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Frankowska M, Smaga I, Gawlińska K, Pieniążek R, Filip M. Further proof on the role of accumbal nNOS in cocaine-seeking behavior in rats. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:338-347. [PMID: 38480667 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00571-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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocaine use disorder (CUD) remains a severe health problem with no effective pharmacological therapy. One of the potential pharmacological strategies for CUD pharmacotherapy includes manipulations of the brain glutamatergic (Glu) system which is particularly involved in drug withdrawal and relapse. Previous research indicated a pivotal role of ionotropic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors or metabotropic receptors' type 5 (mGlu5) receptors in controlling the reinstatement of cocaine. Stimulation of the above molecules results in the activation of the downstream signaling targets such as neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and the release of nitric oxide. METHODS In this paper, we investigated the molecular changes in nNOS in the prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens following 3 and 10 days of cocaine abstinence as well as the effectiveness of nNOS blockade with the selective enzyme inhibitor N-ω-propyl-L-arginine hydrochloride (L-NPA) on cocaine seeking in male rats. The effect of L-NPA on locomotor activity in drug-naïve animals was investigated. RESULTS Ten-day (but not 3-day) cocaine abstinence from cocaine self-administration increased nNOS gene and protein expression in the nucleus accumbens, but not in the prefrontal cortex. L-NPA (0.5-5 mg/kg) administered peripherally did not change locomotor activity but attenuated the reinstatement induced with cocaine priming or the drug-associated conditioned cue. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support accumbal nNOS as an important molecular player for cocaine seeking while its inhibitors could be considered as anti-cocaine pharmacological tools in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kinga Gawlińska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Renata Pieniążek
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
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Xu S, Kang UG. Region-specific alterations in the expression and phosphorylation of NMDA receptor subunits in the rat prefrontal cortex and dorsal striatum accompanying behavioral sensitization induced by cocaine and ethanol. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 236:173711. [PMID: 38253241 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173711] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Behavioral sensitization is defined as the enhanced behavioral response to drugs of abuse after repeated exposure, which can serve as a behavioral model of addiction. Our previous study demonstrated that behavioral cross-sensitization occurs between cocaine and ethanol, suggesting commonalities between these drugs. N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors play important roles in synaptic plasticity, learning, memory, and addiction-associated behaviors. However, little is known about whether NMDA receptor-mediated signaling regulation is a common feature following behavioral sensitizations induced by cocaine and ethanol. Thus, the present study examined the expression of phospho-S896-NR1, NR2A, and NR2B subunits in the prefrontal cortex and dorsal striatum following reciprocal cross-sensitization between cocaine and ethanol. We also examined the mRNA expression of the NR2A and NR2B subunits. In the ethanol-sensitized state, phosphorylation of NR1 and expression of NR2A and NR2B subunits were increased in both the prefrontal cortex and dorsal striatum. In the cocaine-sensitized state, phosphorylation of NR1 and expression of the NR2A and NR2B subunits were increased in the prefrontal cortex but not in the dorsal striatum. Corresponding changes in mRNA expression were observed in the ethanol-sensitized state but not in the cocaine-sensitized state. Acute treatment with either cocaine or ethanol had no effect on the phosphorylation and expression of NMDA receptor subunits in either the prefrontal cortex or dorsal striatum, regardless of the sensitization state. These results indicate a partially overlapping neural mechanism for cocaine and ethanol that may induce the development of behavioral sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Xu
- Medical Research Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570312, China; Institute of Human Behavioral Medicine, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ung Gu Kang
- Institute of Human Behavioral Medicine, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea.
