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Velazquez-Delgado C, Perez-Becerra J, Calderon V, Hernandez-Ortiz E, Bermudez-Rattoni F, Carrillo-Reid L. Paradoxical Boosting of Weak and Strong Spatial Memories by Hippocampal Dopamine Uncaging. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0469-23.2024. [PMID: 38755011 PMCID: PMC11138129 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0469-23.2024] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability to remember changes in the surroundings is fundamental for daily life. It has been proposed that novel events producing dopamine release in the hippocampal CA1 region could modulate spatial memory formation. However, the role of hippocampal dopamine increase on weak or strong spatial memories remains unclear. We show that male mice exploring two objects located in a familiar environment for 5 min created a short-term memory (weak) that cannot be retrieved 1 d later, whereas 10 min exploration created a long-term memory (strong) that can be retrieved 1 d later. Remarkably, hippocampal dopamine elevation during the encoding of weak object location memories (OLMs) allowed their retrieval 1 d later but dopamine elevation during the encoding of strong OLMs promoted the preference for a familiar object location over a novel object location after 24 h. Moreover, dopamine uncaging after the encoding of OLMs did not have effect on weak memories whereas on strong memories diminished the exploration of the novel object location. Additionally, hippocampal dopamine elevation during the retrieval of OLMs did not allow the recovery of weak memories and did not affect the retrieval of strong memory traces. Finally, dopamine elevation increased hippocampal theta oscillations, indicating that dopamine promotes the recurrent activation of specific groups of neurons. Our experiments demonstrate that hippocampal dopaminergic modulation during the encoding of OLMs depends on memory strength indicating that hyperdopaminergic levels that enhance weak experiences could compromise the normal storage of strong memories.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Job Perez-Becerra
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla 76230, México
| | - Vladimir Calderon
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla 76230, México
| | - Eduardo Hernandez-Ortiz
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México 04510, México
| | - Federico Bermudez-Rattoni
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México 04510, México
| | - Luis Carrillo-Reid
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla 76230, México
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Elmers J, Colzato LS, Ziemssen F, Ziemssen T, Beste C. Optical coherence tomography as a potential surrogate marker of dopaminergic modulation across the life span. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 96:102280. [PMID: 38518921 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102280] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
The retina has been considered a "window to the brain" and shares similar innervation by the dopaminergic system with the cortex in terms of an unequal distribution of D1 and D2 receptors. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview that Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), a non-invasive imaging technique, which provides an "in vivo" representation of the retina, shows promise to be used as a surrogate marker of dopaminergic neuromodulation in cognition. Overall, most evidence supports reduced retinal thickness in individuals with dopaminergic dysregulation (e.g., patients with Parkinson's Disease, non-demented older adults) and with poor cognitive functioning. By using the theoretical framework of metacontrol, we derive hypotheses that retinal thinning associated to decreased dopamine (DA) levels affecting D1 families, might lead to a decrease in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) affecting cognitive persistence (depending on D1-modulated DA activity) but not cognitive flexibility (depending on D2-modulated DA activity). We argue that the use of OCT parameters might not only be an insightful for cognitive neuroscience research, but also a potentially effective tool for individualized medicine with a focus on cognition. As our society progressively ages in the forthcoming years and decades, the preservation of cognitive abilities and promoting healthy aging will hold of crucial significance. OCT has the potential to function as a swift, non-invasive, and economical method for promptly recognizing individuals with a heightened vulnerability to cognitive deterioration throughout all stages of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Elmers
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany; Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Lorenza S Colzato
- Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Focke Ziemssen
- Ophthalmological Clinic, University Clinic Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany; Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China.
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Cha J, Kim HS, Kwon G, Cho SY, Kim JM. Acute effects of (-)-gallocatechin gallate-rich green tea extract on the cerebral hemodynamic response of the prefrontal cortex in healthy humans. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2023; 4:1136362. [PMID: 38234497 PMCID: PMC10790935 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2023.1136362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Objective The benefits of long-term consumption of green tea on the brain are well known. However, among many ingredients of green tea, the acute effects of (-)-gallocatechin gallate-rich green tea extract (GCG-GTE), have received comparatively less attention. Herein, we investigated the acute effects of oral ingestion of green tea with GCG-GTE, which contains close replicas of the ingredients of hot green tea, on task-dependent hemodynamics in the prefrontal cortex of healthy adult human brains. Methods In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial, 35 healthy adults completed computerized cognitive tasks that demand activation of the prefrontal cortex at baseline and 1 h after consumption of placebo and 900 mg of GCG-GTE extract supplement. During cognitive testing, hemodynamic responses (change in HbO2 concentration) in the prefrontal cortex were assessed using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Results In fNIRS data, significant group x session interactions were found in the left (p = 0.035) and right (p = 0.036) dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). In behavioral data, despite the numerical increase in the GCG-GTE group and the numerical decrease in the Placebo group, no significant differences were observed in the cognitive performance measure between the groups. Conclusion The result suggests a single dose of orally administered GCG-GTE can reduce DLPFC activation in healthy humans even with increased task demand. GCG-GTE is a promising functional material that can affect neural efficiency to lower mental workload during cognitively demanding tasks. However, further studies are needed to verify this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Cha
- Department of Research and Development, OBELAB Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Su Kim
- Amorepacific R&I Center, Yongin-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Gusang Kwon
- Amorepacific R&I Center, Yongin-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Si-Young Cho
- Amorepacific R&I Center, Yongin-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Myoung Kim
- Department of Research and Development, OBELAB Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Jędrejko K, Catlin O, Stewart T, Anderson A, Muszyńska B, Catlin DH. Unauthorized ingredients in "nootropic" dietary supplements: A review of the history, pharmacology, prevalence, international regulations, and potential as doping agents. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 37357012 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
The first nootropic prohibited in sport was fonturacetam (4-phenylpiracetam, carphedon) in 1998. Presented here 25 years later is a broad-scale consideration of the history, pharmacology, prevalence, regulations, and doping potential of nootropics viewed through a lens of 50 selected dietary supplements (DS) marketed as "cognitive enhancement," "brain health," "brain boosters," or "nootropics," with a focus on unauthorized ingredients. Nootropic DS have risen to prominence over the last decade often as multicomponent formulations of bioactive ingredients presenting compelling pharmacological questions and potential public health concerns. Many popular nootropics are unauthorized food or DS ingredients according to the European Commission including huperzine A, yohimbine, and dimethylaminoethanol; unapproved pharmaceuticals like phenibut or emoxypine (mexidol); previously registered drugs like meclofenoxate or reserpine; EU authorized pharmaceuticals like piracetam or vinpocetine; infamous doping agents like methylhexaneamine or dimethylbutylamine; and other investigational substances and peptides. Several are authorized DS ingredients in the United States resulting in significant global variability as to what qualifies as a legal nootropic. Prohibited stimulants or ß2-agonists commonly used in "pre-workout," "weight loss," or "thermogenic" DS such as octodrine, hordenine, or higenamine are often stacked with nootropic substances. While stimulants and ß2-agonists are defined as doping agents by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), many nootropics are not, although some may qualify as non-approved substances or related substances under catch-all language in the WADA Prohibited List. Synergistic combinations, excessive dosing, or recently researched pharmacology may justify listing certain nootropics as doping agents or warrant additional attention in future regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol Jędrejko
