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Olszyński KH, Polowy R, Wardak AD, Łaska IA, Grymanowska AW, Puławski W, Gawryś O, Koliński M, Filipkowski RK. Male rats emit aversive 44-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations during prolonged Pavlovian fear conditioning. eLife 2024; 12:RP88810. [PMID: 39656518 PMCID: PMC11630816 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Rats are believed to communicate their emotional state by emitting two distinct types of ultrasonic vocalizations. The first is long '22-kHz' vocalizations (>300 ms, <32-kHz) with constant frequency, signaling aversive states, and the second is short '50-kHz' calls (<150 ms, >32 kHz), often frequency-modulated, in appetitive situations. Here, we describe aversive vocalizations emitted at a higher pitch by male Wistar and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) in an intensified aversive state - prolonged fear conditioning. These calls, which we named '44-kHz' vocalizations, are long (>150 ms), generally at a constant frequency (usually within 35-50-kHz range) and have an overall spectrographic image similar to 22-kHz calls. Some 44-kHz vocalizations are comprised of both 22-kHz-like and 44-kHz-like elements. Furthermore, two separate clustering methods confirmed that these 44-kHz calls can be separated from other vocalizations. We observed 44-kHz calls to be associated with freezing behavior during fear conditioning training, during which they constituted up to 19.4% of all calls and most of them appeared next to each other forming uniform groups of vocalizations (bouts). We also show that some of rats' responses to the playback of 44-kHz calls were more akin to that of aversive calls, for example, heart rate changes, whereas other responses were at an intermediate level between aversive and appetitive calls. Our results suggest that rats have a wider vocal repertoire than previously believed, and current definitions of major call types may require reevaluation. We hope that future investigations of 44-kHz calls in rat models of human diseases will contribute to expanding our understanding and therapeutic strategies related to human psychiatric conditions.
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Sivapalan S, Sivayokan B, Raveenthiran K, Sivayokan S. Sensory Issues and Their Impact Among Autistic Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Sri Lanka. Cureus 2024; 16:e72130. [PMID: 39575000 PMCID: PMC11580710 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.72130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 11/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensory processing issues are among the key diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As altered sensory processing causes autistic children to react differently to sensory experiences and has a profound impact on their development, affecting their learning ability, social interaction, and ability to adapt to a new environment, there is a need to recognize and address these issues in children diagnosed with ASD during assessments and interventions. This study aimed to identify the patterns of sensory issues and their impact, and selected correlates among autistic children attending a center for neurodevelopmental disorders in northern Sri Lanka. METHODS This institution-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at a center for neurodevelopmental disorders in Jaffna among 100 children diagnosed with ASD. The sociodemographic details of the child, and scores of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale second edition (CARS™ 2), Sensory Profile™ 2, and a locally developed Behavioral Checklist were extracted from the records available at the center. Data were analyzed using R statistical computing software (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) using general linear models. RESULTS All the children in this study had at least one sensory issue, with 50% having visual processing issues. The severity of ASD increased as auditory processing issues increased. Behavioral issues, in general, increased significantly with increasing auditory and visual processing issues. Repetitive behaviors significantly increased with increasing auditory processing issues, while problems with self-regulation increased significantly with increasing visual and movement processing issues. Conduct-related issues were found to increase significantly with increasing movement and visual processing issues, and attentional response issues were found to increase significantly with increasing auditory, visual, and touch processing issues. CONCLUSION The high prevalence of sensory issues in autistic children and its impact on the severity of ASD and behavioral issues are reiterated in this study. These results emphasize the importance of including interventions targeting sensory issues with the routine therapy for ASD.
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Kaneko A, Atsumi T, Ide M. Temporal resolution relates to sensory hyperreactivity independently of stimulus detection sensitivity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Perception 2024; 53:585-596. [PMID: 38863412 DOI: 10.1177/03010066241259729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Researchers have been focusing on perceptual characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in terms of sensory hyperreactivity. Previously, we demonstrated that temporal resolution, which is the accuracy to differentiate the order of two successive vibrotactile stimuli, is associated with the severity of sensory hyperreactivity. We currently examined whether an increase in the perceptual intensity of a tactile stimulus, despite its short duration, is derived from high temporal resolution and high frequency of sensory temporal summation. Twenty ASD and 22 typically developing (TD) participants conducted two psychophysical experimental tasks to evaluate detectable duration of vibrotactile stimulus with same amplitude and to evaluate temporal resolution. The sensory hyperreactivity was estimated using self-reported questionnaire. There was no relationship between the temporal resolution and the duration of detectable stimuli in both groups. However, the ASD group showed severe sensory hyperreactivity in daily life than TD group, and the ASD participants with severe sensory hyperreactivity tended to have high temporal resolution, not high sensitivity of detectable duration. Contrary to the hypothesis, there might be different processing between temporal resolution and sensitivity for stimulus detection. We suggested that the atypical temporal processing would affect to sensory reactivity in ASD.