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Wydra K, Witek K, Suder A, Filip M. Esketamine Inhibits Cocaine-Seeking Behaviour Subsequent to Various Abstinence Conditions in Rats. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1411. [PMID: 37759811 PMCID: PMC10527312 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091411] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a relapsing brain disease caused by a chronic drug intake that involves neural mechanisms and psychological processes, including depression. Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the promise of pharmacological drugs in controlling the reinstatement of cocaine by targeting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. Recent evidence has revealed that esketamine, a (S) enantiomer of ketamine, shows a high affinity to NMDA receptors and has been used in clinical trials to treat moderate-to-severe depression. METHODS In the present paper, we investigated the effects of esketamine in regulating cocaine-seeking behaviour induced through the use of cocaine (10 mg/kg) or the cocaine-associated conditioned cue after a short (10 days)-lasting period of drug abstinence with extinction training, home cage or enrichment environment conditions in male rats. Furthermore, we investigated the acute effects of esketamine on locomotor activity in drug-naïve animals. RESULTS Esketamine (2.5-10 mg/kg) administered peripherally attenuated the reinstatement induced with cocaine priming or the drug-associated conditioned cue after different conditions of abstinence. CONCLUSIONS These results seem to support esketamine as a candidate for the pharmacological management of cocaine-seeking and relapse prevention; however, further preclinical and clinical research is needed to better clarify esketamine's actions in CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Wydra
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, PL-31-343 Kraków, Poland; (K.W.); (A.S.)
| | | | | | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, PL-31-343 Kraków, Poland; (K.W.); (A.S.)
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Smaga I, Gawlińska K, Gawliński D, Surówka P, Filip M. A maternal high-fat diet during pregnancy and lactation disrupts short-term memory functions via altered hippocampal glutamatergic signaling in female rat offspring. Behav Brain Res 2023; 445:114396. [PMID: 36934986 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
A maternal high-fat diet (HFD) provokes changes in the offspring's brain's structure, function, and development. These changes may cause neuropsychiatric disorders in the early life of offspring the basis of which may be memory impairment. In this study, the effects of maternal HFD during pregnancy and lactation on the short-term memory in adolescent and young adult offspring were evaluated. We analyzed the expression of genes encoding the glutamatergic transporters in the hippocampus to verify the association between changes in glutamatergic transporters and behavioral changes in offspring. Next, we examined whether maternal diet-induced changes in the mRNA levels of genes encoding the NMDA receptor subunits and the AMPA receptor subunits, as well as BDNF in this structure in offspring. All significant changes were validated at the protein level. We found that a maternal HFD during pregnancy and lactation disrupts short-term memory in adolescent and young adult females. The latter change is likely related to the dysregulation of hippocampal levels of GluN2B subunit of NMDA receptors and of reduced levels of BDNF. In summary, we showed that a maternal HFD during pregnancy and lactation triggered several changes within the glutamatergic system in the hippocampus of rat offspring, which may be related to producing behavioral changes in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Kinga Gawlińska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Dawid Gawliński
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Paulina Surówka
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
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Hadizadeh H, Flores JM, Mayerson T, Worhunsky PD, Potenza MN, Angarita GA. Glutamatergic Agents for the Treatment of Cocaine Use Disorder. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40473-022-00252-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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6
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Chen Y, Li X, Meng S, Huang S, Chang S, Shi J. Identification of Functional CircRNA–miRNA–mRNA Regulatory Network in Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Neurons of Patients With Cocaine Use Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:839233. [PMID: 35493321 PMCID: PMC9048414 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.839233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has indicated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) act as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) regulatory network to regulate the expression of target genes by sponging microRNAs (miRNAs), and therefore play an essential role in many neuropsychiatric disorders, including cocaine use disorder. However, the functional roles and regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs as ceRNAs in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) of patients with cocaine use disorder remain to be determined. In this study, an expression profiling for dlPFC in 19 patients with cocaine use disorder and 17 controls from Gene Expression Omnibus datasets was used for the differentially expressed circRNAs analysis and the differentially expressed mRNAs analysis. Several tools were used to predict the miRNAs targeted by the circRNAs and the miRNAs targeted mRNAs, which then overlapped with the cocaine-associated differentially expressed mRNAs to determine the functional roles of circRNAs. Functional analysis for the obtained mRNAs was performed via Gene Ontology (GO) in Metascape database. Integrated bioinformatics analysis was conducted to further characterize the circRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory