Influence of Tryptophan and Serotonin on Mood and Cognition with a Possible Role of the Gut-Brain Axis

Gut microbiota-astrocyte axis: new insights into age-related cognitive decline

With the rapidly aging human population, age-related cognitive decline and dementia are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. Aging is considered the main risk factor for cognitive decline and acts through alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota, microbial metabolites, and the functions of astrocytes. The microbiota-gut-brain axis has been the focus of multiple studies and is closely associated with cognitive function. This article provides a comprehensive review of the specific changes that occur in the composition of the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites in older individuals and discusses how the aging of astrocytes and reactive astrocytosis are closely related to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. This article also summarizes the gut microbiota components that affect astrocyte function, mainly through the vagus nerve, immune responses, circadian rhythms, and microbial metabolites. Finally, this article summarizes the mechanism by which the gut microbiota-astrocyte axis plays a role in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Our findings have revealed the critical role of the microbiota-astrocyte axis in age-related cognitive decline, aiding in a deeper understanding of potential gut microbiome-based adjuvant therapy strategies for this condition.

Molecular mechanisms and behavioral relevance underlying neural correlates of childhood neglect

BACKGROUND

Childhood neglect is associated with brain changes, yet the molecular mechanisms and behavioral relevance underlying such associations remain elusive.

METHODS

We calculated fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) using resting-state functional MRI and tested their correlation with childhood neglect across a large sample of 510 healthy young adults. Then, we investigated the spatial relationships of the identified neural correlates of childhood neglect with gene expression, neurotransmitter, and behavioral domain atlases.

RESULTS

We found that more severe childhood neglect was correlated with higher fALFF in the bilateral anterior cingulate cortex. Remarkably, the identified neural correlates of childhood neglect were spatially correlated with expression of gene categories primarily involving neuron, synapse, ion channel, cognitive and perceptual processes, and physiological response and regulation. Concurrently, there were significant associations between the neural correlates and specific neurotransmitter systems including serotonin and GABA. Finally, neural correlates of childhood neglect were associated with diverse behavioral domains implicating mental disorders, emotion, cognition, and sensory perception.

LIMITATIONS

The cross-sectional study design cannot unequivocally establish causality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings may not only add to the current knowledge regarding the relationship between childhood neglect and mental health, but also have clinical implications for developing preventive strategies for individuals exposed to childhood neglect who are at risk for mental disorders.

Neurolipidomics in schizophrenia: A not so well-oiled machine

Most patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) do not exhibit violent behaviors and are more likely to be victims rather than perpetrators of violent acts. However, a subgroup of forensic detainees with SCZ exhibit tendencies to engage in criminal violations. Although numerous models have been proposed, ranging from substance use, serotonin transporter gene, and cognitive dysfunction, the molecular underpinnings of violence in SCZ patients remains elusive. Lithium and clozapine have established anti-aggression properties and recent studies have linked low cholesterol levels and ultraviolet (UV) radiation with human aggression, while vitamin D3 reduces violent behaviors. A recent study found that vitamin D3, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and zinc lower aggression in forensic population. In this review article, we take a closer look at aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and the dysfunctional lipidome in neuronal membranes, with emphasis on cholesterol and vitamin D3 depletion, as sources of aggressive behavior. We also discuss modalities to increase the fluidity of neuronal double layer via membrane lipid replacement (MLR) and natural or synthetic compounds. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Personality Disorders".

Relationships between Gut Microbiota and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Development and Treatment

Many studies have demonstrated the impact of intestinal microbiota on normal brain development. Moreover, the gut microbiota (GM) is impacted by multiple endogenous and environmental factors that may promote gut dysbiosis (GD). An increasing number of studies are investigating the possible role of the GD in the development of neurological and behavioral disorders. For autism spectrum disorders (ASD), specific intestinal bacterial signatures have been identified, knowing that gastrointestinal symptoms are frequently found in ASD. In this review, the peri and post-natal factors modulating the GM are described and the specific gut bacterial signature of ASD children is detailed. Through bidirectional communication between the GM and the brain, several mechanisms are involved in the development of ASD, such as cytokine-mediated neuroinflammation and decreased production of neuroprotective factors such as short-chain fatty acids by the GM. Imbalance of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin or gamma-aminobutyric acid could also play a role in these gut-brain interactions. Some studies show that this GD in ASD is partly reversible by treatment with pre- and probiotics, or fecal microbiota transplantation with promising results. However, certain limitations have been raised, in particular concerning the short duration of treatment, the small sample sizes and the diversity of protocols. The development of standardized therapeutics acting on GD in large cohort could rescue the gastrointestinal symptoms and behavioral impairments, as well as patient management.

Role of adenosine in the pathophysiology and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Although its precise etiology remains unclear, current evidence suggests that dysregulation within the neurotransmitter system plays a key role in the pathogenesis of ADHD. Adenosine, an endogenous nucleoside widely distributed throughout the body, modulates various physiological processes, including neurotransmitter release, sleep regulation, and cognitive functions through its receptors. This review critically examines the role of the adenosine system in ADHD, focusing on the links between adenosine receptor function and ADHD-related symptoms. Additionally, it explores how adenosine interacts with dopamine and other neurotransmitter pathways, shedding light on its involvement in ADHD pathophysiology. This review aims to provide insights into the potential therapeutic implications of targeting the adenosine system for ADHD management.

Nutritional Psychology: Review the Interplay Between Nutrition and Mental Health

Nutritional psychology is a burgeoning field that examines the intricate relationship between nutrition and mental health. This concept, its historical development, and its current significance in understanding the complex interplay between diet and psychological well-being are explored in this article. The influence of various nutrients on mental health, the role of dietary patterns, and the impact of nutrition on specific mental disorders are examined. Highlighted are the potential mechanisms underlying the nutrition-mental health connection, and the implications for clinical practice and public health interventions are discussed. The discussion in this article underscores the importance of considering nutrition as essential in mental health promotion and treatment.

Yeast Extract Peptides Alleviate Depression in Chronic Restraint Stress Rats by Alleviating Hippocampal Neuronal Apoptosis and Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota

SCOPE

Depression as a global neurological disorder, and hippocampal neuronal apoptosis and disorders of the gut microbiota are closely related to it. This study aims to expose the ameliorative effect of enzyme peptides (AP) from brewer's yeast on depressive behavior caused by chronic restraint stress (CRS) in rats.

METHODS AND RESULTS

After 4 weeks of AP intervention, a significant alleviation of depressive behavior in the sucrose preference test (SPT), forced swim test (FST), and light-dark test (LDT) is observed in depressed rats. AP ameliorates neuronal damage with increased the expression of the key CREB/BDNF/TrkB/Akt signaling pathway, which increases the levels of the monoamine neurotransmitters 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) in the hippocampus, buffering hyperactivity of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), and decreasing the serum cortisol (CORT) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels in rats. In addition, AP modulates the disruption of the rat gut microbiota by chronic restraint stress (CRS), and the changes in the abundance of Lactobacillus animalis and Lactobacillus johnsonii are probably the key for AP performing antidepressant benefits. A strong correlation is found between gut microbiota and biochemical markers of depression.

CONCLUSION

AP, as a natural and safe active substance, has a positive effect in the treatment of depression.

FMT intervention decreases urine 5-HIAA levels: a randomized double-blind controlled study

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is often linked to gastrointestinal issues and altered serotonin metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests gut microbiota influence both, with fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) offering a potential therapeutic approach. However, its impact on serotonin metabolism and ASD symptoms is not well understood. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical effects of FMT and examine changes in specific urinary metabolites in children with ASD.

Methods

A randomized double-blind controlled trial was performed to evaluate the clinical effects of FMT on GI and ASD-related symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), and the ASD-related symptoms were assessed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) scores. Urinary metabolites were analyzed by homogeneous enzyme immunoassay using commercially available kits.

