1
|
Brida KL, Jorgensen ET, Phillips RA, Newman CE, Tuscher JJ, Morring EK, Zipperly ME, Ianov L, Montgomery KD, Tippani M, Hyde TM, Maynard KR, Martinowich K, Day JJ. Reelin marks cocaine-activated striatal ensembles, promotes neuronal excitability, and regulates cocaine reward. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.17.599348. [PMID: 38948801 PMCID: PMC11212904 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.17.599348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Drugs of abuse activate defined neuronal ensembles in brain reward structures such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc), which are thought to promote the enduring synaptic, circuit, and behavioral consequences of drug exposure. While the molecular and cellular effects arising from experience with drugs like cocaine are increasingly well understood, the mechanisms that sculpt NAc ensemble participation are largely unknown. Here, we leveraged unbiased single-nucleus transcriptional profiling to identify expression of the secreted glycoprotein Reelin (encoded by the Reln gene) as a marker of cocaine-activated neuronal ensembles within the rat NAc. Multiplexed in situ detection confirmed selective expression of the immediate early gene Fos in Reln+ neurons after cocaine experience, and also revealed enrichment of Reln mRNA in Drd1 + medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in both the rat and human brain. Using a novel CRISPR interference strategy enabling selective Reln knockdown in the adult NAc, we observed altered expression of genes linked to calcium signaling, emergence of a transcriptional trajectory consistent with loss of cocaine sensitivity, and a striking decrease in MSN intrinsic excitability. At the behavioral level, loss of Reln prevented cocaine locomotor sensitization, abolished cocaine place preference memory, and decreased cocaine self-administration behavior. Together, these results identify Reelin as a critical mechanistic link between ensemble participation and cocaine-induced behavioral adaptations.
Collapse
|
2
|
Jiang SZ, Shahoha M, Zhang HY, Brancaleone W, Elkahloun A, Tejeda HA, Ashery U, Eiden LE. The guanine nucleotide exchange factor RapGEF2 is required for ERK-dependent immediate-early gene (Egr1) activation during fear memory formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:48. [PMID: 38236296 PMCID: PMC11071968 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04999-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The MAP kinase ERK is important for neuronal plasticity underlying associative learning, yet specific molecular pathways for neuronal ERK activation are undetermined. RapGEF2 is a neuron-specific cAMP sensor that mediates ERK activation. We investigated whether it is required for cAMP-dependent ERK activation leading to other downstream neuronal signaling events occurring during associative learning, and if RapGEF2-dependent signaling impairments affect learned behavior. Camk2α-cre+/-::RapGEF2fl/fl mice with depletion of RapGEF2 in hippocampus and amygdala exhibit impairments in context- and cue-dependent fear conditioning linked to corresponding impairment in Egr1 induction in these two brain regions. Camk2α-cre+/-::RapGEF2fl/fl mice show decreased RapGEF2 expression in CA1 and dentate gyrus associated with abolition of pERK and Egr1, but not of c-Fos induction, following fear conditioning, impaired freezing to context after fear conditioning, and impaired cAMP-dependent long-term potentiation at perforant pathway and Schaffer collateral synapses in hippocampal slices ex vivo. RapGEF2 expression is largely eliminated in basolateral amygdala, also involved in fear memory, in Camk2α-cre+/-::RapGEF2fl/fl mice. Neither Egr1 nor c-fos induction in BLA after fear conditioning, nor cue-dependent fear learning, are affected by ablation of RapGEF2 in BLA. However, Egr1 induction (but not that of c-fos) in BLA is reduced after restraint stress-augmented fear conditioning, as is freezing to cue after restraint stress-augmented fear conditioning, in Camk2α-cre+/-::RapGEF2fl/fl mice. Cyclic AMP-dependent GEFs have been genetically associated as risk factors for schizophrenia, a disorder associated with cognitive deficits. Here we show a functional link between one of them, RapGEF2, and cognitive processes involved in associative learning in amygdala and hippocampus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sunny Zhihong Jiang
- Section On Molecular Neuroscience, NIMH Intramural Research Program, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 49, Room 5A38, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Meishar Shahoha
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Sherman Building Rm 719, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hai-Ying Zhang
- Section On Molecular Neuroscience, NIMH Intramural Research Program, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 49, Room 5A38, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - William Brancaleone
- Section On Molecular Neuroscience, NIMH Intramural Research Program, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 49, Room 5A38, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | | | - Hugo A Tejeda
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, NIMH-IRP, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Uri Ashery
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Sherman Building Rm 719, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Lee E Eiden