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Narvekar N, Carter Leno V, Pasco G, Begum Ali J, Johnson MH, Charman T, Jones EJH. The roles of sensory hyperreactivity and hyporeactivity in understanding infant fearfulness and emerging autistic traits. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:1022-1036. [PMID: 38172076 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13941] [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] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing evidence indicates that atypical sensory reactivity is a core characteristic of autism, and has been linked to both anxiety (and its putative infant precursor of fearfulness) and repetitive behaviours. However, most work has used cross-sectional designs and not considered the differential roles of hyperreactivity and hyporeactivity to sensory inputs, and is thus limited in specificity. METHODS 161 infants with and without an elevated likelihood of developing autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were followed from 10 to 36 months of age. Parents rated an infant precursor of later anxiety (fearfulness) using the Infant Behaviour Questionnaire at 10 and 14 months, and the Early Childhood Behavioural Questionnaire at 24 months, and sensory hyperreactivity and hyporeactivity at 10, 14 and 24 months using the Infant Toddler Sensory Profile. Domains of autistic traits (restrictive and repetitive behaviours; RRB, and social communication interaction, SCI) were assessed using the parent-rated Social Responsiveness Scale at 36 months. Cross-lagged models tested (a) paths between fearfulness and hyperreactivity at 10-24 months, and from fearfulness and hyperreactivity to later autism traits, (b) the specificity of hyperreactivity effects by including hyporeactivity as a correlated predictor. RESULTS Hyperreactivity at 14 months was positively associated with fearfulness at 24 months, and hyperreactivity at 24 months was positively associated with SCI and RRB at 36 months. When hyporeactivity was included in the model, paths between hyperreactivity and fearfulness remained, but paths between hyperreactivity and autistic traits became nonsignificant. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that alterations in early sensory reactivity may increase the likelihood of showing fearfulness in infancy, and relate to later social interactions and repetitive behaviours, particularly in individuals with a family history of autism or ADHD.
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Addy-Orduna LM, Ortiz-Santaliestra ME, Mougeot F, Bolívar-Muñoz P, Camarero PR, Mateo R. Behavioral Responses of Imidacloprid-Dosed Farmland Birds to a Simulated Predation Risk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39034620 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Sublethal exposure to imidacloprid and other neonicotinoid insecticides may affect the neurological functions of birds. As such, behavior may be compromised. Here, we tested experimentally the effects of 1 and 6 mg/kg bw of imidacloprid on the antipredator behavioral responses of the red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) to simulated predator threats. Sixty-six partridges were challenged in groups or individually to intra- and interspecific alarm calls, to a raptor silhouette (aerial predation risk), and to a fox model (terrestrial predation risk). Antipredator behaviors were recorded as active (escape, active vigilance) and passive (passive vigilance, crouching, and freezing) responses. Latency in response to the stimuli, percentage of individuals who responded, response duration, speed of active responses, and vocalizations were measured. In experiments with partridges in the group, crouching against simulated predation risk lasted less time in birds treated with 6 mg a.i./kg bw than in control birds. In the experiments with individual partridges, passive vigilance against the intraspecific alarm lasted longer in birds treated with 6 mg a.i./kg bw than in control birds. The observed hyperreactivity to the predatory threat after a sublethal imidacloprid exposure can have consequences on survival under field conditions, where predation is a main driver of population dynamics.
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Carvalho T, Mello Jr JFD, Caldini ETEG, Salgado DC, Carvalho NMGD, Damaceno-Rodrigues NR, Voegels RL. Perivascular Innervation in the Nasal Mucosa and Clinical Findings in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis and Idiopathic Rhinitis. Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2023; 27:e723-e732. [PMID: 37876708 PMCID: PMC10593529 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1775581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The nonspecific hyperreactivity of rhinitis has been attributed to neurotrophins activating sensory nerves and inflammatory cells. The relationship between these markers and the intensity of the symptoms is not well established and few studies have evaluated individuals with idiopathic rhinitis. Objective The present study aims to evaluate whether perivascular innervation and nerve growth factor (NGF) are related to the intensity of the clinical conditions in allergic rhinitis (AR) and idiopathic rhinitis (IR). Methods A total of 15 patients with AR and 15 patients with IR with the indication for inferior turbinectomy (associated or not with septoplasty) were selected. The patients received a score according to their signs and symptoms. After the surgery, we quantified eosinophils, mast cells, NGF, and nerve fibers in the nasal turbinate. Results The score of the signs and symptoms was higher in the AR group. Nerve growth factor was found in the cytoplasm of inflammatory cells in the submucosa in greater quantity in the AR group. The nerve fibers were distributed throughout the tissue, mainly in the subepithelial, glandular, and vascular regions, and there was no difference between the groups. Greater perivascular innervation was associated with a higher signs and symptoms score. Conclusions We concluded that these findings suggest that the NGF produced by submucosal inflammatory cells stimulates increased perivascular innervation in rhinitis, thus directly reflecting in more intense clinical conditions, especially in AR.