Results

Significant improvements in GI and core ASD symptoms were observed following FMT intervention. The average GSRS scores decreased from 30.17 (before) to 19 (after; p < 0.0001), CARS scores decreased from 36.22 to 33.33 (p < 0.0001), SRS scores decreased from 151.17 to 137.5 (p = 0.0002), and the ABC scores decreased 76.39 to 53.17 (p < 0.0001) in the FMT group. However, in the placebo group, GSRS, CARS, and SRS scores showed no significant changes, while ABC scores decreased from 72 to 58.75 (p = 0.034). The FMT group also showed a significant reduction in urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) levels from 8.6 to 7.32 mg/L (p = 0.022), while other metabolites showed no significant changes.

Conclusion

FMT is a safe and effective treatment for improving GI and core symptoms in children with ASD, with 5-HIAA showing potential as a urinary biomarker for treatment response.

Metabolic kinetics and muscle and brain health markers in older adults, and the role of age and presence of chronic morbidities: A large cross-sectional cohort study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Older adults are at risk for muscle and cognitive function decline during advanced aging, but the underlying metabolic mechanisms and the role of aging-associated chronic morbidities remain unclear. In the present study, we examined whether protein and amino acid kinetics in older adults with and without chronic morbidities are different when 50-70 and 70-90 of age and related to markers of muscle and brain health declines.

METHODS

In a large cross-sectional observational study, 575 older adults from 12 trials (2014-2022) were stratified based on their age (50-70y vs. 70-95y) and the presence of chronic morbidities. The main outcomes were whole-body production (WBP) and interconversions of amino acids by stable amino acid tracers, body composition, and muscle and cognitive performance. Additionally, the association between metabolic markers and muscle and brain health was assessed.

RESULTS

Overall lower muscle strength, muscle and fat mass, and cognitive function (p < 0.03), but no mood disturbances, were found in 70-95y compared to 50-70y older adults. Presence of morbidities was associated with lower muscle strength and mass, and cognitive function, but higher visceral adipose tissue, and mood disturbances (p < 0.05). Aging was associated with suppressed WBP of most amino acids, de novo arginine production, and net protein breakdown, but higher myofibrillar protein breakdown (p < 0.007). Presence of morbidities was associated with lower WBP of glutamine, glutamate, histidine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and net protein breakdown, and higher WBP of valine and taurine (p < 0.04). Age showed significant negative correlations with WBP of nearly all amino acids, de novo arginine production and net protein breakdown (r: [-0.407, -0.136], p < 0.01) but a positive correlation with WBP of myofibrillar protein breakdown (r = 0.133, p = 0.009). Lean mass showed positive correlations with de novo arginine production and net protein breakdown and WBP of all amino acids except for isoleucine (r: [0.16, 0.799], p < 0.005). MoCA showed a positive correlation with WBP of leucine and valine (r: [0.163, 0.2], p < 0.03). Worse cognitive performance was positively associated with WBP of tau-methylhistidine and taurine (r: [0.13, 0.141], p < 0.04), but negatively associated with WBP of glycine and valine, de novo arginine production, and net protein breakdown (r: [-0.222, -0.115], p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Comprehensive phenotyping of a large group of older adults revealed differences in metabolic health in response to advanced aging and chronic morbidities. Poor muscle health accompanied by advanced aging was associated with overall metabolic downregulation, except for enhanced myofibrillar (muscle) protein breakdown. Presence of chronic morbidities was further associated with disturbed muscle health, mood, arginine, and taurine pathways, and higher visceral adipose tissue. Therefore, different phenotypes among older adults need to be considered when evaluating therapeutic approaches to improve muscle and brain health.

Tryptophan Metabolism Disorder-Triggered Diseases, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies: A Scientometric Review

BACKGROUND

Tryptophan is widely present in foods such as peanuts, milk, and bananas, playing a crucial role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis in health and disease. Tryptophan metabolism is involved in the development and progression of immune, nervous, and digestive system diseases. Although some excellent reviews on tryptophan metabolism exist, there has been no systematic scientometric study as of yet.

METHODS

This review provides and summarizes research hotspots and potential future directions by analyzing annual publications, topics, keywords, and highly cited papers sourced from Web of Science spanning 1964 to 2022.

RESULTS

This review provides a scientometric overview of tryptophan metabolism disorder-triggered diseases, mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

The gut microbiota regulates gut permeability, inflammation, and host immunity by directly converting tryptophan to indole and its derivatives. Gut microbial metabolites regulate tryptophan metabolism by activating specific receptors or enzymes. Additionally, the kynurenine (KYN) pathway, activated by indoleamine-2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase, affects the migration and invasion of glioma cells and the development of COVID-19 and depression. The research and development of IDO inhibitors help to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Tryptophan metabolites as potential markers are used for disease therapy, guiding clinical decision-making. Tryptophan metabolites serve as targets to provide a new promising strategy for neuroprotective/neurotoxic imbalance affecting brain structure and function. In summary, this review provides valuable guidance for the basic research and clinical application of tryptophan metabolism.

Intermittent fasting alerts neurotransmitters and oxidant/antioxidant status in the brain of rats

Several recent studies have attempted to understand how fasting has benefits for body health, especially the nervous system. To evaluate the impact of intermittent fasting on body weight, brain neurotransmitters, brain oxidative stress, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in several areas of the brain, this study was conducted in rats. Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 (15 rats) served as the control and group 2 (15 rats) underwent intermittent fasting (IF; 24 h) for 1, 7, or 15 days. The findings demonstrated that intermittent fasting significantly reduced body weight. In this sense, brain monoamines and amino acids, namely dopamine, glutamate, aspartate, and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde and nitric oxide), decreased significantly after 1 day of IF. However, norepinephrine, serotonin, gamma-amino butyric acid, and glycine increased significantly. Additionally, glutathione levels were markedly elevated in IF. Surprisingly, the neuromodulatory effect of intermittent fasting fluctuates depending on the IF period. To support this fluctuation, BDNF levels increased after 1 day in the hippocampus and decreased after 15 days of intermittent fasting in all areas of the brain tested. In conclusion, our results show that intermittent fasting has beneficial influences on the brain; however, prolonged intermittent fasting can also induce some unfavorable physiological outcomes that prevent optimal neurological function.

Microbiota-gut-brain axis in perioperative neurocognitive and depressive disorders: Pathogenesis to treatment

An increasing number of people undergo anesthesia and surgery. Perioperative neurocognitive and depressive disorders are common central nervous system complications with similar pathogeneses. These conditions pose a deleterious threat to human health and a significant societal burden. In recent years, numerous studies have focused on the role of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in the central nervous system via the gut-brain axis. Its involvement in perioperative neurocognitive and depressive disorders has attracted considerable attention. This review aimed to elucidate the role of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in the pathogenesis of perioperative neurocognitive and depressive disorders, as well as the value of targeted interventions and treatments.

Tryptophan Metabolism in Alzheimer's Disease with the Involvement of Microglia and Astrocyte Crosstalk and Gut-Brain Axis

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-dependent neurodegenerative disease characterized by extracellular Amyloid Aβ peptide (Aβ) deposition and intracellular Tau protein aggregation. Glia, especially microglia and astrocytes are core participants during the progression of AD and these cells are the mediators of Aβ clearance and degradation. The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) is a complex interactive network between the gut and brain involved in neurodegeneration. MGBA affects the function of glia in the central nervous system (CNS), and microbial metabolites regulate the communication between astrocytes and microglia; however, whether such communication is part of AD pathophysiology remains unknown. One of the potential links in bilateral gut-brain communication is tryptophan (Trp) metabolism. The microbiota-originated Trp and its metabolites enter the CNS to control microglial activation, and the activated microglia subsequently affect astrocyte functions. The present review highlights the role of MGBA in AD pathology, especially the roles of Trp per se and its metabolism as a part of the gut microbiota and brain communications. We (i) discuss the roles of Trp derivatives in microglia-astrocyte crosstalk from a bioinformatics perspective, (ii) describe the role of glia polarization in the microglia-astrocyte crosstalk and AD pathology, and (iii) summarize the potential of Trp metabolism as a therapeutic target. Finally, we review the role of Trp in AD from the perspective of the gut-brain axis and microglia, as well as astrocyte crosstalk, to inspire the discovery of novel AD therapeutics.

Disrupted gut harmony in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Dysbiosis and decreased short-chain fatty acids

Background

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder with complex genetic and environmental underpinnings. Emerging evidence suggests a significant role of gut microbiota in ADHD pathophysiology. This study investigates variations in gut microbiota composition and Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) profiles between children and adolescents with ADHD and healthy controls.

