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Wu GR, Baeken C. Exploring potential working mechanisms of accelerated HF-rTMS in refractory major depression with a focus on locus coeruleus connectivity. Eur Psychiatry 2024; 67:e70. [PMID: 39417327 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.1769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigates the effects of accelerated high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (aHF-rTMS), applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), on locus coeruleus (LC) functional connectivity in the treatment of refractory medication-resistant major depression (MRD). METHODS We studied 12 antidepressant-free refractory MRD patients, focusing on how aHF-rTMS affects the LC, a central component of the brain's noradrenergic system and key to mood regulation and stress response. RESULTS A stronger decrease in LC functional connectivity following aHF-rTMS treatment resulted in better clinical improvement. We observed such LC functional connectivity decreases with several brain regions, including the superior frontal gyrus, precentral gyrus, middle occipital gyrus, and cerebellum. Moreover, our exploratory analyses hint at a possible role for E-field modeling in forecasting clinical outcomes. Additional analyses suggest potential genetic and dopaminergic factors influencing changes in LC functional connectivity in relation to clinical response. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study underscore the pivotal role of the LC in orchestrating higher cognitive functions through its extensive connections with the prefrontal cortices, facilitating decision-making, influencing attention, and addressing depressive rumination. Additionally, the observed enhancement in LC-(posterior) cerebellar connectivity not only highlights the cerebellum's role in moderating clinical outcomes through noradrenergic system modulation but also suggests its potential as a predictive marker for aHF-rTMS efficacy. These results reveal new insights into the neural mechanisms of refractory depression and suggest therapeutic targets for enhancing noradrenergic activity, thereby addressing both cognitive and psychomotor symptoms associated with the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Rong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chris Baeken
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital (UZBrussel), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of TechnologyEindhoven, The Netherlands
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2
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Faerman MV, Ehgoetz Martens KA, Meehan SK, Staines WR. Neural correlates of trait anxiety in sensory processing and distractor filtering. Psychophysiology 2024:e14706. [PMID: 39380311 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that trait anxiety relates to cognitive processing and behavior. However, the relationships between trait anxiety and sensory processing, goal-directed performance and sensorimotor function are unclear, particularly in a multimodal context. This study used electroencephalography to evaluate whether trait anxiety influenced visual and tactile event-related potentials (ERPs), as well as behavioral distractor cost, in a bimodal sensorimotor task. Twenty-nine healthy young adults completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Participants were directed to focus on either tactile or visual stimuli while disregarding the other modality, responding to target stimulus amplitude with a proportional grip. Previous research suggests that somatosensory N70 and visual P2 ERPs serve as markers of attentional relevance, with attention also impacting the visual P3 ERP. It was hypothesized that trait anxiety would modulate the ERPs susceptible to attentional modulation (tactile N70, visual P2 and P3) and not affect behavioral performance. Trait anxiety showed a large, significant interaction with attention for visual P3 latency in response to unimodal visual stimuli, with a positive relationship between P3 latencies and trait anxiety when attending toward the stimulus and negative when attending away. A large, positive main effect of trait anxiety on visual N1 amplitude for bimodal stimuli was also detected. As predicted, trait anxiety related to ERPs but not behavioral distractor cost. These findings suggest that trait anxiety modulates visual but not somatosensory processing correlates based on attention. The absence of overt behavioral performance effects suggests compensatory mechanisms may offset underlying differences in sensory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle V Faerman
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Sean K Meehan
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - W Richard Staines
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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3
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Weber S, Jungilligens J, Aybek S, Popkirov S. Locus coeruleus co-activation patterns at rest show higher state persistence in patients with dissociative seizures: A Pilot Study. Epilepsia Open 2024. [PMID: 39373074 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.13050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dissociative seizures are paroxysmal disruptions of awareness and behavioral control in the context of affective arousal. Alterations in stress-related endocrine function have been demonstrated, but the timescale of dissociation suggests that the central locus coeruleus (LC) noradrenergic system is likely pivotal. Here, we investigate whether LC activation at rest is associated with altered brain network dynamics. METHODS A preliminary co-activation pattern (CAP) analysis of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 14 patients with dissociative seizures and 14 healthy controls was performed by using the LC as a seeding region. The red nucleus served as a control condition. Entry rates, durations, and state transition probabilities of identified CAPs were calculated. Analyses were corrected for demographic, technical, and clinical confounders including depression and anxiety. RESULTS Three LC-related CAPs were identified, with the dominant two showing inverse activations and deactivations of the default mode network and the attention networks, respectively. Analysis of transition probabilities between and within the three CAPs revealed higher state persistence in patients compared to healthy controls for both CAP2LC (Cohen's d = -0.55; p = 0.01) and CAP3LC (Cohen's d = -0.57; p = 0.01). The control analysis using the red nucleus as a seed yielded similar CAPs, but no significant between-group differences in transition probabilities. SIGNIFICANCE Higher state persistence of LC-CAPs in patients with dissociative seizures generates the novel hypothesis that arousal-related impairments of network switching might be a candidate neural mechanism of dissociation. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Dissociative seizures often arise during high affective arousal. The locus coeruleus is a brain structure involved in managing such acute arousal states. We investigated whether the activity of the locus coeruleus correlates with activity in other regions of the brain (which we refer to as "brain states"), and whether those brain states were different between patients with dissociative seizures and healthy controls. We found that patients tended to stay in certain locus coeruleus-dependent brain states instead of switching between them. This might be related to the loss of awareness and disruptions of brain functions ("dissociation") that patients experience during seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Weber
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University of Zurich, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Translational Imaging Center (TIC), Swiss Institute for Translational and Entrepreneurial Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Jungilligens
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Selma Aybek
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Stoyan Popkirov
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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Khalaf A, Lopez E, Li J, Horn A, Edlow BL, Blumenfeld H. Shared subcortical arousal systems across sensory modalities during transient modulation of attention. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.16.613316. [PMID: 39345640 PMCID: PMC11429725 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.16.613316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Subcortical arousal systems are known to play a key role in controlling sustained changes in attention and conscious awareness. Recent studies indicate that these systems have a major influence on short-term dynamic modulation of visual attention, but their role across sensory modalities is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated shared subcortical arousal systems across sensory modalities during transient changes in attention using block and event-related fMRI paradigms. We analyzed massive publicly available fMRI datasets collected while 1,561 participants performed visual, auditory, tactile, and taste perception tasks. Our analyses revealed a shared circuit of subcortical arousal systems exhibiting early transient increases in activity in midbrain reticular formation and central thalamus across perceptual modalities, as well as less consistent increases in pons, hypothalamus, basal forebrain, and basal ganglia. Identifying these networks is critical for understanding mechanisms of normal attention and consciousness and may help facilitate subcortical targeting for therapeutic neuromodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Khalaf
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Erick Lopez
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jian Li
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Andreas Horn
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Brain Circuit Therapeutics, Department of Neurology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Movement Disorders & Neuromodulation Section, Department of Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Brian L. Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Hal Blumenfeld
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Mesquita RNO, Taylor JL, Heckman CJ, Trajano GS, Blazevich AJ. Persistent inward currents in human motoneurons: emerging evidence and future directions. J Neurophysiol 2024; 132:1278-1301. [PMID: 39196985 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00204.2024] [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: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The manner in which motoneurons respond to excitatory and inhibitory inputs depends strongly on how their intrinsic properties are influenced by the neuromodulators serotonin and noradrenaline. These neuromodulators enhance the activation of voltage-gated channels that generate persistent (long-lasting) inward sodium and calcium currents (PICs) into the motoneurons. PICs are crucial for initiating, accelerating, and maintaining motoneuron firing. A greater accessibility to state-of-the-art techniques that allows both the estimation and examination of PIC modulation in tens of motoneurons in vivo has rapidly evolved our knowledge of how motoneurons amplify and prolong the effects of synaptic input. We are now in a position to gain substantial mechanistic insight into the role of PICs in motor control at an unprecedented pace. The present review briefly describes the effects of PICs on motoneuron firing and the methods available for estimating them before presenting the emerging evidence of how PICs can be modulated in health and disease. Our rapidly developing knowledge of the potent effects of PICs on motoneuron firing has the potential to improve our understanding of how we move, and points to new approaches to improve motor control. Finally, gaps in our understanding are highlighted and methodological advancements are suggested to encourage readers to explore outstanding questions to further elucidate PIC physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo N O Mesquita
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Discipline of Exercise and Sports Science, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janet L Taylor
- Discipline of Exercise and Sports Science, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - C J Heckman
- Departments of Neuroscience, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Gabriel S Trajano
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anthony J Blazevich
- Discipline of Exercise and Sports Science, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Lanshakov DA, Sukhareva EV, Bulygina VV, Khozyainova AA, Gerashchenko TS, Denisov EV, Kalinina TS. Brainstem transcriptomic changes in male Wistar rats after acute stress, comparing the use of duplex specific nuclease (DSN). Sci Rep 2024; 14:21856. [PMID: 39300279 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-73042-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In this work, we have analyzed the transcriptomic changes in the brainstem of male Wistar rats 2 h after an acute stress exposure. We performed duplex-specific nuclease normalization of cDNA libraries and compared the results back-to-back for the first time. Based on our RNAseq data, we selected reference genes for RT-qPCR that are best suited for acute stress experiments. Most genes were upregulated. We detected a massive shift in neuropeptide Crh, Trh,Cga, Tshb, Uts2b, Tac4, Lep and neuropeptide receptor Hcrtr1, Sstr5, Bdkrb2, Crhr2 signaling, as well as glutamate Grin3b, Grm2 and GABA Gpr156, acetylcholine Chrm4,Chrne, adrenergic Adra2b receptors expression. A strong increase in the expression of intermediate filaments Krt83/Krt86/Krt80/Krt84/Krt87/Krt4/Krt76 and motor proteins Myo7a, Klc3 was detected. Remarkably, in the absence of astrocyte activation, we also observed signs of microglial activation at this time point. Both expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines Il13, Ccl24 and pro-inflammatory cytokine receptors Il9r, Il12rb1, Tnfrsf14, Tnfrsf13c, Tnfrsf25, Tnfrsf1b were increased. In the Wnt signaling pathway, we observed increased expression of ligands-receptors Wnt1, Wnt11, Ror2 and also negative regulators Notum, Sfrp5, Sost. RNAseq results after DSN treatment correlated at a high level with RNAseq results without DSN, but there was a proportion of genes that shifted their logFC values. They are mostly rare transcripts TPM 1-10 with higher 0.5-0.9 GC content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitriy A Lanshakov
- Postgenomics Neurobiology Laboratory, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Science, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation.
