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Derntl B, Eber CH, Kogler L, Rehbein E, Sundstöm-Poromaa I, Morawetz C. Estradiol modulates changes in effective connectivity in emotion regulation networks. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 167:107103. [PMID: 38924828 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Hormonal changes in ovarian hormones like estradiol (E2) during the menstrual cycle affect emotional processes, including emotion recognition, memory, and regulation. So far, the neural underpinnings of the effect of E2 on emotional experience have been investigated using task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and functional connectivity. In the present study, we examined whether the intrinsic network dynamics at rest (i.e., directed effective connectivity) related to emotion regulation are (1) modulated by E2 levels and (2) linked to behavioral emotion regulation ability. Hence, 29 naturally cycling women participated in two resting-state fMRI scans in their early follicular phase after being administered a placebo or an E2 valerate, respectively. Emotion regulation ability was assessed using a standard emotion regulation task in which participants were asked to down-regulate their emotions in response to negative images. The regions of two functionally predefined neural networks related to emotional down-regulation and reactivity were used to investigate effective connectivity at rest using spectral dynamic causal modelling. We found that E2, compared to placebo, resulted in changes in effective connectivity in both networks. In the regulation network, prefrontal regions showed distinct connectivity in the E2 compared to the placebo condition, while mixed results evolved in the emotional reactivity network. Stepwise regressions revealed that in the E2 condition a connection from the parietal to the prefrontal cortex predicted regulation ability. Our results demonstrate that E2 levels influence effective connectivity in networks underlying emotion regulation and emotional reactivity. Thus, E2 and its potential modification via hormonal administration may play a supporting role in the treatment of mental disorders that show a dysregulation of emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Derntl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Women's Mental Health & Brain Function, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner site Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Corinna H Eber
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lydia Kogler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Women's Mental Health & Brain Function, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner site Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elisa Rehbein
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Nuthetal, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Neuroscience Research Center, Berlin, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research, München-Neuherberg, Germany
| | | | - Carmen Morawetz
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
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2
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Griffith AK, Martel MM, Fillmore MT. Attentional bias to alcohol-related cues: effects of menstrual cycle phase and sex differences. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06652-3. [PMID: 39177809 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06652-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE A recent study by our group found that women displayed greater attentional bias to alcohol-related cues during the late versus early follicular phase in both sober and intoxicated states, suggesting a greater risk of excessive drinking among women during this phase. Changes in attentional bias as a function of menstrual cycle phase raise questions about potential sex differences in the relative consistency by which women and men display attentional bias to alcohol over time. OBJECTIVES The present study tested sex differences in attentional bias to alcohol by comparing the change in women's attentional bias from early to late follicular phase to that observed in men over the same period. METHODS Twenty-five men and 25 women aged 21-32 participated in a placebo-controlled study examining sex differences in the rewarding properties of alcohol. Participants completed measures of attentional bias to alcohol-related cues during two sessions following both 0.6 g/kg alcohol and placebo. Test sessions occurred one week apart, and for female participants coincided with the early and late follicular phases. RESULTS Men consistently displayed attentional bias to alcohol-related cues across sessions under both doses. By contrast, women showed attentional bias only during the late follicular phase, at a magnitude greater than that observed in men, and persistent under both doses. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the potential role of sex and menstrual cycle phase in sensitizing drinkers to rewarding properties of alcohol-related cues. Men's motivation to drink may remain relatively consistent, whereas women may be most motivated during the late follicular phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie K Griffith
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 110 Kastle Hall, 40506-0044, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Michelle M Martel
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 110 Kastle Hall, 40506-0044, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mark T Fillmore
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 110 Kastle Hall, 40506-0044, Lexington, KY, USA.
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3
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Ramdeo KR, Adams FC, Drapeau CC, Foglia SD, Cuizon MC, Sader MA, Nucci R, Nelson AJ. The influence of menstrual phase on synaptic plasticity induced via intermittent theta-burst stimulation. Neuroscience 2024:S0306-4522(24)00409-3. [PMID: 39168176 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.08.023] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian hormones influence the propensity for short-term plasticity induced by repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Estradiol appears to enhance the propensity for neural plasticity. It is currently unknown how progesterone influences short-term plasticity induced by rTMS. OBJECTIVE The present research investigates whether the luteal versus follicular phase of the menstrual cycle influence short-term plasticity induced by intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS). We tested the hypothesis that iTBS would increase motor evoked potentials (MEPs) during the follicular phase. Further, we explored the effects of the luteal phase on iTBS-induced neural plasticity. METHOD Twenty-nine adult females participated in a placebo-controlled study that delivered real and sham iTBS to the left primary motor cortex in separate sessions corresponding to the follicular phase (real iTBS), luteal phase (real iTBS), and a randomly selected day (sham iTBS). Outcomes included corticospinal excitability as measured by the amplitude of MEPs and short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) recorded from the right first dorsal interosseous muscle before and following iTBS (612 pulses). RESULTS MEP amplitude was increased following real iTBS during the follicular condition. No significant changes in MEP amplitude were observed during the luteal or sham visits. SICI was unchanged by iTBS irrespective of menstrual phase. CONCLUSION These findings suggest women experience a variable propensity for iTBS-induced short-term plasticity across the menstrual cycle. This information is important for designing studies aiming to induce plasticity via rTMS in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Ramdeo
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - F C Adams
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - C C Drapeau
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - S D Foglia
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - M C Cuizon
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - M A Sader
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - R Nucci
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - A J Nelson
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, 1280, Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4L8, Canada.
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Takayama KI, Suzuki T, Sato K, Saito Y, Inoue S. Cooperative nuclear action of RNA-binding proteins PSF and G3BP2 to sustain neuronal cell viability is decreased in aging and dementia. Aging Cell 2024:e14316. [PMID: 39155453 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctional RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have been implicated in several geriatric diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, little is known about the nuclear molecular actions and cooperative functions mediated by RBPs that affect gene regulation in sporadic AD or aging. In the present study, we investigated aging- and AD-associated changes in the expression of PSF and G3BP2, which are representative RBPs associated with sex hormone activity. We determined that both PSF and G3BP2 levels were decreased in aged brains compared to young brains of mice. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of human neuronal cells has shown that PSF is responsible for neuron-specific functions and sustains cell viability. In addition, we showed that PSF interacted with G3BP2 in the nucleus and stress granules (SGs) at the protein level. Moreover, PSF-mediated gene regulation at the RNA level correlated with G3BP2. Interestingly, PSF and G3BP2 target genes are associated with AD development. Mechanistically, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis demonstrated that the interaction of RBPs with the pre-mRNA of target genes enhanced post-transcriptional mRNA stability, suggesting a possible role for these RBPs in preserving neuronal cell viability. Notably, in the brains of patients with sporadic AD, decreased expression of PSF and G3BP2 in neurons was observed compared to non-AD patients. Overall, our findings suggest that the cooperative action of PSF and G3BP2 in the nucleus is important for preventing aging and AD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken-Ichi Takayama
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Suzuki
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kaoru Sato
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
- Integrated Research Initiative for Living Well with Dementia, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Saito
- Department of Neuropathology (the Brain Bank for Aging Research), Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Systems Medicine and Gene Therapy, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
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Jia K, Wang M, Steinwurzel C, Ziminski JJ, Xi Y, Emir U, Kourtzi Z. Recurrent inhibition refines mental templates to optimize perceptual decisions. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado7378. [PMID: 39083601 PMCID: PMC11290482 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado7378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Translating sensory inputs to perceptual decisions relies on building internal representations of features critical for solving complex tasks. Yet, we still lack a mechanistic account of how the brain forms these mental templates of task-relevant features to optimize decision-making. Here, we provide evidence for recurrent inhibition: an experience-dependent plasticity mechanism that refines mental templates by enhancing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated (GABAergic) inhibition and recurrent processing in superficial visual cortex layers. We combine ultrahigh-field (7 T) functional magnetic resonance imaging at submillimeter resolution with magnetic resonance spectroscopy to investigate the fine-scale functional and neurochemical plasticity mechanisms for optimized perceptual decisions. We demonstrate that GABAergic inhibition increases following training on a visual (i.e., fine orientation) discrimination task, enhancing the discriminability of orientation representations in superficial visual cortex layers that are known to support recurrent processing. Modeling functional and neurochemical plasticity interactions reveals that recurrent inhibitory processing optimizes brain computations for perpetual decisions and adaptive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Jia
- Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310013, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Mengxin Wang
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
| | | | - Joseph J. Ziminski
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Yinghua Xi
- Interdisciplinary Institute of Neuroscience and Technology, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Uzay Emir
- Purdue University School of Health Sciences, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Zoe Kourtzi
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
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Rizor EJ, Babenko V, Dundon NM, Beverly‐Aylwin R, Stump A, Hayes M, Herschenfeld‐Catalan L, Jacobs EG, Grafton ST. Menstrual cycle-driven hormone concentrations co-fluctuate with white and gray matter architecture changes across the whole brain. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26785. [PMID: 39031470 PMCID: PMC11258887 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Cyclic fluctuations in hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG-axis) hormones exert powerful behavioral, structural, and functional effects through actions on the mammalian central nervous system. Yet, very little is known about how these fluctuations alter the structural nodes and information highways of the human brain. In a study of 30 naturally cycling women, we employed multidimensional diffusion and T1-weighted imaging during three estimated menstrual cycle phases (menses, ovulation, and mid-luteal) to investigate whether HPG-axis hormone concentrations co-fluctuate with alterations in white matter (WM) microstructure, cortical thickness (CT), and brain volume. Across the whole brain, 17β-estradiol and luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations were directly proportional to diffusion anisotropy (μFA; 17β-estradiol: β1 = 0.145, highest density interval (HDI) = [0.211, 0.4]; LH: β1 = 0.111, HDI = [0.157, 0.364]), while follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was directly proportional to CT (β1 = 0 .162, HDI = [0.115, 0.678]). Within several individual regions, FSH and progesterone demonstrated opposing relationships with mean diffusivity (Diso) and CT. These regions mainly reside within the temporal and occipital lobes, with functional implications for the limbic and visual systems. Finally, progesterone was associated with increased tissue (β1 = 0.66, HDI = [0.607, 15.845]) and decreased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; β1 = -0.749, HDI = [-11.604, -0.903]) volumes, with total brain volume remaining unchanged. These results are the first to report simultaneous brain-wide changes in human WM microstructure and CT coinciding with menstrual cycle-driven hormone rhythms. Effects were observed in both classically known HPG-axis receptor-dense regions (medial temporal lobe, prefrontal cortex) and in other regions located across frontal, occipital, temporal, and parietal lobes. Our results suggest that HPG-axis hormone fluctuations may have significant structural impacts across the entire brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J. Rizor
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
- Institute for Collaborative BiotechnologiesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
| | - Viktoriya Babenko
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
- BIOPAC Systems, IncGoletaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Neil M. Dundon
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
- Institute for Collaborative BiotechnologiesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and PsychosomaticsUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Renee Beverly‐Aylwin
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
| | - Alexandra Stump
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
| | - Margaret Hayes
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Emily G. Jacobs
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
- Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
| | - Scott T. Grafton
- Department of Psychological & Brain SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
- Institute for Collaborative BiotechnologiesUniversity of CaliforniaSanta BarbaraCaliforniaUSA
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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.