Methods

The study included 42 ADHD patients and 31 healthy controls, aged 6-18 years. Fecal samples were analyzed for microbial composition using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and for SCFA profiles through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The study assessed both α and β diversity of gut microbiota and quantified various SCFAs to compare between the groups.

Results

ADHD subjects demonstrated significantly reduced gut microbiota diversity, as indicated by lower α-diversity indices (Shannon index, Observed species, Faith PD index) and a trend towards significance in β-diversity (Weighted UniFrac). Notably, the ADHD group exhibited significantly lower levels of key SCFAs, including acetic, propionic, isobutyric, isovaleric, and valeric acids, highlighting a distinct microbial and metabolic profile in these individuals.

Conclusion

This study uncovers significant alterations in gut microbiota and SCFA profiles in children with ADHD, compared to healthy controls. The observed changes in SCFAs, known for their associations with other behavioral and neurologic pathologies, and for their role in neural signaling. These findings offer a metabolite fingerprint that could potentially lead to novel diagnostic and treatment approaches for ADHD, emphasizing the importance of gut microbiota in the disorder's pathogenesis and management.

The Gut Microbiome and Symptom Burden After Kidney Transplantation: An Overview and Research Opportunities

Many kidney transplant recipients continue to experience high symptom burden despite restoration of kidney function. High symptom burden is a significant driver of quality of life. In the post-transplant setting, high symptom burden has been linked to negative outcomes including medication non-adherence, allograft rejection, graft loss, and even mortality. Symbiotic bacteria (microbiota) in the human gastrointestinal tract critically interact with the immune, endocrine, and neurological systems to maintain homeostasis of the host. The gut microbiome has been proposed as an underlying mechanism mediating symptoms in several chronic medical conditions including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and psychoneurological disorders via the gut-brain-microbiota axis, a bidirectional signaling pathway between the enteric and central nervous system. Post-transplant exposure to antibiotics, antivirals, and immunosuppressant medications results in significant alterations in gut microbiota community composition and function, which in turn alter these commensal microorganisms' protective effects. This overview will discuss the current state of the science on the effects of the gut microbiome on symptom burden in kidney transplantation and future directions to guide this field of study.

Kynurenine Attenuates Ulcerative Colitis Mediated by the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor

The higher prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) and the side effects of its therapeutic agents contribute to finding novel treatments. This study aimed to investigate whether kynurenine (KYN), a tryptophan metabolite, has the possibility of alleviating UC and further clarifying the underlying mechanism. The effect of KYN on treating UC was evaluated by intestinal pathology, inflammatory cytokines, and tight-junction proteins in colitis mice and LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cells. Our results revealed that KYN relieved pathological symptoms of UC, improved intestinal barrier function, enhanced AhR expression, and inhibited NF-κB signaling pathway activation in the colon of colitis mice. Moreover, the improved intestinal barrier function, the decreased inflammasome production, and the inhibited activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by KYN were dependent on AhR in Caco-2 cells. KYN could trigger AhR activation, inactivate the NF-κB signaling pathway, and inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome production, thus alleviating intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction and reducing intestinal inflammation. In conclusion, the present study reveals that KYN ameliorates UC by improving the intestinal epithelial barrier and activating the AhR-NF-κB-NLRP3 signaling pathway, and it can be a promising therapeutic agent and dietary supplement for alleviating UC.

Effect of Tryptophan Restriction in the Therapy of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: a Systematic Review

Background & Aims

The metabolic pathways of tryptophan (TRP) have been implicated in the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), positing that the strategic modulation of TRP consumption may exert regulatory effects on serotonin levels, consequently altering the clinical manifestation of IBS. This systematic review was meticulously orchestrated to evaluate the effect of TRP restriction on IBS.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases was conducted. Controlled trials that compared the efficacy of TRP restriction in IBS patients were scrutinized. The primary outcomes were gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life, and pain, whereas the secondary outcomes included anxiety, mood, and safety. The risk of bias was meticulously assessed according to the guidelines recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration.

Results

A total of five trials, enrolling 135 participants, were incorporated into the qualitative synthesis. Low-TRP intake attenuated gastrointestinal discomfort and enhanced psychological well-being in IBS patients, while the effects of acute TRP depletion were controversial. Safety data from one randomized controlled trial reported no occurrence of adverse events.

Conclusion

This systematic review suggests that moderating, rather than depleting, TRP intake may potentially be a feasible and safe adjunctive treatment for patients with IBS. Future research incorporating a high-quality study design and consensus on clinical outcome measurements for IBS is warranted.

Postprandial metabolomics analysis reveals disordered serotonin metabolism in post-bariatric hypoglycemia

BACKGROUNDBariatric surgery is a potent therapeutic approach for obesity and type 2 diabetes but can be complicated by post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH). PBH typically occurs 1-3 hours after meals, in association with exaggerated postprandial levels of incretins and insulin.METHODSTo identify mediators of disordered metabolism in PBH, we analyzed the plasma metabolome in the fasting state and 30 and 120 minutes after mixed meal in 3 groups: PBH (n = 13), asymptomatic post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (post-RYGB) (n = 10), and nonsurgical controls (n = 8).RESULTSIn the fasting state, multiple tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates and the ketone β-hydroxybutyrate were increased by 30%-80% in PBH versus asymptomatic. Conversely, multiple amino acids (branched-chain amino acids, tryptophan) and polyunsaturated lipids were reduced by 20%-50% in PBH versus asymptomatic. Tryptophan-related metabolites, including kynurenate, xanthurenate, and serotonin, were reduced 2- to 10-fold in PBH in the fasting state. Postprandially, plasma serotonin was uniquely increased 1.9-fold in PBH versus asymptomatic post-RYGB. In mice, serotonin administration lowered glucose and increased plasma insulin and GLP-1. Moreover, serotonin-induced hypoglycemia in mice was blocked by the nonspecific serotonin receptor antagonist cyproheptadine and the specific serotonin receptor 2 antagonist ketanserin.CONCLUSIONTogether these data suggest that increased postprandial serotonin may contribute to the pathophysiology of PBH and provide a potential therapeutic target.FUNDINGNational Institutes of Health (NIH) grant R01-DK121995, NIH grant P30-DK036836 (Diabetes Research Center grant, Joslin Diabetes Center), and Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo grant 2018/22111-2.

Efficacy of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in the Treatment of Bulimia Nervosa (BN): A Review and Insight into Potential Mechanisms of Action

INTRODUCTION

Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a disorder primarily affecting adolescent females, characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain, including self-induced vomiting and the misuse of diuretics, laxatives, and insulin. The precise etiology of BN remains unknown, with factors such as genetics, biological influences, emotional disturbances, societal pressures, and other challenges contributing to its prevalence. First-line treatment typically includes pharmacotherapy, which has shown moderate effectiveness. Neuroimaging evidence suggests that altered brain activity may contribute to the development of BN, making interventions that directly target the brain extremely valuable. One such intervention is repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive stimulation technique that has been garnering interest in the medical community for many years.

METHODS

This review explores the use of rTMS in the treatment of BN. Searches were conducted in the PubMed/Medline, ResearchGate, and Cochrane databases.

RESULTS

Twelve relevant studies were identified. Analysis of the results from these studies reveals promising findings, particularly regarding key parameters in the pathophysiology of BN. Several studies assessed the impact of rTMS on binge episodes. While some studies did not find significant reductions, most reported decreases in binge eating and purging behaviors, with some cases showing complete remission. Reductions in symptoms of depression and food cravings were also demonstrated. However, results regarding cognitive improvement were mixed. The discussion focused heavily on potential mechanisms of action, including neuromodulation of brain networks, induction of neuroplasticity, impact on serotonergic dysfunction, anti-inflammatory action, and HPA axis modulation. rTMS was found to be a safe intervention with no serious side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

rTMS in the treatment of BN appears to be a promising intervention that alleviates some symptoms characteristic of the pathophysiology of this disorder. An additional effect is a significant reduction in depressive symptoms. However, despite these findings, further research is required to confirm its effectiveness and elucidate the mechanisms of action. It is also recommended to further investigate the potential mechanisms of action described in this review.