- Section On Molecular Neuroscience, NIMH Intramural Research Program, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 49, Room 5A38, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lagström O, Vestin E, Söderpalm B, Ericson M, Adermark L. Subregion specific neuroadaptations in the female rat striatum during acute and protracted withdrawal from nicotine. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:83-94. [PMID: 37500938 PMCID: PMC10769920 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02678-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies and clinical observations suggest that nicotine, a major contributor of the global burden of disease, acts in a partially sex specific manner. Still, preclinical research has primarily been conducted in males. More research is thus required to define the effects displayed by nicotine on the female brain. To this end, female rats received 15 injections of either nicotine (0.36mg/kg) or saline, over a 3-week period and were then followed for up to 3 months. Behavioral effects of nicotine were assessed using locomotor activity measurements and elevated plus maze, while neurophysiological changes were monitored using ex vivo electrophysiological field potential recordings conducted in subregions of the dorsal and ventral striatum. Behavioral assessments demonstrated a robust sensitization to the locomotor stimulatory properties of nicotine, but monitored behaviors on the elevated plus maze were not affected during acute (24 h) or protracted (3 months) withdrawal. Electrophysiological recordings revealed a selective increase in excitatory neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens shell and dorsomedial striatum during acute withdrawal. Importantly, accumbal neuroadaptations in nicotine-treated rats correlated with locomotor behavior, supporting a role for the nucleus accumbens in behavioral sensitization. While no sustained neuroadaptations were observed following 3 months withdrawal, there was an overall trend towards reduced inhibitory tone. Together, these findings suggest that nicotine produces selective transformations of striatal brain circuits that may drive specific behaviors associated with nicotine exposure. Furthermore, our observations suggest that sex-specificity should be considered when evaluating long-term effects by nicotine on the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oona Lagström
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Edvin Vestin
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bo Söderpalm
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Beroendekliniken, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mia Ericson
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Louise Adermark
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kokane SS, Butler BD, Antonio JH, Armant RJ, Hoch AC, Coelho CS, Brady BN, Chamseddine HH, Perrotti LI. Interactions between estradiol and ERK, but not mTOR, signaling is necessary for enhanced cocaine-induced conditioned place preference in female rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 232:173653. [PMID: 37804867 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Women rapidly progress from recreational cocaine use to dependence, consume greater quantities of cocaine, experience more positive subjective effects of cocaine and have higher incidences of relapse during abstinence. These effects have been replicated in animal models of cocaine addiction and indicate an enhanced sensitivity and therefore, vulnerability of females to cocaine addiction. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that estradiol (E2) is a key mediator of the aforementioned effects of cocaine in women and female animals. However, studies identifying the influence of E2 on cocaine-associated reward and its underlying neurobiological mechanisms are lacking. Here, we further explored the influence of E2 on cocaine conditioned place preference in female rats. We show that E2 mediates cocaine-conditioned reward by potentiating cocaine-context associations. In addition, the E2-mediated increases in cocaine-induced CPP are associated with increased activation of ERK1/2 and mTOR proteins in the nucleus accumbens, dorsal striatum, and ventral tegmental area. To assess the involvement of ERK1/2 and mTOR in E2-mediated enhanced cocaine-CPP, we inhibited ERK1/2 and/or mTOR activity during cocaine-conditioning and before CPP-test. Inhibition of ERK1/2 during conditioning blocked cocaine-CPP in females, inhibition mTOR was without effect, and inhibiting ERK1/2 and mTOR before CPP-test blocked cocaine-CPP. In conclusion, we have established that E2 enhances cocaine-conditioned reward by potentiating cocaine-context associations formed during conditioning. Additionally, activation of ERK1/2 during cocaine-conditioning is necessary for the potentiation of cocaine-conditioned reward by E2. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Studies characterizing the molecular substrates underlying the effects of E2 during the formation of cocaine-context associations are virtually unknown. In this study, we established the influence of E2 during the formation of cocaine-CPP and characterized the role of ERK1/2 and mTOR activity on this effect within significant nodes of the reward pathway. The elucidation of the role of E2 in cocaine-induced intracellular signaling fills a significant gap in our knowledge regarding the mechanisms by which E2 affects intracellular signaling pathways to indicate the motivational salience of a stimulus. These data are crucial to our understanding of how fluctuating hormone levels can render females increasing sensitive to the rewarding effects of cocaine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh S Kokane
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Brandon D Butler
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Josimar Hernandez Antonio
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Ross J Armant
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Adam C Hoch
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Clinton S Coelho
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Blake N Brady
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Houda H Chamseddine
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Linda I Perrotti
