1
|
Noguer-Calabús I, Schäble S, Dören J, Kalenscher T. Oxytocin effects on socially transmitted food preferences are moderated by familiarity between rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06682-x. [PMID: 39317769 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06682-x] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE In the socially transmitted food preference (STFP) paradigm, rats change their preference for food rewards after socially interacting with a conspecific who has been fed with the originally non-preferred food. Here, we asked if oxytocin (OXT), a neuropeptide known for its role in social affiliation and social behavior, plays a role in STFP. Since OXT's influences on social behavior can be familiarity-dependent, we further asked if OXT effects on STFP are moderated by the familiarity between rats. OBJECTIVES Does OXT modulate rats' socially transmitted food choices in a familiarity-dependent way. METHODS We systemically injected either vehicle, low-dose (0.25 mg/kg) of OXT, or large-dose (1.0 mg/kg) of OXT before social interaction with either a familiar cagemate (in-group) or an unfamiliar conspecific from a different cage (out-group). RESULTS We found an intergroup bias in STFP: vehicle-treated rats showed larger socially transmitted changes in food preference in the out-group than the in-group condition. OXT modulated STFP in a familiarity-dependent way: OXT prevented the increase in the consumption of the non-preferred food in the out-group, and decreased the consumption of the preferred food in the in-group. These effects were dose-dependent and observed under acute OXT action, but also on the subsequent day when acute OXT effects dissipated, suggesting long-lasting social learning effects of OXT. Additional analyses suggest that the familiarity and dose-dependent effects of OXT on STFP cannot be attributed to OXT's anorexic actions or differences in the duration of the social interactions. CONCLUSIONS OXT modulates STFP in a familiarity-dependent way.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Noguer-Calabús
- Comparative Psychology, Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Sandra Schäble
- Comparative Psychology, Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - José Dören
- Comparative Psychology, Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Kalenscher
- Comparative Psychology, Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang T, Ye J, Zhang Y, Li J, Yang T, Wang Y, Jiang X, Yao Q. Role of oxytocin in bone. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1450007. [PMID: 39290327 PMCID: PMC11405241 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1450007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a posterior pituitary hormone that, in addition to its role in regulating childbirth and lactation, also exerts direct regulatory effects on the skeleton through peripheral OT and oxytocin receptor (OTR). Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), osteoblasts (OB), osteoclasts (OC), chondrocytes, and adipocytes all express OT and OTR. OT upregulates RUNX2, BMP2, ALP, and OCN, thereby enhancing the activity of BMSCs and promoting their differentiation towards OB rather than adipocytes. OT also directly regulates OPG/RANKL to inhibit adipocyte generation, increase the expression of SOX9 and COMP, and enhance chondrocyte differentiation. OB can secrete OT, exerting influence on the surrounding environment through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. OT directly increases OC formation through the NκB/MAP kinase signaling pathway, inhibits osteoclast proliferation by triggering cytoplasmic Ca2+ release and nitric oxide synthesis, and has a dual regulatory effect on OCs. Under the stimulation of estrogen, OB synthesizes OT, amplifying the biological effects of estrogen and OT. Mediated by estrogen, the OT/OTR forms a feedforward loop with OB. Apart from estrogen, OT also interacts with arginine vasopressin (AVP), prostaglandins (PGE2), leptin, and adiponectin to regulate bone metabolism. This review summarizes recent research on the regulation of bone metabolism by OT and OTR, aiming to provide insights into their clinical applications and further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianming Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianya Ye
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Huaian Hospital of Huaian City, Huaian, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianxiao Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingqiang Yao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stark R. The olfactory bulb: A neuroendocrine spotlight on feeding and metabolism. J Neuroendocrinol 2024; 36:e13382. [PMID: 38468186 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13382] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Olfaction is the most ancient sense and is needed for food-seeking, danger protection, mating and survival. It is often the first sensory modality to perceive changes in the external environment, before sight, taste or sound. Odour molecules activate olfactory sensory neurons that reside on the olfactory epithelium in the nasal cavity, which transmits this odour-specific information to the olfactory bulb (OB), where it is relayed to higher brain regions involved in olfactory perception and behaviour. Besides odour processing, recent studies suggest that the OB extends its function into the regulation of food intake and energy balance. Furthermore, numerous hormone receptors associated with appetite and metabolism are expressed within the OB, suggesting a neuroendocrine role outside the hypothalamus. Olfactory cues are important to