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Oliver Catlin
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Timothy Stewart
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ashley Anderson
- International Sports Pharmacists Network, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Bożena Muszyńska
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Don H Catlin
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine and Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
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Etheridge T, Kennedy B, Millar MM, Brintz BJ, Wu C, Pettey J. Cognitive enhancing supplements and medications in United States Resident Physicians. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:744. [PMID: 36303156 PMCID: PMC9615194 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03778-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of cognitive-enhancing medications and supplements among healthy adults continues to rise. Limited data exists on their use among resident physicians. Given their highly competitive and stressful lifestyle, we sought to evaluate the prevalence, motivations, and side effects of using cognitive-enhancing supplements and medications among resident physicians at a large United States academic institution. METHODS An anonymous web-based survey was circulated to resident physicians inquiring about using cognitive-enhancing supplements and medications, as well as personal characteristics such as gender, marital and parental status, medical diagnoses, and medical specialty. Before circulation, we performed a pilot study. Weighted logistic regression analyses estimated the impact of personal characteristics on the probability of using both supplements and medications. RESULTS Survey response rate was 46.4%. Of respondents, 48.6% were female, 45.9% were married, 70.9% were without children, and 67.2% were in a non-surgical medical specialty. Few respondents had a related medical diagnosis, with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder being the most common (7.1%). Male, non-married, surgical residents were more likely to take supplements (odds ratio (OR) = 1.06, 1.05, and 1.05). Males, without children, and those who felt pressure to perform well, were afraid of being left behind, felt pressure because colleagues take them, or felt they could not reach their current level of training without medications were more likely to take medications (OR = 1.11, 1.04, 1.05, and 1.08). Adverse effects with medications were common. CONCLUSION Supplement and medication use for cognitive enhancement was high among resident physicians at a single institution despite few having a related medical diagnosis. This study raises awareness of the growing pressure in competitive residency environments to use cognitive enhancement regardless of the potential side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Etheridge
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr, 84123, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Brandon Kennedy
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr, 84123, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Morgan M Millar
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ben J Brintz
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Chaorong Wu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jeff Pettey
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr, 84123, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Yamamoto M. Pharmacological Cognitive Enhancement: Current Situation and Perspectives. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2022; 142:521-526. [DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.21-00195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Midori Yamamoto
- School of Pharmacy at Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare
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Schifano F, Catalani V, Sharif S, Napoletano F, Corkery JM, Arillotta D, Fergus S, Vento A, Guirguis A. Benefits and Harms of 'Smart Drugs' (Nootropics) in Healthy Individuals. Drugs 2022; 82:633-647. [PMID: 35366192 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01701-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
'Smart drugs' (also known as 'nootropics' and 'cognitive enhancers' [CEs]) are being used by healthy subjects (i.e. students and workers) typically to improve memory, attention, learning, executive functions and vigilance, hence the reference to a 'pharmaceutical cognitive doping behaviour'. While the efficacy of known CEs in individuals with memory or learning deficits is well known, their effect on non-impaired brains is still to be fully assessed. This paper aims to provide an overview on the prevalence of use; putative neuroenhancement benefits and possible harms relating to the intake of the most popular CEs (e.g. amphetamine-type stimulants, methylphenidate, donepezil, selegiline, modafinil, piracetam, benzodiazepine inverse agonists, and unifiram analogues) in healthy individuals. CEs are generally perceived by the users as effective, with related enthusiastic anecdotal reports; however, their efficacy in healthy individuals is uncertain and any reported improvement temporary. Conversely, since most CEs are stimulants, the related modulation of central noradrenaline, glutamate, and dopamine levels may lead to cardiovascular, neurological and psychopathological complications. Furthermore, use of CEs can be associated with paradoxical short- and long-term cognitive decline; decreased potential for plastic learning; and addictive behaviour. Finally, the non-medical use of any potent psychotropic raises serious ethical and legal issues, with nootropics having the potential to become a major public health concern. Further studies investigating CE-associated social, psychological, and biological outcomes are urgently needed to allow firm conclusions to be drawn on the appropriateness of CE use in healthy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK.
| | - Valeria Catalani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Safia Sharif
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Flavia Napoletano
- East London Foundation Trust (ELFT), Newham Early Intervention Service, London, UK
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Suzanne Fergus
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alessandro Vento
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
- Addictions' Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychology, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
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Piergentili R, Del Rio A, Signore F, Umani Ronchi F, Marinelli E, Zaami S. CRISPR-Cas and Its Wide-Ranging Applications: From Human Genome Editing to Environmental Implications, Technical Limitations, Hazards and Bioethical Issues. Cells 2021; 10:cells10050969. [PMID: 33919194 PMCID: PMC8143109 DOI: 10.3390/cells10050969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas system is a powerful tool for in vivo editing the genome of most organisms, including man. During the years this technique has been applied in several fields, such as agriculture for crop upgrade and breeding including the creation of allergy-free foods, for eradicating pests, for the improvement of animal breeds, in the industry of bio-fuels and it can even be used as a basis for a cell-based recording apparatus. Possible applications in human health include the making of new medicines through the creation of genetically modified organisms, the treatment of viral infections, the control of pathogens, applications in clinical diagnostics and the cure of human genetic diseases, either caused by somatic (e.g., cancer) or inherited (mendelian disorders) mutations. One of the most divisive, possible uses of this system is the modification of human embryos, for the purpose of preventing or curing a human being before birth. However, the technology in this field is evolving faster than regulations and several concerns are raised by its enormous yet controversial potential. In this scenario, appropriate laws need to be issued and ethical guidelines must be developed, in order to properly assess advantages as well as risks of this approach. In this review, we summarize the potential of these genome editing techniques and their applications in human embryo treatment. We will analyze CRISPR-Cas limitations and the possible genome damage caused in the treated embryo. Finally, we will discuss how all this impacts the law, ethics and common sense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Piergentili
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council (CNR-IBPM), 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Del Rio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.U.R.); (E.M.); (S.Z.)
- Correspondence: or
| | - Fabrizio Signore
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, USL Roma2, Sant’Eugenio Hospital, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Federica Umani Ronchi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.U.R.); (E.M.); (S.Z.)
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.U.R.); (E.M.); (S.Z.)
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.U.R.); (E.M.); (S.Z.)