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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
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Kulkarni J, Gurvich C, Mu E, Molloy G, Lovell S, Mansberg G, Horton S, Morton E, Uppal T, Cashell C, de Castella A, Reisel D, Dear L, Weatherburn-Reeves N, Harris K, Pietrobon K, Teagle K, Kim BY, Newson L, Szoeke C. Menopause depression: Under recognised and poorly treated. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2024; 58:636-640. [PMID: 38761367 PMCID: PMC11308326 DOI: 10.1177/00048674241253944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Menopause is a biological process experienced by all people assigned female at birth. A significant number of women experience mental ill health related to the major brain gonadal hormone shifts that occur in their midlife. There is poor understanding and management of the complex mental ill health issues, with the biological brain hormone changes receiving little formal attention. The current treatment advice is to manage this special type of mental ill health in the same way that all mental ill health is managed. This leads to poor outcomes for women and their families. Many women leave the workforce earlier than expected due to menopause-related depression and anxiety, with subsequent loss of salary and superannuation. Others describe being unable to adequately parent or maintain meaningful relationships - all ending in a poor quality of life. We are a large and diverse group of national and international clinicians, lived experience and social community advocates, all working together to innovate the current approaches available for women with menopausal mental ill health. Above all, true innovation is only possible when the woman with lived experience of menopause is front and centre of this debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayashri Kulkarni
- HER Centre Australia, School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline Gurvich
- HER Centre Australia, School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eveline Mu
- HER Centre Australia, School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Grace Molloy
- Menopause Friendly Australia, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
| | - Sonya Lovell
- Dear Menopause Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Erin Morton
- Health Data and Clinical Trials, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Talat Uppal
- Women’s Health Road, Frenchs Forest, NSW, Australia
| | - Ceri Cashell
- Avalon Family Medical Practice, Avalon Beach, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony de Castella
- HER Centre Australia, School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Kerry Pietrobon
- Lived Experience & Menopause Advocate , Brunswick, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Bo Youn Kim
- WA Country Health Service, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Cassandra Szoeke
- Healthy Ageing Program, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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9
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Yucens B, Erdogan NO, Gündüz M, Tumkaya S. Comparison of autogenous and reactive type obsessive-compulsive disorders in terms of clinical characteristics: A meta-analysis study. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 176:338-347. [PMID: 38917724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been divided into two subgroups autogenous and reactive types, based on obsessive symptoms. To our knowledge, no meta-analysis study compares sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Investigation of the differences between the two groups in terms of these basic characteristics may provide information about the accuracy of this classification. This is the first meta-analysis to examine gender, age at onset and some clinical differences between patients with autogenous and reactive OCD. Electronic bibliographic databases of Scopus and PubMed were searched up to March 2024. Random effect models were conducted for this meta-analysis. The analysis was carried out using the standardized mean difference as the outcome measure. Publication bias was evaluated using the Begg and Eggers funnel plot, and fail-safe N calculation using the Rosenthal approach. The current meta-analysis summarizes the data from primary studies comparing the gender rates, age at onset of OCD, severity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and severity of depression and anxiety symptoms between autogenous and reactive types of OCD. The results of this study showed that the rate of male gender was higher in the autogenous type OCD. In addition, increased severity of anxiety, and depression were associated with autogenous type OCD. There was no significant difference between groups regarding the severity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Age of OCD onset findings were insignificant, but excluding an outlier study suggested earlier onset in autogenous type OCD. These results support the distinction between autogenous and reactive type OCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bengu Yucens
- Pamukkale University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Kınıklı, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Nilgun Oktar Erdogan
- Pamukkale University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Kınıklı, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Gündüz
- Department of Psychiatry, Government Hospital of Bolvadin, Bolvadin, Turkey
| | - Selim Tumkaya
- Pamukkale University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Kınıklı, Denizli, Turkey; Pamukkale University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, Kınıklı, Denizli, Turkey.
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10
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Maddern XJ, Ursich LT, Bailey G, Pearl A, Anversa RG, Lawrence AJ, Walker LC. Sex Differences in Alcohol Use: Is It All About Hormones? Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae088. [PMID: 39018449 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Risky alcohol use and alcohol use disorders (AUD) are a rising problem in women, yet a major disparity in our understanding of what drives alcohol consumption in women remains. Historically biomedical research has focused on male subjects; however, recent increases in reporting of females, have highlighted major differences between the sexes. Here we review the current literature of the effect of gonadal steroid hormones (estrogens, androgens, and progestins), neurosteriods, and neurobiological factors on alcohol use in clinical and preclinical studies of both sexes. Further, we briefly discuss how fundamental sex differences in genetics, metabolism, neuroimmune, and stress responses may influence sex differences in alcohol intake. Comparing the sexes could aid in the discovery of novel therapeutics to treat AUD, and implementation of current treatment options in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier J Maddern
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lauren T Ursich
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Grace Bailey
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Amy Pearl
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Roberta G Anversa
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Andrew J Lawrence
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Leigh C Walker
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
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Hsu CL, Holtzer R, Tam RC, Al Keridy W, Liu-Ambrose T. Physical reserve and its underpinning functional neural networks moderate the relationship between white matter hyperintensity and postural balance in older adults with subcortical ischemic vascular cognitive impairment. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17161. [PMID: 39060551 PMCID: PMC11282073 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68050-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are markers of subcortical ischemic vascular cognitive impairment (SIVCI) associated with impaired postural balance. Physical reserve (PR) is a recently established construct that reflects one's capacity to maintain physical function despite brain pathology. This cross-sectional study aims to map functional networks associated with PR, and examining the relationship between PR, WMH, and postural balance. PR was defined in 22 community-dwelling older adults with SIVCI. Functional networks of PR were computed using general linear model. Subsequent analyses examined whether PR and relevant networks moderated the relationship between WMH and postural balance under two conditions-eyes open while standing on foam (EOF) or on floor (EONF). We found that PR and the relevant networks-frontoparietal network (FPN) and default mode network (DMN)-significantly moderated the association between WMH and postural balance. For individuals with high PR, postural balance remained stable regardless of the extent of WMH load; whereas for those with low PR, postural balance worsened as WMH load increased. These results suggest the attenuated effects of WMH on postural stability due to PR may be underpinned by functional neural network reorganization in the FPN and DMN as a part of compensatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Liang Hsu
- The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
| | - Roee Holtzer
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Roger C Tam
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Walid Al Keridy
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Geriatric Division, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Teresa Liu-Ambrose
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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12
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Brand BA, de Boer JN, Willemse EJM, Weickert CS, Sommer IE, Weickert TW. Antipsychotic-induced prolactin elevation in premenopausal women with schizophrenia: associations with estrogen, disease severity and cognition. Arch Womens Ment Health 2024:10.1007/s00737-024-01491-9. [PMID: 38995314 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-024-01491-9] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Antipsychotic-induced prolactin elevation may impede protective effects of estrogens in women with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (SSD). Our study sought to confirm whether the use of prolactin-raising antipsychotics is associated with lower estrogen levels, and to investigate how estrogen and prolactin levels relate to symptom severity and cognition in premenopausal women with SSD. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 79 premenopausal women, divided in three groups of women with SSD treated with prolactin-sparing antipsychotics (n = 21) or prolactin-raising antipsychotics (n = 27), and age-matched women without SSD (n = 31). Circulating 17β-estradiol was compared among groups. In patients, we assessed the relationship between prolactin and 17β-estradiol, and the relationships of these hormones to symptom severity and cognition, using correlation analyses and backward regression models. RESULTS In women receiving prolactin-raising antipsychotics, 17β-estradiol levels were lower as compared to both other groups (H(2) = 8.34; p = 0.015), and prolactin was inversely correlated with 17β-estradiol (r=-0.42, p = 0.030). In the prolactin-raising group, 17β-estradiol correlated positively with verbal fluency (r = 0.52, p = 0.009), and 17β-estradiol and prolactin together explained 29% of the variation in processing speed (β17β-estradiol = 0.24, βprolactin = -0.45, F(2,25) = 5.98, p = 0.008). In the prolactin-sparing group, 17β-estradiol correlated negatively with depression/anxiety (r = -0.57, p = 0.014), and together with prolactin explained 26% of the variation in total symptoms (β17β-estradiol = -0.41, βprolactin = 0.32, F(2,18) = 4.44, p = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS In women with SSD, antipsychotic-induced prolactin elevation was related to lower estrogen levels. Further, estrogens negatively correlated with symptom severity and positively with cognition, whereas prolactin levels correlated negatively with cognition. Our findings stress the clinical importance of maintaining healthy levels of prolactin and estrogens in women with SSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodyl A Brand
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Systems, Cognitive Neurosciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Janna N de Boer
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Systems, Cognitive Neurosciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands
- Center for Young Children, Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Elske J M Willemse
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Systems, Cognitive Neurosciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Cynthia S Weickert
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Iris E Sommer
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Systems, Cognitive Neurosciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas W Weickert
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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13
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Wugalter KA, Schroeder RA, Thurston RC, Wu M, Aizenstein HJ, Cohen AD, Kamboh MI, Karikari TK, Derby CA, Maki PM. Associations of endogenous estrogens, plasma Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, and APOE4 carrier status on regional brain volumes in postmenopausal women. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1426070. [PMID: 39044806 PMCID: PMC11263297 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1426070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Women carrying the APOE4 allele are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) from ages 65-75 years compared to men. To better understand the elevated risk conferred by APOE4 carrier status among midlife women, we investigated the separate and interactive associations of endogenous estrogens, plasma AD biomarkers, and APOE4 carrier status on regional brain volumes in a sample of late midlife postmenopausal women. Methods Participants were enrolled in MsBrain, a cohort study of postmenopausal women (n = 171, mean age = 59.4 years, mean MoCA score = 26.9; race = 83.2% white, APOE4 carriers = 40). Serum estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) levels were assessed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. APOE genotype was determined using TaqMan SNP genotyping assays. Plasma AD biomarkers were measured using single molecule array technology. Cortical volume was measured and segmented by FreeSurfer software using individual T1w MPRAGE images. Multiple linear regression models were conducted to determine whether separate and interactive associations between endogenous estrogen levels, plasma AD biomarkers (Aβ42/Aβ40, Aβ42/p-tau181), and APOE4 carrier status predict regional brain volume (21 regions per hemisphere, selected a priori); and, whether significant interactive associations between estrogens and AD biomarkers on brain volume differed by APOE4 carrier status. Results There was no main effect of APOE4 carrier status on regional brain volumes, endogenous estrogen levels, or plasma AD biomarkers. Estrogens did not associate with regional brain volumes, except for positive associations with left caudal middle frontal gyrus and fusiform volumes. The interactive association of estrogens and APOE4 carrier status on brain volume was not significant for any region. The interactive association of estrogens and plasma AD biomarkers predicted brain volume of several regions. Higher E1 and E2 were more strongly associated with greater regional brain volumes among women with a poorer AD biomarker profile (lower Aβ42/40, lower Aβ42/p-tau181 ratios). In APOE4-stratified analyses, these interactions were driven by non-APOE4 carriers. Conclusion We demonstrate that the brain volumes of postmenopausal women with poorer AD biomarker profiles benefit most from higher endogenous estrogen levels. These findings are driven by non-APOE4 carriers, suggesting that APOE4 carriers may be insensitive to the favorable effects of estrogens on brain volume in the postmenopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina A. Wugalter
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Rachel A. Schroeder
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Rebecca C. Thurston
- Departments of Psychiatry, Epidemiology, Psychology, and Clinical and Translational Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Minjie Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Howard J. Aizenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ann D. Cohen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - M. Ilyas Kamboh
- Departments of Psychiatry, Human Genetics, and Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Thomas K. Karikari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Carol A. Derby
- The Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Pauline M. Maki
- Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Coyoy-Salgado A, Segura-Uribe J, Salgado-Ceballos H, Castillo-Mendieta T, Sánchez-Torres S, Freyermuth-Trujillo X, Orozco-Barrios C, Orozco-Suarez S, Feria-Romero I, Pinto-Almazán R, Moralí de la Brena G, Guerra-Araiza C. Evaluating Sex Steroid Hormone Neuroprotection in Spinal Cord Injury in Animal Models: Is It Promising in the Clinic? Biomedicines 2024; 12:1478. [PMID: 39062051 PMCID: PMC11274729 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary mechanism of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) comprises the initial mechanical trauma due to the transmission of energy to the spinal cord, subsequent deformity, and persistent compression. The secondary mechanism of injury, which involves structures that remained undamaged after the initial trauma, triggers alterations in microvascular perfusion, the liberation of free radicals and neurotransmitters, lipid peroxidation, alteration in ionic concentrations, and the consequent cell death by necrosis and apoptosis. Research in the treatment of SCI has sought to develop early therapeutic interventions that mitigate the effects of these pathophysiological mechanisms. Clinical and experimental evidence has demonstrated the therapeutic benefits of sex-steroid hormone administration after traumatic brain injury and SCI. The administration of estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone has been associated with neuroprotective effects, better neurological recovery, and decreased mortality after SCI. This review evaluated evidence supporting hormone-related neuroprotection over SCI and the possible underlying mechanisms in animal models. As neuroprotection has been associated with signaling pathways, the effects of these hormones are observed on astrocytes and microglia, modulating the inflammatory response, cerebral blood flow, and metabolism, mediating glutamate excitotoxicity, and their antioxidant effects. Based on the current evidence, it is essential to analyze the benefit of sex steroid hormone therapy in the clinical management of patients with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Coyoy-Salgado
- CONAHCyT-Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico;
| | - Julia Segura-Uribe
- Subdirección de Gestión de la Investigación, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City 06720, Mexico;
| | - Hermelinda Salgado-Ceballos
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico; (H.S.-C.); (T.C.-M.); (S.S.-T.); (S.O.-S.)