The roles of 5-HT in orofacial pain

OBJECTIVES

Acute and chronic orofacial pain are very common and remain a vexing health problem that has a negative effect on the quality of life. Serotonin (5-HydroxyTryptamine, 5-HT) is a kind of monoamine neurotransmitter that is involved in many physiological and pathological processes. However, its role in orofacial pain remains inconclusive. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the recent advances in understanding the effect exerted by 5-HT on the modulation of orofacial pain.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

An extensive search was conducted on PubMed and Web of Science for pertinent studies focusing on the effects of 5-HT on the modulation of orofacial pain.

RESULTS

In this review, we concisely review how 5-HT mediates orofacial pain, how 5-HT is regulated and how we can translate these findings into clinical applications for the prevention and/or treatment of orofacial pain.

CONCLUSIONS

5-HT plays a key role in the modulation of orofacial pain, implying that 5-HT modulators may serve as effective treatment for orofacial pain. However, further research on the precise mechanisms underlying the modulation of orofacial pain is still warranted.

2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine and altanserin induce region-specific shifts in dopamine and serotonin metabolization pathways in the rat brain

PURPOSE

For understanding the neurochemical mechanism of neuropsychiatric conditions associated with cognitive deficits it is of major relevance to elucidate the influence of serotonin (5-HT) agonists and antagonists on memory function as well dopamine (DA) and 5-HT release and metabolism. In the present study, we assessed the effects of the 5-HT2A receptor agonist 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and the 5-HT2A receptor altanserin (ALT) on object and place recognition memory and cerebral neurotransmitters and metabolites in the rat.

METHODS

Rats underwent a 5-min exploration trial in an open field with two identical objects. After systemic injection of a single dose of either DOI (0.1 mg/kg), ALT (1 mg/kg) or the respectice vehicle (0.9 % NaCl, 50 % DMSO), rats underwent a 5-min test trial with one of the objects replaced by a novel one and the other object transferred to a novel place. Upon the assessment of object exploration and motor/exploratory behaviors, rats were sacrificed. DA, 5-HT and metabolite levels were analyzed in cingulate (CING), caudateputamen (CP), nucleus accumbens (NAC), thalamus (THAL), dorsal (dHIPP) and ventral hippocampus (vHIPP), brainstem and cerebellum with high performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

DOI decreased rearing but increased head-shoulder motility relative to vehicle. Memory for object and place after both DOI and ALT was not different from vehicle. Network analyses indicated that DOI inhibited DA metabolization in CING, CP, NAC, and THAL, but facilitated it in dHIPP. Likewise, DOI inhibited 5-HT metabolization in CING, NAC, and THAL. ALT facilitated DA metabolization in the CING, NAC, dHIPP, vHIPP, and CER, but inhibited it in the THAL. Additionally, ALT facilitated 5-HT metabolization in NAC and dHIPP.

CONCLUSIONS

DOI and ALT differentially altered the quantitative relations between the neurotransmitter/metabolite levels in the individual brain regions, by inducing region-specific shifts in the metabolization pathways. Findings are relevant for understanding the neurochemistry underlying DAergic and/or 5-HTergic dysfunction in neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Effect of perinatal dietary protein deficiency on some neurochemicals and cytoarchitectural balance, in F1 and F2 generations of rats

Protein deficiency, characterized by an inadequate intake of protein in the diet that fails to meet the body's physiological requirements across various stages, can lead to detrimental outcomes. This is of interest due to the persistent low protein content in staple foods and suboptimal dietary patterns. The study sought to assess the intergenerational repercussions of dietary protein deficiency on specific neurochemicals and the cytoarchitecture of the brain within the F1 and F2 generations of rats. The rats were categorized into four groups based on the protein content percentage in their diets: 21% protein diet (21%PD), 10% protein diet (10%PD), 5% protein diet (5%PD), and control diet. Neurobehavior was assessed, while brain serotonin and dopamine levels were measured using HPLC. BDNF and GDNF expression in the hippocampal and prefrontal (PFC) sections, Immunohistochemical investigations of the morphological impact on the hippocampus and PFC, were also analyzed. The protein-deficient groups displayed anxiety, loss of striatal serotonin and increased dopamine levels, degenerated pyramidal cells in the hippocampus, and a prominent reduction in cellular density in the PFC. BDNF and GDNF levels in the PFC were reduced in the 5%PD group. GFAP astrocyte expression was observed to be increased in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampal sections, indicating heightened reactivity. The density of hypertrophied cells across generations further suggests the presence of neuroinflammation. Changes in brain structure, neurotransmitter levels, and neurotrophic factor levels may indicate intergenerational alterations in critical regions, potentially serving as indicators of the brain's adaptive response to address protein deficiency across successive generations.

Banana Peel Extracts Enhance Climbing Ability and Extend Lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster

Banana peels, often discarded as waste, represent one of the most abundant food by-products, highlighting the need for effective waste management and resource recycling strategies. Due to their rich nutritional content, banana peels have been investigated for various health benefits, including anti-obesity effects. In this study, we examined the potential anti-aging properties of banana peel extracts (BPEs) in Drosophila melanogaster. Our findings demonstrated that flies fed with BPEs exhibited an extended lifespan and a significant improvement in age-related decline in climbing ability. Additionally, Dilp2 mRNA expression level is markedly decreased in aged flies fed with BPEs. These results suggest that BPEs may serve as a potential anti-aging agent by enhancing locomotor function and extending lifespan, potentially through the modulation of insulin signaling in D. melanogaster.

Ccr2-dependent monocytes exacerbate intestinal inflammation and modulate gut serotonergic signaling following traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to acute gastrointestinal dysfunction and mucosal damage, resulting in feeding intolerance. C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (Ccr2 + ) monocytes are crucial immune cells that regulate the gut's inflammatory response via the brain-gut axis. Using Ccr2 ko mice, we investigated the intricate interplay between these cells to better elucidate the role of systemic inflammation after TBI.

METHODS

A murine-controlled cortical impact model was used, and results were analyzed on postinjury days 1 and 3. The experimental groups included (1) sham C57Bl/6 wild type (WT), (2) TBI WT, (3) sham Ccr2 ko , and (4) TBI Ccr2 ko . Mice were euthanized on postinjury days 1 and 3 to harvest the ileum and study intestinal dysfunction and serotonergic signaling using a combination of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran motility assays, and flow cytometry. Student's t test and one-way analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis, with significance achieved when p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Traumatic brain injury resulted in severe dysfunction and dysmotility of the small intestine in WT mice as established by significant upregulation of inflammatory cytokines iNOS , Lcn2 , TNFα , and IL1β and the innate immunity receptor toll-like receptor 4 ( Tlr4 ). This was accompanied by disruption of genes related to serotonin synthesis and degradation. Notably, Ccr2 ko mice subjected to TBI showed substantial improvements in intestinal pathology. Traumatic brain injury Ccr2 ko groups demonstrated reduced expression of inflammatory mediators ( iNOS , Lcn2 , IL1β , and Tlr4 ) and improvement in serotonin synthesis genes, including tryptophan hydroxylase 1 ( Tph1 ) and dopa decarboxylase ( Ddc ).

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals a critical role for Ccr2 + monocytes in modulating intestinal homeostasis after TBI. Ccr2 + monocytes aggravate intestinal inflammation and alter gut-derived serotonergic signaling. Therefore, targeting Ccr2 + monocyte-dependent responses could provide a better understanding of TBI-induced gut inflammation. Further studies are required to elucidate the impact of these changes on brain neuroinflammation and cognitive outcomes.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Serotoninergic Signalling Pathway: Pathomechanism and Therapeutic Potential

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a disorder characterized by repeated upper airway collapse during sleep, leading to apneas and/or hypopneas, with associated symptoms like intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation. One of the agents contributing to OSA occurrence and development seems to be serotonin (5-HT). Currently, the research focuses on establishing and interlinking OSA pathogenesis and the severity of the disease on the molecular neurotransmitter omnipresent in the human body-serotonin, its pathway, products, receptors, drugs affecting the levels of serotonin, or genetic predisposition. The 5-HT system is associated with numerous physiological processes such as digestion, circulation, sleep, respiration, and muscle tone-all of which are considered factors promoting and influencing the course of OSA because of correlations with comorbid conditions. Comorbidities include obesity, physiological and behavioral disorders as well as cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, both serotonin imbalance and OSA are connected with psychiatric comorbidities, such as depression, anxiety, or cognitive dysfunction. Pharmacological agents that target 5-HT receptors have shown varying degrees of efficacy in reducing the Apnea-Hypopnea Index and improving OSA symptoms. The potential role of the 5-HT signaling pathway in modulating OSA provides a promising avenue for new therapeutic interventions that could accompany the primary treatment of OSA-continuous positive airway pressure. Thus, this review aims to elucidate the complex role of 5-HT and its regulatory mechanisms in OSA pathophysiology, evaluating its potential as a therapeutic target. We also summarize the relationship between 5-HT signaling and various physiological functions, as well as its correlations with comorbid conditions.

