1
|
Quintana DS, Glaser BD, Kang H, Kildal ESM, Audunsdottir K, Sartorius AM, Barth C. The interplay of oxytocin and sex hormones. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 163:105765. [PMID: 38885888 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin has historically been associated with reproduction and maternal behavior. However, more recent research has uncovered that oxytocin has a much wider range of roles in physiology and behavior. Despite the excitement surrounding potential therapeutical applications of intranasally administered oxytocin, the results of these intervention studies have been inconsistent. Various reasons for these mixed results have been proposed, which tend to focus on methodological issues, such as study design. While methodological issues are certainly important, emerging evidence suggests that the interaction between oxytocin and sex hormones may also account for these varied findings. To better understand the purpose and function of the interaction of oxytocin with sex hormones, with a focus on estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone, we conducted a comprehensive thematic review via four perspectives: evolutionary, developmental, mechanistic, and survival. Altogether, this synergistic approach highlights the critical function of sex hormone activity for accomplishing the diverse roles of oxytocin via the modulation of oxytocin release and oxytocin receptor activity, which is also likely to contribute to the heterogeneity of outcomes after oxytocin administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Quintana
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; KG Jebsen Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; NevSom, Department of Rare Disorders, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Bernt D Glaser
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Heemin Kang
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emilie S M Kildal
- KG Jebsen Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry, Lovisenberg Diakonale Sykehus, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristin Audunsdottir
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; KG Jebsen Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Claudia Barth
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zeng G, Leung TS, Maylott SE, Malik A, Adornato AA, Lebowitz M, Messinger DS, Szeto A, Feldman R, Simpson EA. Infants' salivary oxytocin and positive affective reactions to people. Horm Behav 2024; 164:105579. [PMID: 38905820 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide positively associated with prosociality in adults. Here, we studied whether infants' salivary oxytocin can be reliably measured, is developmentally stable, and is linked to social behavior. We longitudinally collected saliva from 62 U.S. infants (44 % female, 56 % Hispanic/Latino, 24 % Black, 18 % non-Hispanic White, 11 % multiracial) at 4, 8, and 14 months of age and offline-video-coded the valence of their facial affect in response to a video of a smiling woman. We also captured infants' affective reactions in terms of excitement/joyfulness during a live, structured interaction with a singing woman in the Early Social Communication Scales at 14 months. We detected stable individual differences in infants' oxytocin levels over time (over minutes and months) and in infants' positive affect over months and across contexts (video-based and in live interactions). We detected no statistically significant changes in oxytocin levels between 4 and 8 months but found an increase from 8 to 14 months. Infants with higher oxytocin levels showed more positive facial affect to a smiling person video at 4 months; however, this association disappeared at 8 months, and reversed at 14 months (i.e., higher oxytocin was associated with less positive facial affect). Infant salivary oxytocin may be a reliable physiological measure of individual differences related to socio-emotional development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangyu Zeng
- School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China; Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
| | - Tiffany S Leung
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | | | - Arushi Malik
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Alexis A Adornato
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Mendel Lebowitz
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Angela Szeto
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel; Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Baud O, Knoop M. [Oxytocin as a neuroprotective strategy in neonates: concept and preclinical evidence]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2024; 52:418-424. [PMID: 38145743 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prematurity and intra-uterine growth retardation are responsible for brain damage associated with various neurocognitive and behavioral disorders in more than 9 million children each year. Most pharmacological strategies aimed at preventing perinatal brain injury have not demonstrated substantial clinical benefits so far. In contrast, enrichment of the newborn's environment appears to have positive effects on brain structure and function, influences newborn hormonal responses, and has lasting neurobehavioral consequences during infancy and adulthood. Oxytocin (OT), a neuropeptide released by the hypothalamus, may represent the hormonal basis for these long-term effects. METHOD This review of the literature summarizes the knowledge concerning the effect of OT in the newborn and the preclinical data supporting its neuroprotective effect. RESULTS OT plays a role during the perinatal period, in parent-child attachment and in social behavior. Furthermore, preclinical studies strongly suggest that endogenous and synthetic OT is capable of regulating the inflammatory response of the central nervous system in response to situations of prematurity or more generally insults to the developing brain. The long-term effect of synthetic OT administration during labor is also discussed. CONCLUSION All the conceptual and experimental data converge to indicate that OT would be a promising candidate for neonatal neuroprotection, in particular through the regulation of neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Baud
- Laboratoire du développement, Université de Genève, Genève, Suisse; Inserm U1141, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Service de Soins Intensifs Pédiatriques et Néonatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Genève, Suisse.
| | - Marit Knoop
- Laboratoire du développement, Université de Genève, Genève, Suisse
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hirschel J, Carlhan-Ledermann A, Ferraz C, Brand LA, Filippa M, Gentaz E, Lejeune F, Baud O. Maternal Voice and Tactile Stimulation Modulate Oxytocin in Mothers of Hospitalized Preterm Infants: A Randomized Crossover Trial. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1469. [PMID: 37761430 PMCID: PMC10528509 DOI: 10.3390/children10091469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Prematurity is a major risk factor for perinatal stress and neonatal complications leading to systemic inflammation and abnormal mother-infant interactions. Oxytocin (OT) is a neuropeptide regulating the inflammatory response and promoting mother-infant bonding. The release of this hormone might be influenced by either vocal or tactile stimulation. The main objective of the current randomized, crossover, clinical trial was to assess the salivary OT/cortisol balance in mothers following the exposure of their baby born preterm to two types of sensorial interventions: maternal voice without or with contingent tactile stimulation provided by the mother to her infant. Among the 26 mothers enrolled, maternal voice intervention alone had no effect on OT and cortisol levels in the mothers, but when associated with tactile stimulation, it induced a significant increase in maternal saliva oxytocin (38.26 ± 30.26 pg/mL before vs 53.91 ± 48.84 pg/mL after, p = 0.02), particularly in the mothers who delivered a female neonate. Maternal voice intervention induced a significant reduction in cortisol and an increase in OT levels in mothers when the maternal voice with a tactile stimulation intervention was performed first. In conclusion, exposure to the maternal voice with a contingent tactile stimulation was associated with subtle changes in the maternal hormonal balance between OT and cortisol. These findings need to be confirmed in a larger sample size and may ultimately guide caregivers in providing the best intervention to reduce parental stress following preterm delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hirschel
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s University Hospital of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (J.H.); (A.C.-L.); (C.F.); (L.-A.B.)