| | - Tzayaka Castillo-Mendieta
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico; (H.S.-C.); (T.C.-M.); (S.S.-T.); (S.O.-S.)
| | - Stephanie Sánchez-Torres
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico; (H.S.-C.); (T.C.-M.); (S.S.-T.); (S.O.-S.)
| | - Ximena Freyermuth-Trujillo
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico; (H.S.-C.); (T.C.-M.); (S.S.-T.); (S.O.-S.)
| | - Carlos Orozco-Barrios
- CONAHCyT-Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico;
| | - Sandra Orozco-Suarez
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico; (H.S.-C.); (T.C.-M.); (S.S.-T.); (S.O.-S.)
| | - Iris Feria-Romero
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico; (H.S.-C.); (T.C.-M.); (S.S.-T.); (S.O.-S.)
| | - Rodolfo Pinto-Almazán
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón, Mexico City 11340, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Moralí de la Brena
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | - Christian Guerra-Araiza
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Hospital de Especialidades Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
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15
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Copenhaver AE, LeGates TA. Sex-Specific Mechanisms Underlie Long-Term Potentiation at Hippocampus→Medium Spiny Neuron Synapses in the Medial Shell of the Nucleus Accumbens. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0100242024. [PMID: 38806250 PMCID: PMC11223474 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0100-24.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Sex differences have complicated our understanding of the neurobiological basis of many behaviors that are key for survival. As such, continued elucidation of the similarities and differences between sexes is necessary to gain insight into brain function and vulnerability. The connection between the hippocampus (Hipp) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a crucial site where modulation of neuronal activity mediates reward-related behavior. Our previous work demonstrated that long-term potentiation (LTP) of Hipp→NAc synapses is rewarding, and mice can establish learned associations between LTP of these synapses and the contextual environment in which LTP occurred. Here, we investigated sex differences in the mechanisms underlying Hipp→NAc LTP using whole-cell electrophysiology and pharmacology. We observed similarities in basal synaptic strength between males and females and found that LTP occurs postsynaptically with similar magnitudes in both sexes. However, key sex differences emerged as LTP in males required NMDA receptors (NMDAR), whereas LTP in females utilized an NMDAR-independent mechanism involving L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) and estrogen receptor α (ERα). We also uncovered sex-similar features as LTP in both sexes depended on CaMKII activity and occurred independently of dopamine-1 receptor (D1R) activation. Our results have elucidated sex-specific molecular mechanisms for LTP in an integral pathway that mediates reward-related behaviors, emphasizing the importance of considering sex as a variable in mechanistic studies. Continued characterization of sex-specific mechanisms underlying plasticity will offer novel insight into the neurophysiological basis of behavior, with significant implications for understanding how diverse processes mediate behavior and contribute to vulnerability to developing psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley E Copenhaver
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Baltimore, Maryland 21250
| | - Tara A LeGates
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Baltimore, Maryland 21250
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
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16
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Høgh S, Lange EØ, Høgsted ES, Larsen K, Hegaard HK, Borgsted C, Frokjaer VG. The cortisol awakening response is blunted in healthy women early postpartum. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 165:107048. [PMID: 38657341 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The dynamic capacity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis supports healthy adaptions to stress and play a key role in maintaining mental health. Perinatal adaptations in the HPA-axis dynamics in terms of the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR), may be involved in dysregulation of perinatal mental health. We aimed to determine if CAR and absolute evening cortisol early postpartum differed from non-perinatal women and evaluate the association between the CAR and maternal mental well-being. METHODS The CAR was computed as the area under the curve with respect to increase from baseline from serial home-sampling of saliva across 0-60 minutes from awakening. We evaluated differences in CAR and absolute evening cortisol between postpartum women (N=50, mean postpartum days: 38, SD: ±11) and non-perinatal women (N=91) in a multiple linear regression model. We also evaluated the association between CAR and maternal mental well-being in a multiple linear regression model. RESULTS We found that healthy postpartum women had a blunted CAR (p<0.001) corresponding to 84% reduction and 80% lower absolute evening cortisol (p<0.001) relative to non-perinatal healthy women. In the postpartum group, there was a trend-level association between lower CAR and higher scores on the WHO Well-Being Index (WHO-5) (p=0.048) and lower Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores (p=0.04). CONCLUSION Our data emphasize the unique hormonal landscape during the postpartum period in terms of blunted CAR and lower absolute evening cortisol in healthy women early postpartum compared to non-perinatal. Our findings show a potential association between a reduced CAR and improved mental well-being during early motherhood, which suggests that reduced CAR might reflect healthy adjustment to early motherhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stinne Høgh
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Emilie Ø Lange
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emma S Høgsted
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Larsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne K Hegaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Camilla Borgsted
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vibe G Frokjaer
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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17
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Ilkevič E, Hausmann M, Grikšienė R. Emotion recognition and regulation in males: Role of sex and stress steroids. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 74:101145. [PMID: 38862092 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2024.101145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Understanding emotions in males is crucial given their higher susceptibility to substance use, interpersonal violence, and suicide compared to females. Steroid hormones are assumed to be critical biological factors that affect and modulate emotion-related behaviors, together with psychological and social factors. This review explores whether males' abilities to recognize emotions of others and regulate their own emotions are associated with testosterone, cortisol, and their interaction. Higher levels of testosterone were associated with improved recognition and heightened sensitivity to threatening faces. In contrast, higher cortisol levels positively impacted emotion regulation ability. Indirect evidence from neuroimaging research suggested a link between higher testosterone levels and difficulties in cognitive emotion regulation. However, this notion must be investigated in future studies using different emotion regulation strategies and considering social status. The present review contributes to the understanding of how testosterone and cortisol affect psychological well-being and emotional behavior in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Ilkevič
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Life Science Center, Vilnius University, Lithuania
| | | | - Ramunė Grikšienė
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Life Science Center, Vilnius University, Lithuania.