Neurobiological and psychological factors to depression

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common condition with complex psychological and biological background. While its aetiology is still unclear, chronic stress stands amongst major risk factors to MDD pathogenesis. When researching on MDD, it is necessary to be familiar with the neurobiological effects of several prominent contributors to the chronic stress factor experienced across hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, neurotransmission, immune system reflexivity, and genetic alterations. Bi-directional flow of MDD pathogenesis suggests that psychological factors produce biological effects. Here, a summary of how the MDD expresses its mechanisms of action across an overactive HPA axis, the negative impacts of reduced neurotransmitter functions, the inflammatory responses and their gene x environment interactions. This paper builds on these conceptual factors and their input towards the MDD symptomatology with a purpose of synthesising the current findings and create an integrated view of the MDD pathogenesis. Finally, relevant treatment implications will be summarised, along with recommendations to a multimodal clinical practice.

Interplay of Large Neutral Amino Acids, Metabolic Syndrome, and Apolipoprotein E ε4 on Brain Integrity at Midlife

INTRODUCTION

Large neutral amino acids (LNAAs) tryptophan and phenylalanine have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Given limited research on the effects of LNAA on brain health across different life stages, vascular risk, and genetic backgrounds, our study aimed to explore the interaction of LNAA levels, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and the presence of the apolipoprotein E ε4 (ApoE ε4) allele brain integrity at midlife.

METHODS

Sixty-eight adults aged 40-61 underwent a health assessment to calculate the number of MetS components, quantify LNAA, measure white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume, and genotype ApoE ε4. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to test the joint effect of LNAA, MetS, and ApoE ε4 on WMH while adjusting for sex, age, and education.

RESULTS

Significant 3-way interactions were observed between serum tryptophan (β = 0.042, SE = 0.018, p < 0.05) and phenylalanine (β = 0.044, SE = 0.013, p < 0.01) levels, number of MetS components, and ApoE ε4 alleles status on WMH volume. Neither individual LNAA levels nor MetS components alone predicted WMH volume.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights significant 3-way interactions between LNAA, MetS, and genetic risk factors in the pathology of WMH, particularly in individuals genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's disease. These interactions suggest differential impacts of LNAA on WMH volume dependent on both genetic and metabolic factors. Results emphasize the need for personalized metabolic and genetic profile assessments in neurodegenerative disease management.

Gut-Brain Axis: Unveiling the Interplay Between Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer's Disease

The gut-brain axis (GBA) represents a complex bidirectional communication system linking the gastrointestinal tract with the CNS, influencing various physiological processes, including cognition. Emerging research suggests a significant interplay between diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) mediated through this axis. DM, characterized by impaired insulin signaling and chronic inflammation, appears to exacerbate the pathology of AD. Key mechanisms include insulin resistance affecting neuronal function and promoting amyloid-beta accumulation and tau phosphorylation, hallmark features of AD. Additionally, dysbiosis of gut microbiota in DM may contribute to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, further aggravating AD pathology. The gut microbiota can modulate systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, potentially impacting AD progression in DM individuals. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies that address both DM and AD simultaneously. This abstract highlights the intricate relationship between metabolic disorders like DM and neurodegenerative conditions such as AD, emphasizing the role of the GBA as a pivotal area for future research and therapeutic interventions.

Exploring microbiota-gut-brain axis biomarkers linked to autism spectrum disorder in prenatally chlorpyrifos-exposed Fmr1 knock-out and wild-type male rats

Fmr1 (fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1)-knockout (KO) rats, modeling the human Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), are of particular interest for exploring the ASD-like phenotype in preclinical studies. Gestational exposure to chlorpyrifos (CPF) has been associated with ASD diagnosis in humans and ASD-like behaviors in rodents and linked to the microbiota-gut-brain axis. In this study, we have used both Fmr1-KO and wild-type male rats (F2 generation) at postnatal days (PND) 7 and 40 obtained after F1 pregnant females were randomly exposed to 1 mg/kg/mL/day of CPF or vehicle. A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics approach together with gene expression profiles of these F2 generation rats were employed to analyze different brain regions (such as prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum), whole large intestine (at PND7) and gut content (PND40). The statistical comparison of each matrix spectral profile unveiled tissue-specific metabolic fingerprints. Significant variations in some biomarker levels were detected among brain tissues of different genotypes, including taurine, myo-inositol, and 3-hydroxybutyric acid, and exposure to CPF induced distinct metabolic alterations, particularly in serine and myo-inositol. Additionally, this study provides a set of metabolites associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction in ASD, encompassing several amino acids, choline-derived compounds, bile acids, and sterol molecules. In terms of gene expression, genotype and gestational exposure to CPF had only minimal effects on decarboxylase 2 (gad2) and cholinergic receptor muscarinic 2 (chrm2) genes.

Probiotics and the microbiota-gut-brain axis in neurodegeneration: Beneficial effects and mechanistic insights

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a group of heterogeneous disorders with a high socioeconomic burden. Although pharmacotherapy is currently the principal therapeutic approach for the management of NDs, mounting evidence supports the notion that the protracted application of available drugs would abate their dopaminergic outcomes in the long run. The therapeutic application of microbiome-based modalities has received escalating attention in biomedical works. In-depth investigations of the bidirectional communication between the microbiome in the gut and the brain offer a multitude of targets for the treatment of NDs or maximizing the patient's quality of life. Probiotic administration is a well-known microbial-oriented approach to modulate the gut microbiota and potentially influence the process of neurodegeneration. Of note, there is a strong need for further investigation to map out the mechanistic prospects for the gut-brain axis and the clinical efficacy of probiotics. In this review, we discuss the importance of microbiome modulation and hemostasis via probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and synbiotics in ameliorating pathological neurodegenerative events. Also, we meticulously describe the underlying mechanism of action of probiotics and their metabolites on the gut-brain axis in different NDs. We suppose that the present work will provide a functional direction for the use of probiotic-based modalities in promoting current practical treatments for the management of neurodegenerative-related diseases.

Exploring the Potential of Probiotics and Prebiotics in Major Depression: From Molecular Function to Clinical Therapy

Major depressive disorder (MDD) represents a complex and challenging mental health condition with multifaceted etiology. Recent research exploring the gut-brain axis has shed light on the potential influence of gut microbiota on mental health, offering novel avenues for therapeutic intervention. This paper reviews current evidence on the role of prebiotics and probiotics in the context of MDD treatment. Clinical studies assessing the effects of prebiotic and probiotic interventions have demonstrated promising results, showcasing improvements in depression symptoms and metabolic parameters in certain populations. Notably, prebiotics and probiotics have shown the capacity to modulate inflammatory markers, cortisol levels, and neurotransmitter pathways linked to MDD. However, existing research presents varied outcomes, underscoring the need for further investigation into specific microbial strains, dosage optimization, and long-term effects. Future research should aim at refining personalized interventions, elucidating mechanisms of action, and establishing standardized protocols to integrate these interventions into clinical practice. While prebiotics and probiotics offer potential adjunctive therapies for MDD, continued interdisciplinary efforts are vital to harnessing their full therapeutic potential and reshaping the landscape of depression treatment paradigms.

Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid in Postoperative Delirium

Preoperative risk biomarkers for delirium may aid in identifying high-risk patients and developing intervention therapies, which would minimize the health and economic burden of postoperative delirium. Previous studies have typically used single omics approaches to identify such biomarkers. Preoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the Healthier Postoperative Recovery study of adults ≥ 63 years old undergoing elective major orthopedic surgery was used in a matched pair delirium case-no delirium control design. We performed metabolomics and lipidomics, which were combined with our previously reported proteomics results on the same samples. Differential expression, clustering, classification, and systems biology analyses were applied to individual and combined omics datasets. Probabilistic graph models were used to identify an integrated multi-omics interaction network, which included clusters of heterogeneous omics interactions among lipids, metabolites, and proteins. The combined multi-omics signature of 25 molecules attained an AUC of 0.96 [95% CI: 0.85-1.00], showing improvement over individual omics-based classification. We conclude that multi-omics integration of preoperative CSF identifies potential risk markers for delirium and generates new insights into the complex pathways associated with delirium. With future validation, this hypotheses-generating study may serve to build robust biomarkers for delirium and improve our understanding of its pathophysiology.

High-tannin food enhances spatial memory and scatter-hoarding in rodents via the microbiota-gut-brain axis

BACKGROUND

The mutually beneficial coevolutionary relationships between rodents and plant seeds have been a theme of research in plant-animal relationships. Seed tannins are important secondary metabolites of plants that regulate the food-hoarding behavior of rodents; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not yet clear. In this study, we investigated whether and how seed tannins improve spatial memory and regulate the hoarding behavior of Tamias sibiricus by altering their gut microbiota.

RESULTS

We showed that acorn tannins not only improved spatial memory but also enhanced scatter-hoarding in T. sibiricus. Changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiota in response to tannins from acorns are closely related to these improvements. Metabonomic analyses revealed the role of gut isovaleric acid and isobutyric acid as well as serum L-tryptophan in mediating the spatial memory of T. sibiricus via the gut microbiota. The hippocampal proteome provides further evidence that the microbiota-gut-brain axis regulates spatial memory and scatter-hoarding in animals. Our study is likely the first to report that plant secondary metabolites improve hippocampal function and spatial memory and ultimately modulate food-hoarding behavior via the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings may have resolved the long-standing puzzle about the hidden role of plant secondary metabolites in manipulating food-hoarding behavior in rodents via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Our study is important for better understanding the mutualistic coevolution between plants and animals. Video Abstract.

The association of dietary inflammatory index with sleep outcomes: A systematic review

Background

Sleep is a vital physiological process that plays a crucial role in various aspects of human health and well-being. Regarding the important role of diet on the sleep quality, the present study aimed to assess the association of dietary inflammatory index (DII) with the sleep outcomes and also to provide the potential mechanisms of action.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases and Google Scholar search engine were systematically searched for relevant studies related to DII and sleep outcomes using appropriate search terms until February 2024.

Results

From the initial systematic search of databases, 197 studies were retrieved. However, only 14 of them met the criteria for evaluation. Out of these, eleven studies indicated a significant correlation between higher DII scores and poor overall sleep quality and/or short/long sleep duration or its subscales. On the contrary, four studies did not find any proof of this association.

Conclusion

This systematic review indicated that following an anti-inflammatory diet could potentially lead to an improvement in the sleep outcomes. Well-designed clinical trials in the future will be necessary to provide a better understanding and quantification of this association.

The influence of physical activity, adherence to Mediterranean diet, and weight status on the psychological well-being of adolescents

The mental health of adolescents is a determining factor for their adequate development, but is influenced by factors such as physical activity, nutrition, gender, and weight status. However, previous research has not analysed differences in psychological status, mainly in basic psychological needs and life satisfaction, among male and female adolescents with different levels of physical activity, weight status and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (AMD). For this reason, the objectives of the present investigation were to establish whether the differences between active and inactive adolescents in basic psychological needs and life satisfaction depend on gender; and to determine the differences in basic psychological needs and life satisfaction of active and inactive adolescents with different weight status and AMD. A total of 791 adolescents aged between twelve and sixteen years old participated in the study. All the participants were measured for basic psychological needs, life satisfaction, and level of physical activity, AMD, and height and body mass. The results showed a higher score in basic psychological needs and life satisfaction for active adolescents in both the males' and females' groups. No differences were found in the psychological variables when comparing adolescents with different weight status. Adolescents with a higher AMD showed higher scores in satisfaction of basic psychological needs and satisfaction with life than adolescents with a worse AMD. Therefore, it can be concluded that the level of physical activity and AMD are factors to be considered for the mental health of adolescents, but the relevance of weight status will have to be confirmed in future research.

Effects of weaning and inactivated Lactobacillus helveticus supplementation on dairy calf behavioral and physiological indicators of affective state

The objectives of this study were to determine if weaning would induce behavioral and physiological indicators of a negative affective state, and if supplementation of inactivated Lactobacillus helveticus (ILH) to dairy calves would reduce those indicators of negative affect during weaning. Male Holstein calves (n = 23) were enrolled in the study on d 1 of life. The calves were housed in individual pens in 1 of 4 rooms for the 42 d study. Calves began a stepdown weaning from 9 L/d of milk replacer (MR), at 150 g of MR powder/L, on d 35 and received 6 L/d on d 35 - 36, 3 L/d on d 37 - 38, and 0.4 L/d on d 39 - 42. The MR was divided between 3 meals/d until the last 0.4 L/d phase which was divided between 2 meals/d. Calves had ad libitum water access throughout the study and calf starter from d 28 onwards. Within room, calves were assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: 1) control (CON; n = 11) and 2) 5 g of ILH/d split over and mixed into the 0800 h and 2000 h milk feedings from d 3-42 (ILH; n = 12). Lying behavior was recorded using HOBO data loggers from d 21-41. On d 33, 37 and 41, infrared eye images were taken to determine maximum eye temperature (MET), saliva samples were collected to determine cortisol concentration, and play assessments were conducted to quantify play behavior. On d 34, 38, and 42, blood samples were collected to determine blood serotonin concentration, whereas on d 38 and 39, calves were tested with a cognitive task. A subset of calves (n = 5/treatment) were euthanized to collect gut and brain tissue samples for serotonin concentration on d 43. Weaning resulted in fewer (d 37-41, tendency: d 36), but longer (d 38-41, tendency: d 37), lying bouts and reduced play (d 41), although no changes in lying time, MET, saliva cortisol, nor blood serotonin were detected with initiation of weaning. Supplementation of ILH was associated with lower lying time throughout the study, and reduced play duration and higher salivary cortisol and MET during weaning. No differences in lying bouts, play count, blood and tissue (colon, ileum, prefrontal cortex and brain stem) serotonin concentration, and time to complete the cognitive task were detected between the treatments. Overall, weaning induced behavioral changes indicative of negative affective state, and some behavioral differences were observed with ILH supplementation both before and during weaning, with some physiological changes observed during weaning.

Internalizing psychological symptoms in children and adolescents with fructose malabsorption

Introduction

Due to an inhibited tryptophan resorption, patients with fructose malabsorption are expected to experience decreased serotonin synthesis. A deficiency of serotonin may cause internalizing mental disorders like depression and anxiety, and a fructose-oriented eating behavior may affect these symptoms.

Methods

The parents of 24 children and adolescents with a currently diagnosed fructose malabsorption aged 4;00-13;02 years (M = 8.10, SD = 2.05), the parents of 12 patients with a currently confirmed combination of fructose and lactose malabsorption aged 4;00-12;11 years (M = 8.07, SD = 2.11) and the parents of a comparative sample of 19 healthy participants aged 5;00 to 17;07 years (M = 9.06, SD = 3.04) were interviewed. The interviews were conducted using a screening questionnaire of the German "Diagnostic System of Mental Disorders in children and adolescents based on the ICD-10 and DSM-5 DISYPS-III" and a self-developed questionnaire on eating, leisure and sleeping behavior.

Results

On standardized scales parents of children with fructose malabsorption reported higher levels of Depression compared to symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorders (ODD/CD). Compared to healthy controls, for patients with fructose malabsorption, higher symptom levels of Depression and Anxiety were reported. With regard to eating behavior, within the group with a combination of fructose and lactose malabsorption, a strong positive association between an increased fruit sugar consumption and higher levels of Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders/Tics were found.