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rodríguez-Durán LF, López-Ibarra DL, Herrera-Xithe G, Bermúdez-Rattoni F, Osorio-Gómez D, Escobar ML. Synergistic photoactivation of VTA-catecholaminergic and BLA-glutamatergic projections induces long-term potentiation in the insular cortex. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2023; 205:107845. [PMID: 37865264 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2023.107845] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The presentation of novel stimuli induces a reliable dopamine release in the insular cortex (IC) from the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The novel stimuli could be associated with motivational and emotional signals induced by cortical glutamate release from the basolateral amygdala (BLA). Dopamine and glutamate are essential for acquiring and maintaining behavioral tasks, including visual and taste recognition memories. In this study, we hypothesize that the simultaneous activation of dopaminergic and glutamatergic projections to the neocortex can underlie synaptic plasticity. High-frequency stimulation of the BLA-IC circuit has demonstrated a reliable long-term potentiation (LTP), a widely acknowledged synaptic plasticity that underlies memory consolidation. Therefore, the concurrent optogenetic stimulation of the insula's glutamatergic and dopaminergic terminal fibers would induce reliable LTP. Our results confirmed that combined photostimulation of the VTA and BLA projections to the IC induces a slow-onset LTP. We also found that optogenetically-induced LTP in the IC relies on both glutamatergic NMDA receptors and dopaminergic D1/D5 receptors, suggesting that the combined effects of these neurotransmitters can trigger synaptic plasticity in the neocortex. Overall, our findings provide compelling evidence supporting the essential role of both dopaminergic and glutamatergic projections in modulating synaptic plasticity within the IC. Furthermore, our results suggest that the synergistic actions of these projections have a pivotal influence on the formation of motivational memories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Rodríguez-Durán
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diana L López-Ibarra
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Herrera-Xithe
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Federico Bermúdez-Rattoni
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Daniel Osorio-Gómez
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, UNAM, División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Martha L Escobar
- Facultad de Psicología, UNAM, División de Investigación y Estudios de Posgrado, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jiang SZ, Zhang HY, Eiden LE. PACAP Controls Endocrine and Behavioral Stress Responses via Separate Brain Circuits. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 3:673-685. [PMID: 37881538 PMCID: PMC10593940 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The neuropeptide PACAP (pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide) is a master regulator of central and peripheral stress responses, yet it is not clear how PACAP projections throughout the brain execute endocrine and behavioral stress responses. Methods We used AAV (adeno-associated virus) neuronal tracing, an acute restraint stress (ARS) paradigm, and intersectional genetics, in C57BL/6 mice, to identify PACAP-containing circuits controlling stress-induced behavior and endocrine activation. Results PACAP deletion from forebrain excitatory neurons, including a projection directly from medial prefrontal cortex to hypothalamus, impairs c-fos activation and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) messenger RNA elevation in the paraventricular nucleus after 2 hours of restraint, without affecting ARS-induced hypophagia, or c-fos elevation in nonhypothalamic brain. Elimination of PACAP within projections from lateral parabrachial nucleus to extended amygdala, on the other hand, attenuates ARS-induced hypophagia, along with extended amygdala fos induction, without affecting ARS-induced CRH messenger RNA elevation in the paraventricular nucleus. PACAP projections to extended amygdala terminate at protein kinase C delta type (PKCδ) neurons in both the central amygdala and the oval bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Silencing of PKCδ neurons in the central amygdala, but not in the oval bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, attenuates ARS-induced hypophagia. Experiments were carried out in mice of both sexes with n ≥ 3 per group. Conclusions A frontocortical descending PACAP projection controls paraventricular nucleus CRH messenger RNA production to maintain hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation and regulate the endocrine response to stress. An ascending PACAPergic projection from the external lateral parabrachial nucleus to PKCδ neurons in the central amygdala regulates behavioral responses to stress. Defining two separate limbs of the acute stress response provides broader insight into the specific brain circuitry engaged by the psychogenic stress response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sunny Zhihong Jiang
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Hai-Ying Zhang
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lee E. Eiden
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li G, Xu S, Kang UG. Characteristics of MK-801-induced locomotor sensitization. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 667:18-24. [PMID: 37201359 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Repeated administration of drugs of abuse leads to progressively greater behavioral responses; this phenomenon is referred to as behavioral sensitization. MK-801 blocks the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and elicits behavioral sensitization. Ketamine and phencyclidine, are also NMDA antagonists and have well-documented abuse potential. This study investigated the characteristics of MK-801-induced behavioral sensitization and found that it induced sensitization rapidly; only five consecutive treatments were required. The optimal dose for robust sensitization was also identified, which corresponded to the typical doses of abused NMDA antagonists (i.e., between the doses inducing antidepressant and anesthetic effects). Following MK-801-induced behavioral sensitization, changes were observed in the expression and/or phosphorylation of NMDA receptor subunits. While the expression of early growth response protein 1, which serves as a marker of neuronal activation, was affected by MK-801 sensitization, extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation was not associated with MK-801 treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Li
