1
|
Hasler G, Inta D. Emerging Perspectives on Neuroprotection. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2024:1-7. [PMID: 39154647 DOI: 10.1159/000540032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Neuroprotection aims to safeguard neurons from damage caused by various factors like stress, potentially leading to the rescue, recovery, or regeneration of the nervous system and its functions [J Clin Neurosci. 2002;9(1):4-8]. Conversely, neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to adapt and change throughout life, involving structural and functional alterations in cells and synaptic transmission [Neural Plast. 2014;2014:541870]. Neuroprotection is a broad and multidisciplinary field encompassing various approaches and strategies aimed at preserving and promoting neuronal health. It is a critical area of research in neuroscience and neurology, with the potential to lead to new therapies for a wide range of neurological disorders and conditions. Neuroprotection can take various forms and may involve pharmacological agents, lifestyle modifications, or behavioral interventions. Accordingly, also the perspective and the meaning of neuroprotection differs due to different angles of interpretation. The primary interpretation is from the pharmacological point of view since the most consistent data come from this field. In addition, we will discuss also alternative, yet less considered, perspectives on neuroprotection, focusing on specific neuroprotective targets, interactions with surrounding microglia, different levels of neuroprotective effects, the reversive/adaptative dimension, and its use as anticipatory/prophylactic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Hasler
- Molecular Psychiatry Lab, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Villars-sur-Glâne, Switzerland
- Freiburg Mental Health Network, Villars-sur-Glâne, Switzerland
- Lake Lucerne Institute, Vitznau, Switzerland
| | - Dragos Inta
- Translational Psychiatry, Department of Community Health, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Food Research and Innovation Center (FRIC), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Heresco-Levy U, Lerer B. Synergistic psychedelic - NMDAR modulator treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:146-152. [PMID: 37945694 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02312-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Modern research data suggest a therapeutic role for serotonergic psychedelics in depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders, although psychotomimetic effects may limit their widespread utilization. Serotonergic psychedelics enhance neuroplasticity via serotonin 2 A receptors (5HT2AR) activation and complex serotonergic-glutamatergic interactions involving the ionotropic glutamate receptors, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) channel antagonists, i.e. ketamine, and glycine modulatory site full and partial agonists, i.e., D-serine (DSR) and D-cycloserine (DCS), share some of these mechanisms of action and have neuroplastic and antidepressant effects. Moreover, procognitive effects have been reported for DSR and DCS and 5HT2AR-NMDAR interactions modulate neuronal excitability in prefrontal cortex and represent a target for new antipsychotics. We hypothesize that the synchronous administration of a psychedelic and a NMDAR modulator may increase the therapeutic impact of each of the treatment components and allow for dose adjustments and improved safety. We propose to initially focus research on the acute concurrent administration of psilocybin and DSR or DCS in depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uriel Heresco-Levy
- Department of Psychiatry, Herzog Medical Center; Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Bernard Lerer
- Hadassah BrainLabs, Center for Psychedelic Research, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ni X, Inoue R, Wu Y, Yoshida T, Yaku K, Nakagawa T, Saito T, Saido TC, Takao K, Mori H. Regional contributions of D-serine to Alzheimer's disease pathology in male AppNL-G-F/NL-G-F mice. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1211067. [PMID: 37455930 PMCID: PMC10339350 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1211067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neurodegenerative processes in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are associated with excitotoxicity mediated by the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR). D-Serine is an endogenous co-agonist necessary for NMDAR-mediated excitotoxicity. In the mammalian brain, it is produced by serine racemase (SRR) from L-serine, suggesting that dysregulation of L-serine, D-serine, or SRR may contribute to AD pathogenesis. Objective and methods We examined the contributions of D-serine to AD pathology in the AppNL-G-F/NL-G-F gene knock-in (APPKI) mouse model of AD. We first examined brain SRR expression levels and neuropathology in APPKI mice and then assessed the effects of long-term D-serine supplementation in drinking water on neurodegeneration. To further confirm the involvement of endogenous D-serine in AD progression, we generated Srr gene-deleted APPKI (APPKI-SRRKO) mice. Finally, to examine the levels of brain amino acids, we conducted liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Results Expression of SRR was markedly reduced in