- Natural Science Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation.
| | - Ekaterina V Sukhareva
- Postgenomics Neurobiology Laboratory, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Science, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Veta V Bulygina
- Functional Neurogenomics Laboratory, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Science, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Anna A Khozyainova
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Cancer Research Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russian Federation
| | - Tatiana S Gerashchenko
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Cancer Research Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russian Federation
| | - Evgeny V Denisov
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Cancer Research Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russian Federation
| | - Tatyana S Kalinina
- Natural Science Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
- Functional Neurogenomics Laboratory, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Science, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
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López-Canul M, He Q, Sasson T, Ettaoussi M, Gregorio DD, Ochoa-Sanchez R, Catoire H, Posa L, Rouleau G, Beaulieu JM, Comai S, Gobbi G. Selective Enhancement of REM Sleep in Male Rats through Activation of Melatonin MT 1 Receptors Located in the Locus Ceruleus Norepinephrine Neurons. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0914232024. [PMID: 38744530 PMCID: PMC11255427 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0914-23.2024] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Sleep disorders affect millions of people around the world and have a high comorbidity with psychiatric disorders. While current hypnotics mostly increase non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREMS), drugs acting selectively on enhancing rapid eye movement sleep (REMS) are lacking. This polysomnographic study in male rats showed that the first-in-class selective melatonin MT1 receptor partial agonist UCM871 increases the duration of REMS without affecting that of NREMS. The REMS-promoting effects of UCM871 occurred by inhibiting, in a dose-response manner, the firing activity of the locus ceruleus (LC) norepinephrine (NE) neurons, which express MT1 receptors. The increase of REMS duration and the inhibition of LC-NE neuronal activity by UCM871 were abolished by MT1 pharmacological antagonism and by an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector, which selectively knocked down MT1 receptors in the LC-NE neurons. In conclusion, MT1 receptor agonism inhibits LC-NE neurons and triggers REMS, thus representing a novel mechanism and target for REMS disorders and/or psychiatric disorders associated with REMS impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha López-Canul
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Qianzi He
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Tania Sasson
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Mohamed Ettaoussi
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Danilo De Gregorio
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Rafael Ochoa-Sanchez
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Helene Catoire
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Luca Posa
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Guy Rouleau
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Jean Martin Beaulieu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C8, Canada
| | - Stefano Comai
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua 35131, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua 35131, Italy
| | - Gabriella Gobbi
- Neurobiological Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Center, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
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Suárez-Pereira I, López-Martín C, Camarena-Delgado C, Llorca-Torralba M, González-Saiz F, Ruiz R, Santiago M, Berrocoso E. Nerve Injury Triggers Time-dependent Activation of the Locus Coeruleus, Influencing Spontaneous Pain-like Behavior in Rats. Anesthesiology 2024; 141:131-150. [PMID: 38602502 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000005006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dynamic changes in neuronal activity and in noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC) projections have been proposed during the transition from acute to chronic pain. Thus, the authors explored the cellular cFos activity of the LC and its projections in conjunction with spontaneous pain-like behavior in neuropathic rats. METHODS Tyrosine hydroxylase:Cre and wild-type Long-Evans rats, males and females, were subjected to chronic constriction injury (CCI) for 2 (short-term, CCI-ST) or 30 days (long-term, CCI-LT), evaluating cFos and Fluoro-Gold expression in the LC, and its projections to the spinal cord (SC) and rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC). These tests were carried out under basal conditions (unstimulated) and after noxious mechanical stimulation. LC activity was evaluated through chemogenetic and pharmacologic approaches, as were its projections, in association with spontaneous pain-like behaviors. RESULTS CCI-ST enhanced basal cFos expression in the LC and in its projection to the SC, which increased further after noxious stimulation. Similar basal activation was found in the neurons projecting to the rACC, although this was not modified by stimulation. Strong basal cFos expression was found in CCI-LT, specifically in the projection to the rACC, which was again not modified by stimulation. No cFos expression was found in the CCI-LT LCipsilateral (ipsi)/contralateral (contra)→SC. Chemogenetics showed that CCI-ST is associated with greater spontaneous pain-like behavior when the LCipsi is blocked, or by selectively blocking the LCipsi→SC projection. Activation of the LCipsi or LCipsi/contra→SC dampened pain-like behavior. Moreover, Designer Receptor Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs)-mediated inactivation of the CCI-ST LCipsi→rACC or CCI-LT LCipsi/contra→rACC pathway, or intra-rACC antagonism of α-adrenoreceptors, also dampens pain-like behavior. CONCLUSIONS In the short term, activation of the LC after CCI attenuates spontaneous pain-like behaviors via projections to the SC while increasing nociception via projections to the rACC. In the long term, only the projections from the LC to the rACC contribute to modulate pain-like behaviors in this model. EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Suárez-Pereira
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain; Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INIBICA), Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Carolina López-Martín
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain; Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INIBICA), Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Carmen Camarena-Delgado
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INIBICA), Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience (IN-CNR), National Research Council of Italy, Milan, Italy
| | - Meritxell Llorca-Torralba
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INIBICA), Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain; Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Francisco González-Saiz
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain; Community Mental Health Unit of Villamartin, University Hospital of Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Rocío Ruiz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Biomedicine of Sevilla (IBiS) - University Hospital Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Martiniano Santiago
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Biomedicine of Sevilla (IBiS) - University Hospital Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Esther Berrocoso
- Biomedical Research Networking Center for Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain; Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INIBICA), Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
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9
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Li L, Rana AN, Li EM, Travis MO, Bruchas MR. Noradrenergic tuning of arousal is coupled to coordinated movements. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.18.599619. [PMID: 38948871 PMCID: PMC11212988 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.18.599619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Matching arousal level to the motor activity of an animal is important for efficiently allocating cognitive resources and metabolic supply in response to behavioral demands, but how the brain coordinates changes in arousal and wakefulness in response to motor activity remains an unclear phenomenon. We hypothesized that the locus coeruleus (LC), as the primary source of cortical norepinephrine (NE) and promoter of cortical and sympathetic arousal, is well-positioned to mediate movement-arousal coupling. Here, using a combination of physiological recordings, fiber photometry, optogenetics, and behavioral tracking, we show that the LCNE activation is tightly coupled to the return of organized movements during waking from an anesthetized state. Moreover, in an awake animal, movement initiations are coupled to LCNE activation, while movement arrests, to LCNE deactivation. We also report that LCNE activity covaries with the depth of anesthesia and that LCNE photoactivation leads to sympathetic activation, consistent with its role in mediating increased arousal. Together, these studies reveal a more nuanced, modulatory role that LCNE plays in coordinating movement and arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Seattle Children's Research Institute" Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Akshay N Rana
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Esther M Li
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Myesa O Travis
- Seattle Children's Research Institute" Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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10
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Ilan Y. Free Will as Defined by the Constrained Disorder Principle: a Restricted, Mandatory, Personalized, Regulated Process for Decision-Making. Integr Psychol Behav Sci 2024:10.1007/s12124-024-09853-9. [PMID: 38900370 DOI: 10.1007/s12124-024-09853-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The concept of free will has challenged physicists, biologists, philosophers, and other professionals for decades. The constrained disorder principle (CDP) is a fundamental law that defines systems according to their inherent variability. It provides mechanisms for adapting to dynamic environments. This work examines the CDP's perspective of free will concerning various free will theories. Per the CDP, systems lack intentions, and the "freedom" to select and act is built into their design. The "freedom" is embedded within the response range determined by the boundaries of the systems' variability. This built-in and self-generating mechanism enables systems to cope with perturbations. According to the CDP, neither dualism nor an unknown metaphysical apparatus dictates choices. Brain variability facilitates cognitive adaptation to complex, unpredictable situations across various environments. Human behaviors and decisions reflect an underlying physical variability in the brain and other organs for dealing with unpredictable noises. Choices are not predetermined but reflect the ongoing adaptation processes to dynamic prssu½res. Malfunctions and disease states are characterized by inappropriate variability, reflecting an inability to respond adequately to perturbations. Incorporating CDP-based interventions can overcome malfunctions and disease states and improve decision processes. CDP-based second-generation artificial intelligence platforms improve interventions and are being evaluated to augment personal development, wellness, and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Ilan
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University and Department of Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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11
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Elbasheir A, Katrinli S, Kearney BE, Lanius RA, Harnett NG, Carter SE, Ely TD, Bradley B, Gillespie CF, Stevens JS, Lori A, van Rooij SJH, Powers A, Jovanovic T, Smith AK, Fani N. Racial Discrimination, Neural Connectivity, and Epigenetic Aging Among Black Women. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2416588. [PMID: 38869898 PMCID: PMC11177169 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.16588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Racial discrimination increases the risk of adverse brain health outcomes, potentially via neuroplastic changes in emotion processing networks. The involvement of deep brain regions (brainstem and midbrain) in these responses is unknown. Potential associations of racial discrimination with alterations in deep brain functional connectivity and accelerated epigenetic aging, a process that substantially increases vulnerability to health problems, are also unknown. Objective To examine associations of racial discrimination with brainstem and midbrain resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and DNA methylation age acceleration (DMAA) among Black women in the US. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study was conducted between January 1, 2012, and February 28, 2015, and included a community-based sample of Black women (aged ≥18 years) recruited as part of the Grady Trauma Project. Self-reported racial discrimination was examined in association with seed-to-voxel brain connectivity, including the locus coeruleus (LC), periaqueductal gray (PAG), and superior colliculus (SC); an index of DMAA (Horvath clock) was also evaluated. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma exposure, and age were used as covariates in statistical models to isolate racial discrimination-related variance. Data analysis was conducted between January 10 and October 30, 2023. Exposure Varying levels of racial discrimination exposure, other trauma exposure, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Main Outcomes and Measures Racial discrimination frequency was assessed with the Experiences of Discrimination Scale, other trauma exposure was evaluated with the Traumatic Events Inventory, and current PTSD was evaluated with the PTSD Symptom Scale. Seed-to-voxel functional connectivity analyses were conducted with LC, PAG, and SC seeds. To assess DMAA, the Methylation EPIC BeadChip assay (Illumina) was conducted with whole-blood samples from a subset of 49 participants. Results This study included 90 Black women, with a mean (SD) age of 38.5 (11.3) years. Greater racial discrimination was associated with greater left LC RSFC to the bilateral precuneus (a region within the default mode network implicated in rumination and reliving of past events; cluster size k = 228; t85 = 4.78; P < .001, false discovery rate-corrected). Significant indirect effects were observed for the left LC-precuneus RSFC on the association between racial discrimination and DMAA (β [SE] = 0.45 [0.16]; 95% CI, 0.12-0.77). Conclusions and Relevance In this study, more frequent racial discrimination was associated with proportionately greater RSFC of the LC to the precuneus, and these connectivity alterations were associated with DMAA. These findings suggest that racial discrimination contributes to accelerated biological aging via altered connectivity between the LC and default mode network, increasing vulnerability for brain health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Elbasheir
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Seyma Katrinli
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Breanne E. Kearney
- Department of Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth A. Lanius
- Department of Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nathaniel G. Harnett
- Division of Depression and Anxiety, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Timothy D. Ely
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Bekh Bradley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Charles F. Gillespie
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jennifer S. Stevens
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Adriana Lori
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sanne J. H. van Rooij
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Abigail Powers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tanja Jovanovic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Alicia K. Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Negar Fani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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12
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Herrmann B, Ryan JD. Pupil Size and Eye Movements Differently Index Effort in Both Younger and Older Adults. J Cogn Neurosci 2024; 36:1325-1340. [PMID: 38683698 DOI: 10.1162/jocn_a_02172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The assessment of mental effort is increasingly relevant in neurocognitive and life span domains. Pupillometry, the measure of the pupil size, is often used to assess effort but has disadvantages. Analysis of eye movements may provide an alternative, but research has been limited to easy and difficult task demands in younger adults. An effort measure must be sensitive to the whole effort profile, including "giving up" effort investment, and capture effort in different age groups. The current study comprised three experiments in which younger (n = 66) and older (n = 44) adults listened to speech masked by background babble at different signal-to-noise ratios associated with easy, difficult, and impossible speech comprehension. We expected individuals to invest little effort for easy and impossible speech (giving up) but to exert effort for difficult speech. Indeed, pupil size was largest for difficult but lower for easy and impossible speech. In contrast, gaze dispersion decreased with increasing speech masking in both age groups. Critically, gaze dispersion during difficult speech returned to levels similar to easy speech after sentence offset, when acoustic stimulation was similar across conditions, whereas gaze dispersion during impossible speech continued to be reduced. These findings show that a reduction in eye movements is not a byproduct of acoustic factors, but instead suggest that neurocognitive processes, different from arousal-related systems regulating the pupil size, drive reduced eye movements during high task demands. The current data thus show that effort in one sensory domain (audition) differentially impacts distinct functional properties in another sensory domain (vision).