network and identify the functions of distinct circRNAs. We found a total of 41 differentially expressed circRNAs, and 98 miRNAs were targeted by these circRNAs. The overlapped mRNAs targeted by the miRNAs and the differentially expressed mRNAs constructed a circRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulation network including 24 circRNAs, 43 miRNAs, and 82 mRNAs in the dlPFC of patients with cocaine use disorder. Functional analysis indicated the regulation network mainly participated in cell response-related, receptor signaling-related, protein modification-related and axonogenesis-related pathways, which might be involved with cocaine use disorder. Additionally, we determined four hub genes (HSP90AA1, HSPA1B, YWHAG, and RAB8A) from the protein–protein interaction network and constructed a circRNA–miRNA-hub gene subnetwork based on the four hub genes. In conclusion, our findings provide a deeper understanding of the circRNAs-related ceRNAs regulatory mechanisms in the pathogenesis of cocaine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Drug Dependence Research, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xianfeng Li
- Department of Gastroenterology of Dapping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shiqiu Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Drug Dependence Research, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shihao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Suhua Chang
- Institute of Mental Health, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Suhua Chang,
| | - Jie Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Drug Dependence Research, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Peking University, Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Shi,
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Davis S, Zhu J. Substance abuse and neurotransmission. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2022; 93:403-441. [PMID: 35341573 PMCID: PMC9759822 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The number of people who suffer from a substance abuse disorder has continued to rise over the last decade; particularly, the number of drug-related overdose deaths has sharply increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Converging lines of clinical observations, supported by imaging and neuropsychological performance testing, have demonstrated that substance abuse-induced dysregulation of neurotransmissions in the brain is critical for development and expression of the addictive properties of abused substances. Recent scientific advances have allowed for better understanding of the neurobiological processes that mediates drugs of abuse and addiction. This chapter presents the past classic concepts and the recent advances in our knowledge about how cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, alcohol, and nicotine alter multiple neurotransmitter systems, which contribute to the behaviors associated with each drug. Additionally, we discuss the interactive effects of HIV-1 or COVID-19 and substance abuse on neurotransmission and neurobiological pathways. Finally, we introduce therapeutic strategies for development of pharmacotherapies for substance abuse disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Davis
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States.
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Smaga I, Wydra K, Witek K, Surówka P, Suder A, Pieniążek R, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Sanak M, Filip M. Intravenous administration of Tat-NR2B9c peptide, a PSD95 inhibitor, attenuates reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior in rats. Behav Brain Res 2022; 416:113537. [PMID: 34416299 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113537] [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: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine use disorder is a serious, chronic and relapsing disease of the nervous system, for which effective treatments do not yet exist. Recently, the role of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit GluN2B has been highlighted in cocaine abstinence followed by extinction training. Since the GluN2B subunit is stabilized at synaptic level by the interaction with its scaffolding protein PSD95, in this study we aimed at investigating efficacy of Tat-NR2B9c peptide, a PSD95 inhibitor, which disrupts the interaction of PSD95 with GluN2B, in the attenuation of cocaine seeking-behavior or cue-induced reinstatement. We found that Tat-NR2B9c, administered intravenously, attenuated the reinstatement of active lever presses induced by a priming dose of cocaine or by drug-associated conditioned stimuli. At the same time, the GluN2B/PSD95 complex levels were decreased in the ventral hippocampus of rats that previously self-administered cocaine injected with Tat-NR2B9c during cocaine- or cue-induced reinstatement. In conclusion, we here provide the first evidence showing that the disruption of the GluN2B/PSD95 complexes during cocaine abstinence followed by extinction training may represent a useful strategy to reduce reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kacper Witek
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paulina Surówka
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Affective Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Suder
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Renata Pieniążek
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Marek Sanak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Skawińska 8, PL 31-066, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343, Kraków, Poland