| | - Audrey Carlhan-Ledermann
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s University Hospital of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (J.H.); (A.C.-L.); (C.F.); (L.-A.B.)
| | - Céline Ferraz
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s University Hospital of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (J.H.); (A.C.-L.); (C.F.); (L.-A.B.)
| | - Laure-Anne Brand
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s University Hospital of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (J.H.); (A.C.-L.); (C.F.); (L.-A.B.)
| | - Manuela Filippa
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Edouard Gentaz
- Sensorimotor, Affective and Social Development Unit, Faculty of Psychology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (E.G.); (F.L.)
| | - Fleur Lejeune
- Sensorimotor, Affective and Social Development Unit, Faculty of Psychology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (E.G.); (F.L.)
| | - Olivier Baud
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s University Hospital of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (J.H.); (A.C.-L.); (C.F.); (L.-A.B.)
- Inserm U1141, University of Paris, Paris 75019, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Baud O, Knoop M, Jacquens A, Possovre ML. [Oxytocin: a new target for neuroprotection?]. Biol Aujourdhui 2023; 216:145-153. [PMID: 36744980 DOI: 10.1051/jbio/2022012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Every year, 30 million infants worldwide are delivered after intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) and 15 million are born preterm. These two conditions are the leading causes of ante-/perinatal stress and brain injury responsible for neurocognitive and behavioral disorders affecting more than 9 million children each year. Most pharmacological candidates to prevent perinatal brain damage have failed to demonstrate substantial benefits. In contrast, environment enrichment based on developmental care, skin-to-skin contact and vocal/music exposure appear to exert positive effects on brain structure and function. However, mechanisms underlying these effects remain unknown. There is strong evidence that an adverse environment during pregnancy and the neonatal period can influence hormonal responses of the newborn with long-lasting neurobehavioral consequences in infancy and adulthood. In particular, excessive cortisol release in response to perinatal stress associated with prematurity or IUGR is recognized to induce brain-programming effects and neuroinflammation, a key predictor of subsequent neurological impairments. These deleterious effects are known to be balanced by oxytocin (OT), a neuropeptide released by the hypothalamus, which plays a role during the perinatal period and in social behavior. In addition, preclinical studies suggest that OT is able to regulate the central inflammatory response to injury in the adult brain. Using a rodent model of IUGR associated with developing white matter damage, we recently reported that carbetocin, a brain permeable OT receptor (OTR) agonist, induced a significant reduction of activated microglia, the primary immune cells of the brain. Moreover, this reduced microglia reactivity was associated with long-term neuroprotection. These findings make OT a promising candidate for neonatal neuroprotection through neuroinflammation regulation. However, the mechanisms linking endogenous OT and central inflammation response to injury have not yet been established. Further studies are needed to assess the protective role of OT in the developing brain through modulation of microglial activation, a key feature of brain injury observed in infants born preterm or growth-restricted. They are expected to have several impacts in the near future not only for improving knowledge of microglial cell physiology and reactivity during brain development, but also to design clinical trials testing interventions associated with endogenous OT release as a relevant strategy to alleviate neuroinflammation in neonates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Baud
- Laboratoire du développement, Université de Genève, Genève, Suisse - Inserm U1141, Université Paris Cité, 75019 Paris, France - Service de Soins Intensifs Pédiatriques et Néonatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, 30 boulevard de Cluse, 1205 Genève, Suisse
| | - Marit Knoop
- Laboratoire du développement, Université de Genève, Genève, Suisse
| | - Alice Jacquens
- Laboratoire du développement, Université de Genève, Genève, Suisse - Inserm U1141, Université Paris Cité, 75019 Paris, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Why Does Psychotherapy Work and for Whom? Hormonal Answers. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061361. [PMID: 35740383 PMCID: PMC9220228 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The questions of for whom and why psychotherapy is effective have been the focus of five decades of research. Most of this knowledge is based on self-report measures. Following the biopsychosocial model of mental disorders, this article explores the potential of hormones in answering these questions. The literature on cortisol, oxytocin, and oestradiol in psychotherapy was systematically searched, focusing on (a) baseline hormonal predictors of who may benefit from psychotherapy and (b) hormonal changes as indicators of therapeutic change. The search was limited to depression and anxiety disorders. In sum, the findings show that, of all three hormones, the role of cortisol is most established and that both cortisol and oxytocin are implicated in psychotherapy, although a causal role is still waiting to be demonstrated. Moreover, there is a differential role of hormones in the psychotherapy of depression versus anxiety. The directions of research mapped in this article may elucidate how psychotherapy can be selected to match patients’ endocrine states and how hormonal levels can be manipulated to improve outcomes.