the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) of APPKI mice at 12 months of age compared with age-matched wild-type mice. Neuronal density was decreased in the hippocampal CA1 region but not altered significantly in the RSC. D-Serine supplementation exacerbated neuronal loss in the hippocampal CA1 of APPKI mice, while APPKI-SRRKO mice exhibited attenuated astrogliosis and reduced neuronal death in the hippocampal CA1 compared with APPKI mice. Furthermore, APPKI mice demonstrated marked abnormalities in the cortical amino acid levels that were partially reversed in APPKI-SRRKO mice. Conclusion These findings suggest that D-serine participates in the regional neurodegenerative process in the hippocampal CA1 during the amyloid pathology of AD and that reducing brain D-serine can partially attenuate neuronal loss and reactive astrogliosis. Therefore, regulating SRR could be an effective strategy to mitigate NMDAR-dependent neurodegeneration during AD progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiance Ni
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Graduate School of Innovative Life Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Ran Inoue
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Graduate School of Innovative Life Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Yoshida
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Keisuke Yaku
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakagawa
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Research Center for Pre-Disease Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Neurocognitive Science, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takaomi C. Saido
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Keizo Takao
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Research Center for Pre-Disease Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Department of Behavioral Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hisashi Mori
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Research Center for Pre-Disease Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The impact of amino acid metabolism on adult neurogenesis. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:233-244. [PMID: 36606681 DOI: 10.1042/bst20220762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis is a multistage process during which newborn neurons are generated through the activation and proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs) and integrated into existing neural networks. Impaired adult neurogenesis has been observed in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, suggesting its critical role in cognitive function, brain homeostasis, and neural repair. Over the past decades, mounting evidence has identified a strong association between metabolic status and adult neurogenesis. Here, we aim to summarize how amino acids and their neuroactive metabolites affect adult neurogenesis. Furthermore, we discuss the causal link between amino acid metabolism, adult neurogenesis, and neurological diseases. Finally, we propose that systematic elucidation of how amino acid metabolism regulates adult neurogenesis has profound implications not only for understanding the biological underpinnings of brain development and neurological diseases, but also for providing potential therapeutic strategies to intervene in disease progression.
Collapse
|
5
|
Nava-Gómez L, Calero-Vargas I, Higinio-Rodríguez F, Vázquez-Prieto B, Olivares-Moreno R, Ortiz-Retana J, Aranda P, Hernández-Chan N, Rojas-Piloni G, Alcauter S, López-Hidalgo M. AGING-ASSOCIATED COGNITIVE DECLINE IS REVERSED BY D-SERINE SUPPLEMENTATION. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0176-22.2022. [PMID: 35584913 PMCID: PMC9186414 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0176-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain aging is a natural process that involves structural and functional changes that lead to cognitive decline, even in healthy subjects. This detriment has been associated with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction due to a reduction in the brain levels of D-serine, the endogenous NMDAR co-agonist. However, it is not clear if D-serine supplementation could be used as an intervention to reduce or reverse age-related brain alterations. In the present work, we aimed to analyze the D-serine effect on aging-associated alterations in cellular and large-scale brain systems that could support cognitive flexibility in rats. We found that D-serine supplementation reverts the age-related decline in cognitive flexibility, frontal dendritic spine density, and partially restored large-scale functional connectivity without inducing nephrotoxicity; instead, D-serine restored the thickness of the renal epithelial cells that were affected by age. Our results suggest that D-serine could be used as a therapeutic target to reverse age-related brain alterations.SIGNIFICANT STATEMENTAge-related behavioral changes in cognitive performance occur as a physiological process of aging. Then, it is important to explore possible therapeutics to decrease, retard or reverse aging effects on the brain. NMDA receptor hypofunction contributes to the aging-associated cognitive decline. In the aged brain, there is a reduction in the brain levels of the NMDAR co-agonist, D-Serine. However, it is unclear if chronic D-serine supplementation could revert the age-detriment in brain functions. Our results show that D-serine supplementation reverts the age-associated decrease in cognitive flexibility, functional brain connectivity, and neuronal morphology. Our findings raise the possibility that restoring the brain levels of D-serine could be used as a therapeutic target to recover brain alterations associated with aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Nava-Gómez
