1
|
D'Oliveira da Silva F, Robert C, Lardant E, Pizzano C, Bruchas MR, Guiard BP, Chauveau F, Moulédous L. Targeting Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor to rescue cognitive symptoms in a mouse neuroendocrine model of chronic stress. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:718-729. [PMID: 38123728 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Chronic stress causes cognitive deficits, such as impairments in episodic-like hippocampus-dependent memory. Stress regulates an opioid-related neuropeptide named Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), the ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor NOP. Since this peptide has deleterious effects on memory, we hypothesized that the N/OFQ system could be a mediator of the negative effects of stress on memory. Chronic stress was mimicked by chronic exposure to corticosterone (CORT). The NOP receptor was either acutely blocked using selective antagonists, or knocked-down specifically in the hippocampus using genetic tools. Long-term memory was assessed in the object recognition (OR) and object location (OL) paradigms. Acute injection of NOP antagonists before learning had a negative impact on memory in naive mice whereas it restored memory performances in the chronic stress model. This rescue was associated with a normalization of neuronal cell activity in the CA3 part of the hippocampus. Chronic CORT induced an upregulation of the N/OFQ precursor in the hippocampus. Knock-down of the NOP receptor in the CA3/Dentate Gyrus region prevented memory deficits in the CORT model. These data demonstrate that blocking the N/OFQ system can be beneficial for long-term memory in a neuroendocrine model of chronic stress. We therefore suggest that NOP antagonists could be useful for the treatment of memory deficits in stress-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flora D'Oliveira da Silva
- Research Center on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Center of Integrative Biology (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS UMR-5169, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Cathaline Robert
- Research Center on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Center of Integrative Biology (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS UMR-5169, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Emma Lardant
- IRBA (Army Biomedical Research Institute), Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - Carina Pizzano
- Department of Anesthesiology; Center of Excellence in Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (NAPE), University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology; Center of Excellence in Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (NAPE), University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Bruno P Guiard
- Research Center on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Center of Integrative Biology (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS UMR-5169, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Frédéric Chauveau
- IRBA (Army Biomedical Research Institute), Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - Lionel Moulédous
- Research Center on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Center of Integrative Biology (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS UMR-5169, UPS, Toulouse, France.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nakamoto K, Tokuyama S. Stress-Induced Changes in the Endogenous Opioid System Cause Dysfunction of Pain and Emotion Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11713. [PMID: 37511469 PMCID: PMC10380691 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Early life stress, such as child abuse and neglect, and psychosocial stress in adulthood are risk factors for psychiatric disorders, including depression and anxiety. Furthermore, exposure to these stresses affects the sensitivity to pain stimuli and is associated with the development of chronic pain. However, the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of stress-induced depression, anxiety, and pain control remain unclear. Endogenous opioid signaling is reportedly associated with analgesia, reward, addiction, and the regulation of stress responses and anxiety. Stress alters the expression of various opioid receptors in the central nervous system and sensitivity to opioid receptor agonists and antagonists. μ-opioid receptor-deficient mice exhibit attachment disorders and autism-like behavioral expression patterns, while those with δ-opioid receptor deficiency exhibit anxiety-like behavior. In contrast, deficiency and antagonists of the κ-opioid receptor suppress the stress response. These findings strongly suggest that the expression and dysfunction of the endogenous opioid signaling pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of stress-induced psychiatric disorders and chronic pain. In this review, we summarize the latest basic and clinical research studies on the effects of endogenous opioid signaling on early-life stress, psychosocial stress-induced psychiatric disorders, and chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Nakamoto
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-8586, Japan
| | - Shogo Tokuyama
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-8586, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
D'Oliveira da Silva F, Azevedo Neto J, Sturaro C, Guarino A, Robert C, Gavioli EC, Calo G, Mouledous L, Ruzza C. The NOP antagonist BTRX-246040 increases stress resilience in mice without affecting adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Neuropharmacology 2022; 212:109077. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
4
|
Al Yacoub ON, Awwad HO, Zhang Y, Standifer KM. Therapeutic potential of nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor modulators for treatment of traumatic brain injury, traumatic stress, and their co-morbidities. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 231:107982. [PMID: 34480968 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor is a member of the opioid receptor superfamily with N/OFQ as its endogenous agonist. Wide expression of the NOP receptor and N/OFQ, both centrally and peripherally, and their ability to modulate several biological functions has led to development of NOP receptor modulators by pharmaceutical companies as therapeutics, based upon their efficacy in preclinical models of pain, anxiety, depression, Parkinson's disease, and substance abuse. Both posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are debilitating conditions that significantly affect the quality of life of millions of people around the world. PTSD is often a consequence of TBI, and, especially for those deployed to, working and/or living in a war zone or are first responders, they are comorbid. PTSD and TBI share common symptoms, and negatively influence outcomes as comorbidities of the other. Unfortunately, a lack of effective therapies or therapeutic agents limits the long term quality of life for either TBI or PTSD patients. Ours, and other groups, demonstrated that PTSD and TBI preclinical models elicit changes in the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system, and that administration of NOP receptor ligands alleviated some of the neurobiological and behavioral changes induced by brain injury and/or traumatic stress exposure. Here we review the past and most recent progress on understanding the role of the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in PTSD and TBI neurological and behavioral sequelae. There is still more to understand about this neuropeptide system in both PTSD and TBI, but current findings warrant further examination of the potential utility of NOP modulators as therapeutics for these disorders and their co-morbidities. We advocate the development of standards for common data elements (CDE) reporting for preclinical PTSD studies, similar to current preclinical TBI CDEs. That would provide for more standardized data collection and reporting to improve reproducibility, interpretation and data sharing across studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar N Al Yacoub
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America
| | - Hibah O Awwad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ubaldi M, Cannella N, Borruto AM, Petrella M, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Soverchia L, Stopponi S, Weiss F, Cifani C, Ciccocioppo R. Role of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ-NOP Receptor System in the Regulation of Stress-Related Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12956. [PMID: 34884757 PMCID: PMC8657682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a 17-residue neuropeptide that binds the nociceptin opioid-like receptor (NOP). N/OFQ exhibits nucleotidic and aminoacidics sequence homology with the precursors of other opioid neuropeptides but it does not activate either MOP, KOP or DOP receptors. Furthermore, opioid neuropeptides do not activate the NOP receptor. Generally, activation of N/OFQ system exerts anti-opioids effects, for instance toward opioid-induced reward and analgesia. The NOP receptor is widely expressed throughout the brain, whereas N/OFQ localization is confined to brain nuclei that are involved in stress response such as amygdala, BNST and hypothalamus. Decades of studies have delineated the biological role of this system demonstrating its involvement in significant physiological processes such as pain, learning and memory, anxiety, depression, feeding, drug and alcohol dependence. This review discusses the role of this peptidergic system in the modulation of stress and stress-associated psychiatric disorders in particular drug addiction, mood, anxiety and food-related associated-disorders. Emerging preclinical evidence suggests that both NOP agonists and antagonists may represent a effective therapeutic approaches for substances use disorder. Moreover, the current literature suggests that NOP antagonists can be useful to treat depression and feeding-related diseases, such as obesity and binge eating behavior, whereas the activation of NOP receptor by agonists could be a promising tool for anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Ubaldi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Nazzareno Cannella