Collapse
|
7
|
Multi-level hypothalamic neuromodulation of self-regulation and cognition in preterm infants: Towards a control systems model. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2022; 9:100109. [PMID: 35755927 PMCID: PMC9216652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
8
|
Merz T, McCook O, Denoix N, Radermacher P, Waller C, Kapapa T. Biological Connection of Psychological Stress and Polytrauma under Intensive Care: The Role of Oxytocin and Hydrogen Sulfide. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9192. [PMID: 34502097 PMCID: PMC8430789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper explored the potential mediating role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and the oxytocin (OT) systems in hemorrhagic shock (HS) and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Morbidity and mortality after trauma mainly depend on the presence of HS and/or TBI. Rapid "repayment of the O2 debt" and prevention of brain tissue hypoxia are cornerstones of the management of both HS and TBI. Restoring tissue perfusion, however, generates an ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury due to the formation of reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) species. Moreover, pre-existing-medical-conditions (PEMC's) can aggravate the occurrence and severity of complications after trauma. In addition to the "classic" chronic diseases (of cardiovascular or metabolic origin), there is growing awareness of psychological PEMC's, e.g., early life stress (ELS) increases the predisposition to develop post-traumatic-stress-disorder (PTSD) and trauma patients with TBI show a significantly higher incidence of PTSD than patients without TBI. In fact, ELS is known to contribute to the developmental origins of cardiovascular disease. The neurotransmitter H2S is not only essential for the neuroendocrine stress response, but is also a promising therapeutic target in the prevention of chronic diseases induced by ELS. The neuroendocrine hormone OT has fundamental importance for brain development and social behavior, and, thus, is implicated in resilience or vulnerability to traumatic events. OT and H2S have been shown to interact in physical and psychological trauma and could, thus, be therapeutic targets to mitigate the acute post-traumatic effects of chronic PEMC's. OT and H2S both share anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and vasoactive properties; through the reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK) pathway, where their signaling mechanisms converge, they act via the regulation of nitric oxide (NO).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Merz
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Medical Center, Ulm University, Helmholtzstraße 8/1, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (T.M.); (N.D.); (P.R.)
| | - Oscar McCook
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Medical Center, Ulm University, Helmholtzstraße 8/1, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (T.M.); (N.D.); (P.R.)
| | - Nicole Denoix
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Medical Center, Ulm University, Helmholtzstraße 8/1, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (T.M.); (N.D.); (P.R.)
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Center, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Peter Radermacher
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Medical Center, Ulm University, Helmholtzstraße 8/1, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (T.M.); (N.D.); (P.R.)
| | - Christiane Waller
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Nuremberg General Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 90471 Nuremberg, Germany;
| | - Thomas Kapapa
- Clinic for Neurosurgery, Medical Center, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Vaidyanathan R, Schaller F, Muscatelli F, Hammock EAD. Colocalization of Oxtr with Prader-Willi syndrome transcripts in the trigeminal ganglion of neonatal mice. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:2065-2075. [PMID: 32420597 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is caused by deficient expression of the paternal copy of several contiguous genes on chromosome 15q11-q13 and affects multiple organ systems in the body, including the nervous system. Feeding and suckling deficits in infants with PWS are replaced with excessive feeding and obesity in childhood through adulthood. Clinical trials using intranasal oxytocin (OXT) show promise to improve feeding deficits in infants with PWS. The mechanism and location of action of exogenous OXT are unknown. We have recently shown in neonatal mice that OXT receptors (OXTR) are present in several regions of the face with direct roles in feeding. Here we show that the trigeminal ganglion, which provides sensory innervation to the face, is a rich source of Oxtr and a site of cellular co-expression with PWS gene transcripts. We also quantified OXTR ligand binding in mice deficient in Magel2, a PWS gene, within the trigeminal ganglion and regions that are anatomically relevant to feeding behavior and innervated by the trigeminal ganglion including the lateral periodontium, rostral periodontium, tongue, olfactory epithelium, whisker pads and brainstem. We found that peripheral OXTR ligand binding in the head is mostly intact in Magel2-deficient mice, although it is reduced in the lateral periodontium (gums) of neonatal Magel2-deficient mice compared to wild-type controls. These data suggest that OXT via orofacial OXTR may play a peripheral role to modulate sensory-motor reflexes necessary for suckling and may be part of the mechanism by which intranasal OXT shows promise for therapeutic benefit in PWS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Vaidyanathan
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, The Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Fabienne Schaller
- Aix-Marseille University UMR 1249, INSERM (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale) Unité 1249, INMED (Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée), Marseille, France
| | - Françoise Muscatelli
- Aix-Marseille University UMR 1249, INSERM (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale) Unité 1249, INMED (Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée), Marseille, France
| | - Elizabeth A D Hammock
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, The Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sundar M, Patel D, Young Z, Leong KC. Oxytocin and Addiction: Potential Glutamatergic Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052405. [PMID: 33673694 PMCID: PMC7957657 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, oxytocin (OXT) has been investigated for its potential therapeutic role in addiction. OXT has been found to diminish various drug-seeking and drug-induced behaviors. Although its behavioral effects are well-established, there is not much consensus on how this neuropeptide exerts its effects. Previous research has given thought to how dopamine (DA) may be involved in oxytocinergic mechanisms, but there has not been as strong of a focus on the role that glutamate (Glu) has. The glutamatergic system is critical for the processing of rewards and the disruption of glutamatergic projections produces the behaviors seen in drug addicts. We introduce the idea that OXT has direct effects on Glu transmission within the reward processing pathway. Thus, OXT may reduce addictive behaviors by restoring abnormal drug-induced changes in the glutamatergic system and in its interactions with other neurotransmitters. This review offers insight into the mechanisms through which a potentially viable therapeutic target, OXT, could be used to reduce addiction-related behaviors.