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18
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de Lange AMG, Leonardsen EH, Barth C, Schindler LS, Crestol A, Holm MC, Subramaniapillai S, Hill D, Alnæs D, Westlye LT. Parental status and markers of brain and cellular age: A 3D convolutional network and classification study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 165:107040. [PMID: 38636355 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Recent research shows prominent effects of pregnancy and the parenthood transition on structural brain characteristics in humans. Here, we present a comprehensive study of how parental status and number of children born/fathered links to markers of brain and cellular ageing in 36,323 UK Biobank participants (age range 44.57-82.06 years; 52% female). To assess global effects of parenting on the brain, we trained a 3D convolutional neural network on T1-weighted magnetic resonance images, and estimated brain age in a held-out test set. To investigate regional specificity, we extracted cortical and subcortical volumes using FreeSurfer, and ran hierarchical clustering to group regional volumes based on covariance. Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) derived from DNA was used as a marker of cellular ageing. We employed linear regression models to assess relationships between number of children, brain age, regional brain volumes, and LTL, and included interaction terms to probe sex differences in associations. Lastly, we used the brain measures and LTL as features in binary classification models, to determine if markers of brain and cellular ageing could predict parental status. The results showed associations between a greater number of children born/fathered and younger brain age in both females and males, with stronger effects observed in females. Volume-based analyses showed maternal effects in striatal and limbic regions, which were not evident in fathers. We found no evidence for associations between number of children and LTL. Classification of parental status showed an Area under the ROC Curve (AUC) of 0.57 for the brain age model, while the models using regional brain volumes and LTL as predictors showed AUCs of 0.52. Our findings align with previous population-based studies of middle- and older-aged parents, revealing subtle but significant associations between parental experience and neuroimaging-based surrogate markers of brain health. The findings further corroborate results from longitudinal cohort studies following parents across pregnancy and postpartum, potentially indicating that the parenthood transition is associated with long-term influences on brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Marie G de Lange
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | | | - Claudia Barth
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Louise S Schindler
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Arielle Crestol
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Sivaniya Subramaniapillai
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dónal Hill
- Swiss Data Science Center (SDSC), EPFL-ETHZ, Switzerland
| | - Dag Alnæs
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Centre for Precision Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars T Westlye
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Centre for Precision Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; KG Jebsen Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Mosconi L, Nerattini M, Matthews DC, Jett S, Andy C, Williams S, Yepez CB, Zarate C, Carlton C, Fauci F, Ajila T, Pahlajani S, Andrews R, Pupi A, Ballon D, Kelly J, Osborne JR, Nehmeh S, Fink M, Berti V, Dyke JP, Brinton RD. In vivo brain estrogen receptor density by neuroendocrine aging and relationships with cognition and symptomatology. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12680. [PMID: 38902275 PMCID: PMC11190148 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62820-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
17β-estradiol, the most biologically active estrogen, exerts wide-ranging effects in brain through its action on estrogen receptors (ERs), influencing higher-order cognitive function and neurobiological aging. However, our knowledge of ER expression and regulation by neuroendocrine aging in the living human brain is limited. This in vivo brain 18F-fluoroestradiol (18F-FES) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) study of healthy midlife women reveals progressively higher ER density over the menopause transition in estrogen-regulated networks. Effects were independent of age, plasma estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin, and were highly consistent, correctly classifying all women as being postmenopausal or premenopausal. Higher ER density in target regions was associated with poorer memory performance for both postmenopausal and perimenopausal groups, and predicted presence of self-reported mood and cognitive symptoms after menopause. These findings provide novel insights on brain ER density modulation by female neuroendocrine aging, with clinical implications for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Mosconi
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Matilde Nerattini
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Steven Jett
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Caroline Andy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Schantel Williams
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Camila Boneu Yepez
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Camila Zarate
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Caroline Carlton
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Francesca Fauci
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Trisha Ajila
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Silky Pahlajani
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Alberto Pupi
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Douglas Ballon
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - James Kelly
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph R Osborne
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sadek Nehmeh
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew Fink
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 70th Street, LH-404, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Valentina Berti
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Diaz Brinton
- Department of Pharmacology and Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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20
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Beigloo F, Davidson CJ, Gjonaj J, Perrine SA, Kenney JW. Individual differences in the boldness of female zebrafish are associated with alterations in serotonin function. J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb247483. [PMID: 38842023 PMCID: PMC11213521 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.247483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
One of the most prevalent axes of behavioral variation in both humans and animals is risk taking, where individuals that are more willing to take risk are characterized as bold while those that are more reserved are regarded as shy. Brain monoamines (i.e. serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline) have been found to play a role in a variety of behaviors related to risk taking. Using zebrafish, we investigated whether there was a relationship between monoamine function and boldness behavior during exploration of a novel tank. We found a correlation between serotonin metabolism (5-HIAA:5-HT ratio) and boldness during the initial exposure to the tank in female animals. The DOPAC:DA ratio correlated with boldness behavior on the third day in male fish. There was no relationship between boldness and noradrenaline. To probe differences in serotonergic function in bold and shy fish, we administered a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, escitalopram, and assessed exploratory behavior. We found that escitalopram had opposing effects on thigmotaxis in bold and shy female animals: the drug caused bold fish to spend more time near the center of the tank and shy fish spent more time near the periphery. Taken together, our findings indicate that variation in serotonergic function has sex-specific contributions to individual differences in risk-taking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Beigloo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Cameron J. Davidson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Joseph Gjonaj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Shane A. Perrine
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Justin W. Kenney
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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21
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Findley CA, McFadden S.A, Hill T, Peck MR, Quinn K, Hascup KN, Hascup ER. Sexual Dimorphism, Altered Hippocampal Glutamatergic Neurotransmission and Cognitive Impairment in APP Knock-In Mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.05.570100. [PMID: 38106074 PMCID: PMC10723272 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.05.570100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Background It is well established that glutamatergic neurotransmission plays an essential role in learning and memory. Previous studies indicate that glutamate dynamics shift with Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression, contributing to negative cognitive outcomes. Objective In this study, we characterized hippocampal glutamatergic signaling with age and disease progression in a knock-in mouse model of AD (APPNL-F/NL-F). Methods At 2-4 and 18+ months old, male and female APPNL/NL, APPNL-F/NL-F, and C57BL/6 mice underwent cognitive assessment using Morris water maze (MWM) and Novel Object Recognition (NOR). Then, basal and 70 mM KCl stimulus-evoked glutamate release was measured in the dentate gyrus (DG), CA3, and CA1 regions of the hippocampus using a glutamate-selective microelectrode in anesthetized mice. Results Glutamate recordings support elevated stimulus-evoked glutamate release in the DG and CA3 of young APPNL-F/NL-F male mice that declined with age compared to age-matched control mice. Young female APPNL-F/NL-F mice exhibited increased glutamate clearance in the CA1 that slowed with age compared to age-matched control mice. Male and female APPNL-F/NL-F mice exhibited decreased CA1 basal glutamate levels, while males also showed depletion in the CA3. Cognitive assessment demonstrated impaired spatial cognition in aged male and female APPNL-F/NL-F mice, but only aged females displayed recognition memory deficits compared to age-matched control mice. Conclusions: These findings confirm a sex-dependent hyper-to-hypoactivation glutamatergic paradigm in APPNL-F/NL-F mice. Further, data illustrate a sexually dimorphic biological aging process resulting in a more severe cognitive phenotype for female APPNL-F/NL-F mice than their male counterparts. Research outcomes mirror that of human AD pathology and provide further evidence of divergent AD pathogenesis between sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleigh A. Findley
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
- Pharmacology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Samuel .A. McFadden
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Tiarra. Hill
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Mackenzie R. Peck
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kathleen Quinn
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kevin N. Hascup
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
- Pharmacology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Erin R. Hascup
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Depts of Neurology, Springfield, IL, USA
- Pharmacology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
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22
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Choi HR, Chang Y, Park J, Cho Y, Kim C, Kwon MJ, Kang J, Kwon R, Lim GY, Ahn J, Kim KH, Kim H, Hong YS, Park J, Zhao D, Cho J, Guallar E, Park HY, Ryu S. Early-onset vasomotor symptoms and development of depressive symptoms among premenopausal women. J Affect Disord 2024; 354:376-384. [PMID: 38503358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the association between vasomotor symptoms (VMSs) and the onset of depressive symptoms among premenopausal women. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 4376 premenopausal women aged 42-52 years, and the cohort study included 2832 women without clinically relevant depressive symptoms at baseline. VMSs included the symptoms of hot flashes and night sweats. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale; a score of ≥16 was considered to define clinically relevant depressive symptoms. RESULTS Premenopausal Women with VMSs at baseline exhibited a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms compared with women without VMSs at baseline (multivariable-adjusted prevalence ratio 1.76, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.47-2.11). Among the 2832 women followed up (median, 6.1 years), 406 developed clinically relevant depressive symptoms. Women with versus without VMSs had a significantly higher risk of developing clinically relevant depressive symptoms (multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio, 1.72; 95 % CI 1.39-2.14). VMS severity exhibited a dose-response relationship with depressive symptoms (P for trend <0.05). LIMITATIONS Self-reported questionnaires were only used to obtain VMSs and depressive symptoms, which could have led to misclassification. We also could not directly measure sex hormone levels. CONCLUSIONS Even in the premenopausal stage, women who experience hot flashes or night sweats have an increased risk of present and developed clinically relevant depressive symptoms. It is important to conduct mental health screenings and provide appropriate support to middle-aged women who experience early-onset VMSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Rin Choi
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Institute of Medical Research, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoosoo Chang
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jungeun Park
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoosun Cho
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanmin Kim
- Department of Statistics, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 03063, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jung Kwon
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeonggyu Kang
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea
| | - Ria Kwon
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Institute of Medical Research, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga-Young Lim
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Institute of Medical Research, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiin Ahn
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea
| | - Kye-Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Soo Hong
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jihwan Park
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Di Zhao
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Juhee Cho
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Republic of Korea; Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Eliseo Guallar
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Hyun-Young Park
- Department of Precision Medicine, National Institute of Health, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungho Ryu
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Republic of Korea; Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Lotter LD, Nehls S, Losse E, Dukart J, Chechko N. Temporal dissociation between local and global functional adaptations of the maternal brain to childbirth: a longitudinal assessment. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01880-9. [PMID: 38769432 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01880-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The maternal brain undergoes significant reorganization during birth and the postpartum period. However, the temporal dynamics of these changes remain unclear. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging, we report on local and global brain function alterations in 75 mothers in their first postpartum week, compared to 23 nulliparous women. In a subsample followed longitudinally for the next six months, we observed a temporal and spatial dissociation between changes observed at baseline (cluster mass permutation: pFWE < 0.05). Local activity and connectivity changes in widespread neocortical regions persisted throughout the studied time period (ANCOVAs vs. controls: pFDR < 0.05), with preliminary evidence linking these alterations to behavioral and psychological adaptations (interaction effect with postpartum time: uncorrected p < 0.05). In contrast, the initially reduced whole-brain connectivity of putamen-centered subcortical areas returned to control levels within six to nine weeks postpartum (linear and quadratic mixed linear models: pFDR < 0.05). The whole-brain spatial colocalization with hormone receptor distributions (Spearman correlations: pFDR < 0.05) and preliminary blood hormone associations (interaction effect with postpartum time: uncorrected p < 0.05) suggested that the postpartum restoration of progesterone levels may underlie this rapid normalization. These observations enhance our understanding of healthy maternal brain function, contributing to the identification of potential markers for pathological postpartum adaptation processes, which in turn could underlie postpartum psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon D Lotter
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behavior (INM-7), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
- Max Planck School of Cognition; Stephanstrasse 1A, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Susanne Nehls
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Elena Losse
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Juergen Dukart
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behavior (INM-7), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Natalya Chechko
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain & Behavior (INM-7), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
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24
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Guo B, Mao T, Tao R, Fu S, Deng Y, Liu Z, Wang M, Wang R, Zhao W, Chai Y, Jiang C, Rao H. Test-retest reliability and time-of-day variations of perfusion imaging at rest and during a vigilance task. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhae212. [PMID: 38771245 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Arterial spin-labeled perfusion and blood oxygenation level-dependent functional MRI are indispensable tools for noninvasive human brain imaging in clinical and cognitive neuroscience, yet concerns persist regarding the reliability and reproducibility of functional MRI findings. The circadian rhythm is known to play a significant role in physiological and psychological responses, leading to variability in brain function at different times of the day. Despite this, test-retest reliability of brain function across different times of the day remains poorly understood. This study examined the test-retest reliability of six repeated cerebral blood flow measurements using arterial spin-labeled perfusion imaging both at resting-state and during the psychomotor vigilance test, as well as task-induced cerebral blood flow changes in a cohort of 38 healthy participants over a full day. The results demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability for absolute cerebral blood flow measurements at rest and during the psychomotor vigilance test throughout the day. However, task-induced cerebral blood flow changes exhibited poor reliability across various brain regions and networks. Furthermore, reliability declined over longer time intervals within the day, particularly during nighttime scans compared to daytime scans. These findings highlight the superior reliability of absolute cerebral blood flow compared to task-induced cerebral blood flow changes and emphasize the importance of controlling time-of-day effects to enhance the reliability and reproducibility of future brain imaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Guo