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Anna Maria Borruto
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Michele Petrella
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Micioni Di Bonaventura
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Laura Soverchia
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Serena Stopponi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Friedbert Weiss
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gavioli EC, Holanda VAD, Calo G, Ruzza C. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor system blockade as an innovative strategy for increasing resilience to stress. Peptides 2021; 141:170548. [PMID: 33862163 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The ability to successfully cope with stress is known as 'resilience', and resilient individuals are less prone to develop psychopathologies. Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of resilience may be instrumental to improve current therapies and benefit high-risk subjects. This review summarizes the complex interplay that exists between physiological and pathological responses to stressful events and the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) - N/OFQ receptor (NOP) system, including: the effects of stress in regulating N/OFQ release and NOP expression; the ability of the N/OFQ-NOP system to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; behavioral studies; and evidence in humans correlating this peptidergic system with psychopathologies. Available findings support the view that N/OFQ signaling stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thus increasing stress circulating hormones and corticotropin-releasing factor signaling. Additionally, activation of the NOP receptor inhibits monoamine transmission, including 5-HT, and this may contribute to maladaptive outcomes of stress. Ultimately, the N/OFQ system seems to have an important role in stress vulnerability, and blockade of NOP signaling may provide an innovative strategy for the treatment of stress related psychopathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Victor A D Holanda
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Driscoll JR, Wallace TL, Mansourian KA, Martin WJ, Margolis EB. Differential Modulation of Ventral Tegmental Area Circuits by the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ System. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0376-19.2020. [PMID: 32747458 PMCID: PMC7840174 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0376-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) can be released by stressors and is associated with disorders of emotion regulation and reward processing. N/OFQ and its receptor, NOP, are enriched in dopaminergic pathways, and intra-ventricular agonist delivery decreases dopamine levels in the dorsal striatum, nucleus accumbens (NAc), and ventral tegmental area (VTA). We used whole-cell electrophysiology in acute rat midbrain slices to investigate synaptic actions of N/OFQ. N/OFQ was primarily inhibitory, causing outward currents in both immunocytochemically identified dopaminergic (tyrosine hydroxylase positive (TH(+))) and non-dopaminergic (TH(-)) VTA neurons; effect at 1 μm: 20 ± 4 pA. Surprisingly, this effect was mediated by augmentation of postsynaptic GABAAR currents, unlike the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), where the N/OFQ-induced outward currents were K+ channel dependent. A smaller population, 17% of all VTA neurons, responded to low concentrations of N/OFQ with inward currents (10 nm: -11 ± 2 pA). Following 100 nm N/OFQ, the response to a second N/OFQ application was markedly diminished in VTA neurons (14 ± 10% of first response) but not in SNc neurons (90 ± 20% of first response). N/OFQ generated outward currents in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC)-projecting VTA neurons, but inward currents in a subset of posterior anterior cingulate cortex (pACC)-projecting VTA neurons. While N/OFQ inhibited NAc-projecting VTA cell bodies, it had little effect on electrically or optogenetically evoked terminal dopamine release in the NAc measured ex vivo with fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV). These results extend our understanding of the N/OFQ system in brainstem circuits implicated in many neurobehavioral disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph R Driscoll
- BlackThorn Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA 94103
- UCSF Weill Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | | | - Kasra A Mansourian
- UCSF Weill Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | | | - Elyssa B Margolis
- UCSF Weill Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Holanda VAD, Oliveira MC, Da Silva Junior ED, Calo' G, Ruzza C, Gavioli EC. Blockade of nociceptin/orphanin FQ signaling facilitates an active copying strategy due to acute and repeated stressful stimuli in mice. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 13:100255. [PMID: 33344710 PMCID: PMC7739191 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of stress in the etiology of depression has been largely reported. In this line, exogenous glucocorticoids are employed to mimic the influence of stress on the development of depression. The N/OFQ-NOP receptor system has been implicated in the modulation of stress and emotional behaviors. In fact, the blockade of NOP receptors induces antidepressant effects and increases resilience to acute stress. This study investigated the effects of the NOP receptor blockade on dexamethasone-treated mice exposed to acute and prolonged swimming stress. Swiss and NOP(+/+) and NOP(−/−) mice were treated with dexamethasone, and the protective effects of the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (10 mg/kg, ip) or imipramine (20 mg/kg, ip) were investigated in three swimming sessions. The re-exposure to swim stress increased immobility time in Swiss and NOP(+/+), but not in NOP(−/−) mice. Acute and repeated dexamethasone administration induced a further increase in the immobility time, and facilitated body weight loss in Swiss mice. Single administration of SB-612111, but not imipramine, prevented swimming stress- and dexamethasone-induced increase in the immobility time. Repeated administrations of SB-612111 prevented the deleterious effects of 5 days of dexamethasone treatment. Imipramine also partially prevented the effects of repeated glucocorticoid administration on the immobility time, but did not affect the body weight loss. NOP(−/−) mice were more resistant than NOP(+/+) mice to inescapable swimming stress, but not dexamethasone-induced increase in the immobility time and body weight loss. In conclusion, the blockade of the NOP receptor facilitates an active stress copying response and attenuates body weight loss due to repeated stress.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone
- CRF, corticotrophin releasing factor
- Dexamethasone
- Forced swimming test
- GR, glucocorticoid receptor
- HPA, hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis
- LPS, lipopolysaccharide
- MR, mineralocorticoid receptor
- Mouse
- N/OFQ, nociceptin/orphanin FQ
- NOP receptor
- NOP, nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor
- Nociceptin/orphanin FQ
- POMC, opiomelanocortin
- SB-612111
- SPF, specific pathogen-free
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A D Holanda
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Matheus C Oliveira
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Edilson D Da Silva Junior
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Blockade of NOP receptor modulates anxiety-related behaviors in mice exposed to inescapable stress. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1633-1642. [PMID: 32095915 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05487-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Depression and anxiety frequently co-occur, and this has important clinical implications. Previous studies showed that activation of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor (NOP) elicits anxiolytic effects, while its blockade promotes consistent antidepressant actions. NOP antagonists are effective in reversing footshock-induced depressive-like behaviors, but their effects on stress-induced anxiety are still unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the effects of the NOP antagonist SB-612111 on footshock stress-induced anxiety behaviors. METHODS Male Swiss mice were exposed to inescapable electric footshock stress, and behavioral phenotype was screened based on the ability to escape from footshock (i.e., helpless or non-helpless). Animals were then treated with diazepam (1 mg/kg) and SB-612111 (0.1-10 mg/kg), and their behavior was assessed in the elevated plus-maze (EPM) and open field test. RESULTS When compared with non-stressed mice, helpless, but not non-helpless, animals displayed significant reductions in the time spent in and entries into open arms in the EPM. Diazepam significantly increased open arms exploration in helpless, non-helpless, and non-stressed mice. However, treatment with the NOP antagonist SB-612111 was inactive in naive mice, while it reversed anxiogenic-related behaviors in helpless mice and increased anxiety states in non-helpless mice. No effects on locomotion were observed. CONCLUSION Helpless mice displayed increased anxiety compared to non-stressed and non-helpless animals, thus supporting use of this approach as an animal model to investigate anxiety/depression comorbidity. Additionally, SB-612111 modulated anxiety-like behaviors in male mice depending on individual stress susceptibility. Ultimately, NOP antagonists could be useful for treating anxiety in depressed patients.