- Department of Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Shijie Xu
- Medical Research Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
| | - Ung Gu Kang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Institute of Human Behavioral Medicine, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gerfen CR. Segregation of D1 and D2 dopamine receptors in the striatal direct and indirect pathways: An historical perspective. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2023; 14:1002960. [PMID: 36741471 PMCID: PMC9892636 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2022.1002960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The direct and indirect striatal pathways form a cornerstone of the circuits of the basal ganglia. Dopamine has opponent affects on the function of these pathways due to the segregation of the D1- and D2-dopamine receptors in the spiny projection neurons giving rise to the direct and indirect pathways. An historical perspective is provided on the discovery of dopamine receptor segregation leading to models of how the direct and indirect affect motor behavior.
Collapse
|
9
|
Xu W, Dahlke SP, Sung M, Samal B, Emery AC, Elkahloun A, Eiden LE. ERK-dependent induction of the immediate-early gene Egr1 and the late gene Gpr50 contribute to two distinct phases of PACAP Gs-GPCR signaling for neuritogenesis. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13182. [PMID: 35841324 PMCID: PMC9529758 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Gs-coupled GPCR-stimulated neuritogenesis in PC12 and NS-1 - cells depends on activation of the MAP kinase ERK. Here, we examine changes in ERK activation (phosphorylation), and the time course of ERK-dependent gene induction, to seek transcriptional determinants for this process. Quenching of ERK activation by inhibition of MEK with U0126 at any time point for at least 24 h following addition of PACAP resulted in arrest of neurite formation. Changes in the transcriptome profile throughout this time period revealed at least two phases of gene induction: an early phase dominated by induction of immediate-early genes, and a later phase of gene induction after 4-6 h of exposure to PACAP with persistent elevation of phospho-ERK levels. Genes induced by PACAP in both phases consisted in those whose induction was dependent on ERK (i.e., blocked by U0126), and some whose induction was blocked by the protein kinase A inhibitor H89. ERK-dependent "late gene" transcripts included Gpr50, implicated earlier in facilitation of NGF-induced neurite formation in NS-1 cells. Gpr50 induction by PACAP, but not NGF, was dependent on the guanine nucleotide exchange factor RapGEF2, which has been shown to be required for PACAP-induced neuritogenesis in NS-1 cells. Expression of a Gpr50-directed shRNA lowered basal levels of Gpr50 mRNA and attenuated Gpr50 mRNA and GPR50 protein induction by PACAP, with a corresponding attenuation of PACAP-induced neuritogenesis. Gs-GPCR-stimulated neuritogenesis first requires immediate-early gene induction, including that of Egr1 (Zif268/NGF1A/Krox24) as previously reported. This early phase of gene induction, however, is insufficient to maintain the neuritogenic process without ERK-dependent induction of additional late genes, including Gpr50, upon continuous exposure to neurotrophic neuropeptide. Early (Egr1) and late (Gpr50) gene induction by NGF, like that for PACAP, was inhibited by U0126, but was independent of RapGEF2, confirming distinct modes of ERK activation by Gs-coupled GPCRs and neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinases, converging on a final common ERK-dependent signaling pathway for neuritogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqin Xu
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health-Intramural Research Program
| | - Sam P. Dahlke
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health-Intramural Research Program
| | - Michelle Sung
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health-Intramural Research Program
| | - Babru Samal
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health-Intramural Research Program
| | - Andrew C. Emery
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health-Intramural Research Program
| | - Abdel Elkahloun
- Microarray Core, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lee E. Eiden
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health-Intramural Research Program
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li F, Qiao Y, Chen Y, Li N, Yang M, Li X, Qiu Y, Cui W, Shen H, Xu P, Di B. N-Ethylnorketamine has anesthetic and analgesic effects with abuse liability. Behav Brain Res 2022; 435:114052. [PMID: 35952778 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Arylcyclohexylamines is an ever-growing class of new psychoactive substances, including an increasing number of ketamine analogs. N-Ethylnorketamine (NENK) is a new synthetic ketamine analog that has emerged as an abused drug, but little is known about the pharmacological profile of NENK. In this study, we investigated the anesthetic and analgesic activity, abuse liability of NENK compared with ketamine. The ED50 values of anesthetic activity for NENK and ketamine were 96.9, 69.4 mg/kg, respectively. The ED50 values of analgesic activity for NENK and ketamine were 45.9 and 23.6 mg/kg, respectively. NENK induced significant conditioned place preference at a minimum dose of 10.0 mg/kg in mice, an effect comparable to that of ketamine (3.0 mg/kg). Acute injections of NENK or ketamine at 30.0 mg/kg enhanced locomotor activity, and repeated treatments with this dose induced locomotor sensitization after withdrawal. Taken together, these results clearly demonstrated that NENK has lower anesthetic and analgesic activity compared to ketamine, but has significant abuse liability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yanling Qiao