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Tianxin Mao
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Ruiwen Tao
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Shanna Fu
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yao Deng
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- Business School, NingboTech University, Ningbo 315199, China
| | - Ruosi Wang
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Weiwei Zhao
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Ya Chai
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
- Center for Functional Neuroimaging, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Caihong Jiang
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Hengyi Rao
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 201620, China
- Center for Functional Neuroimaging, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
- Unit for Experimental Psychiatry, Division of Sleep and Chronobiology, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
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25
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Ojiro R, Ozawa S, Zou X, Tang Q, Woo GH, Shibutani M. Similar toxicity potential of glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicide on cerebellar development after maternal exposure in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:3040-3054. [PMID: 38314887 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Studies on the effects of glyphosate (GlyP) and glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) on cerebellar development are extremely limited. This study examined the effects of maternal exposure to GlyP and GBH on rat cerebellar development in male offspring. From day 6 of gestation until day 21 postpartum at weaning, dams were given GlyP at 1.5% or 3.0% in diet or GBH at 1.0% in drinking water (corresponding to 0.36% GlyP). At weaning, GBH exposure was linked to increased numbers of DCX+ migrating granule cells in the cortex and TUNEL+ apoptotic cells in the internal granular layer (IGL), suggesting the disappearance of mismigrated granule cells via apoptosis. GBH also upregulated Nr4a3 and downregulated Cdk5 in the cerebellar vermis, suggesting a causal relation with the impaired granule cell development at this time. GlyP (3.0%) tended to increase in the number of DCX+ migrating granule cells in the IGL and upregulated Nr4a3 at weaning. Both compounds also upregulated genes related to granule cell migration (Astn1, Astn2, Nfia, and/or Nfix) at weaning and in adulthood, which might be an ameliorative response to delayed granule cell migration. Moreover, GBH induced Purkinje cell misalignment at weaning, which could be the result of delayed granule cell migration. In adulthood, GBH was associated with upregulation of the reelin signaling-related genes Reln, Dab1, and Efnb1, suggesting a compensatory response to Purkinje cell misalignment. GlyP induced the same gene expression changes. These results suggest that GBH reversibly disrupts cerebellar development, primarily by targeting granule cell migration and differentiation, whereas GlyP exhibited similar toxic potential as GBH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Ojiro
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Ozawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Xinyu Zou
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qian Tang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gye-Hyeong Woo
- Laboratory of Histopathology, Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Semyung University, Jecheon-si, Chungbuk, Korea
| | - Makoto Shibutani
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Pletzer B, Bodenbach H, Hoehn M, Hajdari L, Hausinger T, Noachtar I, Beltz AM. Reproducible stability of verbal and spatial functions along the menstrual cycle. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:933-941. [PMID: 38267632 PMCID: PMC11039678 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01789-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have reported brain changes in response to ovarian hormonal fluctuations along the menstrual cycle. However, it remains unclear, whether these brain changes are of an adaptive nature or whether they are linked to changes in behavior along the menstrual cycle, particularly with respect to cognitive performance. To address this knowledge gap, we report results from 3 well-powered behavioral studies with different task designs, leveraging the advantages of each design type. In all three studies we assessed whether verbal or spatial performance (i) differed between cycle phases, (ii) were related to estradiol and / or progesterone levels and (iii) were moderated by individual hormone sensitivity as estimated by premenstrual symptoms. Overall, results of all three studies point towards a null effect of menstrual cycle phase and - to a lesser extent - ovarian hormones on verbal and spatial performance and provided no evidence for a moderation of this effect by individual hormone sensitivity. We conclude that there is substantial consistency in verbal and spatial performance across the menstrual cycle, and that future studies of intra-individual variation are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Pletzer
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Hannah Bodenbach
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Marcel Hoehn
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Linda Hajdari
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Tobias Hausinger
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Isabel Noachtar
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Adriene M Beltz
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Sarf EA, Dyachenko EI, Bel’skaya LV. Salivary Tryptophan as a Metabolic Marker of HER2-Negative Molecular Subtypes of Breast Cancer. Metabolites 2024; 14:247. [PMID: 38786723 PMCID: PMC11123106 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14050247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Changes in the concentration of tryptophan (Trp) indicate a serious metabolic restructuring, which is both a cause and a consequence of many diseases. This work examines the upward change in salivary Trp concentrations among patients with breast cancer. This study involved volunteers divided into three groups: breast cancer (n = 104), non-malignant breast pathologies (n = 30) and healthy controls (n = 20). In all participants, before treatment, the quantitative content of Trp in saliva was determined by capillary electrophoresis. In 20 patients with breast cancer, Trp was re-tested four weeks after surgical removal of the tumor. An increase in the Trp content in saliva in breast cancer has been shown, which statistically significantly decreases after surgical removal of the tumor. A direct correlation was found between increased Trp levels with the degree of malignancy and aggressive molecular subtypes of breast cancer, namely triple negative and luminal B-like HER2-negative. These conclusions were based on an increase in Ki-67 and an increase in Trp in HER2-negative and progesterone-negative subtypes. Factors under which an increase in Trp concentration in saliva was observed were identified: advanced stage of breast cancer, the presence of regional metastasis, low tumor differentiation, a lack of expression of HER2, estrogen and progesterone receptors and the high proliferative activity of the tumor. Thus, the determination of salivary Trp may be a valuable tool in the study of metabolic changes associated with cancer, particularly breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lyudmila V. Bel’skaya
- Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Omsk State Pedagogical University, 644099 Omsk, Russia; (E.A.S.); (E.I.D.)
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28
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de Jong M, Wynchank DSMR, Michielsen M, Beekman ATF, Kooij JJS. A Female-Specific Treatment Group for ADHD-Description of the Programme and Qualitative Analysis of First Experiences. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2106. [PMID: 38610871 PMCID: PMC11012758 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13072106] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The diagnostics and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in women remain insufficient. Fluctuations of reproductive hormones during the premenstrual period, postpartum period, and (peri)menopause are neglected, even though they impact ADHD symptoms and associated mood disorders. Therefore, we created a female-specific treatment group for women with ADHD and premenstrual worsening of ADHD and/or mood symptoms. Methods: We describe the group programme and underlying rationale, offering a qualitative analysis of the participants' evaluation. Results: The seven bi-weekly sessions foreground the menstrual cycle and address several ADHD-specific topics in relation to this cyclical pattern. Concurrently, women track their menstrual cycle and (fluctuating) ADHD and mood symptoms with an adjusted premenstrual calendar. In total, 18 women (25-47 years) participated in three consecutive groups. We analysed the evaluation of the last group. Participants experienced the group as a safe and welcoming space. Recognition was valued by all. The topics discussed were deemed valuable, and the structure suited them well. Completing the premenstrual calendar augmented the awareness and recognition of individual cyclical symptoms. A lifespan approach increased self-understanding. Participants took their menstrual cycle more seriously, prioritising self-acceptance and self-care. Conclusions: Exploring a cyclical approach in a group setting seems to be a positive addition to treatment for female ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de Jong
- Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, PsyQ, 2593 HR The Hague, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, AmsterdamUMC/VUmc, 1081 HJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU Medical Centre, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - D S M R Wynchank
- Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, PsyQ, 2593 HR The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - M Michielsen
- Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, PsyQ, 2593 HR The Hague, The Netherlands
- Antes Older Adults Outpatient Treatment, 3079 DZ Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A T F Beekman
- Department of Psychiatry, AmsterdamUMC/VUmc, 1081 HJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- GGZ inGeest, 1062 NP Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J J S Kooij
- Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, PsyQ, 2593 HR The Hague, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, AmsterdamUMC/VUmc, 1081 HJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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29
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Gaižauskaitė R, Gladutytė L, Zelionkaitė I, Čėsnaitė E, Busch NA, Grikšienė R. The search for the relationship between female hormonal status, alpha oscillations, and aperiodic features of resting state EEG. Int J Psychophysiol 2024; 198:112312. [PMID: 38336163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2024.112312] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Fluctuations in sex steroid levels during the menstrual cycle and the use of hormonal contraceptives have been linked to changes in cognitive function and emotions in females. Such variations may be mediated by overall brain activity and excitability. We aimed to investigate the impact of female hormonal status on resting state EEG (rsEEG) parameters, including periodic (individual alpha frequency, alpha power) and aperiodic (1/f slope) features. rsEEG was recorded in healthy females (mean age 26.4 ± 4.6 years), who were naturally cycling in the early follicular (n = 33) or mid-luteal phases (n = 35), or who used either oral contraceptives (n = 35) or hormonal intrauterine devices (n = 28). Salivary concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone were measured. Contrary to previous findings, this study did not reveal significant differences in rsEEG parameters between groups or significant relationships with hormonal levels. Age emerged as a covariate negatively related to the median 1/f slope. Based on these findings, we found no significant evidence to suggest that the periodic (alpha power and peak frequency) or aperiodic activity patterns in the brain during the resting state differ between the groups of females under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimantė Gaižauskaitė
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio ave. 7, 10257 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Lina Gladutytė
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio ave. 7, 10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ingrida Zelionkaitė
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio ave. 7, 10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Elena Čėsnaitė
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstr. 21, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Niko A Busch
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstr. 21, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Ramunė Grikšienė
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio ave. 7, 10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
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30
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Moser JS, Munia TTK, Louis CC, Anderson GE, Aviyente S. Errors elicit frontoparietal theta-gamma coupling that is modulated by endogenous estradiol levels. Int J Psychophysiol 2024; 197:112299. [PMID: 38215947 PMCID: PMC10922427 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2024.112299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive control-related error monitoring is intimately involved in behavioral adaptation, learning, and individual differences in a variety of psychological traits and disorders. Accumulating evidence suggests that a focus on women's health and ovarian hormones is critical to the study of such cognitive brain functions. Here we sought to identify a novel index of error monitoring using a time-frequency based phase amplitude coupling (t-f PAC) measure and examine its modulation by endogenous levels of estradiol in females. Forty-three healthy, naturally cycling young adult females completed a flanker task while continuous electroencephalogram was recorded on four occasions across the menstrual cycle. Results revealed significant error-related t-f PAC between theta phase generated in fronto-central areas and gamma amplitude generated in parietal-occipital areas. Moreover, this error-related theta-gamma coupling was enhanced by endogenous levels of estradiol both within females across the cycle as well as between females with higher levels of average circulating estradiol. While the role of frontal midline theta in error processing is well documented, this paper extends the extant literature by illustrating that error monitoring involves the coordination between multiple distributed systems with the slow midline theta activity modulating the power of gamma-band oscillatory activity in parietal regions. They further show enhancement of inter-regional coupling by endogenous estradiol levels, consistent with research indicating modulation of cognitive control neural functions by the endocrine system in females. Together, this work identifies a novel neurophysiological marker of cognitive control-related error monitoring in females that has implications for neuroscience and women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason S Moser
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, United States of America.
| | - Tamanna T K Munia
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, United States of America
| | - Courtney C Louis
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, United States of America
| | - Grace E Anderson
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, United States of America
| | - Selin Aviyente
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, United States of America
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31
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Mogavero MP, DelRosso LM, Lanza G, Lanuzza B, Bruni O, Strambi LF, Ferri R. Changes in time structure of periodic leg movements during sleep in restless legs syndrome: Effects of sex and age. Sleep Med 2024; 115:137-144. [PMID: 38359593 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2024.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to check the hypothesis that in women with restless legs syndrome (RLS) different changes occur in periodic leg movements during sleep (PLMS) during the post-menopausal period (using >50 years as a proxy) than in men of the same age. METHODS We recruited 36 untreated patients aged 18-50 years (19 men, median age 40 years, and 17 women, median age 37 years) while the remaining 67 were >50 years old (24 men, median age 66.6 years, and 43 women, median age 60.0 years). Leg movement activity during sleep was analyzed by means of an approach utilizing indexes especially suitable to assess leg movement periodicity. RESULTS No significant difference was seen between men in the two age groups; conversely, in women, a clear and significant increase in Periodicity Index was observed in the older group, along with a decrease in isolated leg movements. In women, a clear age-related enhancement of PLMS was found in the intermovement interval graphs, especially in the 16-22 s range, which was more evident than that observed in men. The results remained unchanged also when they were replicated by selecting only subjects aged 18-45 years vs. those aged >55 years. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that assessing PLMS in women after menopause is clinically relevant because they are probably connected with the hormonal fluctuations of this period of life. Translationally, identifying and addressing PLMS in post-menopausal women is crucial for optimizing their sleep health and addressing potential health risks associated with sleep disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria P Mogavero
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Sleep Disorders Center, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Lanza
- Clinical Neurophysiology Research Unit and Sleep Research Centre, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy; Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Bartolo Lanuzza
- Clinical Neurophysiology Research Unit and Sleep Research Centre, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Oliviero Bruni
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Ferini Strambi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Sleep Disorders Center, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ferri
- Clinical Neurophysiology Research Unit and Sleep Research Centre, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy.
