indicating a complex interaction between these kinases. We conclude that EPO elicits spinal plasticity in respiratory motor control. Because EPO expression is hypoxia sensitive, it may play a role in respiratory plasticity in conditions of prolonged or recurrent low oxygen.
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Diversity and specificity of the mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 functions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2012; 70:223-37. [PMID: 22695679 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1041-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Revised: 05/09/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The balance of protein phosphorylation is achieved through the actions of a family of protein serine/threonine kinases called the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). The propagation of MAPK signals is attenuated through the actions of the MAPK phosphatases (MKPs). The MKPs specifically inactivate the MAPKs by direct dephosphorylation. The archetypal MKP family member, MKP-1 has garnered much of the attention amongst its ten other MKP family members. Initially viewed to play a redundant role in the control of MAPK signaling, it is now clear that MKP-1 exerts profound regulatory functions on the immune, metabolic, musculoskeletal and nervous systems. This review focuses on the physiological functions of MKP-1 that have been revealed using mouse genetic approaches. The implications from studies using MKP-1-deficient mice to uncover the role of MKP-1 in disease will be discussed.
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Potes CS, Boyle CN, Wookey PJ, Riediger T, Lutz TA. Involvement of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathway in amylin's eating inhibitory effect. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2012; 302:R340-51. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00380.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral amylin inhibits eating via the area postrema (AP). Because amylin activates the extracellular-signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK) pathway in some tissues, and because ERK1/2 phosphorylation (pERK) leads to acute neuronal responses, we postulated that it may be involved in amylin's eating inhibitory effect. Amylin-induced ERK phosphorylation (pERK) was investigated by immunohistochemistry in brain sections containing the AP. pERK-positive AP neurons were double-stained for the calcitonin 1a/b receptor, which is part of the functional amylin-receptor. AP sections were also phenotyped using dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH) as a marker of noradrenergic neurons. The effect of fourth ventricular administration of the ERK cascade blocker U0126 on amylin's eating inhibitory action was tested in feeding trials. The number of pERK-positive neurons in the AP was highest ∼10–15 min after amylin treatment; the effect appeared to be dose-dependent (5–20 μg/kg amylin). A portion of pERK-positive neurons in the AP carried the amylin-receptor and 22% of the pERK-positive neurons were noradrenergic. Pretreatment of rats with U0126 decreased the number of pERK-positive neurons in the AP after amylin injection. U0126 also attenuated the ability of amylin to reduce eating, at least when the animals had been fasted 24 h prior to the feeding trial. Overall, our results suggest that amylin directly stimulates pERK in AP neurons in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Part of the AP neurons displaying pERK were noradrenergic. At least under fasting conditions, pERK was shown to be a necessary part in the signaling cascade mediating amylin's anorectic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Soares Potes
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich, Zurich Switzerland; and
| | - Christina Neuner Boyle
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich, Zurich Switzerland; and
| | | | - Thomas Riediger
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich, Zurich Switzerland; and
| | - Thomas Alexander Lutz
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich, Zurich Switzerland; and
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Abstract
Although the critical role for epigenetic mechanisms in development and cell differentiation has long been appreciated, recent evidence reveals that these mechanisms are also employed in postmitotic neurons as a means of consolidating and stabilizing cognitive-behavioral memories. In this review, we discuss evidence for an "epigenetic code" in the central nervous system that mediates synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. We consider how specific epigenetic changes are regulated and may interact with each other during memory formation and how these changes manifest functionally at the cellular and circuit levels. We also describe a central role for mitogen-activated protein kinases in controlling chromatin signaling in plasticity and memory. Finally, we consider how aberrant epigenetic modifications may lead to cognitive disorders that affect learning and memory, and we review the therapeutic potential of epigenetic treatments for the amelioration of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy J Day
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294-2182, USA