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Williams ZJ, Schaaf R, Ausderau KK, Baranek GT, Barrett DJ, Cascio CJ, Dumont RL, Eyoh EE, Failla MD, Feldman JI, Foss-Feig JH, Green HL, Green SA, He JL, Kaplan-Kahn EA, Keçeli-Kaysılı B, MacLennan K, Mailloux Z, Marco EJ, Mash LE, McKernan EP, Molholm S, Mostofsky SH, Puts NAJ, Robertson CE, Russo N, Shea N, Sideris J, Sutcliffe JS, Tavassoli T, Wallace MT, Wodka EL, Woynaroski TG. Examining the Latent Structure and Correlates of Sensory Reactivity in Autism: A Multi-site Integrative Data Analysis by the Autism Sensory Research Consortium. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2447849. [PMID: 36712092 PMCID: PMC9882639 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2447849/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Differences in responding to sensory stimuli, including sensory hyperreactivity (HYPER), hyporeactivity (HYPO), and sensory seeking (SEEK) have been observed in autistic individuals across sensory modalities, but few studies have examined the structure of these "supra-modal" traits in the autistic population. Methods Leveraging a combined sample of 3,868 autistic youth drawn from 12 distinct data sources (ages 3-18 years and representing the full range of cognitive ability), the current study used modern psychometric and meta-analytic techniques to interrogate the latent structure and correlates of caregiver-reported HYPER, HYPO, and SEEK within and across sensory modalities. Bifactor statistical indices were used to both evaluate the strength of a "general response pattern" factor for each supra-modal construct and determine the added value of "modality-specific response pattern" scores (e.g., Visual HYPER). Bayesian random-effects integrative data analysis models were used to examine the clinical and demographic correlates of all interpretable HYPER, HYPO and SEEK (sub)constructs. Results All modality-specific HYPER subconstructs could be reliably and validly measured, whereas certain modality-specific HYPO and SEEK subconstructs were psychometrically inadequate when measured using existing items. Bifactor analyses unambiguously supported the validity of a supra-modal HYPER construct (ω H = .800), whereas a coherent supra-modal HYPO construct was not supported (ω H = .611), and supra-modal SEEK models suggested a more limited version of the construct that excluded some sensory modalities (ω H = .799; 4/7 modalities). Within each sensory construct, modality-specific subscales demonstrated substantial added value beyond the supra-modal score. Meta-analytic correlations varied by construct, although sensory features tended to correlate most strongly with other domains of core autism features and co-occurring psychiatric symptoms. Certain subconstructs within the HYPO and SEEK domains were also associated with lower adaptive behavior scores. Limitations: Conclusions may not be generalizable beyond the specific pool of items used in the current study, which was limited to parent-report of observable behaviors and excluded multisensory items that reflect many "real-world" sensory experiences. Conclusion Psychometric issues may limit the degree to which some measures of supra-modal HYPO/SEEK can be interpreted. Depending on the research question at hand, modality-specific response pattern scores may represent a valid alternative method of characterizing sensory reactivity in autism.
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Harris LL, Coolidge FL. The psychometric properties of a self-report inventory of autistic symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. J Clin Psychol 2023; 79:158-167. [PMID: 35579192 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND METHODS This study examined 85 parental-reports with 85 self-reports of autistic symptoms with the 84-item Coolidge Autistic Symptom Survey (CASS). The CASS covers all of the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), as no studies to date have compared the self-reports of individuals with autism with parent- or significant-other-reports of those individuals using the complete DSM-5. RESULTS The CASS-Parental-Report and CASS-Self-Report exhibited excellent internal reliability (α = 0.97 and 0.96, respectively). There was support for the hypothesis that parental-reports and self-reports would be similar (r = 0.66, p < 0.001). DISCUSSION In conclusion, the CASS should be considered a promising tool for assessing autistic symptoms from both parent- and self-perspectives.