Collapse
|
10
|
Holanda VAD, Pacifico S, Azevedo Neto J, Finetti L, Lobão-Soares B, Calo G, Gavioli EC, Ruzza C. Modulation of the NOP receptor signaling affects resilience to acute stress. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1540-1549. [PMID: 31337258 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119864942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP) are implicated in the modulation of emotional states. Previous human and rodent findings support NOP antagonists as antidepressants. However, the role played by the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in resilience to stress is unclear. AIMS The present study investigated the effects of activation or blockade of NOP receptor signaling before exposure to acute stress. METHODS The behavioral effects of the administration before stress of the NOP agonists Ro 65-6570 (0.01-1 mg/kg) and MCOPPB (0.1-10 mg/kg), and the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg) were assessed in mice exposed to inescapable electric footshock and forced swim as stressors. The behavioral phenotype of mice lacking the NOP receptor (NOP(-/-)) exposed to inescapable electric footshock was also investigated. RESULTS The activation of NOP receptor signaling with the agonists increased the percentage of mice developing helpless behavior and facilitated immobile posture. In contrast, the blockade of NOP receptor reduced the acquisition of depressive-like phenotypes, and similar resistance to develop helpless behaviors was observed in NOP(-/-) mice. Under the same stressful conditions, the antidepressant nortriptyline (20 mg/kg) did not change the acquisition of helpless behavior and immobile posture. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the view that NOP activation during acute stress facilitates the development of depressive-related behaviors, whereas NOP blockade has a protective outcome. This study showed for first time that NOP antagonists are worthy of investigation as preemptive treatments in patients with severe risk factors for depression.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Benzimidazoles/administration & dosage
- Benzimidazoles/pharmacology
- Cycloheptanes/administration & dosage
- Cycloheptanes/pharmacology
- Depression/drug therapy
- Depression/physiopathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Imidazoles/administration & dosage
- Imidazoles/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Nortriptyline/pharmacology
- Opioid Peptides/metabolism
- Piperidines/administration & dosage
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Receptors, Opioid/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid/genetics
- Receptors, Opioid/metabolism
- Resilience, Psychological/drug effects
- Spiro Compounds/administration & dosage
- Spiro Compounds/pharmacology
- Stress, Psychological/drug therapy
- Stress, Psychological/physiopathology
- Nociceptin Receptor
- Nociceptin
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A D Holanda
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joaquim Azevedo Neto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Finetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bruno Lobão-Soares
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li H, Page AJ. Activation of CRF2 receptor increases gastric vagal afferent mechanosensitivity. J Neurophysiol 2019; 122:2636-2642. [DOI: 10.1152/jn.00619.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric vagal afferent (GVA) sensing of food-related mechanical stimuli is a crucial mechanism in the control of feeding behavior and gastric function. Stress is an important factor contributing to eating disorders and gastric diseases. Chronic stress has been shown to increase the mechanosensitivity of GVAs in mice and to reduce food intake and body weight. Whether the mechanosensitivity of GVAs is modulated by stress hormones is not known. This study aimed to determine the effect of stress hormones on GVA mechanosensitivity. The expression of stress hormone receptors in GVA cell bodies was determined in 8-wk-old male C57BL/6 mice using quantitative RT-PCR combined with laser capture microdissection. The mechanosensitivity of GVAs was determined in the absence and presence of stress hormones using an in vitro single-fiber recording preparation. NR3C1 and CRHR2 (mRNA isoforms of glucocorticoid receptor and CRF2 receptor, respectively) were expressed in GVA neurons. The glucocorticoid receptor agonist corticosterone had no effect on the mechanosensitivity of either tension or mucosal GVAs. Activation of CRF2 receptor by its specific analog, urocortin 3, significantly increased the mechanosensitivity of both tension and mucosal GVAs, an effect prevented by the CRF2 receptor antagonist astressin 2B. In conclusion, activation of CRF2 receptor increases the mechanosensitivity of GVAs. This may contribute to the stress- and CRF2 receptor-associated changes in feeding behavior and gastric function, possibly contributing to the hypersensitivity of GVAs in chronic stress conditions. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Gastric vagal afferents (GVAs) relay food-related signals to the central nervous system, where they are processed, eventually leading to modulation of food intake and gastric function. GVA signaling can be modulated by an array of hormones. Stress has been shown to induce GVA hypersensitivity. This study demonstrates that GVA neurons express subtypes of stress hormone receptors, specifically CRF2. Furthermore, activation of CRF2 receptor increases GVA mechanosensitivity, which could have implications for food intake and gastric function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Vagal Afferent Research Group, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Diabetes, Nutrition & Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amanda J. Page
- Vagal Afferent Research Group, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Diabetes, Nutrition & Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Park JY, Chae S, Kim CS, Kim YJ, Yi HJ, Han E, Joo Y, Hong S, Yun JW, Kim H, Shin KH. Role of nociceptin/orphanin FQ and nociceptin opioid peptide receptor in depression and antidepressant effects of nociceptin opioid peptide receptor antagonists. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2019; 23:427-448. [PMID: 31680765 PMCID: PMC6819898 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2019.23.6.427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor, nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor, are localized in brain areas implicated in depression including the amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, habenula, and monoaminergic nuclei in the brain stem. N/OFQ inhibits neuronal excitability of monoaminergic neurons and monoamine release from their terminals by activation of G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying K+ channels and inhibition of voltage sensitive calcium channels, respectively. Therefore, NOP receptor antagonists have been proposed as a potential antidepressant. Indeed, mounting evidence shows that NOP receptor antagonists have antidepressant-like effects in various preclinical animal models of depression, and recent clinical studies again confirmed the idea that blockade of NOP receptor signaling could provide a novel strategy for the treatment of depression. In this review, we describe the pharmacological effects of N/OFQ in relation to depression and explore the possible mechanism of NOP receptor antagonists as potential antidepressants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jong Yung Park
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Suji Chae
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Chang Seop Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Yoon Jae Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Hyun Joo Yi
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Eunjoo Han
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Youngshin Joo
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Surim Hong
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Jae Won Yun
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Hyojung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Kyung Ho Shin
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Narendran R, Tollefson S, Fasenmyer K, Paris J, Himes ML, Lopresti B, Ciccocioppo R, Mason NS. Decreased Nociceptin Receptors Are Related to Resilience and Recovery in College Women Who Have Experienced Sexual Violence: Therapeutic Implications for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 85:1056-1064. [PMID: 30954231 PMCID: PMC7035950 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a stress disorder that develops in only some individuals following a traumatic event. Data suggest that a substantial fraction of women recover after sexual violence. Thus, the investigation of stress and antistress neuropeptides in this sample has the potential to inform the neurochemistry of resilience following trauma. Nociceptin is an antistress neuropeptide in the brain that promotes resilience in animal models of PTSD. METHODS [11C]NOP-1A positron emission tomography was used to measure the in vivo binding to nociceptin receptors in 18 college women who had experienced sexual violence irrespective of whether they met DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for PTSD. [11C]NOP-1A data from 18 healthy control subjects were also included to provide a contrast with the sexual violence group. [11C]NOP-1A total distribution volume (VT) in the regions of interest were measured with kinetic analysis using the arterial input function. The relationships between regional VT and Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 total symptom and subscale severity were examined using correlational analyses. RESULTS No differences in [11C]NOP-1A VT were noted between the sexual violence and control groups. VT in the midbrain and cerebellum were positively correlated with PTSD total symptom severity in the past month before positron emission tomography. Intrusion/re-experiencing and avoidance subscale symptoms drove this relationship. Stratification of subjects by a DSM-5 PTSD diagnosis and contrasting their VT with that in control subjects showed no group differences. CONCLUSIONS Decreased midbrain and cerebellum nociceptin receptors are associated with less severe PTSD symptoms. Medications that target nociceptin should be explored to prevent and treat PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Narendran
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
| | | | - Kelli Fasenmyer
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Jennifer Paris
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Michael L. Himes
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Brian Lopresti
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - N. Scott Mason
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Browne CA, Lucki I. Targeting opioid dysregulation in depression for the development of novel therapeutics. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 201:51-76. [PMID: 31051197 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the serendipitous discovery of the first class of modern antidepressants in the 1950's, all pharmacotherapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration for major depressive disorder (MDD) have shared a common mechanism of action, increased monoaminergic neurotransmission. Despite the widespread availability of antidepressants, as many as 50% of depressed patients are resistant to these conventional therapies. The significant length of time required to produce meaningful symptom relief with these medications, 4-6 weeks, indicates that other mechanisms are likely involved in the pathophysiology of depression which may yield more viable targets for drug development. For decades, no viable candidate target with a different mechanism of action to that of conventional therapies proved successful in clinical studies. Now several exciting avenues for drug development are under intense investigation. One of these emerging targets is modulation of endogenous opioid tone. This review will evaluate preclinical and clinical evidence pertaining to opioid dysregulation in depression, focusing on the role of the endogenous ligands endorphin, enkephalin, dynorphin, and nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and their respective receptors, mu (MOR), delta (DOR), kappa (KOR), and the N/OFQ receptor (NOP) in mediating behaviors relevant to depression and anxiety. Finally, putative opioid based antidepressants that are under investigation in clinical trials, ALKS5461, JNJ-67953964 (formerly LY2456302 and CERC-501) and BTRX-246040 (formerly LY-2940094) will be discussed. This review will illustrate the potential therapeutic value of targeting opioid dysregulation in developing novel therapies for MDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A Browne