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Besnard A, Galan-Rodriguez B, Vanhoutte P, Caboche J. Elk-1 a transcription factor with multiple facets in the brain. Front Neurosci 2011; 5:35. [PMID: 21441990 PMCID: PMC3060702 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2011.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Accepted: 03/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The ternary complex factor (TCF) Elk-1 is a transcription factor that regulates immediate early gene (IEG) expression via the serum response element (SRE) DNA consensus site. Elk-1 is associated with a dimer of serum response factor (SRF) at the SRE site, and its phosphorylation occurs at specific residues in response to mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), including c-Jun-N terminal kinase (JNK), p38/MAPK, and extracellular-signal regulated kinase (ERK). This phosphorylation event is critical for triggering SRE-dependent transcription. Although MAPKs are fundamental actors for the instatement and maintenance of memory, and much investigation of their downstream signaling partners have been conducted, no data yet clearly implicate Elk-1 in these processes. This is partly due to the complexity of Elk-1 sub-cellular localization, and hence functions, within neurons. Elk-1 is present in its resting state in the cytoplasm, where it colocalizes with mitochondrial proteins or microtubules. In this particular sub-cellular compartment, overexpression of Elk-1 is toxic for neuronal cells. When phosphorylated by the MAPK/ERK, Elk-1 translocates to the nucleus where it is implicated in regulating chromatin remodeling, SRE-dependent transcription, and neuronal differentiation. Another post-translational modification is the conjugation to SUMO (Small Ubiquitin-like MOdifier), which relocalizes Elk-1 in the cytoplasm. Thus, Elk-1 plays a dual role in neuronal functions: pro-apoptotic within the cytoplasm, and pro-differentiation within the nucleus. To address the role of Elk-1 in the brain, one must be aware of its multiple facets, and design molecular tools that will shut down Elk-1 expression, trafficking, or activation, in specific neuronal compartments. We summarize in this review the known molecular functions of Elk-1, its regulation in neuronal cells, and present evidence of its possible implication in model systems of synaptic plasticity, learning, but also in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Besnard
- Laboratoire de Physiopathologie des Maladies du Système Nerveux Central, UMR CNRS-7224 CNRS et UMRS-INSERM 952, Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6 Paris, France
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Rosenegger D, Lukowiak K. The participation of NMDA receptors, PKC, and MAPK in the formation of memory following operant conditioning in Lymnaea. Mol Brain 2010; 3:24. [PMID: 20807415 PMCID: PMC2939649 DOI: 10.1186/1756-6606-3-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/31/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Memory is the ability to store, retain, and later retrieve information that has been learned. Intermediate term memory (ITM) that persists for up to 3 h requires new protein synthesis. Long term memory (LTM) that persists for at least 24 h requires: DNA transcription, RNA translation, and the trafficking of newly synthesized proteins. It has been shown in a number of different model systems that NMDA receptors, protein kinase C (PKC) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) are all involved in the memory formation process. Results Here we show that snails trained in control conditions are capable of forming, depending on the training procedure used, either ITM or LTM. However, blockage of NMDA receptors (MK 801), inhibition of PKC (GF109203X hydrochloride) and MAPK activity (UO126) prevent the formation of both ITM and LTM. Conclusions The injection of either U0126 or GF109203X, which inhibit MAPK and PKC activity respectively, 1 hour prior to training results in the inhibition of both ITM and LTM formation. We further found that NMDA receptor activity was necessary in order for both ITM and LTM formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Rosenegger
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
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Alkam T, Nitta A, Furukawa-Hibi Y, Niwa M, Mizoguchi H, Yamada K, Nabeshima T. Oral supplementation with Leu-Ile, a hydrophobic dipeptide, prevents the impairment of memory induced by amyloid beta in mice via restraining the hyperphosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Behav Brain Res 2010; 210:184-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2010.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2009] [Revised: 02/06/2010] [Accepted: 02/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Bureau G, Carrier M, Lebel M, Cyr M. Intrastriatal inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinases impaired the consolidation phase of motor skill learning. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2010; 94:107-15. [PMID: 20447478 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2010.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2009] [Revised: 03/25/2010] [Accepted: 04/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that motor skill learning is characterized by rapid improvement in performances within the first training session and a slower progression in the following sessions that is correlated to the consolidation phase. Our goal was to establish the regional mapping of neural activity in relation to the motor skill learning included in the accelerating rotarod task using Zif268, c-Fos and ERK 1/2. As ERK 1/2 activity is also a marker of adaptive response to synaptic activation for newly learned events, its role was also verified. Learning the rotarod task did not affect levels of Zif268, but induced a selective upregulation of c-Fos in the cerebellum, motor cortex M1 and M2, cingulate cortex CG1 and CG2 as well as dorsal striatum. Notably, levels of phosphorylated ERK 1/2 were selectively increased in this later region during consolidation phase. To further study this effect, we injected inhibitors of ERK activation, the SL327 intraperitoneally or the PD98059 directly into the dorsal striatum, and observed that motor performances were exclusively impaired in this phase. These findings indicate that ERK 1/2 activity of the dorsal striatum is critical for the consolidation of late but not early phase of motor skill memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneviève Bureau