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Herrmann
- Rotman Research Institute, North York, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer D Ryan
- Rotman Research Institute, North York, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Ahlbrand R, Wilson A, Woller P, Sachdeva Y, Lai J, Davis N, Wiggins J, Sah R. Sex-specific threat responding and neuronal engagement in carbon dioxide associated fear and extinction: Noradrenergic involvement in female mice. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 30:100617. [PMID: 38433995 PMCID: PMC10907837 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Difficulty in appropriately responding to threats is a key feature of psychiatric disorders, especially fear-related conditions such as panic disorder (PD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Most prior work on threat and fear regulation involves exposure to external threatful cues. However, fear can also be triggered by aversive, within-the-body, sensations. This interoceptive signaling of fear is highly relevant to PD and PTSD but is not well understood, especially in the context of sex. Using female and male mice, the current study investigated fear-associated spontaneous and conditioned behaviors to carbon dioxide (CO2) inhalation, a potent interoceptive threat that induces fear and panic. We also investigated whether behavioral sensitivity to CO2 is associated with delayed PTSD-relevant behaviors. CO2 evoked heterogenous freezing behaviors in both male and female animals. However, active, rearing behavior was significantly reduced in CO2-exposed male but not female mice. Interestingly, behavioral sensitivity to CO2 was associated with compromised fear extinction, independent of sex. However, in comparison to CO2-exposed males, females elicited less freezing and higher rearing during extinction suggesting an engagement of active versus passive defensive coping. Persistent neuronal activation marker ΔFosB immuno-mapping revealed attenuated engagement of infralimbic-prefrontal areas in both sexes but higher activation of brain stem locus coeruleus (LC) area in females. Inter-regional co-activation mapping revealed sex-independent disruptions in the infralimbic-amygdala associations but altered LC associations only in CO2-exposed female mice. Lastly, dopamine β hydroxylase positive (DβH + ve) noradrenergic neuronal cell counts in the LC correlated with freezing and rearing behaviors during CO2 inhalation and extinction only in female but not male mice. Collectively, these data provide evidence for higher active defensive responding to interoceptive threat CO2-associated fear in females that may stem from increased recruitment of the brainstem noradrenergic system. Our findings reveal distinct contributory mechanisms that may promote sex differences in fear and panic associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ahlbrand
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Allison Wilson
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Patrick Woller
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Yuv Sachdeva
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Jayden Lai
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Nikki Davis
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - James Wiggins
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
| | - Renu Sah
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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14
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Behrends M, Larson MD. Measurements of pupillary unrest using infrared pupillometry fail to detect changes in pain intensity in patients after surgery: a prospective observational study. Can J Anaesth 2024; 71:611-618. [PMID: 38504035 PMCID: PMC11026258 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-024-02716-2] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The pupil displays chaotic oscillations, also referred to as pupillary unrest in ambient light (PUAL). As pain has previously been shown to increase pupillary unrest, the quantitative assessment of PUAL has been considered a possible tool to identify and quantify pain. Nevertheless, PUAL is affected by various states, such as vigilance, cognitive load, or emotional arousal, independent of pain. Furthermore, systematically applied opioids are known to reduce PUAL, thus potentially limiting its usefulness to detect pain or changes in pain intensity. To test the hypothesis that PUAL can reliably identify changes in pain intensity in a clinical setting, we measured PUAL in patients experiencing substantial pain relief when regional anesthesia interventions were applied after surgery. METHODS We conducted an observational study at an academic surgery centre following institutional review board approval. Eighteen patients with unsatisfactory pain control following surgery underwent regional anesthesia procedures to improve pain control. We used infrared pupillometry to assess pupillary unrest before and after the regional block. We then compared the changes in pupillary unrest with the changes in pain scores (numeric rating scale [NRS], range 0-10). RESULTS Eighteen patients received epidural anesthesia (n = 14) or peripheral nerve blocks (n = 4), resulting in improvement of mean (standard deviation [SD]) NRS pain scores from 7.2 (1.7) to 1.9 (1.8) (difference in means, -2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], -6.3 to -4.1; P < 0.001). Nevertheless, pupillary unrest did not change as pain decreased; the mean (SD) PUAL was 0.113 (0.062) before analgesia and 0.112 (0.068) after analgesia (difference in means, -0.001; 95% CI, -0.018 to 0.015; P = 0.88). CONCLUSION In this prospective observational study, pupillometric measurements of pupillary unrest did not identify changes in pain intensity in a postoperative, predominantly opioid-exposed patient population. While the sample size was small, the use of measurements of pupillary unrest to detect and quantify pain has to be questioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Behrends
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, 521 Parnassus Avenue, #4307, San Francisco, CA, 94117, USA.
| | - Merlin D Larson
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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15
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Seminck N, Khatoun A, Kerstens S, Nuttin B, Mc Laughlin M. External stimulation of the trigeminal nerve causes pupil dilation in healthy volunteers, suggesting locus coeruleus modulation. Brain Stimul 2024; 17:678-680. [PMID: 38763412 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2024.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Seminck
- Experimental ORL, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Ahmad Khatoun
- Experimental ORL, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Silke Kerstens
- Experimental ORL, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Nuttin
- Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Myles Mc Laughlin
- Experimental ORL, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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16
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Hu Y, Du W, Qi J, Luo H, Zhang Z, Luo M, Wang Y. Comparative brain-wide mapping of ketamine- and isoflurane-activated nuclei and functional networks in the mouse brain. eLife 2024; 12:RP88420. [PMID: 38512722 PMCID: PMC10957177 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Ketamine (KET) and isoflurane (ISO) are two widely used general anesthetics, yet their distinct and shared neurophysiological mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of the effects of KET and ISO on c-Fos expression across the mouse brain, utilizing hierarchical clustering and c-Fos-based functional network analysis to evaluate the responses of individual brain regions to each anesthetic. Our findings reveal that KET activates a wide range of brain regions, notably in the cortical and subcortical nuclei involved in sensory, motor, emotional, and reward processing, with the temporal association areas (TEa) as a strong hub, suggesting a top-down mechanism affecting consciousness by primarily targeting higher order cortical networks. In contrast, ISO predominantly influences brain regions in the hypothalamus, impacting neuroendocrine control, autonomic function, and homeostasis, with the locus coeruleus (LC) as a connector hub, indicating a bottom-up mechanism in anesthetic-induced unconsciousness. KET and ISO both activate brain areas involved in sensory processing, memory and cognition, reward and motivation, as well as autonomic and homeostatic control, highlighting their shared effects on various neural pathways. In conclusion, our results highlight the distinct but overlapping effects of KET and ISO, enriching our understanding of the mechanisms underlying general anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wenjie Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jiangtao Qi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Huoqing Luo
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Mengqiang Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yingwei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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17
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Mbiydzenyuy NE, Joanna Hemmings SM, Shabangu TW, Qulu-Appiah L. Exploring the influence of stress on aggressive behavior and sexual function: Role of neuromodulator pathways and epigenetics. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27501. [PMID: 38486749 PMCID: PMC10937706 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27501] [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] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can significantly influence both aggressive behavior and sexual function. This review explores the intricate relationship between stress, neuromodulator pathways, and epigenetics, shedding light on the various mechanisms that underlie these connections. While the role of stress in both aggression and sexual behavior is well-documented, the mechanisms through which it exerts its effects are multifarious and not yet fully understood. The review begins by delving into the potential influence of stress on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, glucocorticoids, and the neuromodulators involved in the stress response. The intricate interplay between these systems, which encompasses the regulation of stress hormones, is central to understanding how stress may contribute to aggressive behavior and sexual function. Several neuromodulator pathways are implicated in both stress and behavior regulation. We explore the roles of norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, and androgens in mediating the effects of stress on aggression and sexual function. It is important to distinguish between general sexual behavior, sexual motivation, and the distinct category of "sexual aggression" as separate constructs, each necessitating specific examination. Additionally, epigenetic mechanisms emerge as crucial factors that link stress to changes in gene expression patterns and, subsequently, to behavior. We then discuss how epigenetic modifications can occur in response to stress exposure, altering the regulation of genes associated with stress, aggression, and sexual function. While numerous studies support the association between epigenetic changes and stress-induced behavior, more research is necessary to establish definitive links. Throughout this exploration, it becomes increasingly clear that the relationship between stress, neuromodulator pathways, and epigenetics is intricate and multifaceted. The review emphasizes the need for further research, particularly in the context of human studies, to provide clinical significance and to validate the existing findings from animal models. By better understanding how stress influences aggressive behavior and sexual function through neuromodulator pathways and epigenetic modifications, this research aims to contribute to the development of innovative protocols of precision medicine and more effective strategies for managing the consequences of stress on human behavior. This may also pave way for further research into risk factors and underlying mechanisms that may associate stress with sexual aggression which finds application not only in neuroscience, but also law, ethics, and the humanities in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngala Elvis Mbiydzenyuy
- Basic Science Department, School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, P.O Box 71191, Ndola, Zambia
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Sian Megan Joanna Hemmings
- Division of Molecular Biology & Human Genetics, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Thando W. Shabangu
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Lihle Qulu-Appiah
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town South Africa
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18
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Schindler H, Jawinski P, Arnatkevičiūtė A, Markett S. Molecular signatures of attention networks. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26588. [PMID: 38401136 PMCID: PMC10893969 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Attention network theory proposes three distinct types of attention-alerting, orienting, and control-that are supported by separate brain networks and modulated by different neurotransmitters, that is, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and dopamine. Here, we explore the extent of cortical, genetic, and molecular dissociation of these three attention systems using multimodal neuroimaging. We evaluated the spatial overlap between fMRI activation maps from the attention network test (ANT) and cortex-wide gene expression data from the Allen Human Brain Atlas. The goal was to identify genes associated with each of the attention networks in order to determine whether specific groups of genes were co-expressed with the corresponding attention networks. Furthermore, we analyzed publicly available PET-maps of neurotransmitter receptors and transporters to investigate their spatial overlap with the attention networks. Our analyses revealed a substantial number of genes (3871 for alerting, 6905 for orienting, 2556 for control) whose cortex-wide expression co-varied with the activation maps, prioritizing several molecular functions such as the regulation of protein biosynthesis, phosphorylation, and receptor binding. Contrary to the hypothesized associations, the ANT activation maps neither aligned with the distribution of norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and dopamine receptor and transporter molecules, nor with transcriptomic profiles that would suggest clearly separable networks. Independence of the attention networks appeared additionally constrained by a high level of spatial dependency between the network maps. Future work may need to reconceptualize the attention networks in terms of their segregation and reevaluate the presumed independence at the neural and neurochemical level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aurina Arnatkevičiūtė