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Smaga I, Wydra K, Suder A, Sanak M, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Filip M. Enhancement of the GluN2B subunit of glutamatergic NMDA receptors in rat brain areas after cocaine abstinence. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:1226-1239. [PMID: 34587833 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211048283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocaine use disorder is associated with compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking, whereas relapse may be induced by several factors, including stress, drug-related places, people, and cues. Recent observations strongly support the involvement of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in cocaine use disorders and abstinence, whereas withdrawal in different environments may affect the intensification of relapse. METHODS The aim of this study was to examine the GluN2B subunit expression and its association with the postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) in several brain structures in rats with a history of cocaine self-administration and housed either in an enriched environment or in an isolated condition. Furthermore, a selective antagonist of the GluN2B subunit-CP 101,606 (10 and 20 mg/kg) administered during exposure to cocaine or a drug-associated conditional stimulus (a cue) was used to evaluate seeking behavior in rats. RESULTS In rats previously self-administering cocaine, we observed an increase in the GluN2B expression in the total homogenate from the dorsal hippocampus under both enriched environment and isolation. Cocaine abstinence under isolation conditions increased the GluN2B and GluN2B/PSD95 complex levels in the PSD fraction of the prelimbic cortex in rats previously self-administering cocaine. Administration of CP 101,606 attenuated cue-induced cocaine-seeking behavior only in isolation-housed rats. CONCLUSION In summary, in this study we showed region-specific changes in both the expression of GluN2B subunit and NMDA receptor trafficking during cocaine abstinence under different housing conditions. Furthermore, we showed that the pharmacological blockade of the GluN2B subunit may be useful in attenuating cocaine-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Suder
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marek Sanak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
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Smaga I, Wydra K, Piechota M, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Sanak M, Filip M. Cocaine abstinence modulates NMDA receptor subunit expression: An analysis of the GluN2B subunit in cocaine-seeking behavior. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 109:110248. [PMID: 33485963 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine use disorder develops in part due to the strong associations formed between drugs and the stimuli associated with drug use. Recently, treatment strategies including manipulations of drug-associated memories have been investigated, and the possibility of interfering with N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-mediated neurotransmission may represent an important option. The aim of this study was to examine the significance of the NMDA receptor subunit GluN2B at the molecular level (the expression of the GluN2B subunit, the Grin2B gene and the association of GluN2B with postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95)) in the brain structures of rats with a history of cocaine self-administration after i) cocaine abstinence with extinction training or ii) cocaine abstinence without instrumental tasks, as well as at the pharmacological level (peripheral or intracranial administration of CP 101,606, a GluN2B subunit antagonist during the cocaine- or cue-induced reinstatement). The GluN2B subunit levels and the GluN2B/PSD95 complex levels were either increased in the ventral hippocampus (vHIP) with higher levels of Grin2B gene expression in the HIP or decreased in the dorsal striatum (dSTR) after cocaine abstinence with extinction training. Moreover, CP 101,606, a GluN2B subunit antagonist, administered peripherally, attenuated the reinstatement of active lever presses induced by a priming dose of cocaine or by drug-associated conditioned stimuli, while injection into the vHIP reduced the cocaine- or cue with the subthreshold dose of cocaine-induced reinstatement. In cocaine abstinence without instrumental tasks, an increase in the GluN2B subunit levels and the level of the GluN2B/PSD95 complex in the dSTR was observed in rats that had previously self-administered cocaine. In conclusion, cocaine abstinence with extinction training seems to be associated with the up-regulation of the hippocampal GluN2B subunits, which seems to control cocaine-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Marcin Piechota
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marek Sanak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Skawińska 8, PL 31-066 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
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N-acetylcysteine in substance use disorder: a lesson from preclinical and clinical research. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:1205-1219. [PMID: 34091880 PMCID: PMC8460563 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00283-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic brain condition, with compulsive and uncontrollable drug-seeking that leads to long-lasting and harmful consequences. The factors contributing to the development of SUD, as well as its treatment settings, are not fully understood. Alterations in brain glutamate homeostasis in humans and animals implicate a key role of this neurotransmitter in SUD, while the modulation of glutamate transporters has been pointed as a new strategy to diminish the excitatory glutamatergic transmission observed after drugs of abuse. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), known as a safe mucolytic agent, is involved in the regulation of this system and may be taken into account as a novel pharmacotherapy for SUD. In this paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the ability of NAC to reduce drug-seeking behavior induced by psychostimulants, opioids, cannabinoids, nicotine, and alcohol in animals and humans. Preclinical studies showed a beneficial effect in animal models of SUD, while the clinical efficacy of NAC has not been fully established. In summary, NAC will be a small add-on to usual treatment and/or psychotherapy for SUD, however, further studies are required.