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Napoletano F, Schifano F, Corkery JM, Guirguis A, Arillotta D, Zangani C, Vento A. The Psychonauts' World of Cognitive Enhancers. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:546796. [PMID: 33024436 PMCID: PMC7516264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.546796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing availability of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), including cognitive enhancers (CEs) which can be used in the treatment of certain mental health disorders. While treating cognitive deficit symptoms in neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative disorders using CEs might have significant benefits for patients, the increasing recreational use of these substances by healthy individuals raises many clinical, medico-legal, and ethical issues. Moreover, it has become very challenging for clinicians to keep up-to-date with CEs currently available as comprehensive official lists do not exist. METHODS Using a web crawler (NPSfinder®), the present study aimed at assessing psychonaut fora/platforms to better understand the online situation regarding CEs. We compared NPSfinder® entries with those from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) NPS databases up to spring 2019. Any substance that was identified by NPSfinder® was considered a CE if it was either described as having nootropic abilities by psychonauts or if it was listed among the known CEs by Froestl and colleagues. RESULTS A total of 142 unique CEs were identified by NPSfinder®. They were divided into 10 categories, including plants/herbs/products (29%), prescribed drugs (17%), image and performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs) (15%), psychostimulants (15%), miscellaneous (8%), Phenethylamines (6%), GABAergic drugs (5%), cannabimimetic (4%), tryptamines derivatives (0.5%), and piperazine derivatives (0.5%). A total of 105 chemically different substances were uniquely identified by NPSfinder®. Only one CE was uniquely identified by the EMCDDA; no CE was uniquely identified by the UNODC. CONCLUSIONS These results show that NPSfinder® is helpful as part of an Early Warning System, which could update clinicians with the growing numbers and types of nootropics in the increasingly difficult-to-follow internet world. Improving clinicians' knowledge of NPS could promote more effective prevention and harm reduction measures in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Napoletano
- Department of Mental Health, Homerton University Hospital, East London Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Caroline Zangani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vento
- Department of Mental Health, Addictions’ Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy
- Department of Mental Health, Guglielmo Marconi” University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
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A Systematic Review of the Effect of Dietary Supplements on Cognitive Performance in Healthy Young Adults and Military Personnel. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020545. [PMID: 32093203 PMCID: PMC7071459 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intake of dietary supplements has increased, despite evidence that some of these have adverse side effects and uncertainty about their effectiveness. This systematic review examined the evidence for the cognitive benefits of a wide range of dietary supplements in healthy young adult samples; the aim was to identify if any might be useful for optimising cognitive performance during deployment in military personnel. Searches were conducted in 9 databases and 13 grey literature repositories for relevant studies published between January 2000 and June 2017. Eligible studies recruited healthy young adults (18-35 years), administered a legal dietary supplement, included a comparison control group, and assessed cognitive outcome(s). Thirty-seven of 394 identified studies met inclusion criteria and were included for synthesis. Most research was deemed of low quality (72.97%; SIGN50 guidelines), highlighting the need for sound empirical research in this area. Nonetheless, we suggest that tyrosine or caffeine could be used in healthy young adults in a military context to enhance cognitive performance when personnel are sleep-deprived. Caffeine also has the potential benefit of improving vigilance and attention during sustained operations offering little opportunity for sleep. Inconsistent findings and methodological limitations preclude firm recommendations about the use of other specific dietary supplements.
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Ricci G. Pharmacological Human Enhancement: An Overview of the Looming Bioethical and Regulatory Challenges. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:53. [PMID: 32127792 PMCID: PMC7037021 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive enhancement, a rather broad-ranging principle, can be achieved in various ways: healthy eating and consistent physical exercise can lead to long-term improvements in many cognitive domains; commonplace stimulants such as caffeine, on the other hand, temporarily raise levels of alertness, attentiveness, and concentration; sedative substances are also used as an indirect form of enhancement to relax before an exam or an important meeting. Such approaches raise no ethical issue. Nonetheless, clinical research has led to the off-label use of drugs called nootropics or "smart drugs", which can, under certain conditions, elicit some degree of cognition-improving effects: methylphenidate and modafinil can enhance working memory and concentration in healthy individuals, although the significance and effectiveness of such applications are dubious. Such "cognitive enhancement" methods, however, do raise multiple ethical issues, and their contentious nature has caused bioethical authorities to lay out opinions and recommendations meant to regulate their use. Most notably, the Italian Committee on Bioethics has extensively dealt with the spread of nootropics, which resulted in the Italian Code of Medical Ethics including "cognitive enhancement" drugs and their prescription by doctors as critical points, along with cosmetic surgery (the latest version of the Code, updated in December 2017, deals with the two separately, in Article 76 and 76 BIS). The United States Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues broadened the scope of cognitive enhancement techniques so as to include neural modifiers, i.e. mechanisms of brain and nervous system change: a much wider array of interventions, technologies, behaviors, and environmental conditions that may potentially affect several aspects of the human brain and nervous system. The potential of neuroscience to profoundly reshape society is nothing short of mind-blowing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Ricci
- Section of Forensic Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Kalaba P, Ilić M, Aher NY, Dragačević V, Wieder M, Zehl M, Wackerlig J, Beyl S, Sartori SB, Ebner K, Roller A, Lukic N, Beryozkina T, Gonzalez ERP, Neill P, Khan JA, Bakulev V, Leban JJ, Hering S, Pifl C, Singewald N, Lubec J, Urban E, Sitte HH, Langer T, Lubec G. Structure-Activity Relationships of Novel Thiazole-Based Modafinil Analogues Acting at Monoamine Transporters. J Med Chem 2019; 63:391-417. [PMID: 31841637 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Atypical dopamine reuptake inhibitors, such as modafinil, are used for the treatment of sleeping disorders and investigated as potential therapeutics against cocaine addiction and for cognitive enhancement. Our continuous effort to find modafinil analogues with higher inhibitory activity on and selectivity toward the dopamine transporter (DAT) has previously led to the promising thiazole-containing derivatives CE-103, CE-111, CE-123, and CE-125. Here, we describe the synthesis and activity of a series of compounds based on these scaffolds, which resulted in several new selective DAT inhibitors and gave valuable insights into the structure-activity relationships. Introduction of the second chiral center and subsequent chiral separations provided all four stereoisomers, whereby the S-configuration on both generally exerted the highest activity and selectivity on DAT. The representative compound of this series was further characterized by in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies that have demonstrated both safety and efficacy profile of this compound class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Predrag Kalaba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Marija Ilić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Nilima Y Aher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Vladimir Dragačević
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Marcus Wieder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Martin Zehl
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Straße 38 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Judith Wackerlig
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Stanislav Beyl
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Simone B Sartori
- Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy , Leopold Franzens University Innsbruck , 6020 Innsbruck , Austria
| | - Karl Ebner
- Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy , Leopold Franzens University Innsbruck , 6020 Innsbruck , Austria
| | - Alexander Roller
- X-ray Structure Analysis Centre, Faculty of Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Straße 38 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Natalie Lukic
- X-ray Structure Analysis Centre, Faculty of Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Straße 38 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Tetyana Beryozkina
- Ural Federal University Named after the First President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin , 19 Mira st. , Yekaterinburg 620002 , Russia
| | - Eduardo Rene Perez Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Fine Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology , University of Sao Paulo State , Roberto Simonsen 305 , CEP 19060-900 , Presidente Prudente , SP , Brazil
| | - Philip Neill
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Jawad Akbar Khan
- Institute of Pharmacology, Centre of Physiology and Pharmacology , Medical University of Vienna , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Vasiliy Bakulev
- Ural Federal University Named after the First President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin , 19 Mira st. , Yekaterinburg 620002 , Russia
| | - Johann Jakob Leban
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Steffen Hering
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Christian Pifl
- Centre for Brain Research , Medical University of Vienna , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Nicolas Singewald
- Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy , Leopold Franzens University Innsbruck , 6020 Innsbruck , Austria
| | - Jana Lubec
- Neuroscience Laboratory , Paracelsus Medical University , A-5020 Salzburg , Austria
| | - Ernst Urban
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Harald H Sitte
- Institute of Pharmacology, Centre of Physiology and Pharmacology , Medical University of Vienna , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Thierry Langer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences , University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14 , 1090 Vienna , Austria
| | - Gert Lubec
- Neuroscience Laboratory , Paracelsus Medical University , A-5020 Salzburg , Austria
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Effect of chronic methylphenidate treatment on hippocampal neurovascular unit and memory performance in late adolescent rats. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:195-210. [PMID: 30554860 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Methylphenidate (MPH) is the classic treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among children and adults. Despite its beneficial effects, non-medical use of MPH is nowadays a problem with high impact on society. Thus, our goal was to uncover the neurovascular and cognitive effects of MPH chronic use during a critical period of development in control conditions. For that, male Wistar Kyoto rats were treated with MPH (1.5 or 5 mg/kg/day at weekdays, per os) from P28 to P55. We concluded that the higher dose of MPH caused hippocampal blood-brain barrier (BBB) hyperpermeability by vesicular transport (transcytosis) concomitantly with the presence of peripheral immune cells in the brain parenchyma. These observations were confirmed by in vitro studies, in which the knockdown of caveolin-1 in human brain endothelial cells prevented the increased permeability and leukocytes transmigration triggered by MPH (100 µM, 24 h). Furthermore, MPH led to astrocytic atrophy and to a decrease in the levels of several synaptic proteins and impairment of AKT/CREB signaling, together with working memory deficit assessed in the Y-maze test. On the contrary, we verified that the lower dose of MPH (1.5 mg/kg/day) increased astrocytic processes and upregulated several neuronal proteins as well as signaling pathways involved in synaptic plasticity culminating in working memory improvement. In conclusion, the present study reveals that a lower dose of MPH in normal rats improves memory performance being associated with the modulation of astrocytic morphology and synaptic machinery. However, a higher dose of MPH leads to BBB dysfunction and memory impairment.