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China; Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Nan Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Mengxiang Yang
- Faculty of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xiangyu Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China; Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yi Qiu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Wei Cui
- Faculty of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Haowei Shen
- Faculty of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Peng Xu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China; Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, PR China.
| | - Bin Di
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, PR China; Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Beijing 100193, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Krapacher FA, Fernández‐Suárez D, Andersson A, Carrier‐Ruiz A, Ibáñez CF. Convergent dopamine and ALK4 signaling to PCBP1 controls FosB alternative splicing and cocaine behavioral sensitization. EMBO J 2022; 41:e110721. [PMID: 35730718 PMCID: PMC10545536 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022110721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
ΔfosB is an alternatively spliced product of the FosB gene that is essential for dopamine-induced reward pathways and that acts as a master switch for addiction. However, the molecular mechanisms of its generation and regulation by dopamine signaling are unknown. Here, we report that dopamine D1 receptor signaling synergizes with the activin/ALK4/Smad3 pathway to potentiate the generation of ΔFosB mRNA in medium spiny neurons (MSNs) of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) via activation of the RNA-binding protein PCBP1, a regulator of mRNA splicing. Concurrent activation of PCBP1 and Smad3 by D1 and ALK4 signaling induced their interaction, nuclear translocation, and binding to sequences in exon-4 and intron-4 of FosB mRNA. Ablation of either ALK4 or PCBP1 in MSNs impaired ΔFosB mRNA induction and nuclear translocation of ΔFosB protein in response to repeated co-stimulation of D1 and ALK4 receptors. Finally, ALK4 is required in NAc MSNs of adult mice for behavioral sensitization to cocaine. These findings uncover an unexpected mechanism for ΔFosB generation and drug-induced sensitization through convergent dopamine and ALK4 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Carlos F Ibáñez
- Department of NeuroscienceKarolinska InstituteStockholmSweden
- Peking‐Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, PKU‐IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain ResearchPeking University School of Life SciencesBeijingChina
- Chinese Institute for Brain ResearchBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Casello SM, Flores RJ, Yarur HE, Wang H, Awanyai M, Arenivar MA, Jaime-Lara RB, Bravo-Rivera H, Tejeda HA. Neuropeptide System Regulation of Prefrontal Cortex Circuitry: Implications for Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:796443. [PMID: 35800635 PMCID: PMC9255232 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.796443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides, a diverse class of signaling molecules in the nervous system, modulate various biological effects including membrane excitability, synaptic transmission and synaptogenesis, gene expression, and glial cell architecture and function. To date, most of what is known about neuropeptide action is limited to subcortical brain structures and tissue outside of the central nervous system. Thus, there is a knowledge gap in our understanding of neuropeptide function within cortical circuits. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of various families of neuropeptides and their cognate receptors that are expressed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Specifically, we highlight dynorphin, enkephalin, corticotropin-releasing factor, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, neuropeptide Y, and vasoactive intestinal peptide. Further, we review the implication of neuropeptide signaling in prefrontal cortical circuit function and use as potential therapeutic targets. Together, this review summarizes established knowledge and highlights unknowns of neuropeptide modulation of neural function underlying various biological effects while offering insights for future research. An increased emphasis in this area of study is necessary to elucidate basic principles of the diverse signaling molecules used in cortical circuits beyond fast excitatory and inhibitory transmitters as well as consider components of neuropeptide action in the PFC as a potential therapeutic target for neurological disorders. Therefore, this review not only sheds light on the importance of cortical neuropeptide studies, but also provides a comprehensive overview of neuropeptide action in the PFC to serve as a roadmap for future studies in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanne M. Casello
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rodolfo J. Flores
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hector E. Yarur
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Huikun Wang
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Monique Awanyai
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Miguel A. Arenivar
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rosario B. Jaime-Lara
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hector Bravo-Rivera