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12
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Zuena AR, Casolini P, Venerosi A, Alemà GS, Nicoletti F, Calamandrei G. Selective reduction in the expression of type-1 metabotropic glutamate receptors in the hippocampus of adult rats born by caesarean section. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:333-341. [PMID: 33759234 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal hypoxia causes long-term neurobiological consequences, including alterations in mechanisms of activity-dependent synaptic plasticity and cognitive dysfunction. Changes in neurotransmitter receptors have been associated with these alterations, but little is known on how early hypoxia influences the expression and function of metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors in adult life. This is an important issue because mGlu receptors are implicated in mechanisms of synaptic plasticity. Here, we examined the expression of mGlu1, mGlu5, and mGlu2/3 receptor subtypes in the hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex, and dorsal striatum in 6-month old Wistar rats (a) born by vaginal delivery; (b) born by caesarean section; and (c) born by caesarean section followed by 20 min of asphyxia. Unexpectedly, we found a large reduction of mGlu1α protein levels in the hippocampus of rats born by caesarean section regardless of the presence of asphyxia. No changes in mGlu1α receptor protein levels were found in the other brain regions. Levels of mGlu5 and mGlu2/3 receptors and levels of GluA2/3 and GluN1 subunits of AMPA and NMDA receptors did not differ among the three groups of rats in any brain region. These results are consistent with previous findings showing that changes in mGlu1 receptors occur within the epigenetic programming caused by early-life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rita Zuena
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Casolini
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Aldina Venerosi
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Gemma Calamandrei
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, Roma, Italy
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Smaga I, Wydra K, Suder A, Frankowska M, Sanak M, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Filip M. The NMDA Receptor Subunit (GluN1 and GluN2A) Modulation Following Different Conditions of Cocaine Abstinence in Rat Brain Structures. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:556-565. [PMID: 33759085 PMCID: PMC8096759 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00350-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Different neuronal alterations within glutamatergic system seem to be crucial for developing of cocaine-seeking behavior. Cocaine exposure provokes a modulation of the NMDA receptor subunit expression in rodents, which probably contributes to cocaine-induced behavioral alterations. The aim of this study was to examine the composition of the NMDA receptor subunits in the brain structures in rats with the history of cocaine self-administration after cocaine abstinence (i) in an enriched environment, (ii) in an isolated condition, (iii) with extinction training, or (iv) without instrumental task, as well as the Grin1 (encoding GluN1) and Grin2A (encoding GluN2A) gene expression were evaluated after 10-day extinction training in rat brain structures. In the present study, we observed changes only following cocaine abstinence with extinction training, when the increased GluN2A subunit levels were seen in the postsynaptic density fraction but not in the whole homogenate of the prelimbic cortex (PLC) and dorsal hippocampus (dHIP) in rats previously self-administered cocaine. At the same time, extinction training did not change the Grin1 and Grin2A gene expression in these structures. In conclusion, NMDA receptor subunit modulation observed following cocaine abstinence with extinction training may represent a potential target in cocaine-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, PL, Poland.