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Childhood methylphenidate adherence as a predictor of antidepressants use during adolescence. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2019; 28:1365-1373. [PMID: 30828744 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-019-01301-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Methylphenidate (MPH) is a common and effective treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but little is known about the relationship between early childhood intake of MPH and onset of antidepressant treatment during adolescence. The study aimed to examine whether adherence to MPH during early childhood predicts the initiation of antidepressants during adolescence. This is a 12-year historical prospective nationwide cohort study of children enrolled in an integrated care system who were first prescribed MPH between the ages of 6 and 8 years (N = 6830). We tested for an association between their adherence to MPH during early childhood (as indicated by medication possession ratio from MPH onset through the age of twelve) and the likelihood of being prescribed any antidepressant during adolescence (age 13-18). As all country citizens are covered by mandatory health insurance, and full services are provided by one of the four integrated care systems, data regarding patients' diagnoses, prescriptions, and medical purchases are well documented. Logistic regression analysis indicated that those with higher adherence to MPH had a 50% higher risk (95% CI 1.16-1.93) of receiving antidepressants during adolescence when controlling for other comorbid psychiatric conditions and parental use of antidepressants. In this large-scale longitudinal study, MPH adherence during early childhood emerged as a predictor for antidepressant treatment during adolescence, which may reflect increased emotional and behavioral dysregulation in this group. The highly adherent patients are at higher risk and should be clinically monitored more closely, particularly into adolescence.
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Effect of ADHD medication in male C57BL/6J mice performing the rodent Continuous Performance Test. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1839-1851. [PMID: 30656365 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-5167-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The rodent Continuous Performance Test (rCPT) is a novel rodent paradigm to assess attention and impulsivity that resembles the human CPT. This task measures the rodents' ability to discriminate between target and non-target stimuli. The effect of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication on rCPT performance in mice remains to be fully characterized. OBJECTIVE To investigate the predictive validity of the mouse rCPT by studying the effects of ADHD medication methylphenidate, atomoxetine, amphetamine, guanfacine, and modafinil in four behavioral subgroups based on performance and impulsivity levels. METHODS Two cohorts of male C57BL/6J mice were used, and the effect of treatment was tested in a variable stimulus duration probe. Performance and impulsive subgroups were made based on discriminability and percentage premature responses, respectively. RESULTS Methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and amphetamine improved performance in the low-performing animals, with no effect in the high-performers. These improvements were a result of increased hit rate and/or decreased false-alarm rate. Furthermore, these drugs decreased percentage premature responses in the high-impulsive group. Methylphenidate, guanfacine, and modafinil increased premature responses in the low-impulsive group. Modafinil impaired performance in the high-performers by increasing false-alarm rate. CONCLUSION The effect of ADHD treatment was dependent on baseline, as seen by increases in performance for the low-performers and decreases in impulsivity for the high-impulsive animals. These results agree with clinical data and may support the inverted U-shaped arousal-performance theory. The rCPT combined with behavioral separation into subgroups has high predictive validity, and our study is a step forward towards establishing the clinical translatability of the rCPT.