promote food preparatory behaviours and consumption, such as enhancing appetite and salivation. In addition, altered metabolism or energy state (fasting, satiety and overnutrition) can change olfactory processing and perception. Similarly, various animal models and human pathologies indicate a strong link between olfactory impairment and metabolic dysfunction. Therefore, understanding the nature of this reciprocal relationship is critical to understand how olfactory or metabolic disorders arise. This present review elaborates on the connection between olfaction, feeding behaviour and metabolism and will shed light on the neuroendocrine role of the OB as an interface between the external and internal environments. Elucidating the specific mechanisms by which olfactory signals are integrated and translated into metabolic responses holds promise for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies and interventions aimed at modulating appetite and promoting metabolic health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romana Stark
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu X, Zhang W, Gao Y. Investigation and Analysis of Emotional State and Oxytocin Level in Patients with Postpartum Depression. ACTAS ESPANOLAS DE PSIQUIATRIA 2024; 52:204-210. [PMID: 38863049 PMCID: PMC11188764 DOI: 10.62641/aep.v52i3.1627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mental disorder in postpartum women, negatively impacting physical and mental health. Correlation analysis can predict the relationship between variables. By detecting the abnormal level of oxytocin, clinicians can timely know the emotional states of parturients to guide clinical practice. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between emotional states and oxytocin (OT) levels in patients with PPD. MATERIALS AND METHODS The medical records of 166 PPD patients admitted to Cangzhou Central Hospital from May 2020 to March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. After excluding 9 patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria, the remaining 157 patients were included in this study. The 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale and Patient Health Questionaire-9 items were used to evaluate the emotional states of 157 patients, and the included subjects were grouped according to the results of the scale. The serum OT levels of patients was measured, and the relationship between the OT levels and emotional states was analyzed. RESULTS In this study, 75 patients were included in the mild anxiety group, and 82 patients were included in the moderate and severe anxiety group. Seventy-nine patients were selected as the mild depression group, and 78 patients were included in the moderate and severe depression group. The mild anxiety group had a higher OT level than the moderate and severe anxiety group (Z = -10.121, p < 0.001). The mild depression group had a higher OT level than the moderate and severe depression group (Z = -9.758, p < 0.001). OT level was negatively correlated with anxiety and depression scores (r = -0.676, r = -0.665, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION There is a specific relationship between the emotional states of PPD patients and the OT levels in the body, and active clinical management strategies need to be implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hall, Cangzhou Central Hospital, 061000 Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Weiping Zhang
- Obstetrical Department II, Cangzhou Central Hospital, 061000 Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hall, Cangzhou Central Hospital, 061000 Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Concepción-Zavaleta MJ, Quiroz-Aldave JE, Durand-Vásquez MDC, Gamarra-Osorio ER, Valencia de la Cruz JDC, Barrueto-Callirgos CM, Puelles-León SL, Alvarado-León EDJ, Leiva-Cabrera F, Zavaleta-Gutiérrez FE, Concepción-Urteaga LA, Paz-Ibarra J. A comprehensive review of genetic causes of obesity. World J Pediatr 2024; 20:26-39. [PMID: 37725322 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-023-00757-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a multifactorial chronic disease with a high, increasing worldwide prevalence. Genetic causes account for 7% of the cases in children with extreme obesity. DATA SOURCES This narrative review was conducted by searching for papers published in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and SciELO databases and included 161 articles. The search used the following search terms: "obesity", "obesity and genetics", "leptin", "Prader-Willi syndrome", and "melanocortins". The types of studies included were systematic reviews, clinical trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional and prospective studies, narrative reviews, and case reports. RESULTS The leptin-melanocortin pathway is primarily responsible for the regulation of appetite and body weight. However, several important aspects of the pathophysiology of obesity remain unknown. Genetic causes of obesity can be grouped into syndromic, monogenic, and polygenic causes and should be assessed in children with extreme obesity before the age of 5 years, hyperphagia, or a family history of extreme obesity. A microarray study, an analysis of the melanocortin type 4 receptor gene mutations and leptin levels should be performed for this purpose. There are three therapeutic levels: lifestyle modifications, pharmacological treatment, and bariatric surgery. CONCLUSIONS Genetic study technologies are in constant development; however, we are still far from having a personalized approach to genetic causes of obesity. A significant proportion of the affected individuals are associated with genetic causes; however, there are still barriers to its approach, as it continues to be underdiagnosed. Video Abstract (MP4 1041807 KB).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - José Paz-Ibarra