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Facultad de Medicina. UAQ
| | - I Calero-Vargas
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - F Higinio-Rodríguez
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - B Vázquez-Prieto
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - R Olivares-Moreno
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - J Ortiz-Retana
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - P Aranda
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, UAQ
| | | | - G Rojas-Piloni
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - S Alcauter
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - M López-Hidalgo
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
d-Amino Acids and pLG72 in Alzheimer's Disease and Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222010917. [PMID: 34681579 PMCID: PMC8535920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222010917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies over the last several years have shown that d-amino acids, especially d-serine, have been related to brain and neurological disorders. Acknowledged neurological functions of d-amino acids include neurotransmission and learning and memory functions through modulating N-methyl-d-aspartate type glutamate receptors (NMDARs). Aberrant d-amino acids level and polymorphisms of genes related to d-amino acids metabolism are associated with neurodegenerative brain conditions. This review summarizes the roles of d-amino acids and pLG72, also known as d-amino acid oxidase activator, on two neurodegenerative disorders, schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The scope includes the changes in d-amino acids levels, gene polymorphisms of G72 genomics, and the role of pLG72 on NMDARs and mitochondria in schizophrenia and AD. The clinical diagnostic value of d-amino acids and pLG72 and the therapeutic importance are also reviewed.
Collapse
|
7
|
Lv T, Zhao B, Hu Q, Zhang X. The Glymphatic System: A Novel Therapeutic Target for Stroke Treatment. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:689098. [PMID: 34305569 PMCID: PMC8297504 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.689098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The glymphatic system (GS) is a novel defined brain-wide perivascular transit network between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and interstitial solutes that facilitates the clearance of brain metabolic wastes. The complicated network of the GS consists of the periarterial CSF influx pathway, astrocytes-mediated convective transport of fluid and solutes supported by AQP4 water channels, and perivenous efflux pathway. Recent researches indicate that the GS dysfunction is associated with various neurological disorders, including traumatic brain injury, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, migraine, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Meanwhile, the GS also plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiological process of stroke, including brain edema, blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption, immune cell infiltration, neuroinflammation, and neuronal apoptosis. In this review, we illustrated the key anatomical structures of the GS, the relationship between the GS and the meningeal lymphatic system, the interaction between the GS and the BBB, and the crosstalk between astrocytes and other GS cellular components. In addition, we contributed to the current knowledge about the role of the GS in the pathology of stroke and the role of AQP4 in stroke. We further discussed the potential use of the GS in early risk assessment, diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutics of stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Hu
- Central Laboratory, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chiareli RA, Carvalho GA, Marques BL, Mota LS, Oliveira-Lima OC, Gomes RM, Birbrair A, Gomez RS, Simão F, Klempin F, Leist M, Pinto MCX. The Role of Astrocytes in the Neurorepair Process. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:665795. [PMID: 34113618 PMCID: PMC8186445 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.665795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are highly specialized glial cells responsible for trophic and metabolic support of neurons. They are associated to ionic homeostasis, the regulation of cerebral blood flow and metabolism, the modulation of synaptic activity by capturing and recycle of neurotransmitters and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier. During injuries and infections, astrocytes act in cerebral defense through heterogeneous and progressive changes in their gene expression, morphology, proliferative capacity, and function, which is known as reactive astrocytes. Thus, reactive astrocytes release several signaling molecules that modulates and contributes to the defense against injuries and infection in the central nervous system. Therefore, deciphering the complex signaling pathways of reactive astrocytes after brain damage can contribute to the neuroinflammation control and reveal new molecular targets to stimulate neurorepair process. In this review, we present the current knowledge about the role of astrocytes in brain damage and repair, highlighting the cellular and molecular bases involved in synaptogenesis and neurogenesis. In addition, we present new approaches to modulate the astrocytic activity and potentiates the neurorepair process after brain damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lennia Soares Mota