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, PL, Poland
| | - Agata Suder
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, PL, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, PL, Poland
| | - Marek Sanak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Skawińska 8, 31-066, Kraków, PL, Poland
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343, Kraków, PL, Poland
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14
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Salisbury AJ, Blackwood CA, Cadet JL. Prolonged Withdrawal From Escalated Oxycodone Is Associated With Increased Expression of Glutamate Receptors in the Rat Hippocampus. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:617973. [PMID: 33536871 PMCID: PMC7848144 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.617973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
People suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD) exhibit cognitive dysfunctions. Here, we investigated potential changes in the expression of glutamate receptors in rat hippocampi at 2 h and 31 days after the last session of oxycodone self-administration (SA). RNA extracted from the hippocampus was used in quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses. Rats, given long-access (9 h per day) to oxycodone (LgA), took significantly more drug than rats exposed to short-access (3 h per day) (ShA). In addition, LgA rats could be further divided into higher oxycodone taking (LgA-H) or lower oxycodone taking (LgA-L) groups, based on a cut-off of 50 infusions per day. LgA rats, but not ShA, rats exhibited incubation of oxycodone craving. In addition, LgA rats showed increased mRNA expression of GluA1-3 and GluN2a-c subunits as well as Grm3, Grm5, Grm6, and Grm8 subtypes of glutamate receptors after 31 days but not after 2 h of stopping the SA experiment. Changes in GluA1-3, Grm6, and Grm8 mRNA levels also correlated with increased lever pressing (incubation) after long periods of withdrawal from oxycodone. More studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in altering the expression of these receptors during withdrawal from oxycodone and/or incubation of drug seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jean Lud Cadet
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Molecular Neuropsychiatry Branch, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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15
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Kalinichenko LS, Abdel-Hafiz L, Wang AL, Mühle C, Rösel N, Schumacher F, Kleuser B, Smaga I, Frankowska M, Filip M, Schaller G, Richter-Schmidinger T, Lenz B, Gulbins E, Kornhuber J, Oliveira AWC, Barros M, Huston JP, Müller CP. Neutral Sphingomyelinase is an Affective Valence-Dependent Regulator of Learning and Memory. Cereb Cortex 2021; 31:1316-1333. [PMID: 33043975 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids and enzymes of the sphingolipid rheostat determine synaptic appearance and signaling in the brain, but sphingolipid contribution to normal behavioral plasticity is little understood. Here we asked how the sphingolipid rheostat contributes to learning and memory of various dimensions. We investigated the role of these lipids in the mechanisms of two different types of memory, such as appetitively and aversively motivated memory, which are considered to be mediated by different neural mechanisms. We found an association between superior performance in short- and long-term appetitively motivated learning and regionally enhanced neutral sphingomyelinase (NSM) activity. An opposite interaction was observed in an aversively motivated task. A valence-dissociating role of NSM in learning was confirmed in mice with genetically reduced NSM activity. This role may be mediated by the NSM control of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor subunit expression. In a translational approach, we confirmed a positive association of serum NSM activity with long-term appetitively motivated memory in nonhuman primates and in healthy humans. Altogether, these data suggest a new sphingolipid mechanism of de-novo learning and memory, which is based on NSM activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liubov S Kalinichenko
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Laila Abdel-Hafiz
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - An-Li Wang
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Christiane Mühle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Nadine Rösel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Fabian Schumacher
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Institute of Nutritional Science, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14558, Germany.,Department of Molecular Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen 45147, Germany
| | - Burkhard Kleuser
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Institute of Nutritional Science, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14558, Germany
| | - Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Kraków 31-343, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Kraków 31-343, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Kraków 31-343, Poland
| | - Gerd Schaller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Tanja Richter-Schmidinger
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Bernd Lenz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany.,Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health (CIMH), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim 68159, Germany
| | - Erich Gulbins
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen 45147, Germany.,Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0558, USA
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - André W C Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Marilia Barros
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF 70910-900, Brazil.,Primate Center, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Joseph P Huston
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Christian P Müller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany
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16
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Obesity and Related Type 2 Diabetes: A Failure of the Autonomic Nervous System Controlling Gastrointestinal Function? GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/gidisord2040039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The pandemic spread of obesity and type 2 diabetes is a serious health problem that cannot be contained with common therapies. At present, the most effective therapeutic tool is metabolic surgery, which substantially modifies the gastrointestinal anatomical structure. This review reflects the state of the art research in obesity and type 2 diabetes, describing the probable reason for their spread, how the various brain sectors are involved (with particular emphasis on the role of the vagal system controlling different digestive functions), and the possible mechanisms for the effectiveness of bariatric surgery. According to the writer’s interpretation, the identification of drugs that can modulate the activity of some receptor subunits of the vagal neurons and energy-controlling structures of the central nervous system (CNS), and/or specific physical treatment of cortical areas, could reproduce, non-surgically, the positive effects of metabolic surgery.