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Navarra RL, Waterhouse BD. Considering noradrenergically mediated facilitation of sensory signal processing as a component of psychostimulant-induced performance enhancement. Brain Res 2019; 1709:67-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Dresler M, Sandberg A, Bublitz C, Ohla K, Trenado C, Mroczko-Wąsowicz A, Kühn S, Repantis D. Hacking the Brain: Dimensions of Cognitive Enhancement. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:1137-1148. [PMID: 30550256 PMCID: PMC6429408 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In an increasingly complex information society, demands for cognitive functioning are growing steadily. In recent years, numerous strategies to augment brain function have been proposed. Evidence for their efficacy (or lack thereof) and side effects has prompted discussions about ethical, societal, and medical implications. In the public debate, cognitive enhancement is often seen as a monolithic phenomenon. On a closer look, however, cognitive enhancement turns out to be a multifaceted concept: There is not one cognitive enhancer that augments brain function per se, but a great variety of interventions that can be clustered into biochemical, physical, and behavioral enhancement strategies. These cognitive enhancers differ in their mode of action, the cognitive domain they target, the time scale they work on, their availability and side effects, and how they differentially affect different groups of subjects. Here we disentangle the dimensions of cognitive enhancement, review prominent examples of cognitive enhancers that differ across these dimensions, and thereby provide a framework for both theoretical discussions and empirical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Dresler
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour , Radboud University Medical Centre , Nijmegen 6525 EN , The Netherlands
| | - Anders Sandberg
- Future of Humanity Institute , Oxford University , Oxford OX1 1PT , United Kingdom
| | | | - Kathrin Ohla
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Cognitive Neuroscience (INM3) , Forschungszentrum Jülich , Jülich 52428 , Germany
| | - Carlos Trenado
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology , Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf , Düsseldorf 40225 , Germany
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors , TU Dortmund , Dortmund 44139 , Germany
| | | | - Simone Kühn
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development , Berlin 14195 , Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy , University Clinic Hamburg Eppendorf , Hamburg 20246 , Germany
| | - Dimitris Repantis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin 12203 , Germany
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Coelho-Santos V, Cardoso FL, Leitão RA, Fontes-Ribeiro CA, Silva AP. Impact of developmental exposure to methylphenidate on rat brain's immune privilege and behavior: Control versus ADHD model. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 68:169-182. [PMID: 29061363 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most prevalent childhood mental disorders that often persists into adulthood. Moreover, methylphenidate (MPH) is the mainstay of medical treatment for this disorder. Yet, not much is known about the neurobiological impact of MPH on control versus ADHD conditions, which is crucial to simultaneously clarify the misuse/abuse versus therapeutic use of this psychostimulant. In the present study, we applied biochemical and behavioral approaches to broadly explore the early-life chronic exposure of two different doses of MPH (1.5 and 5 mg/kg/day) on control and ADHD rats (Wistar Kyoto and Spontaneously Hypertensive rats, respectively). We concluded that the higher dose of MPH promoted blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and elicited anxiety-like behavior in both control and ADHD animals. BBB dysfunction triggered by MPH was particularly prominent in control rats, which was characterized by a marked disruption of intercellular junctions, an increase of endothelial vesicles, and an upregulation of adhesion molecules concomitantly with the infiltration of peripheral immune cells into the prefrontal cortex. Moreover, both doses of MPH induced a robust neuroinflammatory and oxidative response in control rats. Curiously, in the ADHD model, the lower dose of MPH (1.5 mg/kg/day) had a beneficial effect since it balanced both immunity and behavior relative to vehicle animals. Overall, the contrasting effects of MPH observed between control and ADHD models support the importance of an appropriate MPH dose regimen for ADHD, and also suggest that MPH misuse negatively affects brain and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Coelho-Santos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Filipa L Cardoso
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo A Leitão
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Fontes-Ribeiro
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Silva
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Kalaba P, Aher NY, Ilić M, Dragačević V, Wieder M, Miklosi AG, Zehl M, Wackerlig J, Roller A, Beryozkina T, Radoman B, Saroja SR, Lindner W, Gonzalez EP, Bakulev V, Leban JJ, Sitte HH, Urban E, Langer T, Lubec G. Heterocyclic Analogues of Modafinil as Novel, Atypical Dopamine Transporter Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2017; 60:9330-9348. [PMID: 29091428 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Modafinil is a wake promoting compound with high potential for cognitive enhancement. It is targeting the dopamine transporter (DAT) with moderate selectivity, thereby leading to reuptake inhibition and increased dopamine levels in the synaptic cleft. A series of modafinil analogues have been reported so far, but more target-specific analogues remain to be discovered. It was the aim of this study to synthesize and characterize such analogues and, indeed, a series of compounds were showing higher activities on the DAT and a higher selectivity toward DAT versus serotonin and norepinephrine transporters than modafinil. This was achieved by substituting the amide moiety by five- and six-membered aromatic heterocycles. In vitro studies indicated binding to the cocaine pocket on DAT, although molecular dynamics revealed binding different from that of cocaine. Moreover, no release of dopamine was observed, ruling out amphetamine-like effects. The absence of neurotoxicity of a representative analogue may encourage further preclinical studies of the above-mentioned compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Predrag Kalaba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Nilima Y Aher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marija Ilić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Vladimir Dragačević
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marcus Wieder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andras G Miklosi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Zehl
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna , Währinger Straße 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Judith Wackerlig
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Roller
- X-ray Structure Analysis Centre, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna , Währinger Straße 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Tetyana Beryozkina
- Ural Federal University named after the first President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin , 19 Mira St., Yekaterinburg 620002, Russia
| | - Bojana Radoman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Wolfgang Lindner
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna , Währinger Straße 38, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Eduardo Perez Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Fine Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Sao Paulo State , Roberto Simonsen 305, CEP 19060-900 Presidente Prudente, Sao Paolo, Brazil
| | - Vasiliy Bakulev
- Ural Federal University named after the first President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin , 19 Mira St., Yekaterinburg 620002, Russia
| | - Johann Jakob Leban
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald H Sitte
- Institute of Pharmacology, Centre of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna , 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ernst Urban
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thierry Langer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna , Althanstraße 14, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gert Lubec
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Paracelsus Medical University , 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Simhadri PK, Malwade R, Vanka R, Nakka VP, Kuppusamy G, Babu PP. Dysregulation of LIMK-1/cofilin-1 pathway: A possible basis for alteration of neuronal morphology in experimental cerebral malaria. Ann Neurol 2017; 82:429-443. [PMID: 28843047 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Loss of cognition even after survival is the salient feature of cerebral malaria (CM). Currently, the fate of neuronal morphology is not studied at the ultrastructural level in CM. Recent studies suggest that maintenance of neuronal morphology and dendritic spine density (actin dynamics in particular) are essential for proper cognitive function. LIMK-1/cofilin-1 signaling pathway is known to be involved in the maintenance of actin dynamics through regulation of cofilin-1, and in executing learning and memory functions. METHODS Using an experimental mouse model, we analyzed the behavioral parameters of asymptomatic mice with CM by performing a rapid murine coma and behavior scale experiment. We performed Golgi-Cox staining to assess neuronal morphology, dendritic spine density, and arborization in brain cortex subjected to Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection compared to asymptomatic, anemic, and control groups. We studied the neural gene expression pattern of LIMK-1, cofilin-1, and β-actin in all the experimental groups by semiquantitative and quantitative polymerase chain reaction followed by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. RESULTS We observed significant loss of dendritic spine density, abnormal spine morphology, reduced dendritic arborization, and extensive dendritic varicosities in the cortical neurons of CM-infected brain. Furthermore, these observations correlated with diminished protein levels of LIMK-1, cofilin-1, phospho-cofilin-1, and β-actin in the whole brain lysates as well as formation of actin-cofilin rods in the brain sections of symptomatic mice with CM. INTERPRETATION Overall, our findings suggest that the altered neuronal morphology and dysregulation of LIMK-1/cofilin-1 pathway could affect the cognitive outcome after experimental CM. Therefore, this study could help to establish newer therapeutic strategies addressing long-term cognitive impairment after CM. Ann Neurol 2017;82:429-443.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kumar Simhadri