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological SciencesMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
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19
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Bonanno M, Papa D, Cerasa A, Maggio MG, Calabrò RS. Psycho-Neuroendocrinology in the Rehabilitation Field: Focus on the Complex Interplay between Stress and Pain. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:285. [PMID: 38399572 PMCID: PMC10889914 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Chronic stress and chronic pain share neuro-anatomical, endocrinological, and biological features. However, stress prepares the body for challenging situations or mitigates tissue damage, while pain is an unpleasant sensation due to nociceptive receptor stimulation. When pain is chronic, it might lead to an allostatic overload in the body and brain due to the chronic dysregulation of the physiological systems that are normally involved in adapting to environmental challenges. Managing stress and chronic pain (CP) in neurorehabilitation presents a significant challenge for healthcare professionals and researchers, as there is no definitive and effective solution for these issues. Patients suffering from neurological disorders often complain of CP, which significantly reduces their quality of life. The aim of this narrative review is to examine the correlation between stress and pain and their potential negative impact on the rehabilitation process. Moreover, we described the most relevant interventions used to manage stress and pain in the neurological population. In conclusion, this review sheds light on the connection between chronic stress and chronic pain and their impact on the neurorehabilitation pathway. Our results emphasize the need for tailored rehabilitation protocols to effectively manage pain, improve treatment adherence, and ensure comprehensive patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.B.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Davide Papa
- International College of Osteopathic Medicine, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Italy;
| | - Antonio Cerasa
- S’Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy;
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy
- Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Maggio
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.B.); (R.S.C.)
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20
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Weber LM, Divecha HR, Tran MN, Kwon SH, Spangler A, Montgomery KD, Tippani M, Bharadwaj R, Kleinman JE, Page SC, Hyde TM, Collado-Torres L, Maynard KR, Martinowich K, Hicks SC. The gene expression landscape of the human locus coeruleus revealed by single-nucleus and spatially-resolved transcriptomics. eLife 2024; 12:RP84628. [PMID: 38266073 PMCID: PMC10945708 DOI: 10.7554/elife.84628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Norepinephrine (NE) neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) make long-range projections throughout the central nervous system, playing critical roles in arousal and mood, as well as various components of cognition including attention, learning, and memory. The LC-NE system is also implicated in multiple neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Importantly, LC-NE neurons are highly sensitive to degeneration in both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Despite the clinical importance of the brain region and the prominent role of LC-NE neurons in a variety of brain and behavioral functions, a detailed molecular characterization of the LC is lacking. Here, we used a combination of spatially-resolved transcriptomics and single-nucleus RNA-sequencing to characterize the molecular landscape of the LC region and the transcriptomic profile of LC-NE neurons in the human brain. We provide a freely accessible resource of these data in web-accessible and downloadable formats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas M Weber
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Heena R Divecha
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Matthew N Tran
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Sang Ho Kwon
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Abby Spangler
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Kelsey D Montgomery
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Madhavi Tippani
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Rahul Bharadwaj
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Joel E Kleinman
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Stephanie C Page
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Thomas M Hyde
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | | | - Kristen R Maynard
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Keri Martinowich
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins Medical CampusBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- The Kavli Neuroscience Discovery Institute, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Stephanie C Hicks
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreUnited States
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21
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Howlett JR, Paulus MP. Out of control: computational dynamic control dysfunction in stress- and anxiety-related disorders. DISCOVER MENTAL HEALTH 2024; 4:5. [PMID: 38236488 PMCID: PMC10796870 DOI: 10.1007/s44192-023-00058-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Control theory, which has played a central role in technological progress over the last 150 years, has also yielded critical insights into biology and neuroscience. Recently, there has been a surging interest in integrating control theory with computational psychiatry. Here, we review the state of the field of using control theory approaches in computational psychiatry and show that recent research has mapped a neural control circuit consisting of frontal cortex, parietal cortex, and the cerebellum. This basic feedback control circuit is modulated by estimates of reward and cost via the basal ganglia as well as by arousal states coordinated by the insula, dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, amygdala, and locus coeruleus. One major approach within the broader field of control theory, known as proportion-integral-derivative (PID) control, has shown promise as a model of human behavior which enables precise and reliable estimates of underlying control parameters at the individual level. These control parameters correlate with self-reported fear and with both structural and functional variation in affect-related brain regions. This suggests that dysfunctional engagement of stress and arousal systems may suboptimally modulate parameters of domain-general goal-directed control algorithms, impairing performance in complex tasks involving movement, cognition, and affect. Future directions include clarifying the causal role of control deficits in stress- and anxiety-related disorders and developing clinically useful tools based on insights from control theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon R Howlett
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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22
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Gilgoff R, Mengelkoch S, Elbers J, Kotz K, Radin A, Pasumarthi I, Murthy R, Sindher S, Harris NB, Slavich GM. The Stress Phenotyping Framework: A multidisciplinary biobehavioral approach for assessing and therapeutically targeting maladaptive stress physiology. Stress 2024; 27:2327333. [PMID: 38711299 PMCID: PMC11219250 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2024.2327333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Although dysregulated stress biology is becoming increasingly recognized as a key driver of lifelong disparities in chronic disease, we presently have no validated biomarkers of toxic stress physiology; no biological, behavioral, or cognitive treatments specifically focused on normalizing toxic stress processes; and no agreed-upon guidelines for treating stress in the clinic or evaluating the efficacy of interventions that seek to reduce toxic stress and improve human functioning. We address these critical issues by (a) systematically describing key systems and mechanisms that are dysregulated by stress; (b) summarizing indicators, biomarkers, and instruments for assessing stress response systems; and (c) highlighting therapeutic approaches that can be used to normalize stress-related biopsychosocial functioning. We also present a novel multidisciplinary Stress Phenotyping Framework that can bring stress researchers and clinicians one step closer to realizing the goal of using precision medicine-based approaches to prevent and treat stress-associated health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Gilgoff
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Summer Mengelkoch
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jorina Elbers
- Trauma recovery Program, HeartMath Institute, Boulder Creek, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Isha Pasumarthi
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Reanna Murthy
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Sayantani Sindher
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | - George M. Slavich
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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23
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Gusev E, Sarapultsev A. Interplay of G-proteins and Serotonin in the Neuroimmunoinflammatory Model of Chronic Stress and Depression: A Narrative Review. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:180-214. [PMID: 38151838 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128285578231218102020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This narrative review addresses the clinical challenges in stress-related disorders such as depression, focusing on the interplay between neuron-specific and pro-inflammatory mechanisms at the cellular, cerebral, and systemic levels. OBJECTIVE We aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms linking chronic psychological stress with low-grade neuroinflammation in key brain regions, particularly focusing on the roles of G proteins and serotonin (5-HT) receptors. METHODS This comprehensive review of the literature employs systematic, narrative, and scoping review methodologies, combined with systemic approaches to general pathology. It synthesizes current research on shared signaling pathways involved in stress responses and neuroinflammation, including calcium-dependent mechanisms, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and key transcription factors like NF-κB and p53. The review also focuses on the role of G protein-coupled neurotransmitter receptors (GPCRs) in immune and pro-inflammatory responses, with a detailed analysis of how 13 of 14 types of human 5-HT receptors contribute to depression and neuroinflammation. RESULTS The review reveals a complex interaction between neurotransmitter signals and immunoinflammatory responses in stress-related pathologies. It highlights the role of GPCRs and canonical inflammatory mediators in influencing both pathological and physiological processes in nervous tissue. CONCLUSION The proposed Neuroimmunoinflammatory Stress Model (NIIS Model) suggests that proinflammatory signaling pathways, mediated by metabotropic and ionotropic neurotransmitter receptors, are crucial for maintaining neuronal homeostasis. Chronic mental stress can disrupt this balance, leading to increased pro-inflammatory states in the brain and contributing to neuropsychiatric and psychosomatic disorders, including depression. This model integrates traditional theories on depression pathogenesis, offering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenii Gusev
- Laboratory of Inflammation Immunology, Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, Ekaterinburg 620049, Russia
- Russian-Chinese Education and Research Center of System Pathology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454080, Russia
| | - Alexey Sarapultsev
- Russian-Chinese Education and Research Center of System Pathology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454080, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunopathophysiology, Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, Ekaterinburg 620049, Russia
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24
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Li L, Rana AN, Li EM, Feng J, Li Y, Bruchas MR. Activity-dependent constraints on catecholamine signaling. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113566. [PMID: 38100349 PMCID: PMC11090260 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Catecholamine signaling is thought to modulate cognition in an inverted-U relationship, but the mechanisms are unclear. We measured norepinephrine and dopamine release, postsynaptic calcium responses, and interactions between tonic and phasic firing modes under various stimuli and conditions. High tonic activity in vivo depleted catecholamine stores, desensitized postsynaptic responses, and decreased phasic transmission. Together, these findings provide a more complete understanding of the inverted-U relationship, offering insights into psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases with impaired catecholamine signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA.