Collapse
|
11
|
Newmaster KT, Nolan ZT, Chon U, Vanselow DJ, Weit AR, Tabbaa M, Hidema S, Nishimori K, Hammock EAD, Kim Y. Quantitative cellular-resolution map of the oxytocin receptor in postnatally developing mouse brains. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1885. [PMID: 32313029 PMCID: PMC7171089 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15659-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OTR) plays critical roles in social behavior development. Despite its significance, brain-wide quantitative understanding of OTR expression remains limited in postnatally developing brains. Here, we develop postnatal 3D template brains to register whole brain images with cellular resolution to systematically quantify OTR cell densities. We utilize fluorescent reporter mice (Otrvenus/+) and find that cortical regions show temporally and spatially heterogeneous patterns with transient postnatal OTR expression without cell death. Cortical OTR cells are largely glutamatergic neurons with the exception of cells in layer 6b. Subcortical regions show similar temporal regulation except the hypothalamus and two hypothalamic nuclei display sexually dimorphic OTR expression. Lack of OTR expression correlates with reduced dendritic spine densities in selected cortical regions of developing brains. Lastly, we create a website to visualize our high-resolution imaging data. In summary, our research provides a comprehensive resource for postnatal OTR expression in the mouse brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyra T Newmaster
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Zachary T Nolan
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Uree Chon
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Daniel J Vanselow
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Abigael R Weit
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Manal Tabbaa
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Shizu Hidema
- Tohoku University Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Miyagi, Japan
- Department of Bioregulation and Pharmacological Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Hikarigaoka 1, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Tohoku University Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Miyagi, Japan
- Department of Obesity and Internal Inflammation, Fukushima Medical University, Hikarigaoka 1, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan
| | - Elizabeth A D Hammock
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Yongsoo Kim
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sawyer KM, Zunszain PA, Dazzan P, Pariante CM. Intergenerational transmission of depression: clinical observations and molecular mechanisms. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1157-1177. [PMID: 30283036 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-018-0265-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Maternal mental illness can have a devastating effect during the perinatal period, and has a profound impact on the care that the baby receives and on the relationships that the baby forms. This review summarises clinical evidence showing the effects of perinatal depression on offspring physical and behavioural development, and on the transmission of psychopathology between generations. We then evaluate a number of factors which influence this relationship, such as genetic factors, the use of psychotropic medications during pregnancy, the timing within the perinatal period, the sex of the foetus, and exposure to maltreatment in childhood. Finally, we examine recent findings regarding the molecular mechanisms underpinning these clinical observations, and identify relevant epigenetic and biomarker changes in the glucocorticoid, oxytocin, oestrogen and immune systems, as key biological mediators of these clinical findings. By understanding these molecular mechanisms in more detail, we will be able to improve outcomes for both mothers and their offspring for generations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristi M Sawyer
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Patricia A Zunszain
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paola Dazzan
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Carmine M Pariante
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tanaka K, Osako Y, Takahashi K, Hidaka C, Tomita K, Yuri K. Effects of post-weaning social isolation on social behaviors and oxytocinergic activity in male and female rats. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01646. [PMID: 31193027 PMCID: PMC6513811 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Post-weaning social deprivation is known to induce behavioral and neuronal alterations associated with anxiety and stress responses in adulthood. However, the effects of social deprivation on the development of sociability are poorly understood. We examined the effects of social deprivation on subsequent social behaviors and oxytocinergic activity using socially-isolated (approximately two months post-weaning) male and female rats. Main methods The behaviors were analyzed using a social preference test and a social approach test. Immunohistochemical investigations were conducted in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON) to examine the effects of social isolation on oxytocinergic activity in these regions. Oxytocinergic activity was measured by quantifying the number of oxytocin neurons expressing Fos following exposure to a novel conspecific. In all of the experiments of this study, ovariectomized females were used for social stimuli. Key findings The behavioral results show that isolation-reared females, but not males, displayed impaired social preference and decreased social approach towards ovariectomized females, compared with the pair-reared group, suggesting low priority of processing social versus non-social stimuli and low motivation for contact with a stranger, respectively. The immunohistochemical results show that social isolation decreased both the number and the ratio of Fos-positive cells in oxytocin neurons in the PVN in females, but not in males, following exposure to ovariectomized females. In the SON, the Fos-positive ratio was decreased in isolation-reared females, but not in males, compared with the pair-reared group. Significance Post-weaning social isolation changed social behaviors and oxytocinergic activity in female rats, suggesting that in female rats post-weaning social experiences contribute to the development of sociability. These findings could impact the treatment of social dysfunction in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenjiro Tanaka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Yoji Osako
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Kou Takahashi
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Chiharu Hidaka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Koichi Tomita
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Kazunari Yuri
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Friedlander E, Yirmiya N, Laiba E, Harel-Gadassi A, Yaari M, Feldstein O, Mankuta D, Israel S. Cumulative Risk of the Oxytocin Receptor Gene Interacts with Prenatal Exposure to Oxytocin Receptor Antagonist to Predict Children's Social Communication Development. Autism Res 2019; 12:1087-1100. [PMID: 31025834 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Compelling evidence for the far-reaching role of oxytocin (OT) in social cognition and affiliative behaviors set the basis for examining the association between genetic variation in the OT receptor (OXTR) gene and risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the current study, gene-environment interaction between OXTR and prenatal exposure to either OT or OXTR antagonist (OXTRA) in predicting early social communication development was examined. One hundred and fifty-three children (age: M = 4.32, SD = 1.07) were assigned to four groups based on prenatal history: children whose mothers prenatally received OXTRA and Nifedipine to delay preterm labor (n = 27); children whose mothers received Nifedipine only to delay preterm labor (n = 35); children whose mothers received OT for labor augmentation (n = 56), and a no intervention group (n = 35). Participants completed a developmental assessment of intelligence quotient (IQ), adaptive behavior, and social communication abilities. DNA was extracted via buccal swab. A genetic risk score was calculated based on four OXTR single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs53576, rs237887, rs1042778, and rs2254298) previously reported to be associated with ASD symptomatology. OXTRrisk-allele dosage was associated with more severe autism diagnostics observation schedule (ADOS) scores only in the OXTRA group. In contrast, in the Nifedipine, OT, and no intervention groups, OXTRrisk-allele dosage was not associated with children's ADOS scores. These findings highlight the importance of both genetic and environmental pathways of OT in signaling early social development and raise the need for further research in this field. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1087-1100. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: In the current study, we examined if the association between prenatal exposure to an oxytocin receptor antagonist (OXTRA) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) related impairments are dependent on an individual's genetic background for the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR). Children who carried a greater number of risk alleles for the OXTR gene and whose mothers received OXTRA to delay preterm labor showed more ASD-related impairments. The results highlight the importance of both genetic and environmental pathways of oxytocin in shaping early social development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edwa Friedlander