- Groupe de Recherche en Neurosciences, Département de Chimie-Biologie, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351, Des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières (QC), Canada G9A 5H7
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Trainor BC, Crean KK, Fry WHD, Sweeney C. Activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases in social behavior circuits during resident-intruder aggression tests. Neuroscience 2010; 165:325-36. [PMID: 19874872 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2009] [Revised: 10/22/2009] [Accepted: 10/23/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Using a variety of experimental methods, a network of brain areas regulating aggressive behaviors has been identified in several groups of vertebrates. However, aggressive behavior expressed in different contexts is associated with different patterns of activity across hypothalamic and limbic brain regions. Previous studies in rodents demonstrated that short day photoperiods reliably increase both male and female aggression versus long day photoperiods. Here we used immunohistochemistry and western blots to examine the effect of photoperiod on phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK) in male California mice (Peromyscus californicus) during resident-intruder tests. Phosphorylated ERK (pERK) can alter neuronal activity in the short term and in the long term acts as a transcription factor. In the posterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) males tested in aggression tests had more pERK positive cells when housed in short days but not long days. This result was replicated in western blot analyses from microdissected BNST samples. In the medial amygdala (MEA), immunostaining and western analyses showed that pERK expression also was generally increased in short days. Immunostaining was also used to examine phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB). CREB can be phosphorylated by pERK as well as other kinases and functions primarily as a transcription factor. Intriguingly, aggressive interactions reduced the number of cells stained positive for phosphorylated CREB in the infralimbic cortex, ventral lateral septum and MEA. This effect was observed in mice housed in long days but not short days. Overall, these data suggest that different (but overlapping) networks of aggressive behavior operate under different environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- B C Trainor
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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Silva AL, Fry WHD, Sweeney C, Trainor BC. Effects of photoperiod and experience on aggressive behavior in female California mice. Behav Brain Res 2010; 208:528-34. [PMID: 20060017 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2009.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 12/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Aggressive behavior among females is observed in many species, but the mechanisms of this behavior have historically been understudied. In many species of rodents, winter-like short day photoperiods induce increased aggression levels compared to summer-like long day photoperiods. Recent reports in hamsters show that short days also increase aggression in females. We examined the effects of photoperiod on aggression in female California mice, and for the first time compare brain activity of aggression-tested female rodents under different photoperiods. We observed that female California mice were more aggressive when housed in short days versus long days. Intriguingly, we also observed that under long days female attack latency decreases with repeated testing in resident-intruder tests. These data suggest that winner effects that have been described in males may also occur in females. We also used the expression of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinases (pERK) in the brain to estimate brain activity during aggression tests. pERK can alter neuronal activity in the short term and in the long term can act as a transcription factor. Using immunoblot analyses we observed that aggression-induced pERK expression in the female bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and medial amygdala occurs under both long and short days. Thus, the mechanisms controlling increased aggression under short days are still unclear and additional study is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Silva