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alexander Birbrair
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Renato Santiago Gomez
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Simão
- Research Division, Vascular Cell Biology, Joslin Diabetes Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Marcel Leist
- Konstanz Research School Chemical Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zachar G, Kemecsei R, Papp SM, Wéber K, Kisparti T, Tyler T, Gáspár G, Balázsa T, Csillag A. D-Aspartate consumption selectively promotes intermediate-term spatial memory and the expression of hippocampal NMDA receptor subunits. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6166. [PMID: 33731750 PMCID: PMC7969773 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85360-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
d-Aspartate (d-Asp) and d-serine (d-Ser) have been proposed to promote early-phase LTP in vitro and to enhance spatial memory in vivo. Here, we investigated the behavioural effects of chronic consumption of d-Asp and d-Ser on spatial learning of mice together with the expression of NMDA receptors. We also studied the alterations of neurogenesis by morphometric analysis of bromo-deoxyuridine incorporating and doublecortin expressing cells in the hippocampus. Our results specify a time period (3–4 h post-training), within which the animals exposed to d-Asp (but not d-Ser) show a more stable memory during retrieval. The cognitive improvement is due to elimination of transient bouts of destabilization and reconsolidation of memory, rather than to enhanced acquisition. d-Asp also protracted reversal learning probably due to reduced plasticity. Expression of GluN1 and GluN2A subunits was elevated in the hippocampus of d-Asp (but not d-Ser) treated mice. d-Asp or d-Ser did not alter the proliferation of neuronal progenitor cells in the hippocampus. The observed learning-related changes evoked by d-Asp are unlikely to be due to enhanced proliferation and recruitment of new neurones. Rather, they are likely associated with an upregulation of NMDA receptors, as well as a reorganization of receptor subunit assemblies in existing hippocampal/dentate neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gergely Zachar
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary.
| | - Róbert Kemecsei
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Márta Papp
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Katalin Wéber
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kisparti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Teadora Tyler
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Gábor Gáspár
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Tamás Balázsa
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - András Csillag
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Machine Learning and Novel Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052761. [PMID: 33803217 PMCID: PMC7963160 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex and severe neurodegenerative disease that still lacks effective methods of diagnosis. The current diagnostic methods of AD rely on cognitive tests, imaging techniques and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of amyloid-β1-42 (Aβ42), total tau protein and hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau). However, the available methods are expensive and relatively invasive. Artificial intelligence techniques like machine learning tools have being increasingly used in precision diagnosis. Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the machine learning and novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of AD. Methods: We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for reviews and trials that investigated the machine learning and novel biomarkers in diagnosis of AD. Results: In additional to Aβ and tau-related biomarkers, biomarkers according to other mechanisms of AD pathology have been investigated. Neuronal injury biomarker includes neurofiliament light (NFL). Biomarkers about synaptic dysfunction and/or loss includes neurogranin, BACE1, synaptotagmin, SNAP-25, GAP-43, synaptophysin. Biomarkers about neuroinflammation includes sTREM2, and YKL-40. Besides, d-glutamate is one of coagonists at the NMDARs. Several machine learning algorithms including support vector machine, logistic regression, random forest, and naïve Bayes) to build an optimal predictive model to distinguish patients with AD from healthy controls. Conclusions: Our results revealed machine learning with novel biomarkers and multiple variables may increase the sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis of AD. Rapid and cost-effective HPLC for biomarkers and machine learning algorithms may assist physicians in diagnosing AD in outpatient clinics.