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nurit Yirmiya
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Efrat Laiba
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Maya Yaari
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ohad Feldstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David Mankuta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Salomon Israel
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.,Scheinfeld Center of Human Genetics for the Social Sciences, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kogan SM, Cho J, Beach SRH, Smith AK, Nishitani S. Oxytocin receptor gene methylation and substance use problems among young African American men. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 192:309-315. [PMID: 30308385 PMCID: PMC6202060 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stressful or supportive social environments promote biological changes with regulatory implications for future relationships and substance abuse. Recent research suggests links between adverse social environments, prosocial relationships, methylation at the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR), and substance abuse. The potential for OXTR methylation to act as the mechanism linking social environments to substance abuse has yet to be investigated. We hypothesized that, for young African American men, childhood adversity increases, and supportive, prosocial bonds with parents, peers, partners, and community mentors decrease OXTR methylation levels, which in turn predict increases in substance-related symptoms. METHODS A sample of 358 rural African American men (age 19 at baseline) provided self-report data at three time points separated by 18 months and a genetic specimen at Time 2. RESULTS Early adversity was associated with OXTR methylation indirectly via contemporary prosocial relationships. OXTR methylation was a proximal predictor of changes in substance-related symptoms. We found no evidence for a direct association of self-reported childhood trauma with OXTR methylation status. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that OXTR methylation is linked to substance use symptomatology, ostensibly resulting in increased expression of oxytocin (OT) in peripheral and central nervous systems. OXTR may act as a mechanism to explain how prosocial ties deter substance abuse and related problems. Despite conjectures in the literature that early adversity may become physiologically embedded via methylation in the OT system, direct effects were not evident. Rather, early adversity may affect OXTR methylation via influence on contemporary prosocial relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Kogan
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Georgia, 305 Sanford Drive, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Junhan Cho
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, 2001 North Soto Street, Office 302-02, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-9034, USA.
| | - Steven R H Beach
- Center for Family Research, University of Georgia, 1095 College Station Road, Athens, GA, 30602-4527, USA.
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 4217, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Shota Nishitani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 4217, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sangenstedt S, Szardenings C, Sachser N, Kaiser S. Does the early social environment prepare individuals for the future? A match-mismatch experiment in female wild cavies. Front Zool 2018; 15:13. [PMID: 29686721 PMCID: PMC5902857 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-018-0261-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The social environment that mothers experience during pregnancy and lactation has a strong effect on the developing offspring. Whether offspring can be adaptively shaped to match an environment that is similar to the maternal one is still a major question in research. Our previous work in wild cavies showed that females whose mothers lived in a stable social environment with few social challenges during pregnancy and lactation (SE-daughters) developed different behavioral phenotypes than females whose mothers lived in an unstable social environment with frequent social challenges during pregnancy and lactation (UE-daughters). In the present study we investigated whether SE-daughters are better adapted to a stable social environment, similar to their maternal one, than are UE-daughters, for which the stable social environment represents a mismatch with their maternal one. For this purpose, we established pairs of one UE- and one SE-daughter and housed them together under stable social conditions for one week. Dominance ranks, behavioral profiles, glucocorticoid levels, cortisol responsiveness and body weight changes were compared between the groups. We hypothesized that SE-daughters fare better in a stable social setting compared to UE-daughters. Results After one week of cohabitation in the stable social condition, UE-daughters had higher glucocorticoid levels, tended to gain less body weight within the first three days and displayed higher frequencies of energy-demanding behaviors such as rearing and digging than SE-daughters. However, there was no difference in cortisol responsiveness as well as in dominance ranks between UE- and SE-daughters. Conclusion Higher glucocorticoid levels and less body weight gain imply that UE-daughters had higher energy demands than SE-daughters. This high energy demand of UE-daughters is further indicated by the increased display of rearing and digging behavior. Rearing implies increased vigilance, which is far too energy demanding in a stable social condition but may confer an advantage in an unstable social environment. Hence, SE-daughters seem to better match a stable social environment, similar to their maternal one, than do UE-daughters, who encountered a mismatch to their maternal environment. This data supports the environmental matching hypothesis, stating that individuals manage the best in environments that correspond to their maternal ones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Sangenstedt
- 1Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,2Münster Graduate School of Evolution, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Norbert Sachser
- 1Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,2Münster Graduate School of Evolution, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sylvia Kaiser
- 1Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,2Münster Graduate School of Evolution, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bonapace J, Gagné GP, Chaillet N, Gagnon R, Hébert E, Buckley S. N° 355-Fondements physiologiques de la douleur pendant le travail et l'accouchement: approche de soulagement basée sur les données probantes. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2018; 40:246-266. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2017.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
18
|
Bonapace J, Gagné GP, Chaillet N, Gagnon R, Hébert E, Buckley S. No. 355-Physiologic Basis of Pain in Labour and Delivery: An Evidence-Based Approach to its Management. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2018; 40:227-245. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
19
|
Abstract
The endogenous oxytocin system plays a vital role in facilitating parturition, lactation and social interaction in humans and other mammals. It also impacts on a number of important endocrine, immune and neurotransmitter systems. A well-regulated oxytocin system has been proposed to increase resilience, and therefore reduce the likelihood of an individual developing mental illness or substance dependence. This review discusses the adverse external influences that can modulate oxytocin receptor and protein levels and impact on substance use and mental health. The paper highlights the impact of adversity such as poor maternal care, parental substance use and child abuse or neglect. We review clinical and preclinical data on the impact of adversity on the basis of the time of exposure from infancy and early childhood, to adolescence, adulthood to older age. Previous research suggests that dysregulation of the endogenous oxytocin system may be implicated in determining susceptibility to stress, anxiety, addiction and mental health conditions. The impact of external influence seems to be strongest in specific time periods where the system shows experience-based development or natural fluctuations in oxytocin levels. Interventions that target the oxytocin system during or soon after exposure to adversity may prove protective.