Discussion

These results suggest a close association between fructose malabsorption and elevated internalizing psychological symptoms in children and adolescents.Clinical trial registration:https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00031047, DRKS-ID [DRKS00031047].

The Brain, the Eating Plate, and the Gut Microbiome: Partners in Migraine Pathogenesis

This review summarizes the relationship between diet, the gut microbiome, and migraine. Key findings reveal that certain dietary factors, such as caffeine and alcohol, can trigger migraine, while nutrients like magnesium and riboflavin may help alleviate migraine symptoms. The gut microbiome, through its influence on neuroinflammation (e.g., vagus nerve and cytokines), gut-brain signaling (e.g., gamma-aminobutyric acid), and metabolic function (e.g., short-chain fatty acids), plays a crucial role in migraine susceptibility. Migraine can also alter eating behaviors, leading to poor nutritional choices and further exacerbating the condition. Individual variability in diet and microbiome composition highlights the need for personalized dietary and prebiotic interventions. Epidemiological and clinical data support the effectiveness of tailored nutritional approaches, such as elimination diets and the inclusion of beneficial nutrients, in managing migraine. More work is needed to confirm the role of prebiotics, probiotics, and potentially fecal microbiome translation in the management of migraine. Future research should focus on large-scale studies to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of bidirectional interaction between diet and migraine and develop evidence-based clinical guidelines. Integrating dietary management, gut health optimization, and lifestyle modifications can potentially offer a holistic approach to reducing migraine frequency and severity, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Sexual dimorphism in neurobehavioural phenotype and gut microbial composition upon long-term exposure to structural analogues of bisphenol-A

Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF), the analogues of the legacy endocrine disrupting chemical, Bisphenol A (BPA) are ubiquitous in the environment and present in various consumer goods, and potentially neurotoxic. Here, we studied sex-specific responses of bisphenols on behavioural phenotypes, including their association with pro-inflammatory biomarkers and altered neurotransmitters levels, and the key gut microbial abundances. Neurobehavioural changes, using standard test battery, biochemical and molecular estimations for inflammatory cytokines, neurotransmitters, and oxido-nitrosative stress markers, gene expression analysis using qRT-PCR, H&E based histological investigations, gut permeability assays and Oxford Nanopore-based 16S-rRNA metagenomics sequencing for the gut microbial abundance estimations were performed. Bisphenol(s) exposure induces anxiety and depression-like behaviours, particularly in the male mice, with heightened pro-inflammatory cytokines levels and systemic endotoxemia, altered monoamine neurotransmitters levels/turnovers and hippocampal neuronal degeneration and inflammatory responses in the brain. They also increased gut permeability and altered microbial diversity, particularly in males. Present study provides evidence for sex-specific discrepancies in neurobehavioural phenotypes and gut microbiota, which necessitate a nuanced understanding of sex-dependent responses to bisphenols. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on the multifaceted implications of bisphenols exposure and underscores the need for tailored regulatory measures to mitigate potential health risks associated with them.

New insights into the effects of serotonin on Parkinson's disease and depression through its role in the gastrointestinal tract

Neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders are frequently associated with gastrointestinal (GI) co-pathologies. Although the central and enteric nervous systems (CNS and ENS, respectively) have been studied separately, there is increasing interest in factors that may contribute to conditions affecting both systems. There is compelling evidence that serotonin (5-HT) may play an important role in several gut-brain disorders. It is well known that 5-HT is essential for the development and functioning of the CNS. However, most of the body's 5-HT is produced in the GI tract. A deeper understanding of the specific effects of enteric 5-HT on gut-brain disorders may provide the basis for the development of new therapeutic targets. This review summarizes current data focusing on the important role of 5-HT in ENS development and motility, with particular emphasis on novel aspects of 5-HT signaling in conditions where CNS and ENS comorbidities are common, such as Parkinson's disease and depressive disorders.

The association between plant and animal protein intake with depression, anxiety, and stress

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence suggests that diet composition is a key biological factor related to the development of depressive disorders. The present study was conducted to investigate the animal and plant protein intake and their replacement in association with depression, anxiety, and stress in Iranian adults.

METHOD

In this cross-sectional study, the dietary intake of 7169 subjects were assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. The depression, anxiety, and stress Scale - 21 (DASS-21) questionnaire was used to psychological disorders. Logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios for depression, anxiety, and stress across quintiles of animal and plant protein.

RESULTS

The participants' age range was 20-69 years. Individuals with the highest animal protein consumption had a lower chance for developing depression compared to those with the lowest intakes (OR = 0.73, 95%CI: 0.59-0.90; Ptrend < 0.01). Results also showed a significant association between animal protein intake and anxiety, such that subjects in the highest quintile of animal protein intake had 24% lower odds for anxiety compared to those in the lowest quintile (p < 0.05). We found a significant association between highest quintiles of animal protein intake and a 40% lower risk for stress among female individuals (Ptrend = 0.05). The multivariable-adjusted non-linear analyses also revealed that the replacement of plant protein with animal protein was significantly associated with the likelihood of depression and anxiety (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Animal protein intake might lower the odds of depression and anxiety particularly. Future prospective investigations are proposed to confirm these findings.

Characterization of rice endosperm-derived antidepressant-like peptide (REAP): An orally active novel tridecapeptide derived from rice protein

It is ideal to ingest bioactive substances from daily foods to stay healthy. Rice is the staple food for almost half of the human population. We found that an orally administered enzymatic digest of rice endosperm protein exhibits antidepressant-like effects in the tail suspension test (TST) using mice. A comprehensive peptide analysis of the digest using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was performed, and a tridecapeptide QQFLPEGQSQSQK, detected in the digest, was chemosynthesized. Oral administration of the tridecapeptide exhibited antidepressant-like effects at a low dose comparable to classical antidepressant in the TST. This also exhibited anti-depressant-like effect in the forced swim test. We named it rice endosperm-derived antidepressant-like peptide (REAP). Intriguingly, intraperitoneal administration had no effect. Orally administered REAP(8-13) but not REAP(1-7) exhibited antidepressant-like activity, suggesting that the C-terminal structure is important for the antidepressant-like effect. We confirmed the presence of REAP, corresponding to rice glutelin type B4(130-142) and B5(130-142), in the digest. The effects of REAP were blocked by both dopamine D1 and D2 antagonists. These results suggest that it exerts its antidepressant-like activity through activation of the dopamine system. Taken together, oral administration of a novel tridecapeptide exhibited antidepressant-like effects via the dopamine system. This is the first report of a rice-derived peptide that exhibits antidepressant-like effects.

Potential Plausible Role of Stem Cell for Treating Depressive Disorder: a Retrospective Review

Depression poses a significant threat to global physical and mental health, impacting around 3.8% of the population with a rising incidence. Current treatment options primarily involve medication and psychological support, yet their effectiveness remains limited, contributing to high relapse rates. There is an urgent need for innovative and more efficacious treatment modalities. Stem cell therapy, a promising avenue in regenerative medicine for a spectrum of neurodegenerative conditions, has recently garnered attention for its potential application in depression. While much of this work remains preclinical, it has demonstrated considerable promise. Identified mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of stem cell therapy encompass the stimulation of neurotrophic factors, immune function modulation, and augmented monoamine levels. Nonetheless, these pathways and other undiscovered mechanisms necessitate further investigation. Depression fundamentally manifests as a neurodegenerative disorder. Given stem cell therapy's success in addressing a range of neurodegenerative pathologies, it opens the door to explore its application in depression treatment. This exploration may include repairing damaged nerves directly or indirectly and inhibiting neurotoxicity. Nevertheless, significant challenges must be overcome before stem cell therapies can be applied clinically. Successful resolution of these issues will ultimately determine the feasibility of incorporating stem cell therapies into the clinical landscape. This narrative review provides insights into the progress of research, potential avenues for exploration, and the prevailing challenges in the implementation of stem cell therapy for treatment of depression.