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Iwasa T, Noguchi H, Tanano R, Yamanaka E, Takeda A, Tamura K, Aoki H, Sugimoto T, Sasada H, Maeda T, Minato S, Yamamoto S, Inui H, Kagawa T, Yoshida A, Mineda A, Nii M, Kinouchi R, Yoshida K, Yamamoto Y, Kaji T. Age-Dependent Changes in the Effects of Androgens on Female Metabolic and Body Weight Regulation Systems in Humans and Laboratory Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16567. [PMID: 38068890 PMCID: PMC10706411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the effects of androgens on metabolic and body weight regulation systems and their underlying mechanisms have been gradually revealed in females. In women and experimental animals of reproductive age, androgen excess can adversely affect metabolic functioning, appetite, and body weight regulation. In addition, excess androgens can increase the risk of metabolic disorders, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. These unfavorable effects of androgens are induced by alterations in the actions of hypothalamic appetite-regulatory factors, reductions in energy expenditure, insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, and β-cell dysfunction. Interestingly, these unfavorable effects of androgens on metabolic and body-weight regulation systems are neither observed nor evident in ovariectomized animals and post-menopausal women, indicating that the adverse effects of androgens might be dependent on the estrogen milieu. Recent findings may provide novel sex- and age-specific strategies for treating metabolic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Hiroki Noguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Risa Tanano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Erika Yamanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Asuka Takeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Kou Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Hidenori Aoki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Tatsuro Sugimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Hikari Sasada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Takaaki Maeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Saki Minato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Shota Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Inui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Tomohiro Kagawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Atsuko Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Ayuka Mineda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Mari Nii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Riyo Kinouchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Kanako Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Yuri Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Takashi Kaji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (H.N.); (R.T.); (E.Y.); (A.T.); (K.T.); (H.A.); (T.S.); (H.S.); (T.M.); (S.M.); (S.Y.); (H.I.); (T.K.); (A.Y.); (A.M.); (M.N.); (R.K.); (K.Y.); (Y.Y.); (T.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Botticelli L, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Del Bello F, Giorgioni G, Piergentili A, Quaglia W, Bonifazi A, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV. The neuromedin U system: Pharmacological implications for the treatment of obesity and binge eating behavior. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106875. [PMID: 37517560 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is a bioactive peptide produced in the gut and in the brain, with a role in multiple physiological processes. NMU acts by binding and activating two G protein coupled receptors (GPCR), the NMU receptor 1 (NMU-R1), which is predominantly expressed in the periphery, and the NMU receptor 2 (NMU-R2), mainly expressed in the central nervous system (CNS). In the brain, NMU and NMU-R2 are consistently present in the hypothalamus, commonly recognized as the main "feeding center". Considering its distribution pattern, NMU revealed to be an important neuropeptide involved in the regulation of food intake, with a powerful anorexigenic ability. This has been observed through direct administration of NMU and by studies using genetically modified animals, which revealed an obesity phenotype when the NMU gene is deleted. Thus, the development of NMU analogs or NMU-R2 agonists might represent a promising pharmacological strategy to treat obese individuals. Furthermore, NMU has been demonstrated to influence the non-homeostatic aspect of food intake, playing a potential role in binge eating behavior. This review aims to discuss and summarize the current literature linking the NMU system with obesity and binge eating behavior, focusing on the influence of NMU on food intake and the neuronal mechanisms underlying its anti-obesity properties. Pharmacological strategies to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of NMU will also be reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Botticelli
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, 9, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Del Bello
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Gianfabio Giorgioni
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Alessandro Piergentili
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Wilma Quaglia
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bonifazi
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, 9, Camerino 62032, Italy.