Collapse
|
20
|
Bienboire-Frosini C, Chabaud C, Cozzi A, Codecasa E, Pageat P. Validation of a Commercially Available Enzyme ImmunoAssay for the Determination of Oxytocin in Plasma Samples from Seven Domestic Animal Species. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:524. [PMID: 28983237 PMCID: PMC5613128 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurohormone oxytocin (OT) has a broad range of behavioral effects in mammals. It modulates a multitude of social behaviors, e.g., affiliative and sexual interactions. Consequently, the OT role in various animal species is increasingly explored. However, several issues have been raised regarding the peripheral OT measurement. Indeed, various methods have been described, leading to assay discrepancies and inconsistent results. This highlights the need for a recognized and reliable method to measure peripheral OT. Our aim was to validate a method combining a pre-extraction step, previously demonstrated as essential by several authors, and a commercially available enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for OT measurement, using plasma from seven domestic species (cat, dog, horse, cow, pig, sheep, and goat). The Oxytocin EIA kit (EnzoLifeSciences) was used to assay the solid-phase extracted samples following the manufacturer's instructions with slight modifications. For all species except dogs and cats, concentration factors were applied to work above the kit's sensitivity (15 pg/ml). To validate the method, the following performance characteristics were evaluated using Validation Samples (VS) at various concentrations in each species: extraction efficiency via spiking tests and intra- and inter-assay precision, allowing for the calculation of total errors. Parallelism studies to assess matrix effects could not be performed because of too low basal concentrations. Quantification ranges and associated precision profiles were established to account for the various OT plasma concentrations in each species. According to guidelines for bioanalytical validation of immunoassays, the measurements were sufficiently precise and accurate in each species to achieve a total error ≤30% in each VS sample. In each species, the inter-assay precision after 3 runs was acceptable, except in low concentration samples. The linearity under dilution of dogs and cats' samples was verified. Although matrix effects assessments are lacking, our results indicate that OT plasma levels can reliably be measured in several domestic animal species by the method described here. Studies involving samples with low OT plasma concentrations should pay attention to reproducibility issues. This work opens new perspectives to reliably study peripheral OT in a substantial number of domestic animal species in various behavioral contexts.
Collapse
|
21
|
Bomann AC, Jørgensen MB, Bo S, Nielsen M, Gede LB, Elfving B, Simonsen E. The neurobiology of social deficits in female patients with borderline personality disorder: The importance of oxytocin. Personal Ment Health 2017; 11:91-100. [PMID: 28397403 DOI: 10.1002/pmh.1369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social deficits and emotional dysregulation have been suggested as explanations for the relational difficulties experienced by patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) is a possible neurobiological underpinning of these adversities, and this study examines possible correlations between BPD symptomatology and serum OXT. METHODS Thirty-eight female participants (BPD group n = 18, matched control group n = 20) with a mean age of 29.5 years (standard deviation 9.2) were assessed for personality disorders, general psychopathology, childhood trauma and perceived stress. OXT was measured in serum samples. RESULTS We found no significant difference between patient and control group in terms of OXT levels. However, post hoc analysis showed a relationship in the patient group between civil status and OXT (p < 0.05), indicating higher levels of OXT for patients in a romantic relationship. DISCUSSION The idea of OXT as a pro-social love hormone is perhaps too simplistic, and factors like attachment style, exposure to trauma and psychiatric disorders must be considered in order to understand its diverse functions. CONCLUSIONS Contrary to our expectations, we did not find lower serum OXT levels in the BPD group. However, BPD patients in a romantic relationship had higher levels of serum OXT than single BPD patients. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Cathrine Bomann
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand, Faelledvej 6, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark
| | - Martin Balslev Jørgensen
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Edel Sauntes Alle 10, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Edel Sauntes Alle 10, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sune Bo
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand, Faelledvej 6, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark
| | - Marianne Nielsen
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Center for Nursing and Bioanalysis, University College Zealand, Parkvej 190, 4700, Naestved, Denmark
| | - Lene Bjerring Gede
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand, Faelledvej 6, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark
| | - Betina Elfving
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Skovagervej 2, 8240, Risskov, Denmark
| | - Erik Simonsen
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand, Faelledvej 6, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark.,Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Edel Sauntes Alle 10, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Cimarelli G, Virányi Z, Turcsán B, Rónai Z, Sasvári-Székely M, Bánlaki Z. Social Behavior of Pet Dogs Is Associated with Peripheral OXTR Methylation. Front Psychol 2017; 8:549. [PMID: 28443051 PMCID: PMC5385375 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a key modulator of emotional processing and social cognitive function. In line with this, polymorphisms of genes involved in oxytocin signaling, like the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene, are known to influence social behavior in various species. However, to date, no study has investigated environmental factors possibly influencing the epigenetic variation of the OXTR gene and its behavioral effects in dogs. Pet dogs form individualized and strong relationships with their owners who are central figures in the social environment of their dogs and therefore might influence the methylation levels of their OXTR gene. Here we set out to investigate whether DNA methylation within the OXTR promoter region of pet dogs is linked to their owner's interaction style and to the social behavior of the dogs. To be able to do so, we collected buccal epithelial cells and, in Study 1, we used pyrosequencing techniques to look for differentially methylated CpG sites in the canine OXTR