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America
| | - Irwin Lucki
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Torres-Berrio A, Nava-Mesa MO. The opioid system in stress-induced memory disorders: From basic mechanisms to clinical implications in post-traumatic stress disorder and Alzheimer's disease. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 88:327-338. [PMID: 30118823 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive and emotional impairment are a serious consequence of stress exposure and are core features of neurological and psychiatric conditions that involve memory disorders. Indeed, acute and chronic stress are high-risk factors for the onset of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), two devastating brain disorders associated with memory dysfunction. Besides the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, stress response also involves the activation of the opioid system in brain regions associated with stress regulation and memory processing. In this context, it is possible that stress-induced memory disorders may be attributed to alterations in the interaction between the neuroendocrine stress system and the opioid system. In this review, we: (1) describe the effects of acute and chronic stress on memory, and the modulatory role of the opioid system, (2) discuss the contribution of the opioid system to the pathophysiology of PTSD and AD, and (3) present evidence of current and potential therapies that target the opioid receptors to treat PTSD- and AD-associated symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauricio O Nava-Mesa
- Neuroscience Research Group (NEUROS), School of Medicine, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Holanda VAD, Santos WB, Asth L, Guerrini R, Calo' G, Ruzza C, Gavioli EC. NOP agonists prevent the antidepressant-like effects of nortriptyline and fluoxetine but not R-ketamine. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:3093-3102. [PMID: 30145654 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5004-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the endogenous ligand of a Gi protein-coupled receptor named NOP. Both N/OFQ and NOP receptor are widely expressed in brain areas involved in the control of emotional processes. Clinical and preclinical studies support antidepressant effects due to the blockade of NOP receptor signaling. By contrast, NOP receptor activation did not evoke any change in behavioral despair tests. OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to investigate the effects of the co-administration of NOP agonists and classic antidepressant drugs in the forced swimming test (FST) and learned helplessness model (LH) in mice. METHODS Male Swiss mice were co-administered with NOP agonists (N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570) and antidepressants (nortriptyline, fluoxetine, and R-ketamine) or SB-612111 (NOP antagonist) and the behavioral effects were assessed in the FST and LH tests. RESULTS Fluoxetine, nortriptyline, R-ketamine and the NOP antagonist SB-612111 displayed antidepressant-like effects in the FST. The administration of the NOP agonists N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570 did not induce any behavioral change. However, co-administration of NOP agonists blocked the antidepressant effects of SB-612111, fluoxetine, and nortriptyline, but not R-ketamine in the FST. Similarly, in the LH, the systemic injection of SB-612111, nortriptyline, and R-ketamine reversed helplessness. The co-administration of Ro 65-6570 blocked the antidepressant-like effects of SB-612111 and nortriptyline, but not R-ketamine. CONCLUSIONS NOP receptor activation inhibits the acute antidepressant effects of nortriptyline and fluoxetine, but not R-ketamine. The present findings contribute to further understand the role played by the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in regulating mood states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A D Holanda
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Senador Salgado Filho, sn, Campus Universitário, Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Wilton B Santos
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Senador Salgado Filho, sn, Campus Universitário, Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Laila Asth
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Senador Salgado Filho, sn, Campus Universitário, Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Senador Salgado Filho, sn, Campus Universitário, Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59072-970, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Khan MS, Boileau I, Kolla N, Mizrahi R. A systematic review of the role of the nociceptin receptor system in stress, cognition, and reward: relevance to schizophrenia. Transl Psychiatry 2018; 8:38. [PMID: 29391391 PMCID: PMC5804030 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-017-0080-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating neuropsychiatric illness that is characterized by positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. Research over the past two decades suggests that the nociceptin receptor system may be involved in domains affected in schizophrenia, based on evidence aligning it with hallmark features of the disorder. First, aberrant glutamatergic and striatal dopaminergic function are associated with psychotic symptoms, and the nociceptin receptor system has been shown to regulate dopamine and glutamate transmission. Second, stress is a critical risk factor for first break and relapse in schizophrenia, and evidence suggests that the nociceptin receptor system is also directly involved in stress modulation. Third, cognitive deficits are prevalent in schizophrenia, and the nociceptin receptor system has significant impact on learning and working memory. Last, reward processing is disrupted in schizophrenia, and nociceptin signaling has been shown to regulate reward cue salience. These findings provide the foundation for the involvement of the nociceptin receptor system in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and outline the need for future research into this system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saad Khan
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Nathan Kolla
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Romina Mizrahi
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vitalone A, Di Sotto A, Mammola CL, Heyn R, Miglietta S, Mariani P, Sciubba F, Passarelli F, Nativio P, Mazzanti G. Phytochemical analysis and effects on ingestive behaviour of a Caralluma fimbriata extract. Food Chem Toxicol 2017; 108:63-73. [PMID: 28713048 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2017.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Caralluma fimbriata Wall. is currently used as a "natural slimming" food supplement, likely due to its content in pregnane glycosides. In the present study, a commercially available Caralluma fimbriata extract (Slimaluma®; CFE, 100 mg/kg) has been evaluated for its ability to affect the ingestive behaviour in female rats, also with reference to the modulation of the brain neuropeptides NPY and ORX.The interference of CFE with α-amylase and lipase enzymes has been investigated in vitro, as possible peripheral mechanism of action. Also, the chemical composition of CFE has been assessed by NMR and spectrophotometric analysis. Results from in vivo study showed that CFE induced effects neither on blood parameters, nor on liver and gut histomorphology. Interestingly, a reduction in body weight gain with an increase in water intake and hypothalamic levels of NPY and ORX peptides were found. Phytochemical analysis, showed CFE contained about 12% of pregnane glycosides and 1.3% of polyphenols. Present results suggest possible effects of C. fimbriata on ingestive behaviour, likely mediated by central and peripheral mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annabella Vitalone
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Sotto
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Caterina Loredana Mammola
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosemarie Heyn
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Selenia Miglietta
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Mariani
- Department of General and Specialized Surgery "P. Stefanini", Sapienza University of Rome, V.le Del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Sciubba
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Passarelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine and of Medical Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Nativio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and of Medical Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriela Mazzanti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Der-Avakian A, D'Souza MS, Potter DN, Chartoff EH, Carlezon WA, Pizzagalli DA, Markou A. Social defeat disrupts reward learning and potentiates striatal nociceptin/orphanin FQ mRNA in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2017; 234:1603-1614. [PMID: 28280884 PMCID: PMC5420477 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4584-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Mood disorders can be triggered by stress and are characterized by deficits in reward processing, including disrupted reward learning (the ability to modulate behavior according to past rewards). Reward learning is regulated by the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and striatal circuits, both of which are implicated in the pathophysiology of mood disorders. OBJECTIVES Here, we assessed in rats the effects of a potent stressor (social defeat) on reward learning and gene expression in the ACC, ventral tegmental area (VTA), and striatum. METHODS Adult male Wistar rats were trained on an operant probabilistic reward task (PRT) and then exposed to 3 days of social defeat before assessment of reward learning. After testing, the ACC, VTA, and striatum were dissected, and expression of genes previously implicated in stress was assessed. RESULT Social defeat blunted reward learning (manifested as reduced response bias toward a more frequently rewarded stimulus) and was associated with increased nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide mRNA levels in the striatum and decreased Fos mRNA levels in the VTA. Moreover, N/OFQ peptide and nociceptin receptor mRNA levels in the ACC, VTA and striatum were inversely related to reward learning. CONCLUSIONS The behavioral findings parallel previous data in humans, suggesting that stress similarly disrupts reward learning in both species. Increased striatal N/OFQ mRNA in stressed rats characterized by impaired reward learning is consistent with accumulating evidence that antagonism of nociceptin receptors, which bind N/OFQ, has antidepressant-like effects. These results raise the possibility that nociceptin systems represent a molecular substrate through which stress produces reward learning deficits in mood disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andre Der-Avakian
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Manoranjan S D'Souza
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH, USA
| | - David N Potter
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Elena H Chartoff
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - William A Carlezon
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Diego A Pizzagalli
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA.