Collapse
|
11
|
Dyakin VV, Wisniewski TM, Lajtha A. Racemization in Post-Translational Modifications Relevance to Protein Aging, Aggregation and Neurodegeneration: Tip of the Iceberg. Symmetry (Basel) 2021; 13:455. [PMID: 34350031 PMCID: PMC8330555 DOI: 10.3390/sym13030455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Homochirality of DNA and prevalent chirality of free and protein-bound amino acids in a living organism represents the challenge for modern biochemistry and neuroscience. The idea of an association between age-related disease, neurodegeneration, and racemization originated from the studies of fossils and cataract disease. Under the pressure of new results, this concept has a broader significance linking protein folding, aggregation, and disfunction to an organism's cognitive and behavioral functions. The integrity of cognitive function is provided by a delicate balance between the evolutionarily imposed molecular homo-chirality and the epigenetic/developmental impact of spontaneous and enzymatic racemization. The chirality of amino acids is the crucial player in the modulation the structure and function of proteins, lipids, and DNA. The collapse of homochirality by racemization is the result of the conformational phase transition. The racemization of protein-bound amino acids (spontaneous and enzymatic) occurs through thermal activation over the energy barrier or by the tunnel transfer effect under the energy barrier. The phase transition is achieved through the intermediate state, where the chirality of alpha carbon vanished. From a thermodynamic consideration, the system in the homo-chiral (single enantiomeric) state is characterized by a decreased level of entropy. The oscillating protein chirality is suggesting its distinct significance in the neurotransmission and flow of perceptual information, adaptive associative learning, and cognitive laterality. The common pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative disorders include protein misfolding, aging, and the deposition of protease-resistant protein aggregates. Each of the landmarks is influenced by racemization. The brain region, cell type, and age-dependent racemization critically influence the functions of many intracellular, membrane-bound, and extracellular proteins including amyloid precursor protein (APP), TAU, PrP, Huntingtin, α-synuclein, myelin basic protein (MBP), and collagen. The amyloid cascade hypothesis in Alzheimer's disease (AD) coexists with the failure of amyloid beta (Aβ) targeting drug therapy. According to our view, racemization should be considered as a critical factor of protein conformation with the potential for inducing order, disorder, misfolding, aggregation, toxicity, and malfunctions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor V. Dyakin
- Virtual Reality Perception Lab (VRPL), The Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research (NKI), Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA
| | - Thomas M. Wisniewski
- Departments of Neurology, Pathology and Psychiatry, Center for Cognitive Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Abel Lajtha
- Center for Neurochemistry, The Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research (NKI), Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chang CH, Kuo HL, Ma WF, Tsai HC. Cerebrospinal Fluid and Serum d-Serine Levels in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E3840. [PMID: 33256147 PMCID: PMC7761499 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex and severe neurodegenerative disease and still lacks effective methods of diagnosis. Dysfunction of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has been found to be involved in synapse dysfunction and neurotoxicity of AD mechanisms. d-Serine, an NMDAR receptor coagonist, is reported as a potential new biomarker for AD. However, the results of serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) d-serine levels are conflicting. We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the serum and CSF d-serine levels in patients with AD. METHODS We searched PubMed, the Cochrane central register of controlled trials, and the Cochrane database of systematic reviews for trials that measured d-serine levels both in patients with AD and in controls. We included controlled trials that analyzed d-serine levels in human samples (e.g., serum and CSF). Studies were pooled using a random-effect model for comparisons between AD and control group. We used effect size (ES; expressed as d-serine levels) in each selected meta-analysis to calculate standardized mean difference (SMD). Positive values indicated increased d-serine levels in AD group. We presented results with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The heterogeneity of the included trials was evaluated through visually inspecting funnel plots and using the I2 statistic. Moderators of effects were explored using metaregression. RESULTS Seven trials with more than 1186 participants were included in this meta-analysis. d-serine levels in patients with AD were significantly higher than those in controls (SMD = 0.679, 95% CI = 0.335 to 1.022, p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed that the AD group had significantly higher d-serine levels in serum and CSF compared with the control group (SMD = 0.566 (serum) and 1.008 (CSF); 95% CI = 0.183 to 0.948 (serum) and 0.168 to 1.849 (CSF)). Moreover, a metaregression revealed a significant negative association between ES and mean mini-mental state examination score in AD group (slope = -0.1203, p = 0.0004). CONCLUSIONS Our results revealed higher d-serine levels in the serum and CSF of patients with AD relative to the controls. Further studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up are recommended to clarify this association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hung Chang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry & Brain Disease Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- An Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan 709204, Taiwan;