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, School of life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana
| | - Ruchi Malwade
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, School of life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana
| | - Ravisankar Vanka
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Venkata Prasuja Nakka
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, School of life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana
| | | | - Phanithi Prakash Babu
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, School of life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana
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Dias VT, Vey LT, Rosa HZ, D'avila LF, Barcelos RCS, Burger ME. Could Modafinil Prevent Psychostimulant Addiction? An Experimental Study in Rats. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 121:400-408. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Verônica Tironi Dias
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
| | - Luciana Taschetto Vey
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
| | - Higor Zuquetto Rosa
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
| | - Lívia Ferraz D'avila
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
| | | | - Marilise Escobar Burger
- Graduate Program of Pharmacology; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) - RS; Santa Maria Brazil
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22
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Jørgensen SH, Fitzpatrick CM, Gether U, Woldbye DPD, Sørensen AT. Chemogenetic Modulation of G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signalling in Visual Attention Research. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 121:373-381. [PMID: 28609587 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Attention is a fundamental cognitive process involved in nearly all aspects of life. Abnormal attentional control is a symptom of many neurological disorders, most notably recognized in ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Although attentional performance and its malfunction has been a major area of investigation, it has proven difficult to accurately associate specific neuronal projections, cell types, neurotransmitter systems and receptors with distinct phenotypes owing to its complexity. In this MiniReview, we present a recently invented technology known as Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs). The DREADD technology is an emerging and transformative method that allows selective manipulation of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling, and its broad-ranging usefulness in attention research is now beginning to emerge. We first describe the different DREADDs available and explain how unprecedented specificity of neuronal signalling can be achieved using DREADDs. We next discuss various studies performed in animal models of visual attention, where different brain regions and neuronal populations have been probed by DREADDs. We highlight the interplay between the dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) catecholamine systems in visual attention and explain why DREADD technology can untangle and help us better understand such complex systems in normal and malfunctioning conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Søren H Jørgensen
- Molecular Neuropharmacology and Genetics Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Ulrik Gether
- Molecular Neuropharmacology and Genetics Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David P D Woldbye
- Molecular Neuropharmacology and Genetics Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Laboratory of Neural Plasticity, Center for Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas T Sørensen
- Molecular Neuropharmacology and Genetics Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Van Zyl PM, Joubert G, Fechter L, Griesel J, Nel M, Honiball A, Serfontein L, Diedericks M. Methylphenidate use among students living in junior on-campus residences of the University of the Free State. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/20786190.2017.1292695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- PM Van Zyl
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - G Joubert
- Department of Biostatistics, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - L Fechter
- School of Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - J Griesel
- School of Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - M Nel
- School of Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - A Honiball
- School of Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - L Serfontein
- School of Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - M Diedericks
- School of Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Urban KR, Li YC, Xing B, Gao WJ. A Clinically-Relevant Dose of Methylphenidate Enhances Synaptic Inhibition in the Juvenile Rat Prefrontal Cortex. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 2:69-77. [PMID: 30221243 PMCID: PMC6136665 DOI: 10.17756/jrdsas.2016-030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Methylphenidate (MPH) is perhaps the most commonly prescribed psychoactive substance for young children and adolescents; however, its effects on the immature brain are not well understood. MPH is increasingly abused by adolescents and prescriptions are being issued to increasingly younger children without rigorous psychological testing, raising the potential for misdiagnosis; it is therefore crucial to understand how this drug might impact a healthy, developing brain. Recently, we have shown that a clinically-relevant dose of MPH depresses the activity of pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex of normal juvenile rats, but its effects on inhibitory synaptic transmission remain to be explored. We therefore recorded spontaneous (s), miniature (m), and evoked (e) inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in layer 5 pyramidal neurons in juvenile rat prefrontal cortex. We found a dose-dependent effect of MPH on sIPSC frequency but not amplitude, where 0.3 mg/kg significantly decreased frequency, but 1 mg/kg significantly increased frequency. Moreover, mIPSCs were not affected by either dose of MPH, whereas the amplitudes, as well as paired-pulse ratios and coefficient of variations of evoked IPSCs were significantly increased after MPH treatment, indicating a presynaptic action. Tonic GABA current was also not affected by MPH treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that MPH administration to a healthy juvenile may enhance excitation of GABAergic interneurons; thus shifting the excitation-inhibition balance in the prefrontal cortex towards inhibition, and depressing overall prefrontal cortical activity. Our findings also indicate that the adolescent brain is more sensitive to MPH than previously thought, and dose ranges need to be reconsidered for age as well as size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly R Urban
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA.,Department of General Anesthesia, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yan-Chun Li
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Bo Xing
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Wen-Jun Gao
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
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Cornelissen L, Berde C. Biomedical science: Protection for anaesthetized mice. Nature 2016; 536:36-7. [PMID: 27488795 DOI: 10.1038/536036a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cornelissen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative &Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA, and in the Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Charles Berde
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative &Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA, and in the Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, Boston
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Garasic MD, Lavazza A. Moral and social reasons to acknowledge the use of cognitive enhancers in competitive-selective contexts. BMC Med Ethics 2016; 17:18. [PMID: 27025299 PMCID: PMC4812634 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-016-0102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although some of the most radical hypothesis related to the practical implementations of human enhancement have yet to become even close to reality, the use of cognitive enhancers is a very tangible phenomenon occurring with increasing popularity in university campuses as well as in other contexts. It is now well documented that the use of cognitive enhancers is not only increasingly common in Western countries, but also gradually accepted as a normal procedure by the media as well. In fact, its implementation is not unusual in various professional contexts and it has its peak in colleges (where the trend has been characterized as "academic doping"). Even when certain restrictions in the legislation of a country are indeed in place (i.e. through prescriptions requirements), they are without doubts easy to overcome. The legitimacy and appropriateness of such restrictions will not be the focus of our investigation. DISCUSSION Our concern is instead related to the moral and social reasons to publicly acknowledge the use of cognitive enhancers in competitive-selective contexts. These reasons are linked to a more neutral analysis of contemporary Western society: it is a fact that an increasing number of competitive-selective contexts have a substantial number of contenders using cognitive enhancers. Through the use of five explicative examples, in this paper we want to analyse the problems related to its use. In particular, it will be our aim to show the tension between one of the main argument used by bio-liberals (the use of cognitive enhancers is an eligible procedure that society does not impose on anyone) and the actual implementation of the drugs in competitive, or semi-competitive contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko D. Garasic
- />Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Frati P, Kyriakou C, Del Rio A, Marinelli E, Vergallo GM, Zaami S, Busardò FP. Smart drugs and synthetic androgens for cognitive and physical enhancement: revolving doors of cosmetic neurology. Curr Neuropharmacol 2016; 13:5-11. [PMID: 26074739 PMCID: PMC4462043 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x13666141210221750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive enhancement can be defined as the use of drugs and/or other means with the
aim to improve the cognitive functions of healthy subjects in particular memory, attention, creativity
and intelligence in the absence of any medical indication. Currently, it represents one of the most
debated topics in the neuroscience community. Human beings always wanted to use substances to
improve their cognitive functions, from the use of hallucinogens in ancient civilizations in an attempt
to allow them to better communicate with their gods, to the widespread use of caffeine under various
forms (energy drinks, tablets, etc.), to the more recent development of drugs such as stimulants and glutamate activators.