| | - Akshay N Rana
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Esther M Li
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Jiesi Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing 100871, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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25
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Pak V, Hashmi JA. Top-down threat bias in pain perception is predicted by higher segregation between resting-state networks. Netw Neurosci 2023; 7:1248-1265. [PMID: 38144683 PMCID: PMC10631789 DOI: 10.1162/netn_a_00328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Top-down processes such as expectations have a strong influence on pain perception. Predicted threat of impending pain can affect perceived pain even more than the actual intensity of a noxious event. This type of threat bias in pain perception is associated with fear of pain and low pain tolerance, and hence the extent of bias varies between individuals. Large-scale patterns of functional brain connectivity are important for integrating expectations with sensory data. Greater integration is necessary for sensory integration; therefore, here we investigate the association between system segregation and top-down threat bias in healthy individuals. We show that top-down threat bias is predicted by less functional connectivity between resting-state networks. This effect was significant at a wide range of network thresholds and specifically in predefined parcellations of resting-state networks. Greater system segregation in brain networks also predicted higher anxiety and pain catastrophizing. These findings highlight the role of integration in brain networks in mediating threat bias in pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Pak
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Javeria Ali Hashmi
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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26
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Mesquita RNO, Taylor JL, Trajano GS, Holobar A, Gonçalves BAM, Blazevich AJ. Effects of jaw clenching and mental stress on persistent inward currents estimated by two different methods. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 58:4011-4033. [PMID: 37840191 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Spinal motoneuron firing depends greatly on persistent inward currents (PICs), which in turn are facilitated by the neuromodulators serotonin and noradrenaline. The aim of this study was to determine whether jaw clenching (JC) and mental stress (MS), which may increase neuromodulator release, facilitate PICs in human motoneurons. The paired motor unit (MU) technique was used to estimate PIC contribution to motoneuron firing. Surface electromyograms were collected using a 32-channel matrix on gastrocnemius medialis (GM) during voluntary, ramp, plantar flexor contractions. MU discharges were identified, and delta frequency (ΔF), a measure of recruitment-derecruitment hysteresis, was calculated. Additionally, another technique was used (VibStim) that evokes involuntary contractions that persist after cessation of combined Achilles tendon vibration and triceps surae neuromuscular electrical stimulation. VibStim measures of plantar flexor torque and soleus activity may reflect PIC activation. ΔF was not significantly altered by JC (p = .679, n = 18, 9 females) or MS (p = .147, n = 14, 5 females). However, all VibStim variables quantifying involuntary torque and muscle activity during and after vibration cessation were significantly increased in JC (p < .011, n = 20, 10 females) and some, but not all, increased in MS (p = .017-.05, n = 19, 10 females). JC and MS significantly increased the magnitude of involuntary contractions (VibStim) but had no effect on GM ΔF during voluntary contractions. Effects of increased neuromodulator release on PIC contribution to motoneuron firing might differ between synergists or be context dependent. Based on these data, the background level of voluntary contraction and, hence, both neuromodulation and ionotropic inputs could influence neuromodulatory PIC enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo N O Mesquita
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Centre for Human Performance, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janet L Taylor
- Centre for Human Performance, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gabriel S Trajano
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aleš Holobar
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Basílio A M Gonçalves
- Neuromechanics Research Group, Centre for Sport Science and University Sports, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anthony J Blazevich
- Centre for Human Performance, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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27
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Roberta C, Vera S, Hans A H, Michael H H. Activation patterns of dopaminergic cell populations reflect different learning scenarios in a cichlid fish, Pseudotropheus zebra. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 133:102342. [PMID: 37722435 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102342] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine is present in all vertebrates and the functional roles of the subsystems are assumed to be similar. Whereas the effect of dopaminergic modulation is well investigated in different target systems, less is known about the factors that are causing the modulation of dopaminergic cells. Using the zebra mbuna, Pseudotropheus zebra, a cichlid fish from Lake Malawi as a model system, we investigated the activation of specific dopaminergic cell populations detected by double-labeling with TH and pS6 antibodies while the animals were solving different learning tasks. Specifically, we compared an intense avoidance learning situation, an instrumental learning task, and a non-learning isolated group and found strong activation of different dopaminergic cell populations. Preoptic-hypothalamic cell populations respond to the stress component in the avoidance task, and the forced movement/locomotion may be responsible for activation in the posterior tubercle. The instrumental learning task had little stress component, but the activation of the raphe superior in this group may be correlated with attention or arousal during the training sessions. At the same time, the weaker activation of the nucleus of the posterior commissure may be related to positive reward acting onto tectal circuits. Finally, we examined the co-activation patterns across all dopaminergic cell populations and recovered robust differences across experimental groups, largely driven by hypothalamic, posterior tubercle, and brain stem regions possibly encoding the valence and salience associated with stressful stimuli. Taken together, our results offer some insights into the different functions of the dopaminergic cell populations in the brain of a non-mammalian vertebrate in correlation with different behavioral conditions, extending our knowledge for a more comprehensive view of the mechanisms of dopaminergic modulation in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvo Roberta
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Schluessel Vera
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Hofmann Hans A
- Department of Integrative Biology, Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 2415 Speedway, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Hofmann Michael H
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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28
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Riley E, Cicero N, Swallow K, De Rosa E, Anderson A. Locus coeruleus neuromelanin accumulation and dissipation across the lifespan. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.17.562814. [PMID: 37905002 PMCID: PMC10614878 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.17.562814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The pigment neuromelanin, produced in the locus coeruleus (LC) as a byproduct of catecholamine synthesis, gives the "blue spot" its name, and both identifies LC neurons and is thought to play an important yet complex role in normal and pathological aging. Using neuromelanin-sensitive T1-weighted turbo spin echo MRI scans we characterized volume and neuromelanin signal intensity in the LC of 96 participants between the ages of 19 and 86. Although LC volume did not change significantly throughout the lifespan, LC neuromelanin signal intensity increased from early adulthood, peaked around age 60 and precipitously declined thereafter. Neuromelanin intensity was greater in the caudal relative to rostral extent and in women relative to men. With regard to function, rostral LC neuromelanin intensity was associated with fluid cognition in older adults (60+) only in those above the 50th percentile of cognitive ability for age. The gradual accumulation of LC neuromelanin across the lifespan, its sudden dissipation in later life, and relation to preserved cognitive function, is consistent with its complex role in normal and pathological aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Eve De Rosa
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University
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29
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Brown L, White LK, Makhoul W, Teferi M, Sheline YI, Balderston NL. Role of the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) in anxiety and cognition: Opportunities for intervention for anxiety-related disorders. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2023; 23:100385. [PMID: 37006335 PMCID: PMC10060180 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2023.100385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to review the literature on the parietal cortex and intraparietal sulcus (IPS) in anxiety-related disorders, as well as opportunities for using neuromodulation to target this region and reduce anxiety. We provide an overview of prior research demonstrating: 1) the importance of the IPS in attention, vigilance, and anxious arousal, 2) the potential for neuromodulation of the IPS to reduce unnecessary attention toward threat and anxious arousal as demonstrated in healthy samples; and 3) limited data on the potential for neuromodulation of the IPS to reduce hyper-attention toward threat and anxious arousal among clinical samples with anxiety-related disorders. Future research should evaluate the efficacy of IPS neuromodulation in fully powered clinical trials, as well as the value in augmenting evidence-based treatments for anxiety with IPS neuromodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Brown
- Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lauren K. White
- Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Walid Makhoul
- Center for Neuromodulation in Depression and Stress, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Marta Teferi
- Center for Neuromodulation in Depression and Stress, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Yvette I. Sheline
- Center for Neuromodulation in Depression and Stress, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Nicholas L. Balderston
- Center for Neuromodulation in Depression and Stress, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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30
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dos-Santos RC, Sweeten BLW, Stelly CE, Tasker JG. The Neuroendocrine Impact of Acute Stress on Synaptic Plasticity. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad149. [PMID: 37788632 PMCID: PMC11046011 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Stress induces changes in nervous system function on different signaling levels, from molecular signaling to synaptic transmission to neural circuits to behavior-and on different time scales, from rapid onset and transient to delayed and long-lasting. The principal effectors of stress plasticity are glucocorticoids, steroid hormones that act with a broad range of signaling competency due to the expression of multiple nuclear and membrane receptor subtypes in virtually every tissue of the organism. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors are localized to each of the cellular compartments of the receptor-expressing cells-the membrane, cytosol, and nucleus. In this review, we cover the neuroendocrine effects of stress, focusing mainly on the rapid actions of acute stress-induced glucocorticoids that effect changes in synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability by modulating synaptic and intrinsic neuronal properties via activation of presumed membrane glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors. We describe the synaptic plasticity that occurs in 4 stress-associated brain structures, the hypothalamus, hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex, in response to single or short-term stress exposure. The rapid transformative impact of glucocorticoids makes this stress signal a particularly potent effector of acute neuronal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoni Conceição dos-Santos
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Brook L W Sweeten
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Claire E Stelly
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Jeffrey G Tasker
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
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31
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Krohn F, Lancini E, Ludwig M, Leiman M, Guruprasath G, Haag L, Panczyszyn J, Düzel E, Hämmerer D, Betts M. Noradrenergic neuromodulation in ageing and disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105311. [PMID: 37437752 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) is a small brainstem structure located in the lower pons and is the main source of noradrenaline (NA) in the brain. Via its phasic and tonic firing, it modulates cognition and autonomic functions and is involved in the brain's immune response. The extent of degeneration to the LC in healthy ageing remains unclear, however, noradrenergic dysfunction may contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Despite their differences in progression at later disease stages, the early involvement of the LC may lead to comparable behavioural symptoms such as preclinical sleep problems and neuropsychiatric symptoms as a result of AD and PD pathology. In this review, we draw attention to the mechanisms that underlie LC degeneration in ageing, AD and PD. We aim to motivate future research to investigate how early degeneration of the noradrenergic system may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AD and PD which may also be relevant to other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Krohn