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Senturk GE, Sezer Z, Sahin H, Isildar B, Abdulova A. Effects of Chronically Exogenous Oxytocin on Ovary and Uterus: A Comparison of Intraperitoneal and Intranasal Administration. Peptides 2023; 165:171006. [PMID: 37003476 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171006] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) has been studied as a therapeutic neuropeptide in various diseases, but its effect on the ovary and uterus is not fully known. This study investigates the effects of intranasal and intraperitoneal OT administration on ovaries and uterus in rats. Four experimental groups were created using 7-week-old Sprague Dawley-type female rats: Control (Ctrl), oxytocin-intraperitoneal (0.1µg/day) (OT-IP), oxytocin-intranasal (0.05µg/day) (OT-IN1), and oxytocin-intranasal (0.1µg/day) (OT-IN2). The blood, the ovarian, and the uterus were collected at the end of the 28th day of OT administration. Afterward, histological and biochemical analyses were performed. We observed that the Graaf follicles were higher in both OT-IN2 and OT-IP groups compared to the Ctrl group. Moreover, the corpus luteum was increased only in the OT-IN2 group. Ki-67, CD31, VEGF, and TGF-ß immunostaining showed no significant change in the ovary. In contrast, Ki-67, VEGF, and OTR expressions demonstrated significant alterations in the uterus. Furthermore, TGF-ß immunohistochemistry and the histopathologic score did not reveal the statistical change in the uterus. Serum hormone levels showed that the anti-Müllerian hormone increased in all OT groups vs. the Ctrl. OT-IP showed an increment of follicle-stimulating hormone and estradiol decrement. There was a decrease in serum E2 levels, although the Graafian follicle number increased in OT-IP groups compared to the Ctrl group. However, luteinizing hormone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, progesterone, testosterone, OT levels, and oxidative stress index did not reveal any statistical difference. Accordingly, the intranasal route may have beneficial effects compared to the intraperitoneal route regarding exogenous OT administration-related studies. In conclusion, we reported that exogenous OT increases the follicle reserve and may cause histological changes in the reproductive system of female rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gozde Erkanli Senturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Zehra Sezer
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Hakan Sahin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Basak Isildar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Balikesir University, Balıkesir, Turkey.
| | - Aynur Abdulova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Camerino C. The Long Way of Oxytocin from the Uterus to the Heart in 70 Years from Its Discovery. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032556. [PMID: 36768879 PMCID: PMC9916674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The research program on oxytocin started in 1895, when Oliver and Schafer reported that a substance extracted from the pituitary gland elevates blood pressure when injected intravenously into dogs. Dale later reported that a neurohypophysial substance triggers uterine contraction, lactation, and antidiuresis. Purification of this pituitary gland extracts revealed that the vasopressor and antidiuretic activity could be attributed to vasopressin, while uterotonic and lactation activity could be attributed to oxytocin. In 1950, the amino-acid sequences of vasopressin and oxytocin were determined and chemically synthesized. Vasopressin (CYFQNCPRG-NH2) and oxytocin (CYIQNCPLG-NH2) differ by two amino acids and have a disulfide bridge between the cysteine residues at position one and six conserved in all vasopressin/oxytocin-type peptides. This characterization of oxytocin led to the Nobel Prize awarded in 1955 to Vincent du Vigneaud. Nevertheless, it was only 50 years later when the evidence that mice depleted of oxytocin or its receptor develop late-onset obesity and metabolic syndrome established that oxytocin regulates energy and metabolism. Oxytocin is anorexigenic and regulates the lean/fat mass composition in skeletal muscle. Oxytocin's effect on muscle is mediated by thermogenesis via a pathway initiated in the myocardium. Oxytocin involvement in thermogenesis and muscle contraction is linked to Prader-Willi syndrome in humans, opening exciting therapeutic avenues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Camerino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, P.za G. Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy;
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Changes in Serum Oxytocin Levels under Physiological and Supraphysiological Gonadal Steroid Hormone Conditions in Women of Reproductive Age: A Preliminary Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245350. [PMID: 36558508 PMCID: PMC9787714 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) affects many behavioral, psychological, and physiological functions, including appetite and body weight regulation. Central and peripheral OT levels are markedly affected by gonadal steroids, especially estrogen, and the anorectic effects of estrogen are partially mediated by OT in rodents. In this study, the relationship between the estrogen milieu and serum OT levels was evaluated in women of reproductive age under physiological (n = 9) and supraphysiological estrogenic conditions (n = 7). Consequently, it was found that serum OT levels were increased in physiological (the ovulatory phase) and supraphysiological (on the day of the human chorionic gonadotropin trigger in an ovarian stimulation cycle) estrogenic conditions, and that serum OT levels were positively correlated with serum estradiol levels. On the other hand, serum OT levels were negatively correlated with serum progesterone levels, and there was no correlation between serum and follicular OT levels. These results suggest that OT levels may be positively and negatively regulated by estrogen and progesterone, respectively, in humans. However, the physiological roles of these actions of gonadal steroids on OT remain unclear.