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32
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Nuber S, Zhang X, McCaffery TD, Moors TE, Adom MA, Hahn WN, Martin D, Ericsson M, Tripathi A, Dettmer U, Svenningsson P, Selkoe DJ. Generation of G51D and 3D mice reveals decreased α-synuclein tetramer-monomer ratios promote Parkinson's disease phenotypes. NPJ Parkinsons Dis 2024; 10:47. [PMID: 38424059 PMCID: PMC10904737 DOI: 10.1038/s41531-024-00662-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the α-Synuclein (αS) gene promote αS monomer aggregation that causes neurodegeneration in familial Parkinson's disease (fPD). However, most mouse models expressing single-mutant αS transgenes develop neuronal aggregates very slowly, and few have dopaminergic cell loss, both key characteristics of PD. To accelerate neurotoxic aggregation, we previously generated fPD αS E46K mutant mice with rationally designed triple mutations based on the α-helical repeat motif structure of αS (fPD E46K→3 K). The 3 K variant increased αS membrane association and decreased the physiological tetramer:monomer ratio, causing lipid- and vesicle-rich inclusions and robust tremor-predominant, L-DOPA responsive PD-like phenotypes. Here, we applied an analogous approach to the G51D fPD mutation and its rational amplification (G51D → 3D) to generate mutant mice. In contrast to 3 K mice, G51D and 3D mice accumulate monomers almost exclusively in the cytosol while also showing decreased αS tetramer:monomer ratios. Both 1D and 3D mutant mice gradually accumulate insoluble, higher-molecular weight αS oligomers. Round αS neuronal deposits at 12 mos immunolabel for ubiquitin and pSer129 αS, with limited proteinase K resistance. Both 1D and 3D mice undergo loss of striatal TH+ fibers and midbrain dopaminergic neurons by 12 mos and a bradykinesia responsive to L-DOPA. The 3D αS mice have decreased tetramer:monomer equilibria and recapitulate major features of PD. These fPD G51D and 3D mutant mice should be useful models to study neuronal αS-toxicity associated with bradykinetic motor phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Nuber
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Xiaoqun Zhang
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas D McCaffery
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Tim E Moors
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Marie-Alexandre Adom
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Wolf N Hahn
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Dylan Martin
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Maria Ericsson
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Arati Tripathi
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ulf Dettmer
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Per Svenningsson
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dennis J Selkoe
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Beigloo F, Davidson CJ, Gjonaj J, Perrine SA, Kenney JW. Individual differences in the boldness of female zebrafish are associated with alterations in serotonin function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.13.580160. [PMID: 38405806 PMCID: PMC10888793 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.13.580160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
One of the most prevalent axes of behavioral variation in both humans and animals is risk taking, where individuals that are more willing to take risk are characterized as bold while those that are more reserved as shy. Brain monoamines (i.e., serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) have been found to play a role in a variety of behaviors related to risk taking. Genetic variation related to monoamine function have also been linked to personality in both humans and animals. Using zebrafish, we investigated the relationship between monoamine function and boldness behavior during exploration of a novel tank. We found a sex-specific correlation between serotonin metabolism (5-HIAA:5-HT ratio) and boldness that was limited to female animals; there were no relationships between boldness and dopamine or norepinephrine. To probe differences in serotonergic function, we administered a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, escitalopram, to bold and shy fish, and assessed their exploratory behavior. We found that escitalopram had opposing effects on thigmotaxis in female animals with bold fish spending more time near the center of the tank and shy fish spent more time near the periphery. Taken together, our findings suggest that variation in serotonergic function makes sex-specific contributions to individual differences in risk taking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Beigloo
- Department of Biological Sciences Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Cameron J Davidson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Current address: Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Joseph Gjonaj
- Department of Biological Sciences Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Shane A Perrine
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Justin W Kenney
- Department of Biological Sciences Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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Nehls S, Losse E, Enzensberger C, Frodl T, Chechko N. Time-sensitive changes in the maternal brain and their influence on mother-child attachment. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:84. [PMID: 38331939 PMCID: PMC10853535 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02805-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are characterized by an increased neuroplasticity in the maternal brain. To explore the dynamics of postpartum changes in gray matter volume (GMV), magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 20 healthy postpartum women immediately after childbirth and at 3-week intervals for 12 postpartum weeks. The control group comprised 20 age-matched nulliparous women. The first 6 postpartum weeks (constituting the subacute postpartum period) are associated with decreasing progesterone levels and a massive restructuring in GMV, affecting the amygdala/hippocampus, the prefrontal/subgenual cortex, and the insula, which approach their sizes in nulliparous women only around weeks 3-6 postpartum. Based on the amygdala volume shortly after delivery, the maternal brain can be reliably distinguished from the nulliparous brain. Even 12 weeks after childbirth, the GMV in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and the cortical thickness of the subgenual and lateral prefrontal cortices do not reach the pre-pregnancy levels. During this period, a volume decrease is seen in the cerebellum, the thalamus, and the dorsal striatum. A less hostile behavior toward the child at 6-12 weeks postpartum is predicted by the GMV change in the amygdala, the temporal pole, the olfactory gyrus, the anterior cingulate, the thalamus and the cerebellum in the same period. In summary, the restructuring of the maternal brain follows time-dependent trajectories. The fact that the volume changes persist at 12 weeks postpartum indicates that the maternal brain does not fully revert to pre-pregnancy physiology. Postpartum neuroplasticity suggests that these changes may be particularly significant in the regions important for parenting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Nehls
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
| | - Elena Losse
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Frodl
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany
| | - Natalia Chechko
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain and Behavior (INM-7), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
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35
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Bonaldo B, Casile A, Ostuni MT, Bettarelli M, Nasini S, Marraudino M, Panzica G, Gotti S. Perinatal exposure to bisphenol A or S: Effects on anxiety-related behaviors and serotonergic system. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 349:140827. [PMID: 38042429 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140827] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenols, synthetic organic compounds used in the production of plastics, are an extremely abundant class of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, i.e., exogenous chemicals or mixtures of chemicals that can interfere with any aspect of hormone action. Exposure to BPs can lead to a wide range of effects, and it is especially dangerous if it occurs during specific critical periods of life. Focusing on the perinatal exposure to BPA or its largely used substitute BPS, we investigated the effects on anxiety-related behaviors and the serotonergic system, which is highly involved in controlling these behaviors, in adult mice. We treated C57BL/6J dams orally with a dose of 4 μg/kg body weight/day (i.e., EFSA TDI) of BPA or BPS dissolved in corn oil or with vehicle alone, at the onset of mating and continued treatment until the offspring were weaned. Adult offspring of both sexes performed the elevated plus maze and the open field tests. Then, we analyzed the serotonergic system in dorsal (DR) and median (MnR) raphe nuclei by immunohistochemical techniques. Behavioral tests highlighted alterations in BPA- and BPS-treated mice, suggesting different effects of the bisphenols exposure on anxiety-related behavior in males (anxiolytic) and females (anxiogenic). The analysis of the serotonergic system highlighted a sex dimorphism in the DR only, with control females showing higher values of serotonin immunoreactivity (5-HT-ir) than control males. BPA-treated males displayed a significant increase of 5-HT-ir in all analyzed nuclei, whereas BPS-treated males showed an increase in ventral DR only. In females, both bisphenols-treated groups showed a significant increase of 5-HT-ir in dorsal DR compared to the controls, and BPA-treated females also showed a significant increase in MnR.These results provide evidence that exposure during the early phases of life to BPA or BPS alters anxiety and the raphe serotonergic neurons in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitta Bonaldo
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy; Department of Health Sciences and Research Center on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy.
| | - Antonino Casile
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy; School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 9, Camerino, 62032, Italy
| | - Marialaura Teresa Ostuni
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Martina Bettarelli
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Sofia Nasini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Largo Meneghetti 2, 35131, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Marilena Marraudino
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - GianCarlo Panzica
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Stefano Gotti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
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Ambikairajah A, Khondoker M, Morris E, de Lange AG, Saleh RNM, Minihane AM, Hornberger M. Investigating the synergistic effects of hormone replacement therapy, apolipoprotein E and age on brain health in the UK Biobank. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26612. [PMID: 38339898 PMCID: PMC10836173 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Global prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease has a strong sex bias, with women representing approximately two-thirds of the patients. Yet, the role of sex-specific risk factors during midlife, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and their interaction with other major risk factors for Alzheimer's Disease, such as apolipoprotein E (APOE)-e4 genotype and age, on brain health remains unclear. We investigated the relationship between HRT (i.e., use, age of initiation and duration of use) and brain health (i.e., cognition and regional brain volumes). We then consider the multiplicative effects of HRT and APOE status (i.e., e2/e2, e2/e3, e3/e3, e3/e4 and e4/e4) via a two-way interaction and subsequently age of participants via a three-way interaction. Women from the UK Biobank with no self-reported neurological conditions were included (N = 207,595 women, mean age = 56.25 years, standard deviation = 8.01 years). Generalised linear regression models were computed to quantify the cross-sectional association between HRT and brain health, while controlling for APOE status, age, time since attending centre for completing brain health measure, surgical menopause status, smoking history, body mass index, education, physical activity, alcohol use, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, vascular/heart problems and diabetes diagnosed by doctor. Analyses of structural brain regions further controlled for scanner site. All brain volumes were normalised for head size. Two-way interactions between HRT and APOE status were modelled, in addition to three-way interactions including age. Results showed that women with the e4/e4 genotype who have used HRT had 1.82% lower hippocampal, 2.4% lower parahippocampal and 1.24% lower thalamus volumes than those with the e3/e3 genotype who had never used HRT. However, this interaction was not detected for measures of cognition. No clinically meaningful three-way interaction between APOE, HRT and age was detected when interpreted relative to the scales of the cognitive measures used and normative models of ageing for brain volumes in this sample. Differences in hippocampal volume between women with the e4/e4 genotype who have used HRT and those with the e3/e3 genotype who had never used HRT are equivalent to approximately 1-2 years of hippocampal atrophy observed in typical health ageing trajectories in midlife (i.e., 0.98%-1.41% per year). Effect sizes were consistent within APOE e4/e4 group post hoc sensitivity analyses, suggesting observed effects were not solely driven by APOE status and may, in part, be attributed to HRT use. Although, the design of this study means we cannot exclude the possibility that women who have used HRT may have a predisposition for poorer brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananthan Ambikairajah
- Discipline of Psychology, Faculty of HealthUniversity of CanberraCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
- Centre for Ageing Research and Translation, Faculty of HealthUniversity of CanberraCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population HealthAustralian National UniversityCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
| | | | | | - Ann‐Marie G. de Lange
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesLausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Rasha N. M. Saleh
- Norwich Medical SchoolUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of MedicineAlexandria UniversityAlexandriaEgypt
| | - Anne Marie Minihane
- Norwich Medical SchoolUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
- Norwich Institute of Healthy AgeingNorwichUK
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Neef NE, Chang SE. Knowns and unknowns about the neurobiology of stuttering. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002492. [PMID: 38386639 PMCID: PMC10883586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Stuttering occurs in early childhood during a dynamic phase of brain and behavioral development. The latest studies examining children at ages close to this critical developmental period have identified early brain alterations that are most likely linked to stuttering, while spontaneous recovery appears related to increased inter-area connectivity. By contrast, therapy-driven improvement in adults is associated with a functional reorganization within and beyond the speech network. The etiology of stuttering, however, remains enigmatic. This Unsolved Mystery highlights critical questions and points to neuroimaging findings that could inspire future research to uncover how genetics, interacting neural hierarchies, social context, and reward circuitry contribute to the many facets of stuttering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E. Neef
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Soo-Eun Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Communication Disorders, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
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Copenhaver AE, LeGates TA. Sex-specific mechanisms underlie long-term potentiation at hippocampus-nucleus accumbens synapses. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.15.575709. [PMID: 38293132 PMCID: PMC10827060 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.15.575709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Sex differences have complicated our understanding of the neurobiological basis of many behaviors that are key for survival. As such, continued elucidation of the similarities and differences between sexes is necessary in order to gain insight into brain function and vulnerability. The connection between the hippocampus (Hipp) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a crucial site where modulation of neuronal activity mediates reward-related behavior. Our previous work demonstrated that long-term potentiation (LTP) of Hipp-NAc synapses is rewarding, and that mice can make learned associations between LTP of these synapses and the contextual environment in which LTP occurred. Here, we investigate sex differences in the mechanisms underlying Hipp-NAc LTP using whole-cell electrophysiology and pharmacology. We found that males and females display similar magnitudes of Hipp-NAc LTP which occurs postsynaptically. However, LTP in females requires L-type voltage-gated Ca 2+ channels (VGCC) for postsynaptic Ca 2+ influx, while males rely on NMDA receptors (NMDAR). Additionally, females require estrogen receptor α (ERα) activity for LTP while males do not. These differential mechanisms converge as LTP in both sexes depends on CAMKII activity and occurs independently of dopamine-1 receptor (D1R) activation. Our results have elucidated sex-specific molecular mechanisms for LTP in an integral excitatory pathway that mediates reward-related behaviors, emphasizing the importance of considering sex as a variable in mechanistic studies. Continued characterization of sex-specific mechanisms underlying plasticity will offer novel insight into the neurophysiological basis of behavior, with significant implications for understanding how diverse processes mediate behavior and contribute to vulnerability to developing psychiatric disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Strengthening of Hipp-NAc synapses drives reward-related behaviors. Male and female mice have similar magnitudes of long-term potentiation (LTP) and both sexes have a predicted postsynaptic locus of plasticity. Despite these similarities, we illustrate here that sex-specific molecular mechanisms are used to elicit LTP. Given the bidirectional relationship between Hipp-NAc synaptic strength in mediating reward-related behaviors, the use of distinct molecular mechanisms may explain sex differences observed in stress susceptibility or response to rewarding stimuli. Discovery and characterization of convergent sex differences provides mechanistic insight into the sex-specific function of Hipp-NAc circuitry and has widespread implications for circuits mediating learning and reward-related behavior.