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hugo A. Tejeda
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Hugo A. Tejeda,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chivero ET, Sil S, Singh S, Thangaraj A, Gordon L, Evah-Nzoughe GB, Ferguson N, Callen S, Buch S. Protective Role of Lactobacillus rhamnosus Probiotic in Reversing Cocaine-Induced Oxidative Stress, Glial Activation and Locomotion in Mice. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2022; 17:62-75. [PMID: 34628571 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-021-10020-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine abuse is known to cause inflammation, oxidative injury and alterations in the gut microbiota. Although emerging studies have demonstrated the role of gut microbiota in modulating neurological complications and behavior, the mechanism(s) underlying these processes remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus probiotic on cocaine-induced oxidative stress, glial activation, and locomotion in mice. In this study, groups of male C56BL6 mice were administered gut-resident commensal bacteria L. rhamnosus probiotic (oral gavage) concurrently with cocaine (20 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline for 28 days and assessed for oxidative stress and cellular activation in both the gut and brain as well as alterations in locomotion behavior. Cocaine-induced gut dysregulation was associated with increased formation of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) adducts, increased expression of pERK-1/2, pNF-kB-p65 and antioxidant mediators (SOD1, GPx1). In cocaine administered mice, there was increased activation of both microglia and astrocytes in the striatum and cortex of the brain as shown by enhanced expression of CD11b and GFAP, respectively. Cocaine administration also resulted in increased locomotor activity in the open field test in these mice. Administration of L. rhamnosus attenuated cocaine-induced gut oxidative stress and inflammation as well as glial activation and locomotion. These results suggest the potential of microbial-based interventions to attenuate cocaine-mediated behavioral responses and neuroinflammation, in addition to systemic inflammation and oxidative damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest T Chivero
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
| | - Susmita Sil
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Seema Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Annadurai Thangaraj
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Lila Gordon
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Grace B Evah-Nzoughe
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Natasha Ferguson
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Shannon Callen
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Shilpa Buch
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Spelta LEW, Torres YYS, de Oliveira SCWSEF, Yonamine M, Bailey A, Camarini R, Garcia RCT, Marcourakis T. Chronic escalating-dose and acute binge cocaine treatments change the hippocampal cholinergic muscarinic system on drug presence and after withdrawal. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 447:116068. [PMID: 35597300 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine addiction is a relapsing disorder with loss of control in limiting drug intake. Considering the involvement of acetylcholine in the neurobiology of the disease, our aim was to evaluate whether cocaine induces plastic changes in the hippocampal cholinergic muscarinic system. Male Swiss-Webster mice received saline or cocaine (ip) three times daily (60-min intervals) either acutely or in an escalating-dose binge paradigm for 14 days. Locomotor activity was measured in all treatment days. Dopaminergic and cholinergic muscarinic receptors (D1R, D2R, M1-M5, mAChRs), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were quantified in the hippocampus by immunoblotting one hour after the last injection (on drug) or after 14 days of abstinence (withdrawal). Escalating-dose group showed cocaine-induced locomotor sensitization from day 2. M3 mAChR and ChAT significantly increased after the on-drug acute binge treatment. Escalating-dose on-drug group showed increased ChAT, M1, M5 mAChR and D2R; and decreased D1R. Acute-binge withdrawal group showed increased VAChT, M2 mAChR, D1R, and D2R; and decreased M1 mAChR. Escalating-dose withdrawal group presented increased D1R and VAChT and decreased M1 mAChR and D2R. Locomotor activity was negatively correlated with M1 mAChR and AChE in on-drug group and positively correlated with VAChT in withdrawal group. M1 mAChR was positively correlated with M2 mAChR and ChAT in on-drug group, whereas ChAT was positively correlated with M5 mAChR in withdrawal group. The results indicate that cocaine induced an increase in the hippocampal cholinergic tone in the presence of the drug, whereas withdrawal causes a resetting in the system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidia E W Spelta
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 580, Bl. 13B, 05508-000 São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Yuli Y S Torres
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 580, Bl. 13B, 05508-000 São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Sarah C W S E F de Oliveira
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 580, Bl. 13B, 05508-000 São Paulo/SP, Brazil; Pharmacosciences Department, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Maurício Yonamine
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 580, Bl. 13B, 05508-000 São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Alexis Bailey
- Pharmacology Section, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, SW17 0RE London, UK
| | - Rosana Camarini
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Neurochemical and Behavior Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524, Prédio 1, 05508-900 São Paulo/SP, Brazil.