Collapse
|
11
|
Olejniczak I, Campbell B, Tsai YC, Tyagarajan SK, Albrecht U, Ripperger JA. Suprachiasmatic to paraventricular nuclei interaction generates normal food searching rhythms in mice. Front Physiol 2022; 13:909795. [PMID: 36277219 PMCID: PMC9582613 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.909795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Searching for food follows a well-organized decision process in mammals to take up food only if necessary. Moreover, scavenging is preferred during their activity phase. Various time-dependent regulatory processes have been identified originating from the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), which convert external light information into synchronizing output signals. However, a direct impact of the SCN on the timing of normal food searching has not yet been found. Here, we revisited the function of the SCN to affect when mice look for food. We found that this process was independent of light but modified by the palatability of the food source. Surprisingly, reducing the output from the SCN, in particular from the vasopressin releasing neurons, reduced the amount of scavenging during the early activity phase. The SCN appeared to transmit a signal to the paraventricular nuclei (PVN) via GABA receptor A1. Finally, the interaction of SCN and PVN was verified by retrograde transport-mediated complementation. None of the genetic manipulations affected the uptake of more palatable food. The data indicate that the PVN are sufficient to produce blunted food searching rhythms and are responsive to hedonistic feeding. Nevertheless, the search for normal food during the early activity phase is significantly enhanced by the SCN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Olejniczak
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Campbell
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yuan-Chen Tsai
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Shiva K. Tyagarajan
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Urs Albrecht
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen A. Ripperger
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Jürgen A. Ripperger,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Olszewski PK, Noble EE, Paiva L, Ueta Y, Blevins JE. Oxytocin as a potential pharmacological tool to combat obesity. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13106. [PMID: 35192207 PMCID: PMC9372234 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) has emerged as an important anorexigen in the regulation of food intake and energy balance. It has been shown that the release of OT and activation of hypothalamic OT neurons coincide with food ingestion. Its effects on feeding have largely been attributed to limiting meal size through interactions in key regulatory brain regions governing the homeostatic control of food intake such as the hypothalamus and hindbrain in addition to key feeding reward areas such as the nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area. Furthermore, the magnitude of an anorexigenic response to OT and feeding-related activation of the brain OT circuit are modified by the composition and flavor of a diet, as well as by a social context in which a meal is consumed. OT is particularly effective in reducing consumption of carbohydrates and sweet tastants. Pharmacologic, genetic, and pair-feeding studies indicate that OT-elicited weight loss cannot be fully explained by reductions of food intake and that the overall impact of OT on energy balance is also partly a result of OT-elicited changes in lipolysis, energy expenditure, and glucose regulation. Peripheral administration of OT mimics many of its effects when it is given into the central nervous system, raising the questions of whether and to what extent circulating OT acts through peripheral OT receptors to regulate energy balance. Although OT has been found to elicit weight loss in female mice, recent studies have indicated that sex and estrous cycle may impact oxytocinergic modulation of food intake. Despite the overall promising basic research data, attempts to use OT in the clinical setting to combat obesity and overeating have generated somewhat mixed results. The focus of this mini-review is to briefly summarize the role of OT in feeding and metabolism, address gaps and inconsistencies in our knowledge, and discuss some of the limitations to the potential use of chronic OT that should help guide future research on OT as a tailor-made anti-obesity therapeutic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pawel K Olszewski
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Waikato, Waikato, New Zealand
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, University of Minnesota, St Paul, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Emily E Noble
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Luis Paiva
- Instituto de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Yoichi Ueta
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - James E Blevins