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Buffalari DM, See RE. Amygdala mechanisms of Pavlovian psychostimulant conditioning and relapse. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2010; 3:73-99. [PMID: 21161750 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2009_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Psychostimulant addiction often consists of periods of sustained drug abstinence disrupted by periods of relapse and renewed heavy drug use. Prevention of relapse remains the greatest challenge to the successful treatment of drug addiction. Drug-associated cues are a primary trigger for relapse, as they can elicit intense craving for the drug. These cues become associated with the drug reward through Pavlovian learning processes that develop over multiple drug-cue pairings. The amygdala (AMY) is critical for such drug-related learning. Intrinsic and extrinsic circuitry position the AMY to integrate cue and drug-related information and influence drug-seeking and drug-taking behaviors. Animal models of conditioned drug reward, drug use, and relapse have confirmed the necessary role of the AMY for drug conditioned cues to control motivated behavior. Neurons within the AMY are responsive to the primary effects of psychostimulants, and more critically, they also respond to the presentation of drug-associated cues. The mechanisms by which conditioned cues come to influence drug-seeking behavior likely involve long-term plasticity and neuroadaptations within the AMY. A greater understanding of the associative learning mechanisms that depend upon the AMY and related limbic and cortical structures, and the process by which drug cues come to gain control over behavior that maintains the addictive state, will facilitate the development of more effective addiction treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanne M Buffalari
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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Fasano S, D’Antoni A, Orban PC, Valjent E, Putignano E, Vara H, Pizzorusso T, Giustetto M, Yoon B, Soloway P, Maldonado R, Caboche J, Brambilla R. Ras-guanine nucleotide-releasing factor 1 (Ras-GRF1) controls activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling in the striatum and long-term behavioral responses to cocaine. Biol Psychiatry 2009; 66:758-68. [PMID: 19446794 PMCID: PMC2910545 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2009.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2008] [Revised: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 03/10/2009] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Ras-ERK) signaling is central to the molecular machinery underlying cognitive functions. In the striatum, ERK1/2 kinases are co-activated by glutamate and dopamine D1/5 receptors, but the mechanisms providing such signaling integration are still unknown. The Ras-guanine nucleotide-releasing factor 1 (Ras-GRF1), a neuronal specific activator of Ras-ERK signaling, is a likely candidate for coupling these neurotransmitter signals to ERK kinases in the striatonigral medium spiny neurons (MSN) and for modulating behavioral responses to drug abuse such as cocaine. METHODS We used genetically modified mouse mutants for Ras-GRF1 as a source of primary MSN cultures and organotypic slices, to perform both immunoblot and immunofluorescence studies in response to glutamate and dopamine receptor agonists. Mice were also subjected to behavioral and immunohistochemical investigations upon treatment with cocaine. RESULTS Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in response to glutamate, dopamine D1 agonist, or both stimuli simultaneously is impaired in Ras-GRF1-deficient striatal cells and organotypic slices of the striatonigral MSN compartment. Consistently, behavioral responses to cocaine are also affected in mice deficient for Ras-GRF1 or overexpressing it. Both locomotor sensitization and conditioned place preference are significantly attenuated in Ras-GRF1-deficient mice, whereas a robust facilitation is observed in overexpressing transgenic animals. Finally, we found corresponding changes in ERK1/2 activation and in accumulation of FosB/DeltaFosB, a well-characterized marker for long-term responses to cocaine, in MSN from these animals. CONCLUSIONS These results strongly implicate Ras-GRF1 in the integration of the two main neurotransmitter inputs to the striatum and in the maladaptive modulation of striatal networks in response to cocaine.
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ERK activation in axonal varicosities modulates presynaptic plasticity in the CA3 region of the hippocampus through synapsin I. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:9872-7. [PMID: 19487674 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0900077106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Activity-dependent changes in the strength of synaptic connections in the hippocampus are central for cognitive processes such as learning and memory storage. In this study, we reveal an activity-dependent presynaptic mechanism that is related to the modulation of synaptic plasticity. In acute mouse hippocampal slices, high-frequency stimulation (HFS) of the mossy fiber (MF)-CA3 pathway induced a strong and transient activation of extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) in MF giant presynaptic terminals. Remarkably, pharmacological blockade of ERK disclosed a negative role of this kinase in the regulation of a presynaptic form of plasticity at MF-CA3 contacts. This ERK-mediated inhibition of post-tetanic enhancement (PTE) of MF-CA3 synapses was both frequency- and pathway-specific and was observed only with HFS at 50 Hz. Importantly, blockade of ERK was virtually ineffective on PTE of MF-CA3 synapses in mice lacking synapsin I, 1 of the major presynaptic ERK substrates, and triple knockout mice lacking all synapsin isoforms displayed PTE kinetics resembling that of wild-type mice under ERK inhibition. These findings reveal a form of short-term synaptic plasticity that depends on ERK and is finely tuned by the firing frequency of presynaptic neurons. Our results also demonstrate that presynaptic activation of the ERK signaling pathway plays part in the activity-dependent modulation of synaptic vesicle mobilization and transmitter release.