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Kundakovic M, Tickerhoof M. Epigenetic mechanisms underlying sex differences in the brain and behavior. Trends Neurosci 2024; 47:18-35. [PMID: 37968206 PMCID: PMC10841872 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences are found across brain regions, behaviors, and brain diseases. Sexual differentiation of the brain is initiated prenatally but it continues throughout life, as a result of the interaction of three major factors: gonadal hormones, sex chromosomes, and the environment. These factors are thought to act, in part, via epigenetic mechanisms which control chromatin and transcriptional states in brain cells. In this review, we discuss evidence that epigenetic mechanisms underlie sex-specific neurobehavioral changes during critical organizational periods, across the estrous cycle, and in response to diverse environments throughout life. We further identify future directions for the field that will provide novel mechanistic insights into brain sex differences, inform brain disease treatments and women's brain health in particular, and apply to people across genders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Kundakovic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Fordham University, Bronx, NY 10458, USA.
| | - Maria Tickerhoof
- Department of Biological Sciences, Fordham University, Bronx, NY 10458, USA
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Kaltsouni E, Schmidt F, Zsido RG, Eriksson A, Sacher J, Sundström-Poromaa I, Sumner RL, Comasco E. Electroencephalography findings in menstrually-related mood disorders: A critical review. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101120. [PMID: 38176542 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive years are characterized by fluctuations in ovarian hormones across the menstrual cycle, which have the potential to modulate neurophysiological and behavioral dynamics. Menstrually-related mood disorders (MRMDs) comprise cognitive-affective or somatic symptoms that are thought to be triggered by the rapid fluctuations in ovarian hormones in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. MRMDs include premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and premenstrual exacerbation (PME) of other psychiatric disorders. Electroencephalography (EEG) non-invasively records in vivo synchronous activity from populations of neurons with high temporal resolution. The present overview sought to systematically review the current state of task-related and resting-state EEG investigations on MRMDs. Preliminary evidence indicates lower alpha asymmetry at rest being associated with MRMDs, while one study points to the effect being luteal-phase specific. Moreover, higher luteal spontaneous frontal brain activity (slow/fast wave ratio as measured by the delta/beta power ratio) has been observed in persons with MRMDs, while sleep architecture results point to potential circadian rhythm disturbances. In this review, we discuss the quality of study designs as well as future perspectives and challenges of supplementing the diagnostic and scientific toolbox for MRMDs with EEG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Kaltsouni
- Department of Womeńs and Childreńs Health, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Felix Schmidt
- Department of Womeńs and Childreńs Health, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden; Centre for Women's Mental Health during the Reproductive Lifespan, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rachel G Zsido
- Cognitive Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Clinical Neuroscience Laboratory for Sex Differences in the Brain, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - Allison Eriksson
- Centre for Women's Mental Health during the Reproductive Lifespan, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Womeńs and Childreńs Health, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Julia Sacher
- Cognitive Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Germany; Clinic of Cognitive Neurology, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | | | | | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Womeńs and Childreńs Health, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden.
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Fernández‐Pena A, Navas‐Sánchez FJ, de Blas DM, Marcos‐Vidal L, Desco M, Carmona S. Previous pregnancies might mitigate cortical brain differences associated with surgical menopause. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26538. [PMID: 38063284 PMCID: PMC10789212 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Surgical menopause causes a sharp drop in estrogen levels in middle-aged women, thus preventing the gradual physiological adaptation that is characteristic of the perimenopause. Previous studies suggest that surgical menopause might increase the risk of dementia later in life. In addition, the transition to motherhood entails long-lasting endocrine and neuronal adaptations. We compared differences in whole-brain cortical volume between women who reached menopause by surgery and a group of women who reached spontaneous non-surgical menopause and determined whether these cortical differences were influenced by previous childbearing. Using surface-based neuroimaging techniques, we investigated cortical volume differences in 201 middle-aged women (134 women who experienced non-surgical menopause, 78 of whom were parous women; and 67 women who experienced surgical menopause, 39 of whom were parous women). We found significant atrophy in the frontal and temporal regions in women who experienced surgical menopause. Nulliparous women with surgical menopause showed significant lower cortical volume in the left temporal gyrus extending to the medial temporal lobe cortex, as well as in the precuneus bilaterally compared to parous women with surgical menopause; whereas our results revealed no significant differences between parous women with surgical menopause and both parous and nulliparous women who reached a non-surgical menopause. Furthermore, in the surgical menopause group, we found a negative correlation between cortical volume and age at first pregnancy in the temporal lobe. Our study suggests that the long-term brain remodeling of parity may mitigate the neural impact of the sudden drop in estrogen levels that characterizes surgical menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Fernández‐Pena
- Departamento de BioingenieríaUniversidad Carlos III de MadridMadridSpain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain
- CIBER de Salud MentalInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | | | - Daniel Martín de Blas
- Departamento de BioingenieríaUniversidad Carlos III de MadridMadridSpain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain
- CIBER de Salud MentalInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | - Luis Marcos‐Vidal
- Departamento de BioingenieríaUniversidad Carlos III de MadridMadridSpain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain
- CIBER de Salud MentalInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | - Manuel Desco
- Departamento de BioingenieríaUniversidad Carlos III de MadridMadridSpain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain
- CIBER de Salud MentalInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC)MadridSpain
| | - Susanna Carmona
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain
- CIBER de Salud MentalInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
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Al Shuraiqi A, Abed RMM, Al-Habsi A, Barry MJ. Personality Affects Zebrafish Response to Sertraline. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:132-146. [PMID: 37861374 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Sertraline is widely prescribed to treat anxiety and depression. Sertraline acts by blocking serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine transporters systems and has been detected in surface waters globally, where it may impact fish behavior. We classified zebrafish personality on three behavioral axes, boldness, anxiety, and sociability, assigning fish as either high or low in each category. The fish were exposed to nominal concentrations of 0, 5, 50, 500, or 5000 ng/L sertraline (measured concentrations: <10, 21.3, 370, and 2200 ng/L, respectively) to assess changes in boldness, anxiety, and sociability after 7 and 28 days. We also measured shoaling behavior and response to an alarm cue, and determined the gut microbiome of a subset of fish. After 7 days there was no overall effect of sertraline on boldness, but there was an interaction between initial personality and sex, with a stronger impact on females classified as low-boldness personality. Sertraline reduced sociability in all treatments compared with the control, but there was again an interaction between sertraline and initial personality. Fish that were classified as low-sociability responded more strongly to sertraline. After 7 days, fish exposed to a nominal concentration of 5000 ng/L (2200 ng/L measured) showed higher anxiety than controls, with the overall pattern of initial behavior retained. After 28 days, similar patterns were observed, but with higher variation. There was only a weak association between the gut microbiome and personality. Overall, the study highlights the importance of considering initial behavior, which can affect response to pollutants. Our results may also be applicable to human studies and provide a mechanism to explain why different individuals respond differently to the drug. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:132-146. © 2023 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raeid M M Abed
- Biology Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Aziz Al-Habsi
- Biology Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Liao CC, Lin CL, Tsai FJ, Chien CH, Li JM. Acupuncture's long-term impact on depression prevention in primary dysmenorrhea: A 19-year follow-up of a Taiwan cohort with neuroimmune insights. J Affect Disord 2024; 344:48-60. [PMID: 37816484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a common gynecological condition causing depression. Acupuncture is an effective option for PD management but its effects on PD-associated depression remain unclear. METHODS A retrospective cohort study involving 35,099 propensity score-matched pairs of acupuncture users and non-users with PD was conducted using data from Taiwan's Longitudinal Generation Tracking Database 2000. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate depression risk, and bioinformatics analyses were performed to uncover underlying molecular mechanisms. RESULTS The risk of developing depression was reduced by 64 % in acupuncture users compared with non-acupuncture users during the 19-year follow-up period. The decrease was dose-dependent. Bioinformatics analyses identified 34 co-expressed targets for acupuncture, PD, and depression; and eight hub genes (coding for interleukin 6 and 1B, tumor necrosis factor, albumin, vascular endothelial growth factor A, C-reactive protein, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor) potentially involved in the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. Several molecular pathways were found to be involved, including cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, serotonergic synapse, and estrogen signaling pathway. LIMITATIONS Bias in the selection of participants could have been introduced as a consequence of the retrospective nature of the study. Data were derived from a single national database, and acupuncture treatment details were unavailable. CONCLUSION Acupuncture may protect against the development of depression in patients with PD. This study provides insight into the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of acupuncture in PD management and depression prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Chih Liao
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan; Chuyuan Chinese Medicine Clinic, Taichung 40455, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Li Lin
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40459, Taiwan
| | - Fuu-Jen Tsai
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Division of Medical Genetics, China Medical University Children's Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsien Chien
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Miao Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447 , Taiwan.