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Guidolin D, Tortorella C, Marcoli M, Maura G, Agnati LF. Intercellular Communication in the Central Nervous System as Deduced by Chemical Neuroanatomy and Quantitative Analysis of Images: Impact on Neuropharmacology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5805. [PMID: 35628615 PMCID: PMC9145073 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, new evidence on brain structure and function has been acquired by morphological investigations based on synergic interactions between biochemical anatomy approaches, new techniques in microscopy and brain imaging, and quantitative analysis of the obtained images. This effort produced an expanded view on brain architecture, illustrating the central nervous system as a huge network of cells and regions in which intercellular communication processes, involving not only neurons but also other cell populations, virtually determine all aspects of the integrative function performed by the system. The main features of these processes are described. They include the two basic modes of intercellular communication identified (i.e., wiring and volume transmission) and mechanisms modulating the intercellular signaling, such as cotransmission and allosteric receptor-receptor interactions. These features may also open new possibilities for the development of novel pharmacological approaches to address central nervous system diseases. This aspect, with a potential major impact on molecular medicine, will be also briefly discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Guidolin
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Anatomy, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy;
| | - Cinzia Tortorella
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Anatomy, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy;
| | - Manuela Marcoli
- Department of Pharmacy, Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genova, 16126 Genova, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Guido Maura
- Department of Pharmacy, Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genova, 16126 Genova, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Luigi F. Agnati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dimitri P. Treatment of Acquired Hypothalamic Obesity: Now and the Future. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:846880. [PMID: 35464063 PMCID: PMC9019363 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.846880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus is the centre of neuroendocrine regulation of energy homeostasis and appetite. Maldevelopment of, or damage to, the key hypothalamic nuclei disrupts the coordinated balance between energy intake and expenditure leading, to rapid and excessive weight gain. Hypothalamic obesity is compounded by a disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, sleep disruption, visual compromise, and neurological and vascular sequalae. Amongst suprasellar tumors, craniopharyngioma is the most common cause of acquired hypothalamic obesity, either directly or following surgical or radiotherapeutic intervention. At present, therapy is limited to strategies to manage obesity but with a modest and variable impact. Current approaches include optimizing pituitary hormone replacement, calorie restriction, increased energy expenditure through physical activity, behavioral interventions, pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery. Current pharmacotherapeutic approaches include stimulants that increase energy consumption, anti-diabetic agents, hypothalamic-pituitary substitution therapy, octreotide, and methionine aminopeptidase 2 (MetAP2) inhibitors. Some pharmacological studies of hypothalamic obesity report weight loss or stabilization but reported intervention periods are short, and others report no effect. The impact of bariatric surgery on weight loss in hypothalamic obesity again is variable. Novel or combined approaches to manage hypothalamic obesity are thus required to achieve credible and sustained weight loss. Identifying etiological factors contributing hypothalamic obesity may lead to multi-faceted interventions targeting hyperphagia, insulin resistance, decreased energy expenditure, sleep disturbance, hypopituitarism and psychosocial morbidity. Placebo-controlled trials using current single, or combination therapies are required to determine the impact of therapeutic agents. A well-defined approach to defining the location of hypothalamic damage may support the use of future targeted therapies. Intranasal oxytocin is currently being investigated as an anorexogenic agent. Novel agents including those targeting pro-opimelanocortin-C and AgRP/NPY expressing neurons and the MC4 receptor may result in better outcomes. This article discusses the current challenges in the management of hypothalamic obesity in children and young people and future therapeutic approaches to increasing weight loss and quality of life in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Dimitri
- The Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Paul Dimitri,
| |
Collapse
|