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - E Lancini
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - M Ludwig
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Leiman
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - G Guruprasath
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - L Haag
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - J Panczyszyn
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - E Düzel
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London UK-WC1E 6BT, UK; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - D Hämmerer
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London UK-WC1E 6BT, UK; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Betts
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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32
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Nimgampalle M, Chakravarthy H, Sharma S, Shree S, Bhat AR, Pradeepkiran JA, Devanathan V. Neurotransmitter systems in the etiology of major neurological disorders: Emerging insights and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 89:101994. [PMID: 37385351 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters serve as chemical messengers playing a crucial role in information processing throughout the nervous system, and are essential for healthy physiological and behavioural functions in the body. Neurotransmitter systems are classified as cholinergic, glutamatergic, GABAergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, histaminergic, or aminergic systems, depending on the type of neurotransmitter secreted by the neuron, allowing effector organs to carry out specific functions by sending nerve impulses. Dysregulation of a neurotransmitter system is typically linked to a specific neurological disorder. However, more recent research points to a distinct pathogenic role for each neurotransmitter system in more than one neurological disorder of the central nervous system. In this context, the review provides recently updated information on each neurotransmitter system, including the pathways involved in their biochemical synthesis and regulation, their physiological functions, pathogenic roles in diseases, current diagnostics, new therapeutic targets, and the currently used drugs for associated neurological disorders. Finally, a brief overview of the recent developments in neurotransmitter-based therapeutics for selected neurological disorders is offered, followed by future perspectives in that area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Nimgampalle
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Harshini Chakravarthy
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Sapana Sharma
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Shruti Shree
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Anoop Ramachandra Bhat
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | | | - Vasudharani Devanathan
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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Caramia M, Romanov RA, Syderomenos S, Hevesi Z, Zhao M, Krasniakova M, Xu ZQD, Harkany T, Hökfelt TGM. Neuronal diversity of neuropeptide signaling, including galanin, in the mouse locus coeruleus. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2222095120. [PMID: 37487094 PMCID: PMC10401028 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2222095120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) is a small nucleus in the pons from which ascending and descending projections innervate major parts of the central nervous system. Its major transmitter is norepinephrine (NE). This system is evolutionarily conserved, including in humans, and its functions are associated with wakefulness and related to disorders, such as depression. Here, we performed single-cell ribonucleic acid-sequencing (RNA-seq) to subdivide neurons in the LC (24 clusters in total) into 3 NE, 17 glutamate, and 5 γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) subtypes, and to chart their neuropeptide, cotransmitter, and receptor profiles. We found that NE neurons expressed at least 19 neuropeptide transcripts, notably galanin (Gal) but not Npy, and >30 neuropeptide receptors. Among the galanin receptors, Galr1 was expressed in ~19% of NE neurons, as was also confirmed by in situ hybridization. Unexpectedly, Galr1 was highly expressed in GABA neurons surrounding the NE ensemble. Patch-clamp electrophysiology and cell-type-specific Ca2+-imaging using GCaMP6s revealed that a GalR1 agonist inhibits up to ~35% of NE neurons. This effect is direct and does not rely on feed-forward GABA inhibition. Our results define a role for the galanin system in NE functions, and a conceptual framework for the action of many other peptides and their receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martino Caramia
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm17177, Sweden
| | - Roman A. Romanov
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna1090, Austria
| | - Spyridon Syderomenos
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna1090, Austria
| | - Zsofia Hevesi
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna1090, Austria
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm17177, Sweden
| | - Marharyta Krasniakova
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm17177, Sweden
| | - Zhi-Qing David Xu
- Department of Neurobiology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing100069, China
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing100069, China
| | - Tibor Harkany
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm17177, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna1090, Austria
| | - Tomas G. M. Hökfelt
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm17177, Sweden
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Mesa-Lombardo A, García-Magro N, Nuñez A, Martin YB. Locus coeruleus inhibition of vibrissal responses in the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis are reduced in a diabetic mouse model. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1208121. [PMID: 37475984 PMCID: PMC10354250 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1208121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathy is the loss of sensory function beginning distally in the lower extremities, which is also characterized by pain and substantial morbidity. Furthermore, the locus coeruleus (LC) nucleus has been proposed to play an important role in descending pain control through the activation of α2-noradrenergic (NA) receptors in the spinal dorsal horn. We studied, on control and diabetic mice, the effect of electrical stimulation of the LC nucleus on the tactile responses in the caudalis division of the spinal trigeminal nucleus (Sp5C), which is involved in the relay of orofacial nociceptive information. Diabetes was induced in young adult C57BL/6J mice with one intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) daily for 5 days. The diabetic animals showed pain in the orofacial area because they had a decrease in the withdrawal threshold to the mechanical stimulation in the vibrissal pad. LC electrical stimulation induced the inhibition of vibrissal responses in the Sp5C neurons when applied at 50 and 100 ms before vibrissal stimulation in the control mice; however, the inhibition was reduced in the diabetic mice. These effects may be due to a reduction in the tyrosine hydroxylase positive (TH+) fibers in the Sp5C, as was observed in diabetic mice. LC-evoked inhibition was decreased by an intraperitoneal injection of the antagonist of the α2-NA receptors, yohimbine, indicating that it was due to the activation of α2-NA receptors. The decrease in the LC-evoked inhibition in the diabetic mice was partially recovered when clonidine, a non-selective α2-agonist, was injected intraperitoneally. These findings suggest that in diabetes, there is a reduction in the NA inputs from the LC in the Sp5C that may favor the development of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Mesa-Lombardo
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neurosciences, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria García-Magro
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Angel Nuñez
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neurosciences, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yasmina B. Martin
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
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Dai M, Guo Z, Chen J, Liu H, Li J, Zhu M, Liu J, Wei F, Wang L, Liu X. Altered functional connectivity of the locus coeruleus in Alzheimer's disease patients with depression symptoms. Exp Gerontol 2023; 179:112252. [PMID: 37414196 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Studies have shown that functional abnormalities in the locus coeruleus (LC) are strongly associated with depressive symptoms, but the pattern of LC functional connectivity in Alzheimer's disease patients with depressive symptoms (D-AD) remains unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the characteristics of LC functional connectivity (FC) in D-AD using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI). We obtained rsfMRI data in 24 D-AD patients (aged 66-76 years), 14 non-depressive AD patients (nD-AD) (aged 69-79 years) and 20 normal controls (aged 67-74 years) using a 3 T scanner. We used the FC approach to investigate abnormalities in the LC brain network of D-AD patients. One-way ANCOVA and post-hoc two-sample t-tests were performed to compare the strength of functional connectivity from the LC among the three groups. Our results showed that, compared with normal controls, D-AD showed decreased left LC FC with the right caudate and left fusiform gyrus, whereas nD-AD showed decreased left LC FC with the right caudate, right middle frontal gyrus and left fusiform gyrus. Compared to nD-AD, D-AD showed increased left LC FC with right superior frontal gyrus and right precentral gyrus. These findings contribute to our understanding of the neural mechanisms of D-AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Dai
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zhongwei Guo
- Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310012, China
| | - Jinming Chen
- Department of Neurology of the Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050050, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310012, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310012, China
| | - Mengxiao Zhu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, Zhejiang 310000, China
| | - Jian Liu
- The Seventh Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China; Clinical Institute of Mental Health in Hangzhou, Anhui Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Fuquan Wei
- Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310012, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310012, China.
| | - Xiaozheng Liu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Byun JI, Jahng GH, Ryu CW, Park S, Lee KH, Hong SO, Jung KY, Shin WC. Altered functional connectivity of the ascending reticular activating system in obstructive sleep apnea. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8731. [PMID: 37253837 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35535-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Repeated arousals during sleep in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may lead to altered functional connectivity (FC) of the ascending reticular activating system (ARAS). We evaluated resting-state FC between eight ARAS nuclei and 105 cortical/subcortical regions in OSA patients and healthy controls. Fifty patients with moderate to severe OSA and 20 controls underwent overnight polysomnography and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Seed-to-voxel analysis of ARAS-cortex FC was compared between OSA patients and controls. The ARAS nuclei included the locus coeruleus (LC), laterodorsal tegmental nucleus (LDTg), and ventral tegmental area (VTA). FC values of three ARAS nuclei (the LC, LDTg, and VTA) significantly differed between the groups. FC of the LC with the precuneus, posterior cingulate gyrus, and right lateral occipital cortex (LOC) was stronger in OSA patients than controls. FC between the LDTg and right LOC was stronger in OSA patients than controls, but FC between the VTA and right LOC was weaker. Average LC-cortex FC values positively correlated with the arousal, apnea, and apnea-hypopnea index in OSA patients. Alterations in ARAS-cortex FC were observed in OSA patients. The strength of LC-cortex noradrenergic FC was related to arousal or OSA severity in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Ick Byun
- Department of Neurology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, 05278, Republic of Korea
| | - Geon-Ho Jahng
- Department of Radiology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Woo Ryu
- Department of Radiology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soonchan Park
- Department of Radiology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kun Hee Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Ok Hong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyung Hee University College of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University Dental Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Young Jung
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 110-744, Republic of Korea.
| | - Won Chul Shin
- Department of Neurology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, 05278, Republic of Korea.