| | - Hsiao-Lun Kuo
- An Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan 709204, Taiwan;
- School of Nursing, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan;
| | - Wei-Fen Ma
- School of Nursing, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan;
- Ph.D Program for Health Science and Industry, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Adjunct Supervisor, Department of Nursing, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chi Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Tzu-Chi General Hospital, Hualien 970473, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970473, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wolosker H, Balu DT. D-Serine as the gatekeeper of NMDA receptor activity: implications for the pharmacologic management of anxiety disorders. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:184. [PMID: 32518273 PMCID: PMC7283225 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-00870-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fear, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are quite common and debilitating, with an estimated lifetime prevalence of ~28% in Western populations. They are associated with excessive fear reactions, often including an inability to extinguish learned fear, increased avoidance behavior, as well as altered cognition and mood. There is an extensive literature demonstrating the importance of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function in regulating these behaviors. NMDARs require the binding of a co-agonist, D-serine or glycine, at the glycine modulatory site (GMS) to function. D-serine is now garnering attention as the primary NMDAR co-agonist in limbic brain regions implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders. L-serine is synthesized by astrocytes, which is then transported to neurons for conversion to D-serine by serine racemase (SR), a model we term the 'serine shuttle.' The neuronally-released D-serine is what regulates NMDAR activity. Our review discusses how the systems that regulate the synaptic availability of D-serine, a critical gatekeeper of NMDAR-dependent activation, could be targeted to improve the pharmacologic management of anxiety-related disorders where the desired outcomes are the facilitation of fear extinction, as well as mood and cognitive enhancement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Herman Wolosker
- grid.6451.60000000121102151Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 31096 Israel
| | - Darrick T. Balu
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA ,grid.240206.20000 0000 8795 072XTranslational Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478 USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Guercio GD, Panizzutti R. Potential and Challenges for the Clinical Use of d-Serine As a Cognitive Enhancer. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:14. [PMID: 29459833 PMCID: PMC5807334 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
After 25 years of its discovery in the rat brain, d-serine is a recognized modulator of synaptic plasticity and cognitive processes through its actions on the NMDA-glutamate receptor. Importantly, cognitive impairment is a core feature of conditions, such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and aging, and is associated to disturbances in NMDA-glutamate receptors. The d-serine pathway has been associated with cognitive deficits and these conditions, and, for this reason, d-serine signaling is subject of intense research to probe its role in aiding diagnosis and therapy. Nevertheless, this has not resulted in new therapies being incorporated into clinical practice. Therefore, in this review we will address many questions that need to be solved by future studies, regarding d-serine pharmacokinetics, possible side effects, other strategies to modulate its levels, and combination with other therapies to increase its efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerson D. Guercio
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rogerio Panizzutti