promoter region on a heterogeneous sample of dogs and wolves of different ages and keeping conditions. Four identified sites (at positions -727, -751, -1371, and -1383 from transcription start site) showing more than 10% methylation variation were then, in Study 2, measured in triplicate in 217 pet Border Collies previously tested for reactions to an adverse social situation (i.e., approach by a threatening human) and with available data on their owners' interaction styles. We found that CpG methylation was significantly associated with the behavior of the dogs, in particular with the likelihood that dogs would hide behind their owner or remain passive when approached by a threatening human. On the other hand, CpG methylation was not related to the owners' behavior but to dog sex (at position -1371). Our findings underpin the complex relationship between epigenetics and behavior and highlight the importance of including epigenetic methods in the analysis of dog behavioral development. Further research is needed to investigate which environmental factors influence the epigenetic variation of the OXTR gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cimarelli
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
- Wolf Science CenterErnstbrunn, Austria
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
| | - Zsófia Virányi
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
- Wolf Science CenterErnstbrunn, Austria
| | - Borbála Turcsán
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of SciencesBudapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Rónai
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis UniversityBudapest, Hungary
| | - Mária Sasvári-Székely
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis UniversityBudapest, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Bánlaki
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis UniversityBudapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Parr LA, Brooks JM, Jonesteller T, Moss S, Jordano JO, Heitz TR. Effects of chronic oxytocin on attention to dynamic facial expressions in infant macaques. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2016; 74:149-157. [PMID: 27621197 PMCID: PMC5159270 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2016.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Studies in a variety of species have reported enhanced prosocial effects after an acute administration of the neuromodulating hormone, oxytocin (OT). Although the exact mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood, there is broad interest in developing OT into a treatment for social deficits. Only a few studies, however, have examined the effects of OT if given repeatedly during early development, the period when early intervention is likely to have the greatest benefits for reversing the progression towards social impairment. Those studies, exclusively in rodents, report mixed results. Some have shown enhancement of prosocial behavior, including increased social exploration, but others have shown anti-social effects, including increased aggression. In the present study, infant rhesus macaques were treated with a high-frequency (3× per week) or low-frequency (1× per week) dose of intranasal oxytocin (IN-OT) or placebo (IN-saline) between two and six months of age, after which their reactions to dynamic facial expressions (neutral, lipsmacking and threats) were measured. Results showed that IN-OT, compared to placebo, increased the time monkeys spent viewing the expression videos, but selectively reduced attention to the eyes in neutral faces in a dose dependent manner. The mechanism for this non-prosocial effect may be that repeated IN-OT administration down-regulates the expression of OT receptors in brain regions important for regulating social attention. Consequently, our results raise questions about the efficacy of implementing chronic IN-OT as a pharmacotherapy for the treatment of social deficits, particularly if given early in development. More work is needed, not only to identify optimal treatment schedules, but also to understand how IN-OT exerts its influences on the brain and behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A. Parr
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd., Atlanta GA, 30329 USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Emory University, Atlanta GA, 30322 USA,Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta GA, 30329 USA,Corresponding Author. 954 Gatewood Rd., Atlanta GA, 30329, USA, 404-727-3653,
| | - Jenna M. Brooks
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd., Atlanta GA, 30329 USA
| | - Trina Jonesteller
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd., Atlanta GA, 30329 USA
| | - Shannon Moss
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd., Atlanta GA, 30329 USA
| | | | - Thomas R. Heitz
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd., Atlanta GA, 30329 USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Association between oxytocin and receptor genetic polymorphisms and aggression in a northern Chinese Han population with alcohol dependence. Neurosci Lett 2016; 636:140-144. [PMID: 27818356 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.10.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol dependence (AD) is a common chronic brain disorder precipitated by complex interactions between biological, genetic, and environmental risk factors. Aggression often occurs in the context of AD. Previous studies have shown that Oxytocin (OXT) and OXT receptor (OXTR) are involved in the regulation of aggression. The present study investigated whether variations and interactions of OXT and OXTR genes were associated with AD-related aggression in a genetically homogeneous northern Chinese Han population. METHODS Three hundred and twenty-four male AD patients and 510 male healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. A Chinese version of the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire was used as a subjective measurement of aggressive behavior. Three variations, rs2254298, rs53576, and rs6133010 were genotyped using TaqMan and ligase detection reaction for all subjects. Generalized Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction was used to detect interactions between genetic attributes and environmental attributes. RESULTS The frequencies of alleles and genotypes of rs6133010 were significantly different between AD patients and HCs (p<0.001). In HCs, the effect of genotype GG of rs53576 on hostility aggression was significantly stronger than that of genotype AA and AG (p=0.001 and p=0.004, respectively), and the subjects with the interaction combination of rs6133010AA×rs2254298GG×rs53576AG exhibited significant effect on physical aggression (p=0.0107). CONCLUSION The present study found that rs6133010 in the OXT gene is associated with AD in the northern Chinese Han population. The polymorphisms of OXT/R may play a key role in the susceptibility of AD-related aggression.