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17
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Smaga I, Gawlińska K, Frankowska M, Wydra K, Sadakierska-Chudy A, Suder A, Piechota M, Filip M. Extinction Training after Cocaine Self-Administration Influences the Epigenetic and Genetic Machinery Responsible for Glutamatergic Transporter Gene Expression in Male Rat Brain. Neuroscience 2020; 451:99-110. [PMID: 33065231 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Glutamate is a key excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. The balance of glutamatergic transporter proteins allows long-term maintenance of glutamate homeostasis in the brain, which is impaired during cocaine use disorder. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the gene expression of SLC1A2 (encoding GLT-1), and SLC7A11 (encoding xCT), in rat brain structures after short-term (3 days) and long-term (10 days) extinction training using microarray analysis and quantitative real-time PCR. Furthermore, we analyzed the expression of genes encoding transcription factors, i.e., NFKB1 and NFKB2 (encoding NF-κB), PAX6, (encoding Pax6), and NFE2L2 (encoding Nrf2), to verify the correlation between changes in glutamatergic transporters and changes in their transcriptional factors and microRNAs (miRNAs; miR-124a, miR-543-3p and miR-342-3p) and confirm the epigenetic mechanism. We found reduced GLT-1 transcript and mRNA level in the prefrontal cortex (PFCTX) and dorsal striatum (DSTR) in rats that had previously self-administered cocaine after 3 days of extinction training, which was associated with downregulation of PAX6 (transcript and mRNA) and NFKB2 (mRNA) level in the PFCTX and with upregulation of miR-543-3p and miR-342-3p in the DSTR. The xCT mRNA level was reduced in the PFCTX and DSTR, and NFE2L2 transcript level in the PFCTX was decreased on the 3rd day of extinction training. In conclusion, 3-day drug-free period modulates GLT-1 and xCT gene expression through genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, and such changes in expression seem to be potential molecular targets for developing a treatment for cocaine-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Kinga Gawlińska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Frankowska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Sadakierska-Chudy
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Suder
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Marcin Piechota
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland
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18
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Smaga I, Wydra K, Frankowska M, Fumagalli F, Sanak M, Filip M. Cocaine Self-Administration and Abstinence Modulate NMDA Receptor Subunits and Active Zone Proteins in the Rat Nucleus Accumbens. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25153480. [PMID: 32751823 PMCID: PMC7436251 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25153480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocaine-induced plasticity in the glutamatergic transmission and its N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are critically involved in the development of substance use disorder. The presynaptic active zone proteins control structural synaptic plasticity; however, we are still far from understanding the molecular determinants important for cocaine seeking behavior. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cocaine self-administration and different conditions of cocaine forced abstinence on the composition of the NMDA receptor subunits and on the levels of active zone proteins, i.e., Ras-related protein 3A (Rab3A), Rab3 interacting molecules 1 (RIM1) and mammalian uncoordinated protein 13 (Munc13) in the rat nucleus accumbens. We found an up-regulation of the accumbal levels of GluN1 and GluN2A following cocaine self-administration that was paralleled by an increase of Munc13 and RIM1 levels. At the same time, we also demonstrated that different conditions of cocaine abstinence abolished changes in NMDA receptor subunits (except for higher GluN1 levels after cocaine abstinence with extinction training), while an increase in the Munc13 concentration was shown in rats housed in an enriched environment. In conclusion, cocaine self-administration is associated with the specific up-regulation of the NMDA receptor subunit composition and is related with new presynaptic targets controlling neurotransmitter release. Moreover, changes observed in cocaine abstinence with extinction training and in an enriched environment in the levels of NMDA receptor subunit and in the active zone protein, respectively, may represent a potential regulatory step in cocaine-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (K.W.); (M.F.); (M.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-12-6623268; Fax: +48-12-6374500
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (K.W.); (M.F.); (M.F.)
| | - Małgorzata Frankowska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (K.W.); (M.F.); (M.F.)