In the last ten years, increasing attention has been given to the use of cognitive enhancers, but up to now there is still only
a limited amount of information concerning the use, effect and functioning of cognitive enhancement in daily life on
healthy subjects. The first aim of this paper was to review current trends in the misuse of smart drugs (also known as
Nootropics) presently available on the market focusing in detail on methylphenidate, trying to evaluate the potential risk
in healthy individuals, especially teenagers and young adults. Moreover, the authors have explored the issue of cognitive
enhancement compared to the use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) in sports. Finally, a brief overview of the
ethical considerations surrounding human enhancement has been examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy; ; Neuromed, Istituto Mediterraneo Neurologico (IRCCS), Via Atinense 18, Pozzilli, 86077 Isernia, Italy
| | - Chrystalla Kyriakou
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Del Rio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Montanari Vergallo
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco P Busardò
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Negreira N, Erratico C, van Nuijs AL, Covaci A. Identification of in vitro metabolites of ethylphenidate by liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2016; 117:474-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2015.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Choy TL. Cognitive-enhancing drugs in the healthy population: Fundamental drawbacks and researcher roles. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2015.1011579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tsee Leng Choy
- BRAINetwork Centre for Neurocognitive Science, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Nishimura Y, Okabe S, Sasagawa S, Murakami S, Ashikawa Y, Yuge M, Kawaguchi K, Kawase R, Tanaka T. Pharmacological profiling of zebrafish behavior using chemical and genetic classification of sleep-wake modifiers. Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:257. [PMID: 26578964 PMCID: PMC4630575 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep-wake states are impaired in various neurological disorders. Impairment of sleep-wake states can be an early condition that exacerbates these disorders. Therefore, treating sleep-wake dysfunction may prevent or slow the development of these diseases. Although many gene products are likely to be involved in the sleep-wake disturbance, hypnotics and psychostimulants clinically used are limited in terms of their mode of action and are not without side effects. Therefore, there is a growing demand for developing new hypnotics and psychostimulants with high efficacy and few side effects. Toward this end, animal models are indispensable for use in genetic and chemical screens to identify sleep-wake modifiers. As a proof-of-concept study, we performed behavioral profiling of zebrafish treated with chemical and genetic sleep-wake modifiers. We were able to demonstrate that behavioral profiling of zebrafish treated with hypnotics or psychostimulants from 9 to 10 days post-fertilization was sufficient to identify drugs with specific modes of action. We were also able to identify behavioral endpoints distinguishing GABA-A modulators and hypocretin (hcrt) receptor antagonists and between sympathomimetic and non-sympathomimetic psychostimulants. This behavioral profiling can serve to identify genes related to sleep-wake disturbance associated with various neuropsychiatric diseases and novel therapeutic compounds for insomnia and excessive daytime sleep with fewer adverse side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhei Nishimura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan ; Mie University Medical Zebrafish Research Center Tsu, Japan ; Department of Systems Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan ; Department of Omics Medicine, Mie University Industrial Technology Innovation Institute Tsu, Japan ; Department of Bioinformatics, Mie University Life Science Research Center Tsu, Japan
| | - Shiko Okabe
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Shota Sasagawa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Soichiro Murakami
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Ashikawa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Mizuki Yuge
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Koki Kawaguchi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Reiko Kawase
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Toshio Tanaka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan ; Mie University Medical Zebrafish Research Center Tsu, Japan ; Department of Systems Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan ; Department of Omics Medicine, Mie University Industrial Technology Innovation Institute Tsu, Japan ; Department of Bioinformatics, Mie University Life Science Research Center Tsu, Japan
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Poulsen MB, Damgaard B, Zerahn B, Overgaard K, Rasmussen RS. Modafinil May Alleviate Poststroke Fatigue: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Trial. Stroke 2015; 46:3470-7. [PMID: 26534969 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.115.010860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Poststroke fatigue is common and reduces quality of life. Current evidence for intervention is limited, and this is the first placebo-controlled trial to investigate treatment of poststroke fatigue with the wakefulness promoting drug modafinil. METHODS The trial was randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled. Patients were treated with 400-mg modafinil or placebo for 90 days. Assessments were done at inclusion, 30, 90, and 180 days. The primary end point was fatigue at 90 days measured by the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 general fatigue domain. Secondary end points included the Fatigue Severity Scale, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the modified Rankin Scale and the Stroke-specific quality of Life questionnaire. Adult patients with a recent stroke achieving a score of ≥12 on the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 general fatigue domain were consecutively included. Exclusion criteria were severe cognitive disabilities and contraindications for modafinil treatment. RESULTS One thousand one hundred twenty-one patients with stroke were screened and 41 patients included, 21 received modafinil. The primary end point, the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 general fatigue score, did not differ between groups. Patients in the modafinil group obtained better scores on the Fatigue Severity Scale (P=0.02) and in some subscales of the stroke-specific quality of life questionnaire (0.001<P<0.05), which were secondary outcomes. No serious adverse reactions were observed and there was no difference in blood pressure between groups. CONCLUSIONS There were no significant differences between the 2 groups with regard to the primary end point. There were secondary significant outcomes that should be explored in future trials. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01800097.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Bang Poulsen
- Departments of Neurology (M.B.P., K.O., R.S.R.), Radiology (B.D.), and Clinical Physiology (B.Z.), Herlev University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; and Department of Radiology, Hilleroed University Hospital, Hilleroed, Denmark (B.D.).
| | - Bodil Damgaard
- Departments of Neurology (M.B.P., K.O., R.S.R.), Radiology (B.D.), and Clinical Physiology (B.Z.), Herlev University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; and Department of Radiology, Hilleroed University Hospital, Hilleroed, Denmark (B.D.)
| | - Bo Zerahn
- Departments of Neurology (M.B.P., K.O., R.S.R.), Radiology (B.D.), and Clinical Physiology (B.Z.), Herlev University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; and Department of Radiology, Hilleroed University Hospital, Hilleroed, Denmark (B.D.)
| | - Karsten Overgaard
- Departments of Neurology (M.B.P., K.O., R.S.R.), Radiology (B.D.), and Clinical Physiology (B.Z.), Herlev University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; and Department of Radiology, Hilleroed University Hospital, Hilleroed, Denmark (B.D.)
| | - Rune Skovgaard Rasmussen
- Departments of Neurology (M.B.P., K.O., R.S.R.), Radiology (B.D.), and Clinical Physiology (B.Z.), Herlev University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark; and Department of Radiology, Hilleroed University Hospital, Hilleroed, Denmark (B.D.)