| | - Raphael C T Garcia
- Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau, 210, 1° andar, 09913-030 Diadema/SP, Brazil.
| | - Tania Marcourakis
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 580, Bl. 13B, 05508-000 São Paulo/SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shahoha M, Cohen R, Ben-Simon Y, Ashery U. cAMP-Dependent Synaptic Plasticity at the Hippocampal Mossy Fiber Terminal. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2022; 14:861215. [PMID: 35444523 PMCID: PMC9013808 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2022.861215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a crucial second messenger involved in both pre- and postsynaptic plasticity in many neuronal types across species. In the hippocampal mossy fiber (MF) synapse, cAMP mediates presynaptic long-term potentiation and depression. The main cAMP-dependent signaling pathway linked to MF synaptic plasticity acts via the activation of the protein kinase A (PKA) molecular cascade. Accordingly, various downstream putative synaptic PKA target proteins have been linked to cAMP-dependent MF synaptic plasticity, such as synapsin, rabphilin, synaptotagmin-12, RIM1a, tomosyn, and P/Q-type calcium channels. Regulating the expression of some of these proteins alters synaptic release probability and calcium channel clustering, resulting in short- and long-term changes to synaptic efficacy. However, despite decades of research, the exact molecular mechanisms by which cAMP and PKA exert their influences in MF terminals remain largely unknown. Here, we review current knowledge of different cAMP catalysts and potential downstream PKA-dependent molecular cascades, in addition to non-canonical cAMP-dependent but PKA-independent cascades, which might serve as alternative, compensatory or competing pathways to the canonical PKA cascade. Since several other central synapses share a similar form of presynaptic plasticity with the MF, a better description of the molecular mechanisms governing MF plasticity could be key to understanding the relationship between the transcriptional and computational levels across brain regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meishar Shahoha
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronni Cohen
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoav Ben-Simon
- Department of Neurophysiology, Vienna Medical University, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Yoav Ben-Simon,
| | - Uri Ashery
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Uri Ashery,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
van Zessen R, Li Y, Marion-Poll L, Hulo N, Flakowski J, Lüscher C. Dynamic dichotomy of accumbal population activity underlies cocaine sensitization. eLife 2021; 10:e66048. [PMID: 34608866 PMCID: PMC8523149 DOI: 10.7554/elife.66048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Locomotor sensitization (LS) is an early behavioral adaptation to addictive drugs, driven by the increase of dopamine in the Nucleus Accumbens (NAc). However, the effect on accumbal population activity remains elusive. Here, we used single-cell calcium imaging in mice to record the activity of dopamine-1-receptor (D1R) and dopamine-2-receptor (D2R) expressing spiny projection neurons (SPNs) during cocaine LS. Acute exposure to cocaine elevated D1R SPN activity and reduced D2R SPN activity, albeit with high variability between neurons. During LS, the number of D1R and D2R neurons responding in opposite directions increased. Moreover, preventing LS by inhibition of the ERK signaling pathway decreased the number of cocaine responsive D1R SPNs, but had little effect on D2R SPNs. These results indicate that accumbal population dichotomy is dynamic and contains a subgroup of D1R SPNs that eventually drives LS. Insights into the drug-related activity dynamics provides a foundation for understanding the circuit-level addiction pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruud van Zessen
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Lucile Marion-Poll
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Nicolas Hulo
- Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva (IGE3), University of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Jérôme Flakowski
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Christian Lüscher
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
- Clinic of Neurology, Dept. of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University HospitalGenevaSwitzerland
| |
Collapse
|