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Terrillion CE, Abazyan B, Yang Z, Crawford J, Shevelkin AV, Jouroukhin Y, Yoo KH, Cho CH, Roychaudhuri R, Snyder SH, Jang MH, Pletnikov MV. DISC1 in Astrocytes Influences Adult Neurogenesis and Hippocampus-Dependent Behaviors in Mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2017; 42. [PMID: 28631721 PMCID: PMC5603806 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The functional role of genetic variants in glia in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders remains poorly studied. Disrupted-In-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1), a genetic risk factor implicated in major mental disorders, has been implicated in regulation of astrocyte functions. As both astrocytes and DISC1 influence adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus, we hypothesized that selective expression of dominant-negative C-terminus-truncated human DISC1 (mutant DISC1) in astrocytes would affect adult hippocampal neurogenesis and hippocampus-dependent behaviors. A series of behavioral tests were performed in mice with or without expression of mutant DISC1 in astrocytes during late postnatal development. In conjunction with behavioral tests, we evaluated adult neurogenesis, including neural progenitor proliferation and dendrite development of newborn neurons in the DG. The ameliorative effects of D-serine on mutant DISC1-associated behaviors and abnormal adult neurogenesis were also examined. Expression of mutant DISC1 in astrocytes decreased neural progenitor proliferation and dendrite growth of newborn neurons, and produced elevated anxiety, attenuated social behaviors, and impaired hippocampus-dependent learning and memory. Chronic treatment with D-serine ameliorated the behavioral alterations and rescued abnormal adult neurogenesis in mutant DISC1 mice. Our findings suggest that psychiatric genetic risk factors expressed in astrocytes could affect adult hippocampal neurogenesis and contribute to aspects of psychiatric disease through abnormal production of D-serine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chantelle E Terrillion
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bagrat Abazyan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zhongxi Yang
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA,Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Joshua Crawford
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alexey V Shevelkin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yan Jouroukhin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ki Hyun Yoo
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Chang Hoon Cho
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robin Roychaudhuri
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Solomon H Snyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mi-Hyeon Jang
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mikhail V Pletnikov
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA,Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, CMSC 8-121, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA, Tel: +410-502-3760, Fax: +410-614-0013, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Huang L, Chen M, Zhang W, Sun X, Liu B, Ge J. Retinoid acid and taurine promote NeuroD1-induced differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells into retinal ganglion cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 438:67-76. [PMID: 28766169 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) possess the capacity to differentiate into multiple cell types including retinal neurons. Despite substantial progress in the transcriptional regulation of iPSC differentiation process, the efficiency of generation of retinal neurons from iPSCs is still low. In this study, we investigated the role of transcription factor NeuroD1 in the differentiation of iPSCs into retinal neurons. We observed that retrovirus-mediated NeuroD1 overexpression in iPSCs increased the efficiency of neuronal differentiation. Immunostaining analysis showed that NeuroD1 overexpression increased the expression of retina ganglion cell markers including Islet-1, Math5, Brn3b, and Thy1.2. Retinoid acid (RA) and taurine further improved the differentiation efficiency of iPSCs overexpressing NeuroD1. However, RA and taurine did not promote differentiation in the absence of NeuroD1 overexpression. Together, our study provides new evidence in transcription factor-regulated stem cell differentiation in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Mengfei Chen
- Head&Neck Surgery Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Weizhong Zhang
- Ophthalmology Department, Sir Runrun Hospital Affiliated With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 325200, China
| | - Xuerong Sun
- Institute of Aging Research, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Bingqian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmologic Center, Sun Yet-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jian Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmologic Center, Sun Yet-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gebara E, Bonaguidi MA, Beckervordersandforth R, Sultan S, Udry F, Gijs PJ, Lie DC, Ming GL, Song H, Toni N. Heterogeneity of Radial Glia-Like Cells in the Adult Hippocampus. Stem Cells 2016; 34:997-1010. [PMID: 26729510 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis is tightly regulated by the neurogenic niche. Cellular contacts between niche cells and neural stem cells are hypothesized to regulate stem cell proliferation or lineage choice. However, the structure of adult neural stem cells and the contact they form with niche cells are poorly described. Here, we characterized the morphology of radial glia-like (RGL) cells, their molecular identity, proliferative activity, and fate determination in the adult mouse hippocampus. We found the coexistence of two morphotypes of cells with prototypical morphological characteristics of RGL stem cells: Type α cells, which represented 76% of all RGL cells, displayed a long primary process modestly branching into the molecular