| | - Athina Markou
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Moretto JN, Duffy ÁM, Scharfman HE. Acute restraint stress decreases c-fos immunoreactivity in hilar mossy cells of the adult dentate gyrus. Brain Struct Funct 2017; 222:2405-2419. [PMID: 28190104 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-016-1349-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although a great deal of information is available about the circuitry of the mossy cells (MCs) of the dentate gyrus (DG) hilus, their activity in vivo is not clear. The immediate early gene c-fos can be used to gain insight into the activity of MCs in vivo, because c-fos protein expression reflects increased neuronal activity. In prior work, it was identified that control rats that were perfusion-fixed after removal from their home cage exhibited c-fos immunoreactivity (ir) in the DG in a spatially stereotyped pattern: ventral MCs and dorsal granule cells (GCs) expressed c-fos protein (Duffy et al., Hippocampus 23:649-655, 2013). In this study, we hypothesized that restraint stress would alter c-fos-ir, because MCs express glucocorticoid type 2 receptors and the DG is considered to be involved in behaviors related to stress or anxiety. We show that acute restraint using a transparent nose cone for just 10 min led to reduced c-fos-ir in ventral MCs compared to control rats. In these comparisons, c-fos-ir was evaluated 30 min after the 10 min-long period of restraint, and if evaluation was later than 30 min c-fos-ir was no longer suppressed. Granule cells (GCs) also showed suppressed c-fos-ir after acute restraint, but it was different than MCs, because the suppression persisted for over 30 min after the restraint. We conclude that c-fos protein expression is rapidly and transiently reduced in ventral hilar MCs after a brief period of restraint, and suppressed longer in dorsal GCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian N Moretto
- The Nathan Kline Institute of Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, 10962, USA
| | - Áine M Duffy
- The Nathan Kline Institute of Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, 10962, USA
| | - Helen E Scharfman
- The Nathan Kline Institute of Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, 10962, USA. .,Departments of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Physiology and Neuroscience, and Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lutz PE, Zhou Y, Labbe A, Mechawar N, Turecki G. Decreased expression of nociceptin/orphanin FQ in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex of suicides. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:2008-14. [PMID: 26349406 PMCID: PMC4655195 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ)-Nociceptin Opiod-like Peptide (NOP) receptor system is a critical mediator of physiological and pathological processes involved in emotional regulation and drug addiction. As such, this system may be an important biological substrate underlying psychiatric conditions that contribute to the risk of suicide. Thus, the goal of the present study was to characterize changes in human N/OFQ and NOP signaling as a function of depression, addiction and suicide. We quantified the expression of N/OFQ and NOP by RT-PCR in the anterior insula, the mediodorsal thalamus, and the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) from a large sample of individuals who died by suicide and matched psychiatrically-healthy controls. Suicides displayed an 18% decrease in the expression of N/OFQ in the dACC that was not accounted for by current depressive or substance use disorders at the time of death. Therefore, our results suggest that dysregulation of the N/OFQ-NOP system may contribute to the neurobiology of suicide, a hypothesis that warrants further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Eric Lutz
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Verdun, Quebec, Canada H4H 1R3
| | - Yi Zhou
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Verdun, Quebec, Canada H4H 1R3
| | - Aurélie Labbe
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Verdun, Quebec, Canada H4H 1R3; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Canada
| | - Naguib Mechawar
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Verdun, Quebec, Canada H4H 1R3; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Canada
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Verdun, Quebec, Canada H4H 1R3; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Nativio P, Zoratto F, Romano E, Lacivita E, Leopoldo M, Pascale E, Passarelli F, Laviola G, Adriani W. Stimulation of 5-HT7 receptor during adolescence determines its persistent upregulation in adult rat forebrain areas. Synapse 2015; 69:533-42. [PMID: 26364910 DOI: 10.1002/syn.21846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Brain serotonin 7 (5-HT7) receptors play an important functional role in learning and memory, in regulation of mood and motivation, and for circadian rhythms. Recently, we have studied the modulatory effects of a developmental exposure (under subchronic regimen) in rats with LP-211, a brain-penetrant and selective 5-HT7 receptor agonist. We aimed at further deciphering long-term sequelae into adulthood. LP-211 (0.250 mg/kg i.p., once/day) was administered for 5 days during the adolescent phase (postnatal days 43-45 to 47-49). When adult (postnatal days >70), forebrain areas were obtained for ex vivo immunohistochemistry, whose results prompted us to reconsider the brain connectivity maps presented in our previous study (Canese et al., Psycho-Pharmacol 2015;232:75-89.) Significant elevation in levels of 5-HT7 receptors were evidenced due to adolescent LP-211 exposure, in dorsal striatum (which also shows an increase of dopaminergic D2 auto-receptors) and-unexpectedly-in piriform cortex, with no changes in ventral striatum. We observed that functional connectivity from a seed on the right hippocampus was more extended than reported, also including the piriform cortex. As a whole, the cortical loop rearranged by adolescent LP-211 exposure consisted in a hippocampus receiving connections from piriform cortex and dorsal striatum, the latter both directly and through functional control over the 'extended amygdala'. Such results represent a starting point to explore neurophysiology of 5-HT7 receptors. Further investigation is warranted to develop therapies for sleep disorders, for impaired emotional and motivational regulation, for attentive and executive deficit. The 5-HT7 agonist LP-211 (0.250 mg/kg i.p., once/day) was administered for 5 days during adolescence (postnatal days 43-45 to 47-49) in rats. When adult (postnatal days >70), a significant elevation in levels of 5-HT7 receptors were evidenced in dorsal striatum and-unexpectedly-in piriform cortex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Nativio
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and of Medical Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Zoratto
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Emilia Romano
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Enza Lacivita
- Department of Pharmacy, Università Degli Studi "a. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Department of Pharmacy, Università Degli Studi "a. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Esterina Pascale
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and of Medical Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Passarelli
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and of Medical Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Laviola
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Walter Adriani