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Marek Sanak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Skawińska 8, PL 31-066 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Smętna 12, PL 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (K.W.); (M.F.); (M.F.)
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19
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Qian H, Wang J, Shang Q, Xiao J, Chen G, Gao B, Liang M, Li T, Liu X. The effect of protein phosphatase 2A inhibitor LB100 on regulating methamphetamine induced conditioned place preference in mice. Neurosci Lett 2020; 721:134817. [PMID: 32032748 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.134817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is an evolutionarily conserved serine/threonine phosphatase abundant in mammalian brains. Although recent research has revealed that PP2A plays important roles in cocaine and morphine addictions, the mechanism of action of PP2A in methamphetamine (METH) addiction is unclear. LB100 is a PP2A inhibitor able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB); the role of LB100 in METH-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) has not yet been reported. Here, we explored the roles of LB100 in distinct phases of METH-induced CPP. Our findings indicate that LB100 inhibits the acquisition and reinstatement of METH-induced CPP and promotes the extinction of METH-induced CPP. Moreover, LB100 alone did not affect the natural preference of mice. Intriguingly, repeated administration of LB100 in the extinction phase did not inhibit the reinstatement of METH-induced CPP, but LB100 injection prior to METH administration could significantly block it. Taken together, we found that LB100 has significant effects on different phases of METH-induced CPP, and is therefore, a potentially promising therapeutic for METH addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Qian
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Shang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Xiao
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Chen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoyao Gao
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Liang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinshe Liu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Fan XY, Shi G, Zhao P. Methylation in Syn and Psd95 genes underlie the inhibitory effect of oxytocin on oxycodone-induced conditioned place preference. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:1464-1475. [PMID: 31735530 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2019.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxycodone (Oxy) is one of the most effective analgesics in medicine, but is associated with the development of dependence. Recent studies demonstrating epigenetic changes in the brain after exposure to opiates have provided an insight into possible mechanisms underlying addiction. Oxytocin (OT), an endogenous neuropeptide well known for preventing drug abuse, is a promising pharmacotherapy to counteract addiction. Therefore, we explored the mechanism of Oxy addiction and the role of OT in Oxy-induced epigenetic alterations. In this study, drug-induced changes in conditioned place preference (CPP), i.e. the expression of synaptic proteins and synaptic density in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) were measured. We also sought to identify DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), ten-eleven translocations (TETs), global 5-methylcytosine (5-mC), and DNA methylation of two genes implicated in plasticity (Synaptophysin, Syn; Post-synaptic density protein 95, Psd95). Oxy (3.0 mg/kg, i.p.) induced CPP acquisition in Sprague-Dawley rats. Oxy down-regulated DNMT1 and up-regulated TET1-3, leading to a decrease in global 5-mC levels and differential demethylation at exon 1 of Syn and exon 2 of Psd95. These changes in DNA methylation of Syn and Psd95 elevated the expression of synaptic proteins (SYN, PSD95) and synaptic density in the VTA. Pretreatment with OT (2.5 µg, i.c.v.) via its receptor specifically blocked Oxy CPP, normalized synaptic density, and regulated DNMT1 and TET2-3 causing reverse of DNA demethylation of Syn and Psd95. DNA methylation is an important gene regulation mechanism underlying Oxy CPP, and OT - via its receptor - could specifically inhibit Oxy addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Fan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Guang Shi
- Department of Neurology, Liaoning Provincial People's Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, 110004, Shenyang, China.
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