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Ohishi-Fukuchi J, Imamura Y, Orihashi R, Kunitake H, Kunitake Y, Tateishi H, Yamada S, Monji A, Mizoguchi Y. Salivary 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol and MRI-based volume change of the precuneus in community-dwelling elderly people. Psychogeriatrics 2023. [PMID: 37248036 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The noradrenergic systems in the brain maintain cognitive functions including attention/concentration and establishment of long-term memory. In addition, hypofunction of noradrenergic systems is supposed to be involved in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. In this study, we tried to examine the possible associations of concentrations of basal salivary 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (sMHPG), a major metabolite of noradrenaline, and brain volume changes during 4 years in elderly people living in a rural community. METHODS The survey was conducted twice in Kurokawa-cho, Imari, Saga Prefecture, Japan, among people aged 65 years and older. We collected data from 226 residents. Measurements of sMHPG and brain MRIs were collected at Time 1 (2005-2007). Follow-up brain MRIs were taken at Time 2 (2009-2011). A total of 70 participants (18 men, mean age 71.9 ± 4.8 years; 52 women, mean age 72.0 ± 4.3 years) completed this survey. Concentrations of sMHPG at baseline were divided into two groups using the mean value (12.83 ng/ml). We compared the brain volumes between groups with higher and lower sMHPG concentrations over time using voxel-based morphometry implemented with statistical parametric mapping. RESULTS In participants with higher sMHPG concentrations at baseline, brain volumes including right precuneus were significantly larger 4 years after baseline than those with lower sMHPG concentrations at baseline. No interaction between sMHPG concentration and MRI acquisition interval was found. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that higher sMHPG concentrations in elderly people might be associated with maintenance of brain volume, especially in brain regions closely related to cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yoshiomi Imamura
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Ryuzo Orihashi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
| | - Hiroko Kunitake
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kunitake
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tateishi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | | | - Akira Monji
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Yoshito Mizoguchi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
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Markussen NB, Knopper RW, Hasselholt S, Skoven CS, Nyengaard JR, Østergaard L, Hansen B. Locus coeruleus ablation in mice: protocol optimization, stereology and behavioral impact. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1138624. [PMID: 37180952 PMCID: PMC10172584 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1138624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The Locus Coeruleus (LC) is in the brainstem and supplies key brain structures with noradrenaline, including the forebrain and hippocampus. The LC impacts specific behaviors such as anxiety, fear, and motivation, as well as physiological phenomena that impact brain functions in general, including sleep, blood flow regulation, and capillary permeability. Nevertheless, the short- and long-term consequences of LC dysfunction remain unclear. The LC is among the brain structures first affected in patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's Disease, hinting that LC dysfunction may play a central role in disease development and progression. Animal models with modified or disrupted LC function are essential to further our understanding of LC function in the normal brain, the consequences of LC dysfunction, and its putative roles in disease development. For this, well-characterized animal models of LC dysfunction are needed. Here, we establish the optimal dose of selective neurotoxin N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-bromo-benzylamine (DSP-4) for LC ablation. Using histology and stereology, we compare LC volume and neuron number in LC ablated (LCA) mice and controls to assess the efficacy of LC ablation with different numbers of DSP-4 injections. All LCA groups show a consistent decrease in LC cell count and LC volume. We then proceed to characterize the behavior of LCA mice using a light-dark box test, Barnes maze test, and non-invasive sleep-wakefulness monitoring. Behaviorally, LCA mice differ subtly from control mice, with LCA mice generally being more curious and less anxious compared to controls consistent with known LC function and projections. We note an interesting contrast in that control mice have varying LC size and neuron count but consistent behavior whereas LCA mice (as expected) have consistently sized LC but erratic behavior. Our study provides a thorough characterization of an LC ablation model, firmly consolidating it as a valid model system for the study of LC dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna Bertin Markussen
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rasmus West Knopper
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Sino-Danish Center for Education and Research, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Stine Hasselholt
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christian Stald Skoven
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens Randel Nyengaard
- Center for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Leif Østergaard
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Brian Hansen
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Li L, Rana A, Li EM, Feng J, Li Y, Bruchas MR. Activity-dependent constraints on catecholamine signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.30.534970. [PMID: 37034631 PMCID: PMC10081217 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.30.534970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Catecholamine signaling is thought to modulate cognition in an inverted-U relationship, but the mechanisms are unclear. We measured norepinephrine and dopamine release, postsynaptic calcium responses, and interactions between tonic and phasic firing modes under various stimuli and conditions. High tonic activity in vivo depleted catecholamine stores, desensitized postsynaptic responses, and decreased phasic transmission. Together this provides a clearer understanding of the inverted-U relationship, offering insights into psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases with impaired catecholamine signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle WA 98145, USA
| | - Akshay Rana
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Equal contribution
| | - Esther M. Li
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle WA 98105, USA
- Equal contribution
| | - Jiesi Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Michael R. Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle WA 98105, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle WA 98195, USA
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Kleberg JL, Frick MA, Brocki KC. Eye-movement indices of arousal predict ADHD and comorbid externalizing symptoms over a 2-year period. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4767. [PMID: 36959373 PMCID: PMC10036637 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31697-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) follows a variable course across childhood. Disrupted arousal has been hypothesized to underlie core symptoms as well as comorbid internalizing and externalizing conditions. The current study examined eye-movement and pupil-dilation metrics indexing arousal as longitudinal predictors of ADHD, externalizing, and internalizing symptoms over a 2-year period. Participants aged 8-13 years (N = 54, 30% with a diagnosis of ADHD) completed a modified version of the gap-overlap task including arousal-inducing auditory warning signals. Parents rated symptoms at the time of testing and at 2 years follow-up. Phasic alerting (reaction-time reduction after alerting cues) is an index of arousal. Here, larger phasic alerting effects predicted higher ADHD-symptom levels 2 years later. Blunted pupil-dilation responses predicted externalizing symptoms at T2, controlling for ADHD and externalizing at T1. Our results support the theory that ADHD is associated with altered arousal. Blunted arousal reactivity may be a longitudinal risk factor for externalizing problems in children with ADHD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Lundin Kleberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institute, Gävlegatan 22, 113 33, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Matilda A Frick
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin C Brocki
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Weiss E, Kann M, Wang Q. Neuromodulation of Neural Oscillations in Health and Disease. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:371. [PMID: 36979063 PMCID: PMC10045166 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Using EEG and local field potentials (LFPs) as an index of large-scale neural activities, research has been able to associate neural oscillations in different frequency bands with markers of cognitive functions, goal-directed behavior, and various neurological disorders. While this gives us a glimpse into how neurons communicate throughout the brain, the causality of these synchronized network activities remains poorly understood. Moreover, the effect of the major neuromodulatory systems (e.g., noradrenergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic) on brain oscillations has drawn much attention. More recent studies have suggested that cross-frequency coupling (CFC) is heavily responsible for mediating network-wide communication across subcortical and cortical brain structures, implicating the importance of neurotransmitters in shaping coordinated actions. By bringing to light the role each neuromodulatory system plays in regulating brain-wide neural oscillations, we hope to paint a clearer picture of the pivotal role neural oscillations play in a variety of cognitive functions and neurological disorders, and how neuromodulation techniques can be optimized as a means of controlling neural network dynamics. The aim of this review is to showcase the important role that neuromodulatory systems play in large-scale neural network dynamics, informing future studies to pay close attention to their involvement in specific features of neural oscillations and associated behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Qi Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, ET 351, 500 W. 120th Street, New York, NY 10027, USA
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42
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Rosales-Lagarde A, Cubero-Rego L, Menéndez-Conde F, Rodríguez-Torres EE, Itzá-Ortiz B, Martínez-Alcalá C, Vázquez-Tagle G, Vázquez-Mendoza E, Eraña Díaz ML. Dissociation of Arousal Index Between REM and NREM Sleep in Elderly Adults with Cognitive Impairment, No Dementia: A Pilot Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 95:477-491. [PMID: 37574730 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230101] [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] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep disruption in elderly has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and its transition into Alzheimer's disease (AD). High arousal indices (AIs) during sleep may serve as an early-stage biomarker of cognitive impairment non-dementia (CIND). OBJECTIVE Using full-night polysomnography (PSG), we investigated whether CIND is related to different AIs between NREM and REM sleep stages. METHODS Fourteen older adults voluntarily participated in this population-based study that included Mini-Mental State Examination, Neuropsi battery, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, and single-night PSG. Subjects were divided into two groups (n = 7 each) according to their results in Neuropsi memory and attention subtests: cognitively unimpaired (CU), with normal results; and CIND, with -2.5 standard deviations in memory and/or attention subtests. AIs per hour of sleep during N1, N2, N3, and REM stages were obtained and correlated with Neuropsi total score (NTS). RESULTS AI (REM) was significantly higher in CU group than in CIND group. For the total sample, a positive correlation between AI (REM) and NTS was found (r = 0.68, p = 0.006), which remained significant when controlling for the effect of age and education. In CIND group, the AI (N2) was significantly higher than the AI (REM) . CONCLUSION In CIND older adults, this attenuation of normal arousal mechanisms in REM sleep are dissociated from the relative excess of arousals observed in stage N2. We propose as probable etiology an early hypoactivity at the locus coeruleus noradrenergic system, associated to its early pathological damage, present in the AD continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Rosales-Lagarde
- CONACyT Chairs, National Council of Science and Technology, Mexico
- National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico
| | - Lourdes Cubero-Rego
- Neurodevelopmental Research Unit, Institute of Neurobiology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Campus Juriquilla-Queretaro, Querétaro, México
| | | | | | - Benjamín Itzá-Ortiz
- Mathematics Research Center, Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Claudia Martínez-Alcalá
- CONACyT Chairs, National Council of Science and Technology, Mexico
- Institute of Health Sciences, Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo, Mexico
| | | | | | - Marta L Eraña Díaz
- Center for Research in Engineering and Applied Sciences, Autonomous University of the State of Morelos, Mexico
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Bouras NN, Mack NR, Gao WJ. Prefrontal modulation of anxiety through a lens of noradrenergic signaling. Front Syst Neurosci 2023; 17:1173326. [PMID: 37139472 PMCID: PMC10149815 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2023.1173326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are the most common class of mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million individuals annually. Anxiety is an adaptive response to a stressful or unpredictable life event. Though evolutionarily thought to aid in survival, excess intensity or duration of anxiogenic response can lead to a plethora of adverse symptoms and cognitive dysfunction. A wealth of data has implicated the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) in the regulation of anxiety. Norepinephrine (NE) is a crucial neuromodulator of arousal and vigilance believed to be responsible for many of the symptoms of anxiety disorders. NE is synthesized in the locus coeruleus (LC), which sends major noradrenergic inputs to the mPFC. Given the unique properties of LC-mPFC connections and the heterogeneous subpopulation of prefrontal neurons known to be involved in regulating anxiety-like behaviors, NE likely modulates PFC function in a cell-type and circuit-specific manner. In working memory and stress response, NE follows an inverted-U model, where an overly high or low release of NE is associated with sub-optimal neural functioning. In contrast, based on current literature review of the individual contributions of NE and the PFC in anxiety disorders, we propose a model of NE level- and adrenergic receptor-dependent, circuit-specific NE-PFC modulation of anxiety disorders. Further, the advent of new techniques to measure NE in the PFC with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution will significantly help us understand how NE modulates PFC function in anxiety disorders.
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Locus Coeruleus Neurons' Firing Pattern Is Regulated by ERG Voltage-Gated K + Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315334. [PMID: 36499661 PMCID: PMC9738708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Locus coeruleus (LC) neurons, with their extensive innervations throughout the brain, control a broad range of physiological processes. Several ion channels have been characterized in LC neurons that control intrinsic membrane properties and excitability. However, ERG (ether-à-go-go-related gene) K+ channels that are particularly important in setting neuronal firing rhythms and automaticity have not as yet been discovered in the LC. Moreover, the neurophysiological and pathophysiological roles of ERG channels in the brain remain unclear despite their expression in several structures. By performing immunohistochemical investigations, we found that ERG-1A, ERG-1B, ERG-2 and ERG-3 are highly expressed in the LC neurons of mice. To examine the functional role of ERG channels, current-clamp recordings were performed on mouse LC neurons in brain slices under visual control. ERG channel blockade by WAY-123,398, a class III anti-arrhythmic agent, increased the spontaneous firing activity and discharge irregularity of LC neurons. Here, we have shown the presence of distinct ERG channel subunits in the LC which play an imperative role in modulating neuronal discharge patterns. Thus, we propose that ERG channels are important players behind the changes in, and/or maintenance of, LC firing patterns that are implicated in the generation of different behaviors and in several disorders.