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stress and opioids: role of opioids in modulating stress-related behavior and effect of stress on morphine conditioned place preference. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 51:138-50. [PMID: 25636946 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Revised: 12/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Research studies have defined the important role of endogenous opioids in modulating stress-associated behavior. The release of β-endorphins in the amygdala in response to stress helps to cope with a stressor by inhibiting the over-activation of HPA axis. Administration of mu opioid agonists reduces the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a traumatic event by inhibiting fear-related memory consolidation. Similarly, the release of endogenous enkephalin and nociceptin in the basolateral amygdala and the nucleus accumbens tends to produce the anti-stress effects. An increase in dynorphin levels during prolonged exposure to stress may produce learned helplessness, dysphoria and depression. Stress also influences morphine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) depending upon the intensity and duration of the stressor. Acute stress inhibits morphine CPP, while chronic stress potentiates CPP. The development of dysphoria due to increased dynorphin levels may contribute to chronic stress-induced potentiation of morphine CPP. The activation of ERK/cyclic AMP responsive element-binding (CREB) signaling in the mesocorticolimbic area, glucocorticoid receptors in the basolateral amygdala, and norepinephrine and galanin system in the nucleus accumbens may decrease the acute stress-induced inhibition of morphine CPP. The increase in dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens and augmentation of GABAergic transmission in the median prefrontal cortex may contribute in potentiating morphine CPP. Stress exposure reinstates the extinct morphine CPP by activating the orexin receptors in the nucleus accumbens, decreasing the oxytocin levels in the lateral septum and amygdala, and altering the GABAergic transmission (activation of GABAA and inactivation of GABAB receptors). The present review describes these varied interactions between opioids and stress along with the possible mechanism.
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang Y, Simpson-Durand CD, Standifer KM. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor antagonist JTC-801 reverses pain and anxiety symptoms in a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:571-82. [PMID: 24666365 PMCID: PMC4292969 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Single-prolonged stress (SPS), a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), also induces long-lasting hyperalgesia associated with hypocortisolism and elevated nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) levels in serum and CSF. Here, we determined the effect of JTC-801 (N-(4-amino-2-methylquinolin-6-yl)-2-(4-ethylphenoxymethyl) benzamide monohydrochloride), a nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor antagonist, on symptoms of pain and anxiety in rats after SPS exposure, and examined N/OFQ-NOP receptor system changes. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male Sprague Dawley rats received JTC-801 (6 mg kg(-1) i.p., once daily) during days 7-21 of SPS. The ability of JTC-801 to inhibit N/OFQ-stimulated [(35) S]-GTPγS binding was confirmed in rat brain membranes. Anxiety-like behaviour and pain sensitivity were monitored by changes in elevated plus maze performance and withdrawal responses to thermal and mechanical stimuli. Serum corticosterone and N/OFQ content in CSF, serum and brain tissues were determined by radioimmunoassay; NOP receptor protein and gene expression in amygdala, hippocampus and periaqueductal grey (PAG) were examined by immunoblotting and real-time PCR respectively. KEY RESULTS JTC-801 treatment reversed SPS-induced mechanical allodynia, thermal hyperalgesia, anxiety-like behaviour and hypocortisolism. Elevated N/OFQ levels in serum, CSF, PAG and hippocampus at day 21 of SPS were blocked by JTC-801; daily JTC-801 treatment also reversed NOP receptor protein and mRNA up-regulation in amygdala and PAG. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS JTC-801 reversed SPS-induced anxiety- and pain-like behaviours, and NOP receptor system up-regulation. These findings suggest that N/OFQ plays an important role in hyperalgesia and allodynia maintenance after SPS. NOP receptor antagonists may provide effective treatment for co-morbid PTSD and pain. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
De Filippis B, Nativio P, Fabbri A, Ricceri L, Adriani W, Lacivita E, Leopoldo M, Passarelli F, Fuso A, Laviola G. Pharmacological stimulation of the brain serotonin receptor 7 as a novel therapeutic approach for Rett syndrome. Neuropsychopharmacology 2014; 39:2506-18. [PMID: 24809912 PMCID: PMC4207333 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by severe behavioral and physiological symptoms. Mutations in the methyl CpG-binding protein 2 gene (MECP2) cause >95% of classic cases, and currently there is no cure for this devastating disorder. The serotonin receptor 7 (5-HT7R) is linked to neuro-physiological regulation of circadian rhythm, mood, cognition, and synaptic plasticity. We presently report that 5-HT7R density is consistently reduced in cortical and hippocampal brain areas of symptomatic MeCP2-308 male mice, a RTT model. Systemic repeated treatment with LP-211 (0.25 mg/kg once/day for 7 days), a brain-penetrant selective 5-HT7R agonist, was able to rescue RTT-related defective performance: anxiety-related profiles in a Light/Dark test, motor abilities in a Dowel test, the exploratory behavior in the Marble Burying test, as well as memory in the Novelty Preference task. In the brain of RTT mice, LP-211 also reversed the abnormal activation of PAK and cofilin (key regulators of actin cytoskeleton dynamics) and of the ribosomal protein (rp) S6, whose reduced activation in MECP2 mutant neurons by mTOR is responsible for the altered protein translational control. Present findings indicate that pharmacological targeting of 5-HT7R improves specific behavioral and molecular manifestations of RTT, thus representing a first step toward the validation of an innovative systemic treatment. Beyond RTT, the latter might be extended to other disorders associated with intellectual disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca De Filippis
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Nativio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Fabbri
- Department of Therapeutic Research and Medicines Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Ricceri
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Walter Adriani
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Enza Lacivita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Bari ‘A Moro', Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Fuso
- Department of Psychology, Section of Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Laviola
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bodera P, Stankiewicz W, Kocik J. Interactions of orphanin FQ/nociceptin (OFQ/N) system with immune system factors and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Pharmacol Rep 2014; 66:288-91. [PMID: 24911083 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Revised: 12/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-immune system interactions and neurohormonal changes which are induced by psychophysiological factors are growing areas of scientific interest. Central (CNS) and autonomic nervous-endocrine-immune system pathways are connected with a number of behavioral and physiological factors which may be linked to disease susceptibility and progression. METHODS In this paper, influence of orphanin FQ/nociceptin receptor (OFQ/N) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and their influence on the immunological system was reviewed. CONCLUSIONS The neuroendocrine system, in particular the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, is closely connected with the cytokines. HPA axis activation by cytokines, via the release of glucocorticoids has, in turn, been found to play a critical role in restraining and shaping immune responses. Investigation of the OFQ/N system and G-proteins suggests a role for this receptor as a down-regulator of cytokine, chemokine and chemokine receptor expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Bodera
- Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Warszawa, Poland.