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44
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Davignon LM, Brouillard A, Juster RP, Marin MF. The role of sex hormones, oral contraceptive use, and its parameters on visuospatial abilities, verbal fluency, and verbal memory. Horm Behav 2024; 157:105454. [PMID: 37981465 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Sex hormones can cross the blood-brain barrier and access brain regions underlying higher-order cognition. Containing synthetic sex hormones, oral contraceptives (OC) have been found to modulate visuospatial and verbal abilities, though inconsistencies have been found in the literature. Among possible explanations, certain OC use parameters (progestin androgenicity, synthetic hormone levels, duration of use) have not received consistent consideration. Thus, the objectives were to (1) examine group differences between men, combined OC users, and naturally cycling women (NC women; not using OC) in visuospatial abilities, verbal fluency, and verbal memory and (2) investigate the contribution of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones on these effects. We also aimed to (3) identify OC use parameters relevant to cognitive outcomes. In total, 70 combined OC users, 53 early follicular (EF) women, 43 pre-ovulatory (PO) women, and 47 men underwent cognitive tests. Performance was compared based on hormonal milieus (OC, EF, PO, men) and OC users' contraceptive androgenicity (anti, low, high). Correlations between performance, hormone levels and OC use duration were also conducted. OC use dampened the sex difference that typically favors men in 3D visuospatial abilities, whereas its duration of use positively predicted verbal fluency. Androgenicity and hormone levels did not predict performance in any task. These results highlight the importance of considering OC use duration. Results also did not support a role for androgenicity in cognition. Importantly, combined OC use (including prolonged use) does not impair visuospatial, verbal, and memory functions in a healthy young sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Davignon
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, 7331 Hochelaga Street, Montreal H1N 3J4, Canada; Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100 Sherbrooke Street W, Montreal H2X 2P3, Canada
| | - Alexandra Brouillard
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, 7331 Hochelaga Street, Montreal H1N 3J4, Canada; Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100 Sherbrooke Street W, Montreal H2X 2P3, Canada
| | - Robert-Paul Juster
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, 7331 Hochelaga Street, Montreal H1N 3J4, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Université de Montréal, 2900 Edouard-Montpetit Boulevard, Montreal H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Marie-France Marin
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, 7331 Hochelaga Street, Montreal H1N 3J4, Canada; Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100 Sherbrooke Street W, Montreal H2X 2P3, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Université de Montréal, 2900 Edouard-Montpetit Boulevard, Montreal H3T 1J4, Canada.
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Blonska A, Chojnacki M, Macieja A, Blasiak J, Majsterek I, Chojnacki J, Poplawski T. Tryptophan Metabolism in Postmenopausal Women with Functional Constipation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:273. [PMID: 38203444 PMCID: PMC10778582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Constipation belongs to conditions commonly reported by postmenopausal women, but the mechanism behind this association is not fully known. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between some metabolites of tryptophan (TRP) and the occurrence and severity of abdominal symptoms (Rome IV) in postmenopausal women with functional constipation (FC, n = 40) as compared with age-adjusted postmenopausal women without FC. All women controlled their TRP intake in their daily diet. Urinary levels of TRP and its metabolites, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), kynurenine (KYN), and 3-indoxyl sulfate (indican, 3-IS), were determined by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Dysbiosis was assessed by a hydrogen-methane breath test. Women with FC consumed less TRP and had a lower urinary level of 5-HIAA, but higher levels of KYN and 3-IS compared with controls. The severity of symptoms showed a negative correlation with the 5-HIAA level, and a positive correlation with the 3-IS level. In conclusion, changes in TRP metabolism may contribute to FC in postmenopausal women, and dysbiosis may underlie this contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Blonska
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Marcin Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Anna Macieja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Janusz Blasiak
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Mazovian Academy in Plock, 09-402 Plock, Poland;
| | - Ireneusz Majsterek
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Jan Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Tomasz Poplawski
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
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Soedirdjo SDH, Chung YC, Dhaher YY. Sex hormone mediated change on flexion reflex. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1263756. [PMID: 38188036 PMCID: PMC10768023 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1263756] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
It has been shown that estrogen and progesterone receptors are expressed in the spinal cord; therefore, fluctuation in their concentrations may affect the spinal network and modulate the control of movement. Herein, we assessed the neuro-modulatory effect of sex hormones on the polysynaptic spinal network by using a flexion reflex network as a model system. Twenty-four healthy eumenorrheic women (age 21-37 years) were tested every other day for one menstrual cycle. Serum estradiol and progesterone were acquired at the time of testing. The flexion reflex of the tibialis anterior was elicited by sending an innocuous electrical stimulus directly to the posterior tibial nerve or plantar cutaneous afferent. Analyses were performed for each menstrual cycle phase: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Increases in estradiol or progesterone concentrations were not associated with reflex duration or root mean squared (RMS) amplitude in either the follicular or luteal phases. In the luteal phase, an increase in the estradiol concentration was associated with a longer latency of the reflex (b = 0.23, p = 0.038). The estradiol × progesterone interaction was found towards significance (b = -0.017, p = 0.081). These results highlight the potential synergistic effect of estradiol and progesterone and may provide indirect confirmatory evidence of the observed modulatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subaryani D. H. Soedirdjo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yu-Chen Chung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yasin Y. Dhaher
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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47
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de Jong M, Wynchank DSMR, van Andel E, Beekman ATF, Kooij JJS. Female-specific pharmacotherapy in ADHD: premenstrual adjustment of psychostimulant dosage. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1306194. [PMID: 38152361 PMCID: PMC10751335 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1306194] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition which is underdiagnosed and undertreated in women. For decades, the ADHD field has called for more insight into female-specific therapy. Preliminary findings postulate that changes in sex hormones during the menstrual cycle may influence the effectiveness of psychostimulant medication. Yet, pharmacotherapeutic interventions tailored to women with ADHD remain scarce. Previously, our group showed an increase in mood symptoms in the premenstrual week in women with ADHD. Premenstrual worsening of depressive and ADHD symptoms represent a treatment challenge. In our adult ADHD clinic, we noted several women describing exacerbation of their ADHD and depressive symptoms in the premenstrual week and/or insufficient effect of their established dosage of psychostimulant. We responded to the need expressed by these women by increasing their stimulant dosage in the premenstrual week, while monitoring the response and side effects. Methods This community case study of nine consecutive women being treated for ADHD and co-occurring conditions (including depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder), reports our local experience of increasing the individually prescribed psychostimulant dosage during the premenstrual period. We methodically monitored the effect of this increased dosage on ADHD symptoms, mood and somatic symptoms for the following 6-24 months. Results With premenstrual dose elevation, all nine women experienced improved ADHD and mood symptoms with minimal adverse events. Premenstrual inattention, irritability and energy levels improved, and now resembled the other non-premenstrual weeks more closely. All women decided to continue with the elevated premenstrual pharmacotherapy. Discussion Our preliminary results demonstrate potential benefits of increasing premenstrual psychostimulant dosage in women with ADHD, experiencing premenstrual worsening of ADHD and mood symptoms. The results concur with previous findings of diminished response to amphetamines in the late luteal phase. Increased dosage may help combat premenstrual worsening of cognitive and emotional symptoms in women with ADHD, with significant clinical implications. Better management of premenstrual ADHD and mood symptoms in vulnerable women can improve treatment outcome and meet an unmet need. However, implementation should be individually explored. Further investigation of luteal phase psychostimulant dose adjustment is required for safe, optimal and individualised treatment for women with ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. de Jong
- PsyQ, Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, The Hague, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC/VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU Medical Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - E. van Andel
- PsyQ, Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - A. T. F. Beekman
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC/VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- GGZ inGeest, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J. J. S. Kooij
- PsyQ, Expertise Centre Adult ADHD, The Hague, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC/VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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48
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Conde AJH, Alves JPM, Fernandes CCL, Silva MRL, Cavalcanti CM, Bezerra AF, Teixeira DÍA, Rondina D. Effect of one or two fixed glutamate doses on follicular development, ovarian-intraovarian blood flow, ovulatory rate, and corpus luteum quality in goats with a low body condition score. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20220117. [PMID: 38148928 PMCID: PMC10750810 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of a short glutamate supply on the ovarian response in goats with low body condition scores. Twenty-one goats had their estrus and follicular waves synchronized using three injections of prostaglandin analog at seven-day intervals. Goats were allocated to groups receiving 10 mg/kg LW (iv) of glutamate administered in a single dose (group LBCG1, n = 7) or in two doses five days apart (group LBCG2, n = 7). The control group (LBC; n = 7) received saline solution. Glutamate treatment did not affect glucose, cholesterol, or glutathione peroxidase levels, body weight, or adipose deposits. During the experimental period, the LBCG2 group showed a higher (P < 0.05) number of follicles (> 3 mm) and an increase in follicle diameter (P < 0.05). Glutamate supply improved (P < 0.05) the intraovarian Doppler blood area size in the LBCG groups, and the second dose in LBCG2 also induced a higher (P < 0.05) systolic and diastolic peak of the ovary artery. After ovulation induction, LBCG2 exhibited a high (P < 0.05) volume of the corpus luteum and vascularized area. We concluded that the supply of two doses of glutamate five days apart was efficient in ovarian stimulation in goats with a low body condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Davide Rondina
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
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Baker C, Benayoun BA. Menopause Is More Than Just Loss of Fertility. THE PUBLIC POLICY AND AGING REPORT 2023; 33:113-119. [PMID: 38155935 PMCID: PMC10751372 DOI: 10.1093/ppar/prad023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Clayton Baker
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Molecular and Computational Biology Department, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Bérénice A Benayoun
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Molecular and Computational Biology Department, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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50
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Griffith AK, Martel MM, Fillmore MT. Effect of menstrual cycle on rewarding properties of alcohol cues in women. PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS 2023:2024-34041-001. [PMID: 38059946 PMCID: PMC11156796 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Compared with men, women are disproportionately affected by alcohol, including greater risks of behavioral impairment and relapse from abstinence-based treatments. One potential mechanism underlying this disparity is ovarian hormone fluctuations across menstrual cycle phases, particularly estradiol (E2). Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that E2 levels positively correlate with alcohol consumption, suggesting E2 modulates drinking. Rewarding properties of alcohol are thought to mediate this relationship. The present study tested the degree to which women report increased rewarding effects from alcohol and heightened attention to alcohol-related cues when E2 was elevated during the late follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. METHOD Fifty women aged 21-29 participated in a within-subjects placebo-controlled study examining how menstrual cycle phase alters the rewarding properties of alcohol and alcohol-associated cues when sober and intoxicated, as measured by their attentional bias toward alcohol-associated cues and subjective reports. Measures were obtained following 0.60 g/kg alcohol and placebo during the early follicular phase when E2 was low and the late follicular phase (i.e., ovulation) when E2 was elevated. RESULTS Attentional bias to alcohol-associated cues was greater during the late follicular phase in both sober and intoxicated states. Women reported rewarding effects from alcohol, but no effects of phase were observed. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that the rewarding properties of alcohol-associated cues might be enhanced during the late follicular phase of the menstrual cycle when E2 is elevated, possibly increasing the risk for excessive drinking in women during this phase. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie K. Griffith
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 110 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, U.S.A
| | - Michelle M. Martel
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 110 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, U.S.A
| | - Mark T. Fillmore
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 110 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, U.S.A
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