layer and type β cells, which represented 24% of all RGL cells, with a shorter radial process highly branching into the outer granule cell layer-inner molecular layer border. Stem cell markers were expressed in type α cells and coexpressed with astrocytic markers in type β cells. Consistently, in vivo lineage tracing indicated that type α cells can give rise to neurons, astrocytes, and type β cells, whereas type β cells do not proliferate. Our results reveal that the adult subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus harbors two functionally different RGL cells, which can be distinguished by simple morphological criteria, supporting a morphofunctional role of their thin cellular processes. Type β cells may represent an intermediate state in the transformation of type α, RGL stem cells, into astrocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elias Gebara
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Lausanne, rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Anthony Bonaguidi
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ruth Beckervordersandforth
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander Universität, Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstrasse, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sébastien Sultan
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Lausanne, rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florian Udry
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Lausanne, rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pieter-Jan Gijs
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Lausanne, rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dieter Chichung Lie
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander Universität, Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fahrstrasse, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,The Solomon Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,The Solomon Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicolas Toni
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Lausanne, rue du Bugnon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Soria CA, Remedi C, Núñez DA, D'Alessio L, Roldán EJA. Impact of alprazolam in allostatic load and neurocognition of patients with anxiety disorders and chronic stress (GEMA): observational study protocol. BMJ Open 2015; 5:e007231. [PMID: 26173716 PMCID: PMC4513478 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-007231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The allostatic load model explains the additive effects of multiple biological processes that accelerate pathophysiology related to stress, particularly in the central nervous system. Stress-related mental conditions such as anxiety disorders and neuroticism (a well-known stress vulnerability factor), have been linked to disturbances of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal with cognitive implications. Nevertheless, there are controversial results in the literature and there is a need to determine the impact of the psychopharmacological treatment on allostatic load parameters and in cognitive functions. Gador study of Estres Modulation by Alprazolam, aims to determine the impact of medication on neurobiochemical variables related to chronic stress, metabolic syndrome, neurocognition and quality of life in patients with anxiety, allostatic load and neuroticism. METHODS/ANALYSIS In this observational prospective phase IV study, highly sympthomatic patients with anxiety disorders (six or more points in the Hamilton-A scale), neuroticism (more than 18 points in the Neo five personality factor inventory (NEO-FFI) scale), an allostatic load (three positive clinical or biochemical items at Crimmins and Seeman criteria) will be included. Clinical variables of anxiety, neuroticism, allostatic load, neurobiochemical studies, neurocognition and quality of life will be determined prior and periodically (1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks) after treatment (on demand of alprazolam from 0.75 mg/day to 3.0 mg/day). A sample of n=55/182 patients will be considered enough to detect variables higher than 25% (pretreatment vs post-treatment or significant correlations) with a 1-ß power of 0-80. t Test and/or non-parametric test, and Pearson's test for correlation analysis will be determined. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study protocol was approved by an Independent Ethics Committee of FEFyM (Foundation for Pharmacological Studies and Drugs, Buenos Aires) and by regulatory authorities of Argentina (ANMAT, Dossier # 61 409-8 of 20 April 2009), following the law of Habeas Data and psychotherapeutic drug control. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER GEMA 20811.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Soria
- Department of Córdoba, Institute of Biosciences Henri Laborit, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Remedi
- Department of Córdoba, Institute of Biosciences Henri Laborit, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel A Núñez
- Department of Scientific Direction, Gador SA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana D'Alessio
- Department of Córdoba, Institute of Biosciences Henri Laborit, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Emilio J A Roldán
- Department of Scientific Direction, Gador SA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|