| | | | - Janusz Kocik
- Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Warszawa, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Witkin JM, Statnick MA, Rorick-Kehn LM, Pintar JE, Ansonoff M, Chen Y, Tucker RC, Ciccocioppo R. The biology of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) related to obesity, stress, anxiety, mood, and drug dependence. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 141:283-99. [PMID: 24189487 PMCID: PMC5098338 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a 17 amino acid peptide that was deorphanized in 1995. The generation of specific agonists, antagonists and receptor deficient mice and rats has enabled progress in elucidating the biological functions of N/OFQ. Additionally, radio-imaging technologies have been advanced for investigation of this system in animals and humans. Together with traditional neurobehavioral techniques, these tools have been utilized to identify the biological significance of the N/OFQ system and its interacting partners. The present review focuses on the role of N/OFQ in the regulation of feeding, body weight homeostasis, stress, the stress-related psychiatric disorders of depression and anxiety, and in drug and alcohol dependence. Critical evaluation of the current scientific preclinical literature suggests that small molecule modulators of nociceptin opioid peptide receptors (NOP) might be useful in the treatment of diseases related to these biological functions. In particular, the literature data suggest that antagonism of NOP receptors will produce anti-obesity and antidepressant activities in humans. However, there are also contradictory data discussed. The current literature on the role of N/OFQ in anxiety and addiction, on the other hand points primarily to a role of agonist modulation being potentially therapeutic. Some drug-like molecules that function either as agonists or antagonists of NOP receptors have been optimized for human clinical study to test some of these hypotheses. The discovery of PET ligands for NOP receptors, combined with the pharmacological tools and burgeoning preclinical data set discussed here bodes well for a rapid advancement of clinical understanding and potential therapeutic benefit.
Collapse
Key Words
- (1S,3aS)-8- (2,3,3a,4,5,6-hexahydro-1H-phenalen-1-yl)-1-phenyl-1,3,8-triaza-spiro[4.5]decan-4-one, a NOP receptor agonist
- (±)trans-1-[1-cyclooctylmethyl-3-hydroxymethyl-4-piperidyl]-3-ethyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one, a NOP receptor antagonist
- 2-{3-[1-((1R)-acenaphthen-1-yl)piperidin-4-yl]-2,3-dihydro-2-oxo-benzimidazol-1-yl}-N-methylacetamide, a NOP receptor agonist
- 5-HT
- 5-hydroxytryptamine or serotonin
- 8-[bis(2-methylphenyl)-methyl]-3-phenyl-8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octan-3-ol
- ACTH
- Alcohol-preferring rats
- Anxiety
- BED
- BNST
- CGRP
- CPP
- CRF
- CTA
- Calcitonin gene related peptide
- CeA
- DA
- Depression
- Drug dependence
- EPSC
- FST
- G-protein activated, inwardly rectifying K(+) channel
- G-protein-coupled receptor
- GIRK
- GPCR
- HPA
- J-113397
- JTC-801
- KO
- MDD
- Marchigian Sardinian Alcohol-Preferring
- N-(4-amino-2-methylquinolin-6-yl)-2-(4-ethylphenoxymethyl)benzamide hydrochloride, a NOP receptor antagonist
- N/OFQ
- NAcc
- NE
- NOP
- NPY
- Nociceptin opioid peptide or Nociceptin opioid peptide receptor
- Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ
- Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (F: phenylalanine, Q: glutamine, the amino acids that begin and end the peptide sequence)
- ORL
- Obesity
- P rats
- POMC
- Pro-opiomelanocortin
- Ro 64-6198
- SB-612111
- SCH 221510
- SCH 655842
- Stress
- TST
- UFP-101
- VTA
- W212393
- [(–)-cis-1-methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol, a NOP receptor antagonist
- [Nphe(1),Arg(14),Lys(15)]N/OFQ-NH(2), a NOP receptor antagonist
- adrenocorticotropic hormone
- bed nucleus of stria terminalis
- binge eating disorder
- central nucleus of the amygdala
- conditioned place preference
- conditioned taste aversion
- corticotrophin-releasing factor
- dopamine
- endo-8-[bis(2-chlorophenyl)methyl]-3-phenyl-8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-3-carboxamide, a NOP receptor agonist
- excitatory post-synaptic current
- forced-swim test
- hypothalamic–pituitary axis
- knockout
- mPFC
- major depressive disorder
- medial prefrontal cortex
- msP
- neuropeptide Y
- norepinephrine
- nucleus accumbens
- opioid-receptor-like
- tail-suspension test
- ventral tegmental area
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Witkin
- Lilly Research Labs, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | | | | | - John E Pintar
- University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Ansonoff
- University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Yanyun Chen
- Lilly Research Labs, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - R Craig Tucker
- Lilly Research Labs, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Romano E, Ruocco LA, Nativio P, Lacivita E, Ajmone-Cat MA, Boatto G, Nieddu M, Tino A, Sadile AG, Minghetti L, Passarelli F, Leopoldo M, Laviola G, Adriani W. Modulatory effects following subchronic stimulation of brain 5-HT7-R system in mice and rats. Rev Neurosci 2014; 25:383-400. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2014-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
29
|
Abstract
This paper is the thirty-fifth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2012 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mallimo EM, Kusnecov AW. The role of orphanin FQ/nociceptin in neuroplasticity: relationship to stress, anxiety and neuroinflammation. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:173. [PMID: 24155687 PMCID: PMC3792366 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide, orphanin FQ/nociceptin (OFQ/N or simply, nociceptin), is expressed in both neuronal and non-neuronal tissue, including the immune system. In the brain, OFQ/N has been investigated in relation to stress, anxiety, learning and memory, and addiction. More recently, it has also been found that OFQ/N influences glial cell functions, including oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglial cells. However, this latter research is relatively small, but potentially important, when observations regarding the relationship of OFQ/N to stress and emotional functions is taken into consideration and integrated with the growing evidence for its involvement in cells that mediate inflammatory events. This review will first provide an overview and understanding of how OFQ/N has been implicated in the HPA axis response to stress, followed by an understanding of its influence on natural and learned anxiety-like behavior. What emerges from an examination of the literature is a neuropeptide that appears to counteract anxiogenic influences, but paradoxically, without attenuating HPA axis responses generated in response to stress. Studies utilized both central administration of OFQ/N, which was shown to activate the HPA axis, as well as antagonism of NOP-R, the OFQ/N receptor. In contrast, antagonist or transgenic OFQ/N or NOP-R knockout studies, showed augmentation of HPA axis responses to stress, suggesting that OFQ/N may be needed to control the magnitude of the HPA axis response to stress. Investigations of behavior in standard exploratory tests of anxiogenic behavior (eg., elevated plus maze) or learned fear responses have suggested that OFQ/N is needed to attenuate fear or anxiety-like behavior. However, some discrepant observations, in particular, those that involve appetitive behaviors, suggest a failure of NOP-R deletion to increase anxiety. However, it is also suggested that OFQ/N may operate in an anxiolytic manner when initial anxiogenic triggers (eg., the neuropeptide CRH) are initiated. Finally, the regulatory functions of OFQ/N in relation to emotion-related behaviors may serve to counteract potential neuroinflammatory events in the brain. This appears to be evident within the glial cell environment of the brain, since OFQ/N has been shown to reduce the production of proinflammatory cellular and cytokine events. Given that both OFQ/N and glial cells are activated in response to stress, it is possible that there is a possible convergence of these two systems that has important repercussions for behavior and neuroplasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elyse M Mallimo
- Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Rutgers University New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gavioli EC, Calo' G. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor antagonists as innovative antidepressant drugs. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 140:10-25. [PMID: 23711793 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP) were identified in the mid 90s as a novel peptidergic system structurally related to opioids. A growing body of preclinical evidence suggests that blockade of NOP receptors evokes antidepressant-like actions. These have been explored using a range of compounds (peptide and non peptide antagonists), across different species (rat and mouse) and assays (behavioral despair and chronic mild stress) suggesting a robust and consistent antidepressant-like effect. Moreover, rats and mice knockout for the NOP receptor gene display an antidepressant-like phenotype in behavioral despair assays. Electrophysiological, immunohistochemical and neurochemical studies point to an important role played by monoaminergic systems, particularly 5-HTergic, in mediating the antidepressant-like properties of NOP antagonists. However other putative mechanisms of action, including modulation of the CRF system, circadian rhythm and a possible neuroendocrine-immune control might be involved. A close relationship between the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system and stress responses is well described in the literature. Stressful situations also alter endocrine, behavioral and neurochemical parameters in rats and chronic administration of a NOP antagonist restored these alterations. Interestingly, clinical findings showed that plasma N/OFQ levels were significantly altered in major and post-partum depression, and bipolar disease patients. Collectively, data in the literature support the notion that blockade of NOP receptor signaling could be a novel and interesting strategy for the development of innovative antidepressants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Cristina Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, 59078-970 Natal-RN, Brazil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Díaz-Morán S, Palència M, Mont-Cardona C, Cañete T, Blázquez G, Martínez-Membrives E, López-Aumatell R, Sabariego M, Donaire R, Morón I, Torres C, Martínez-Conejero JA, Tobeña A, Esteban FJ, Fernández-Teruel A. Gene expression in hippocampus as a function of differential trait anxiety levels in genetically heterogeneous NIH-HS rats. Behav Brain Res 2013; 257:129-39. [PMID: 24095878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To identify genes involved in the development/expression of anxiety/fear, we analyzed the gene expression profile in the hippocampus of genetically heterogeneous NIH-HS rats. The NIH-HS rat stock is a unique genetic resource for the fine mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) to very small genomic regions, due to the high amount of genetic recombinants accumulated along more than 50 breeding generations, and for the same reason it can be expected that those genetically heterogeneous rats should be especially useful for studying differential gene expression as a function of anxiety, fearfulness or other complex traits. We selected high- and low-anxious NIH-HS rats according to the number of avoidance responses they performed in a single 50-trial session of the two-way active avoidance task. Rats were also tested in unconditioned anxiety/fearfulness tests, i.e. the elevated zero-maze and a "novel-cage activity" test. Three weeks after behavioral testing, the hippocampus was dissected and prepared for the microarray study. There appeared 29 down-regulated and 37 up-regulated SNC-related genes (fold-change>|2.19|, FDR<0.05) in the "Low-anxious" vs. the "High-anxious" group. Regression analyses (stepwise) revealed that differential expression of some genes could be predictive of anxiety/fear responses. Among those genes for which the present results suggest a link with individual differences in trait anxiety, nine relevant genes (Avpr1b, Accn3, Cd74, Ltb, Nrg2, Oprdl1, Slc10a4, Slc5a7 and RT1-EC12), tested for validation through qRT-PCR, have either neuroendocrinological or neuroinmunological/inflammation-related functions, or have been related with the hippocampal cholinergic system, while some of them have also been involved in the modulation of anxiety or stress-related (neurobiological and behavioral) responses (i.e. Avpr1b, Oprdl1). The present work confirms the usefulness of NIH-HS rats as a good animal model for research on the neurogenetic basis or mechanisms involved in anxiety and/or fear, and suggest that some MHC-(neuroinmunological/inflammation)-related pathways, as well as the cholinergic system within the hippocampus, may play a role in shaping individual differences in trait anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sira Díaz-Morán
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Food-intake regulation during stress by the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Brain Res Bull 2013; 95:46-53. [PMID: 23590931 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide with serious consequences such as diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular diseases. Emotional stress is considered to be one of the main reasons of obesity development in humans. However, there are some contradictory results, which should be addressed. First of all stress induces anorexia, but not overeating in laboratory animals. Glucocorticoids, the effector molecules of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis stimulate and stress inhibits food intake. It is also not clear if stress is diabetogenic or an antidiabetogenic factor. The review will discusses these issues and the involvement of the whole HPA axis and its separate molecules (glucocorticoids, adrenocorticotropin, corticotropin-releasing hormone) in food intake regulation under stress.
Collapse
|
34
|
Zhang Y, Gandhi PR, Standifer KM. Increased nociceptive sensitivity and nociceptin/orphanin FQ levels in a rat model of PTSD. Mol Pain 2012; 8:76. [PMID: 23082795 PMCID: PMC3543245 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-8-76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies indicate that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently shares co-morbidity with chronic pain. Although in animals acute stress-induced antinociception is well documented, the effect of PTSD-like stress on nociceptive sensitivity is unclear. Though a few studies measured nociceptive responses at a single time point, no studies have examined changes in nociceptive sensitivity over time following exposure to PTSD-like stress. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), an endogenous ligand for the N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor, modulates various biological functions in the central nervous system that are affected by PTSD, including nociceptive sensitivity, stress and anxiety, learning and memory. RESULTS The present study examined thermal and mechanical nociceptive sensitivity in male Sprague Dawley rats between 7 and 28 days after single-prolonged stress (SPS), an established animal model for PTSD. Rat paw withdrawal thresholds (PWT) to von Frey and paw withdrawal latencies (PWL) to radiant heat stimuli, respectively, dramatically decreased as early as 7 days after initiation of SPS and lasted the length of the study, 28 days. In addition, N/OFQ levels increased in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; on days 9, 14 and 28) and serum (day 28), while levels of circulating corticosterone (CORT) decreased 28 days after initiation of SPS. SPS exposure induced anxiety-like behavior and enhanced inhibition of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, as previously reported for this model. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that SPS induces the development of persistent mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia that is accompanied by increased N/OFQ content in the CSF, and eventually, in serum. These findings suggest a link between N/OFQ and the development of hyperalgesia and allodynia in a rat model of PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Priyam R Gandhi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wang Z, Li J, Wang Z, Xue L, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Su J, Li Z. L-tyrosine improves neuroendocrine function in a mouse model of chronic stress. Neural Regen Res 2012; 7:1413-9. [PMID: 25657675 PMCID: PMC4308793 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.18.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2012] [Accepted: 05/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult BALB/c mice, individually housed, were stimulated with nine different stressors, arranged randomly, for 4 continuous weeks to generate an animal model of chronic stress. In chronically stressed mice, spontaneous locomotor activity was significantly decreased, escape latency in the Morris water maze test was prolonged, serum levels of total thyrotropin and total triiodothyronine were significantly decreased, and dopamine and norepinephrine content in the pallium, hippocampus and hypothalamus were significantly reduced. All of these changes were suppressed, to varying degrees, by L-tyrosine supplementation. These findings indicate that the neuroendocrine network plays an important role in chronic stress, and that L-tyrosine supplementation has therapeutic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Wang
- Department of Emergency, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical College, Kunming 650221, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Jinghua Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical College, Kunming 650221, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Zhiming Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Diseases, Yan-an Hospital, Kunming 650051, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Lingyan Xue
- Second Department of Internal Medicine of Wu-hua District People's Hospital of Kunming, Kunming 650051, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Emergency, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical College, Kunming 650221, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Yingjie Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650031, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Jun Su
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650101, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Zhongming Li
- Department of Anatomy, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650031, Yunnan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|