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Gerdes L, Tegeler CH, Lee SW. A groundwork for allostatic neuro-education. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1224. [PMID: 26347688 PMCID: PMC4538224 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We propose to enliven educational practice by marrying a conception of education as guided human development, to an advanced scientific understanding of the brain known as allostasis (stability through change). The result is a groundwork for allostatic neuro-education (GANE). Education as development encompasses practices including the organic (homeschooling and related traditions), cognitive acquisition (emphasis on standards and testing), and the constructivist (aimed to support adaptive creativity for both learner and society). Allostasis views change to be the norm in biology, defines success in contexts of complex natural environments rather than controlled settings, and identifies the brain as the organ of central command. Allostatic neuro-education contrasts with education focused dominantly on testing, or neuroscience based on homeostasis (stability through constancy). The GANE perspective is to view learners in terms of their neurodevelopmental trajectories; its objective is to support authentic freedom, mediated by competent, integrated, and expansive executive functionality (concordant with the philosophy of freedom of Rudolf Steiner); and its strategy is to be attuned to rhythms in various forms (including those of autonomic arousal described in polyvagal theory) so as to enable experiential excitement for learning. The GANE presents a variety of testable hypotheses, and studies that explore prevention or mitigation of the effects of early life adversity or toxic stress on learning and development may be of particular importance. Case studies are presented illustrating use of allostatic neurotechnology by an adolescent male carrying diagnoses of Asperger’s syndrome and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and a grade school girl with reading difficulties. The GANE is intended as a re-visioning of education that may serve both learners and society to be better prepared for the accelerating changes of the 21st century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Gerdes
- Brain State Technologies LLC Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Charles H Tegeler
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Sung W Lee
- Brain State Technologies LLC Scottsdale, AZ, USA ; Running River School Sedona, AZ, USA
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Garasic MD, Lavazza A. Performance enhancement in the workplace: why and when healthy individuals should disclose their reliance on pharmaceutical cognitive enhancers. Front Syst Neurosci 2015; 9:13. [PMID: 25762902 PMCID: PMC4340197 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2015.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of pharmaceuticals cognitive enhancers (PCE) has been stirring growing interest, not only in the scientific domain but also in the popular media, and has probably had some increase recently in academic, professional and military quarters. So this phenomenon is deemed as a normal procedure aimed at improving the performance of an individual as well as the overall standards of an organization. Although the vast majority of countries have some kind of restrictions to reduce the wide non-medical usage of PCE, these can be overcome quite easily. In arguing for our explicit claim that, in many contexts, the use of cognitive enhancers should be disclosed—as a moral and socially relevant duty—we maintain that PCE present typical, or at least not rare, properties. The features are the following: (a) the enhancer has acute and/or chronic effects. In the first case, shortly after taking the drug the performance is significantly better than average; in the second case, there is a growing or lasting effect, which, however, is poised to diminish when one stops taking the drug; (b) those effects are significant (there is a difference in the outcome considered between taking and not taking the drug) and sometimes dramatic; and (c) a third feature, not directly related to enhancers as such, is their varying safety, availability, and legal permissibility, which might either induce people to take them or refrain them from doing so. We will consider the issue of fairness due to “unenhanced” people as well as the potentially dysfunctional social consequences of an undisclosed PCE use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko D Garasic
- The Federmann School of Public Policy and Government Campus, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem, Israel
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Abstract
According to several recent studies, a big chunk of college students in North America and Europe uses so called ‘smart drugs' to enhance their cognitive capacities aiming at improving their academic performance. With these practices, there comes a certain moral unease. This unease is shared by many, yet it is difficult to pinpoint and in need of justification. Other than simply pointing to the medical risks coming along with using non-prescribed medication, the salient moral question is whether these practices are troubling in and of themselves. In due consideration of empirical insights into the concrete effects of smart drugs on brain and behavior, our attempt is to articulate wherein this moral unease consists and to argue for why the authors believe cognitive enhancement to be morally objectionable. The authors will contend that the moral problem with these practices lies less in the end it seeks, than in the underlying human disposition it expresses and promotes. Some might ask, what is wrong with molding our cognitive capacities to achieve excellence, get a competitive edge, or, as the whim takes us? In all of these occasions, the usage of smart drugs serves a certain goal, a telos. The goal is, broadly speaking, this: outsmarting opponents in an arms race for limited resources and thereby yielding a competitive edge. In plain words: competition is valued higher than cooperation or solidarity. What is wrong with striving for this goal? The authors submit that the question whether people really want to live in a society that promotes the mentality ‘individual competition over societal cooperation' deserves serious consideration. In developing their answer, the authors draw on an ‘Ethics of Constraint' framework, arguing that widespread off-label use of smart drugs bears the risk of negative neural/behavioral consequences for the individual that might, in the long run, be accompanied by changing social value orientations for the worse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christine Wiebking
- Department of Sociology of Physical Activity and Health, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
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Abstract
Abstract:Some of the debates around the concept of moral enhancement have focused on whether the improvement of a single trait, such as empathy or intelligence, would be a good in general, or in all circumstances. All virtue theories, however, both secular and religious, have articulated multiple virtues that temper and inform one another in the development of a mature moral character. The project of moral enhancement requires a reengagement with virtue ethics and contemporary moral psychology to develop an empirically grounded model of the virtues and a fuller model of character development. Each of these virtues may be manipulable with electronic, psychopharmaceutical, and genetic interventions. A set of interdependent virtues is proposed, along with some of the research pointing to ways such virtues could be enhanced.
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Caviola L, Mannino A, Savulescu J, Faulmüller N. Cognitive biases can affect moral intuitions about cognitive enhancement. Front Syst Neurosci 2014; 8:195. [PMID: 25360088 PMCID: PMC4197737 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2014.00195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Research into cognitive biases that impair human judgment has mostly been applied to the area of economic decision-making. Ethical decision-making has been comparatively neglected. Since ethical decisions often involve very high individual as well as collective stakes, analyzing how cognitive biases affect them can be expected to yield important results. In this theoretical article, we consider the ethical debate about cognitive enhancement (CE) and suggest a number of cognitive biases that are likely to affect moral intuitions and judgments about CE: status quo bias, loss aversion, risk aversion, omission bias, scope insensitivity, nature bias, and optimistic bias. We find that there are more well-documented biases that are likely to cause irrational aversion to CE than biases in the opposite direction. This suggests that common attitudes about CE are predominantly negatively biased. Within this new perspective, we hope that subsequent research will be able to elaborate this hypothesis and develop effective de-biasing techniques that can help increase the rationality of the public CE debate and thus improve our ethical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucius Caviola
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
| | - Adriano Mannino
- Department of Philosophy, University of Bern Bern, Switzerland
| | - Julian Savulescu
- Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK ; Oxford Centre for Neuroethics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
| | - Nadira Faulmüller
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford Oxford, UK ; Oxford Centre for Neuroethics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK ; Department Values, Technology and Innovation, Delft University of Technology Delft, Netherlands
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Pieramico V, Esposito R, Cesinaro S, Frazzini V, Sensi SL. Effects of non-pharmacological or pharmacological interventions on cognition and brain plasticity of aging individuals. Front Syst Neurosci 2014; 8:153. [PMID: 25228860 PMCID: PMC4151335 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2014.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain aging and aging-related neurodegenerative disorders are major health challenges faced by modern societies. Brain aging is associated with cognitive and functional decline and represents the favourable background for the onset and development of dementia. Brain aging is associated with early and subtle anatomo-functional physiological changes that often precede the appearance of clinical signs of cognitive decline. Neuroimaging approaches unveiled the functional correlates of these alterations and helped in the identification of therapeutic targets that can be potentially useful in counteracting age-dependent cognitive decline. A growing body of evidence supports the notion that cognitive stimulation and aerobic training can preserve and enhance operational skills in elderly individuals as well as reduce the incidence of dementia. This review aims at providing an extensive and critical overview of the most recent data that support the efficacy of non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions aimed at enhancing cognition and brain plasticity in healthy elderly individuals as well as delaying the cognitive decline associated with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pieramico
- Molecular Neurology Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Roberto Esposito
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Cesinaro
- Molecular Neurology Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Valerio Frazzini
- Molecular Neurology Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano L Sensi
- Molecular Neurology Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy ; Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy ; Departments of Neurology and Pharmacology, Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California-Irvine Irvine, CA, USA
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Detection of feigned attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2014; 122 Suppl 1:S123-34. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-014-1274-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 07/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Nagel SK. Enhancement for well-being is still ethically challenging. Front Syst Neurosci 2014; 8:72. [PMID: 24817843 PMCID: PMC4012187 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2014.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Saskia K Nagel
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Osnabrueck Osnabrueck, Germany
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