Collapse
|
25
|
Vaidyanathan R, Hammock EA. Oxytocin receptor dynamics in the brain across development and species. Dev Neurobiol 2016; 77:143-157. [DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Vaidyanathan
- Department of Psychology; Florida State University; Tallahassee FL
- Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University; Tallahassee FL
| | - Elizabeth A.D. Hammock
- Department of Psychology; Florida State University; Tallahassee FL
- Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University; Tallahassee FL
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Watson IPB, Brüne M, Bradley AJ. The evolution of the molecular response to stress and its relevance to trauma and stressor-related disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:134-147. [PMID: 27216210 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The experience of "stress", in its broadest meaning, is an inevitable part of life. All living creatures have evolved multiple mechanisms to deal with such threats and challenges and to avoid damage to the organism that may be incurred from these stress responses. Trauma and stressor-related disorders are psychiatric conditions that are caused specifically by the experience of stress, though depression, anxiety and some other disorders may also be unleashed by stress. Stress, however, is not a mandatory criterion of these diagnoses. This article focuses on the evolution of the neurochemicals involved in the response to stress and the systems in which they function. This includes the skin and gut, and the immune system. Evidence suggests that responses to stress are evolutionarily highly conserved, have wider involvement than the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal stress axis alone, and that excessive stress responses can produce stressor-related disorders in both humans and animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian P Burges Watson
- University of Tasmania, Department of Psychiatry, Hobart, Tasmania 7005, Australia
| | - Martin Brüne
- LWL University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Division of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany.
| | - Adrian J Bradley
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kranz TM, Kopp M, Waltes R, Sachse M, Duketis E, Jarczok TA, Degenhardt F, Görgen K, Meyer J, Freitag CM, Chiocchetti AG. Meta-analysis and association of two common polymorphisms of the human oxytocin receptor gene in autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2016; 9:1036-1045. [PMID: 26788924 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides such as oxytocin (OXT) are known facilitators of social behavior across species. Variants of the OXT receptor gene (OXTR) have been tested for association with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across manifold ethnicities, yielding both positive and negative findings. A recent meta-analysis, comprising 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), has corroborated the implication of OXTR in the etiology of ASD. Here, we genotyped and tested two additional variants (rs237889 and rs237897) for association with ASD in two German predominantly high-functioning ASD samples. We found nominal over-transmission (OR = 1.48, CI95 = 1.06-2.08, P = 0.022) for the minor A allele of variant rs237889G>A in sample 1 (N = 135 complete parent-offspring trios, 29 parent child duos), but not in sample 2 (362 trios, 69 duos). Still, in a meta-analysis comprising four different studies including the two unreported German data sets (N = 542 families), this finding was confirmed (OR = 1.12; CI95 = 1.01-1.24, random effects P = 0.012). In addition, carriers of the minor risk allele rs237889-A showed significantly increased severity scores, as assessed through the autism diagnostic interview - revised (ADI-R), with highly significant increases in social interaction deficits. Our results corroborate the implication of common OXTR variants in the etiology of ASD. There is a need for functional studies to delineate the neurobiological implications of this and other association findings. (172/250). Autism Res 2016, 9: 1036-1045. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten M Kranz
- Department of Neurobehavioral Genetics, University of Trier, Johanniterufer 15, Trier, D-54290, Germany
| | - Marnie Kopp
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany
| | - Regina Waltes
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany
| | - Michael Sachse
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany
| | - Eftichia Duketis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany
| | - Tomasz A Jarczok
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany
| | - Franziska Degenhardt
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, Bonn, D-53127, Germany
| | - Katharina Görgen
- Department of Neurobehavioral Genetics, University of Trier, Johanniterufer 15, Trier, D-54290, Germany
| | - Jobst Meyer
- Department of Neurobehavioral Genetics, University of Trier, Johanniterufer 15, Trier, D-54290, Germany
| | - Christine M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany
| | - Andreas G Chiocchetti
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Deutschordenstraße 50, Frankfurt am Main, D-60528, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Murgatroyd CA, Peña CJ, Podda G, Nestler EJ, Nephew BC. Early life social stress induced changes in depression and anxiety associated neural pathways which are correlated with impaired maternal care. Neuropeptides 2015; 52:103-11. [PMID: 26049556 PMCID: PMC4537387 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Exposures to various types of early life stress can be robust predictors of the development of psychiatric disorders, including depression and anxiety. The objective of the current study was to investigate the roles of the translationally relevant targets of central vasopressin, oxytocin, ghrelin, orexin, glucocorticoid, and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathway in an early chronic social stress (ECSS) based rodent model of postpartum depression and anxiety. The present study reports novel changes in gene expression and extracellular signal related kinase (ERK) protein levels in the brains of ECSS exposed rat dams that display previously reported depressed maternal care and increased maternal anxiety. Decreases in oxytocin, orexin, and ERK proteins, increases in ghrelin receptor, glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor mRNA levels, and bidirectional changes in vasopressin underscore related work on the adverse long-term effects of early life stress on neural activity and plasticity, maternal behavior, responses to stress, and depression and anxiety-related behavior. The differences in gene and protein expression and robust correlations between expression and maternal care and anxiety support increased focus on these targets in animal and clinical studies of the adverse effects of early life stress, especially those focusing on depression and anxiety in mothers and the transgenerational effects of these disorders on offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Murgatroyd
- Manchester Metropolitan University School of Healthcare Science, All Saints Building, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
| | - Catherine J Peña
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Giovanni Podda
- Manchester Metropolitan University School of Healthcare Science, All Saints Building, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Benjamin C Nephew
- Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA 01536, United States.
| |
Collapse
|