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Halili A. Temporal model for central sensitization: A hypothesis for mechanism and treatment using systemic manual therapy, a focused review. MethodsX 2022; 10:101942. [PMID: 36570602 PMCID: PMC9772546 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2022.101942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this focused review is to develop a consolidated hypothesis as to the causes and mechanisms of central sensitization and a related model for a treatment approach using Systemic Manual Therapy (SMT). The key to understanding central sensitization is a firm grasp on structure and function of the Locus-coeruleus noradrenaline system (LC-NA). This system uses an elaborate switching mechanism to control the level and rate of activation of multiple systems. This review evaluates the mechanisms and temporal relationships behind four components: salient stimuli, threat coding, aberrant afferent input, and oxidative stress. The five-stage temporal model for central sensitization includes phasic activation of the LC-NA system, salient stimuli, threat coding of salient stimuli, central sensitization, and neural degeneration. The three components of treatment include temporarily reducing afferent visceral input, shifting humoral inflammatory activity away from the brain and outside the body, and reducing oxidative stress by making oxygenated blood more available around the LC and other stressed areas in the brain. The SMT protocols that could help in reduction of visceral afferent input are GUOU, Barral and LAUG. Protocols that should shift humoral inflammatory activity away from the brain or completely out of the body include UD and DCS. One protocol that can potentially reduce oxidative stress by making oxygenated blood more available around the LC is CCCV. Future research and hypothesis-testing strategies as well as limitations are further discussed.
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Catecholaminergic cell type-specific expression of Cre recombinase in knock-in transgenic rats generated by the Combi-CRISPR technology. J Neurosci Methods 2022; 381:109707. [PMID: 36089167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2022.109707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cell groups containing catecholamines provide a useful model to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the morphogenesis, physiology, and pathology of the central nervous system. For this purpose, it is necessary to establish a system to induce catecholaminergic group-specific expression of Cre recombinase. Recently, we introduced a gene cassette encoding 2A peptide fused to Cre recombinase into the site between the C-terminus and translational termination codons of the rat tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) open reading frame by the Combi-CRISPR technology, which is a genomic editing method to enable an efficient knock-in (KI) of long DNA sequence into a target site. However, the expression patterns of the transgene and its function as well as the effect of the mutation on the biochemical and behavioral phenotypes in the KI strains have not been characterized yet. NEW METHOD We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of TH-Cre KI rats as an experimental model for investigating the structure and function of catecholaminergic neurons in the brain. RESULTS We detected cell type-specific expression of Cre recombinase and site-specific recombination activity in the representative catecholaminergic groups in the TH-Cre KI rat strains. In addition, we measured TH protein levels and catecholamine accumulation in the brain regions, as well as motor, reward-related, and anxiety-like behaviors, indicating that catecholamine metabolism and general behavior are apparently normal in these KI rats. CONCLUSIONS TH-Cre KI rat strains produced by the Combi-CRISPR system offer a beneficial model to study the molecular and cellular mechanics for the morphogenesis, physiology, and pathology of catecholamine-containing neurons in the brain.
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Chen PC, Zhang J, Thayer JF, Mednick SC. Understanding the roles of central and autonomic activity during sleep in the improvement of working memory and episodic memory. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2123417119. [PMID: 36279428 PMCID: PMC9636982 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2123417119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The last decade has seen significant progress in identifying sleep mechanisms that support cognition. Most of these studies focus on the link between electrophysiological events of the central nervous system during sleep and improvements in different cognitive domains, while the dynamic shifts of the autonomic nervous system across sleep have been largely overlooked. Recent studies, however, have identified significant contributions of autonomic inputs during sleep to cognition. Yet, there remain considerable gaps in understanding how central and autonomic systems work together during sleep to facilitate cognitive improvement. In this article we examine the evidence for the independent and interactive roles of central and autonomic activities during sleep and wake in cognitive processing. We specifically focus on the prefrontal-subcortical structures supporting working memory and mechanisms underlying the formation of hippocampal-dependent episodic memory. Our Slow Oscillation Switch Model identifies separate and competing underlying mechanisms supporting the two memory domains at the synaptic, systems, and behavioral levels. We propose that sleep is a competitive arena in which both memory domains vie for limited resources, experimentally demonstrated when boosting one system leads to a functional trade-off in electrophysiological and behavioral outcomes. As these findings inevitably lead to further questions, we suggest areas of future research to better understand how the brain and body interact to support a wide range of cognitive domains during a single sleep episode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin-Chun Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Julian F. Thayer
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Sara C. Mednick
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
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Pinggal E, Dockree PM, O'Connell RG, Bellgrove MA, Andrillon T. Pharmacological Manipulations of Physiological Arousal and Sleep-Like Slow Waves Modulate Sustained Attention. J Neurosci 2022; 42:8113-8124. [PMID: 36109167 PMCID: PMC9637000 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0836-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustained attention describes our ability to keep a constant focus on a given task. This ability is modulated by our physiological state of arousal. Although lapses of sustained attention have been linked with dysregulations of arousal, the underlying physiological mechanisms remain unclear. An emerging body of work proposes that the intrusion during wakefulness of sleep-like slow waves, a marker of the transition toward sleep, could mechanistically account for attentional lapses. This study aimed to expose, via pharmacological manipulations of the monoamine system, the relationship between the occurrence of sleep-like slow waves and the behavioral consequences of sustained attention failures. In a double-blind, randomized-control trial, 32 healthy human male participants received methylphenidate, atomoxetine, citalopram or placebo during four separate experimental sessions. During each session, electroencephalography (EEG) was used to measure neural activity while participants completed a visual task requiring sustained attention. Methylphenidate, which increases wake-promoting dopamine and noradrenaline across cortical and subcortical areas, improved behavioral performance whereas atomoxetine, which increases dopamine and noradrenaline predominantly over frontal cortices, led to more impulsive responses. Additionally, citalopram, which increases sleep-promoting serotonin, led to more missed trials. Based on EEG recording, citalopram was also associated with an increase in sleep-like slow waves. Importantly, compared with a classical marker of arousal such as α power, only slow waves differentially predicted both misses and faster responses in a region-specific fashion. These results suggest that a decrease in arousal can lead to local sleep intrusions during wakefulness which could be mechanistically linked to impulsivity and sluggishness.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We investigated whether the modulation of attention and arousal could not only share the same neuromodulatory pathways but also rely on similar neuronal mechanisms; for example, the intrusion of sleep-like activity within wakefulness. To do so, we pharmacologically manipulated noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin in a four-arm, randomized, placebo-controlled trial and examined the consequences on behavioral and electroencephalography (EEG) indices of attention and arousal. We showed that sleep-like slow waves can predict opposite behavioral signatures: impulsivity and sluggishness. Slow waves may be a candidate mechanism for the occurrence of attentional lapses since the relationship between slow-wave occurrence and performance is region-specific and the consequences of these local sleep intrusions are in line with the cognitive functions carried by the underlying brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Pinggal
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Paul M Dockree
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience and School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin D02 PN40, Ireland
| | - Redmond G O'Connell
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience and School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin D02 PN40, Ireland
| | - Mark A Bellgrove
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Thomas Andrillon
- School of Philosophical, Historical, and International Studies, Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Paris Brain Institute, Sorbonne Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris 75013, France
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Maness EB, Burk JA, McKenna JT, Schiffino FL, Strecker RE, McCoy JG. Role of the locus coeruleus and basal forebrain in arousal and attention. Brain Res Bull 2022; 188:47-58. [PMID: 35878679 PMCID: PMC9514025 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Experimental evidence has implicated multiple neurotransmitter systems in either the direct or indirect modulation of cortical arousal and attention circuitry. In this review, we selectively focus on three such systems: 1) norepinephrine (NE)-containing neurons of the locus coeruleus (LC), 2) acetylcholine (ACh)-containing neurons of the basal forebrain (BF), and 3) parvalbumin (PV)-containing gamma-aminobutyric acid neurons of the BF. Whereas BF-PV neurons serve as a rapid and transient arousal system, LC-NE and BF-ACh neuromodulation are typically activated on slower but longer-lasting timescales. Recent findings suggest that the BF-PV system serves to rapidly respond to even subtle sensory stimuli with a microarousal. We posit that salient sensory stimuli, such as those that are threatening or predict the need for a response, will quickly activate the BF-PV system and subsequently activate both the BF-ACh and LC-NE systems if the circumstances require longer periods of arousal and vigilance. We suggest that NE and ACh have overlapping psychological functions with the main difference being the precise internal/environmental sensory situations/contexts that recruit each neurotransmitter system - a goal for future research to determine. Implications of dysfunction of each of these three attentional systems for our understanding of neuropsychiatric conditions are considered. Finally, the contemporary availability of research tools to selectively manipulate and measure the activity of these distinctive neuronal populations promises to answer longstanding questions, such as how various arousal systems influence downstream decision-making and motor responding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden B Maness
- VA Boston Healthcare System and Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA.
| | - Joshua A Burk
- Department of Psychological Sciences, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187, USA
| | - James T McKenna
- VA Boston Healthcare System and Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA
| | - Felipe L Schiffino
- VA Boston Healthcare System and Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA; Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Robert E Strecker
- VA Boston Healthcare System and Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA.
| | - John G McCoy
- Department of Psychology, Stonehill College, Easton, MA 02357, USA.
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Gołyszny M, Zieliński M, Paul-Samojedny M, Pałasz A, Obuchowicz E. Chronic treatment with escitalopram and venlafaxine affects the neuropeptide S pathway differently in adult Wistar rats exposed to maternal separation. AIMS Neurosci 2022; 9:395-422. [PMID: 36329901 PMCID: PMC9581731 DOI: 10.3934/neuroscience.2022022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide S (NPS), which is a peptide that is involved in the regulation of the stress response, seems to be relevant to the mechanism of action of antidepressants that have anxiolytic properties. However, to date, there have been no reports regarding the effect of long-term treatment with escitalopram or venlafaxine on the NPS system under stress conditions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the above-mentioned antidepressants on the NPS system in adult male Wistar rats that were exposed to neonatal maternal separation (MS). Animals were exposed to MS for 360 min. on postnatal days (PNDs) 2-15. MS causes long-lasting behavioral, endocrine and neurochemical consequences that mimic anxiety- and depression-related features. MS and non-stressed rats were given escitalopram or venlafaxine (10mg/kg) IP from PND 69 to 89. The NPS system was analyzed in the brainstem, hypothalamus, amygdala and anterior olfactory nucleus using quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemical methods. The NPS system was vulnerable to MS in the brainstem and amygdala. In the brainstem, escitalopram down-regulated NPS and NPS mRNA in the MS rats and induced a tendency to reduce the number of NPS-positive cells in the peri-locus coeruleus. In the MS rats, venlafaxine insignificantly decreased the NPSR mRNA levels in the amygdala and a number of NPSR cells in the basolateral amygdala, and increased the NPS mRNA levels in the hypothalamus. Our data show that the studied antidepressants affect the NPS system differently and preliminarily suggest that the NPS system might partially mediate the pharmacological effects that are induced by these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miłosz Gołyszny
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Michał Zieliński
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Monika Paul-Samojedny
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Jedności 8, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Artur Pałasz
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Ewa Obuchowicz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
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