Modifying carbon dots with L-phenylalanine for rapid discrimination of tryptophan enantiomers

New chiral carbon dots (CDs), L-PCDs, for discriminating tryptophan (Trp) enantiomers were prepared in this work. Firstly, original CDs were synthesized through a hydrothermal method using pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid and o-phenylenediamine as raw materials. Then, the surface of original CDs was modified with L-phenylalanine to create chiral fluorescent carbon L-PCDs. In the presence of D-Trp, the fluorescence intensity of L-PCDs decreased significantly while it remained unchanged in the presence of L-Trp. The chiral sensing system used in this study has a rapid response time of 3 minutes and can identify enantiomers with an enantioselectivity (ID/IL) of up to 3.3. For D-Trp, a good linear relationship can be obtained in the range of 0.3-4.2 mM with a limit of detection of 0.06 mM. This sensor allows for both quantitative detection of D-Trp and determination of enantiomeric percentage in the racemate. The chiral recognition mechanism is attributed to the different interaction between D-/L-Trp and L-PCDs.

Mild cognitive impairment and microbiota: what is known and future perspectives

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a heterogeneous condition definable as the intermediate clinical state between normal aging and dementia. As a pre-dementia condition, there is a recent growing interest in the identification of non-invasive markers able to predict the progression from MCI to a more advanced stage of the disease. Previous evidence showed the close link between gut microbiota and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Conversely, the actual relationship between gut microbiota and MCI is yet to be clarified. In this work, we provide an overview about the current knowledge regarding the role of gut microbiota in the context of MCI, also assessing the potential for microbiota-targeted therapies. Through the review of the most recent studies focusing on this topic, we found evidence of an increase of Bacteroidetes at phylum level and Bacteroides at genus level in MCI subjects with respect to healthy controls and patients with AD. Despite such initial evidence, the definitive identification of a typical microbiota profile associated with MCI is still far from being achieved. These preliminary results, however, are growingly encouraging research on the role of gut microbiota modulation in improving the cognitive status of pre-dementia subjects. To date, few studies evaluated the role of probiotics in MCI subjects, and they showed favorable results, although still biased by small sample size, heterogeneity of study design and short follow-up.

Periconceptional Non-medical Maternal Determinants Influence the Tryptophan Metabolism: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study)

Background

The vital role of the maternal tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in maternal health and pregnancy is well established. However, non-medical maternal determinants influencing the TRP metabolism have been poorly investigated. We hypothesise that periconceptional maternal non-medical determinants alter the TRP metabolism, affecting both kynurenine (KP) and serotonin pathway (SP) metabolite concentrations. Therefore, we investigated the influence of non-medical maternal determinants on the TRP metabolism during the periconception period.

Methods

About 1916 pregnancies were included from the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort between November 2010 and December 2020. Data on periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants were collected through questionnaires. Serum samples were collected at 8.5 (SD = 1.6) weeks of gestation and TRP, kynurenine (KYN), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 5-HT (5-hydroxytryptamine) and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) were determined using validated liquid chromatography (tandem) mass spectrometry. Mixed models were used to determine associations between periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants and these metabolites.

Results

In total 11 periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants were identified. Protein intake was positively associated with TRP (β = .12, 95% CI = 0.07-0.17), while age, energy intake and body mass index (BMI) (β = -.24, 95% CI = -0.37 to -0.10) were negatively associated with TRP. Age, BMI and total homocysteine were associated with higher KYN, whereas non-western geographical origin was associated with lower KYN (β = -.09, 95% CI = -0.16 to -0.03). Protein intake and total homocysteine (β = .07, 95% CI = 0.03-0.11) had a positive association with 5-HTP, while a negative association was found for energy intake. A non-western geographical origin and drug use were associated with higher 5-HT, and BMI with lower 5-HT (β = -6.32, 95% CI = -10.26 to -2.38). Age was positively associated with 5-HIAA (β = .92, 95% CI = 0.29-1.56), and BMI negatively.

Conclusions

Periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants, including age, geographical origin, drug use, energy and protein intake, BMI and total homocysteine, influence KP and SP metabolite concentrations.

Serotonin syndrome controversies: A need for consensus

Serotonin syndrome (SS) is a drug-induced clinical syndrome resulting from increased serotonergic activity in the central nervous system. Although more than seven decades have passed since the first description of SS, it is still an enigma in terms of terminology, clinical features, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic measures. The majority of SS cases have previously been reported by toxicology or psychiatry centers, particularly in people with mental illness. However, serotonergic medications are used for a variety of conditions other than mental illness. Serotonergic properties have been discovered in several new drugs, including over-the-counter medications. These days, cases are reported in non-toxicology centers, such as perioperative settings, neurology clinics, cardiology settings, gynecology settings, and pediatric clinics. Overdoses or poisonings of serotonergic agents constituted the majority of the cases observed in toxicology or psychiatry centers. Overdose or poisoning of serotonergic drugs is uncommon in other clinical settings. Patients may develop SS at therapeutic dosages. Moreover, these patients may continue to use serotonergic medications even if they develop mild to moderate SS due to several reasons. Thus, the clinical presentation (onset, severity, and clinical features) in such instances may not exactly match what toxicologists or psychiatrists observe in their respective settings. They produce considerable diversity in many aspects of SS. However, other experts discount these new developments in SS. Since SS is a potentially lethal illness, consensus is required on several concerns related to SS.

The connection between gut microbiota and its metabolites with neurodegenerative diseases in humans

The aging of populations is a global phenomenon that follows a possible increase in the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and Huntington's diseases are some neurodegenerative disorders that aging could initiate or aggravate. Recent research has indicated that intestinal microbiota dysbiosis can trigger metabolism and brain functioning, contributing to the etiopathogenesis of those neurodegenerative diseases. The intestinal microbiota and its metabolites show significant functions in various aspects, such as the immune system modulation (development and maturation), the maintenance of the intestinal barrier integrity, the modulation of neuromuscular functions in the intestine, and the facilitation of essential metabolic processes for both the microbiota and humans. The primary evidence supporting the connection between intestinal microbiota and its metabolites with neurodegenerative diseases are epidemiological observations and animal models experimentation. This paper reviews up-to-date evidence on the correlation between the microbiota-gut-brain axis and neurodegenerative diseases, with a specially focus on gut metabolites. Dysbiosis can increase inflammatory cytokines and bacterial metabolites, altering intestinal and blood-brain barrier permeability and causing neuroinflammation, thus facilitating the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Clinical data supporting this evidence still needs to be improved. Most of the works found are descriptive and associated with the presence of phyla or species of bacteria with neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the limitations of recent research, the potential for elucidating clinical questions that have thus far eluded clarification within prevailing pathophysiological frameworks of health and disease is promising through investigation of the interplay between the host and microbiota.

A biphasic response to blueberry supplementation on depressive symptoms in emerging adults: a double-blind randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to examine the acute and chronic effects of wild blueberry supplementation on mood, executive function, and serum biomarkers of neuroplasticity, inflammation, and oxidative stress in emerging adults with moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms.

METHODS

In this double-blind trial, 60 emerging adults (Mage = 20.0 years, 32% male) with self-reported depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to receive a single blueberry drink (acute phase), followed by 6 weeks of daily blueberry supplementation (chronic phase), or a matched placebo drink. The primary outcome was Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) scores at 6-week follow-up. Further measures included momentary affect (PANAS-X) and accuracy on an executive function task. The data were analyzed using ANCOVAs adjusted for baseline values, sex, and habitual fruit and vegetable intake. Estimated marginal means were calculated to compare the treatment arms.

RESULTS

The blueberry drink significantly improved positive affect (p = 0.026) and executive function (p = 0.025) at 2 h post-ingestion, with change scores being positively correlated in the blueberry group (r = 0.424, p = 0.017). However, after six weeks of supplementation the reduction in BDI-II scores was greater in the placebo group by 5.8 points (95% CI: 0.8-10.7, p = 0.023). Generalized anxiety and anhedonia also decreased significantly more in the placebo group. No significant differences were found for any of the biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

Six weeks of wild blueberry supplementation were inferior to placebo in reducing depressive symptoms. Nevertheless, the correlated improvements in positive affect and executive function after a single dose of blueberries point to a beneficial, albeit transient, psychological effect. These contrasting results suggest a biphasic, hormetic-like response that warrants further investigation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT04647019, dated 30 November, 2020.