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Trifilieff P, Lavaur J, Pascoli V, Kappès V, Brami-Cherrier K, Pagès C, Micheau J, Caboche J, Vanhoutte P. Endocytosis controls glutamate-induced nuclear accumulation of ERK. Mol Cell Neurosci 2009; 41:325-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2009.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Revised: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 04/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Narasimhaiah R, Kamens HM, Picciotto MR. Effects of galanin on cocaine-mediated conditioned place preference and ERK signaling in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2009; 204:95-102. [PMID: 19099295 PMCID: PMC2872184 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-008-1438-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2007] [Accepted: 12/06/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The neuropeptide galanin and its receptors are expressed in brain regions implicated in the rewarding effects of natural stimuli and drugs of abuse. Galanin has been shown to attenuate neurochemical, physiological, and behavioral signs of opiate and amphetamine reinforcement. OBJECTIVE In the current study, we present evidence that galanin modulates neurochemical and behavioral correlates of cocaine response. METHODS Mice lacking the neuropeptide galanin (Gal -/-) and wild-type (Gal +/+) controls were used to analyze the effects of galanin in an unbiased conditioned place preference paradigm. We then examined cocaine-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity as a marker of intracellular signaling in the mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway induced by acute cocaine administration RESULTS Gal -/- mice showed significantly greater conditioned place preference at a threshold dose of cocaine (3 mg/kg) than Gal +/+ mice, and this was reversed by administration of the galanin receptor agonist galnon. Consistent with the results of behavioral experiments, there was a significant increase in ERK activation in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) of Gal -/- mice but not Gal +/+ mice following acute, systemic cocaine injection at the threshold dose. In the NAc, but not VTA, this effect was reversed by administration of galnon. CONCLUSIONS These data, coupled with previous studies on the effects of morphine and amphetamine, demonstrate that galanin normally attenuates drug reinforcement, potentially via modulation of the mesolimbic dopamine system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marina R. Picciotto
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 34 Park Street - 3rd floor research, New Haven, CT 06508, Tel: (203) 737-2041; Fax: (203) 737-2043;
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Nanotechnology approach for drug addiction therapy: gene silencing using delivery of gold nanorod-siRNA nanoplex in dopaminergic neurons. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:5546-50. [PMID: 19307583 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0901715106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug abuse is a worldwide health concern in which addiction involves activation of the dopaminergic signaling pathway in the brain. Here, we introduce a nanotechnology approach that utilizes gold nanorod-DARPP-32 siRNA complexes (nanoplexes) that target this dopaminergic signaling pathway in the brain. The shift in the localized longitudinal plasmon resonance peak of gold nanorods (GNRs) was used to show their interaction with siRNA. Plasmonic enhanced dark field imaging was used to visualize the uptake of these nanoplexes in dopaminergic neurons in vitro. Gene silencing of the nanoplexes in these cells was evidenced by the reduction in the expression of key proteins (DARPP-32, ERK, and PP-1) belonging to this pathway, with no observed cytotoxicity. Moreover, these nanoplexes were shown to transmigrate across an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, these nanoplexes appear to be suited for brain-specific delivery of appropriate siRNA for therapy of drug addiction and other brain diseases.
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Hu JF, Xue W, Ning N, Yuan YH, Zhang JT, Chen NH. Ginsenoside Rg1 activated CaMKIIalpha mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen activated protein kinase signaling pathway. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2008; 29:1119-26. [PMID: 18718181 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7254.2008.00867.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM We carried out this study to investigate the effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen activated protein kinase (ERK/ MAPK) pathway for understanding its effect on synaptic platicity. METHODS Western blotting and immunostaining were used to examine the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, CaMKIIalpha and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in PC12 cells and synaptosomes. The confocal microscopy and fluorescent indicator Fluo-3 was applied to observe the intracellular calcium ion flux. RESULTS The phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in PC12 cells and synaptosomes incubated with Rg1 was increased and reached maximum at 4 min. Rg1 also promoted the transient enhancement of upstream calcium ion and activated CaMKIIalpha, which reached maximum at 2 min. CREB, the downstream protein, was phosphorylated within 8 min in PC12 cells after being incubated with Rg1. Moreover, KN93 partially inhibited the activation of ERK1/2, and PD98059 also partially blocked the phosphorylation of CREB. CONCLUSIONS Rg1 activated ERK/MAPK pathway by CaMKIIalpha, and the activation of CREB was not only dependent on ERK induced by Rg1, which may provide an explanation for the effect of Rg1 on long-term potentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-feng Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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