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Elwany S, Mandour Z, Ibrahim AA, Bazak R. Nasal Reactivity After Radiofrequency Ablation of Peripheral Branches of Posterior Nasal Nerve. Turk Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 60:181-187. [PMID: 37456602 PMCID: PMC10339264 DOI: 10.4274/tao.2022.2022-10-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Transection or ablation of the posterior nasal nerve (TRPN) has been described as an adjunctive tool to reduce the symptoms of intractable allergic rhinitis (AR). The procedure, however, requires surgical skill and carries the risk of bleeding from the sphenopalatine artery. The aim of the present study is to describe radiofrequency ablation of the peripheral branches of the posterior nasal nerves within the inferior turbinates (RAPN) as an effective easier alternative to TRPN. Methods The procedure was performed on 24 patients with intractable AR. Nasal reactivity was tested by cold dry air (CDA) provocation before and 12 months after the radiofrequency procedure. Visual analog scale and acoustic rhinometry were used to measure the changes in nasal reactivity subjectively and objectively. Results Worsening of nasal symptoms following CDA provocation had significantly decreased after the RAPN procedure. Likewise, postoperative decrease in nasal volumes and minimal cross-sectional areas after CDA provocation were significantly less than the corresponding preoperative values. Conclusion RAPN effectively reduces nasal reactivity in patients with AR. The procedure is simple, minimally invasive, and can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
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Lalonde R, Strazielle C. The mouse at the popcorn stage of development. Int J Dev Neurosci 2022; 82:199-204. [PMID: 35080044 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
In mice, rats, and rabbits vigorous jumping and hyperexcitability occur at the popcorn stage of postnatal development. In view of subcortical structures appearing before cortical ones, the trait is deemed to occur at the maturation time of ascending excitatory projections from the brainstem and to disappear at the maturation time of descending inhibitory projections from the forebrain. There is evidence that the popcorn stage may be due in part to the lack of a cholinergic influence on dopamine systems. Based mostly on results found in adult mice and rats, there may also be a role for cortico-subcortical systems that include the cerebellum and basal ganglia requiring the influence of biogenic amines, glutamate, and endocannabinoids.
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Tomala J, Weberova P, Tomalova B, Jiraskova Zakostelska Z, Sivak L, Kovarova J, Kovar M. IL-2/JES6-1 mAb complexes dramatically increase sensitivity to LPS through IFN-γ production by CD25 +Foxp3 - T cells. eLife 2021; 10:62432. [PMID: 34932467 PMCID: PMC8691839 DOI: 10.7554/elife.62432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Complexes of IL-2 and JES6-1 mAb (IL-2/JES6) provide strong sustained IL-2 signal selective for CD25+ cells and thus they potently expand Treg cells. IL-2/JES6 are effective in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and in protecting against rejection of pancreatic islet allografts. However, we found that IL-2/JES6 also dramatically increase sensitivity to LPS-mediated shock in C57BL/6 mice. We demonstrate here that this phenomenon is dependent on endogenous IFN-γ and T cells, as it is not manifested in IFN-γ deficient and nude mice, respectively. Administration of IL-2/JES6 leads to the emergence of CD25+Foxp3-CD4+ and CD25+Foxp3-CD8+ T cells producing IFN-γ in various organs, particularly in the liver. IL-2/JES6 also increase counts of CD11b+CD14+ cells in the blood and the spleen with higher sensitivity to LPS in terms of TNF-α production and induce expression of CD25 in these cells. These findings indicate safety issue for potential use of IL-2/JES6 or similar IL-2-like immunotherapeutics.
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Increased Vocalization of Rats in Response to Ultrasonic Playback as a Sign of Hypervigilance Following Fear Conditioning. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11080970. [PMID: 34439589 PMCID: PMC8393681 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11080970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the effects of prior stress on rats' responses to 50-kHz (appetitive) and 22-kHz (aversive) ultrasonic playback. Rats were treated with 0, 1, 6 or 10 shocks (1 s, 1.0 mA each) and were exposed to playbacks the following day. Previous findings were confirmed: (i) rats moved faster during 50-kHz playback and slowed down after 22-kHz playback; (ii) they all approached the speaker, which was more pronounced during and following 50-kHz playback than 22-kHz playback; (iii) 50-kHz playback caused heart rate (HR) increase; 22-kHz playback caused HR decrease; (iv) the rats vocalized more often during and following 50-kHz playback than 22-kHz playback. The previous shock affected the rats such that singly-shocked rats showed lower HR throughout the experiment and a smaller HR response to 50-kHz playback compared to controls and other shocked groups. Interestingly, all pre-shocked rats showed higher locomotor activity during 50-kHz playback and a more significant decrease in activity following 22-kHz playback; they vocalized more often, their ultrasonic vocalizations (USV) were longer and at a higher frequency than those of the control animals. These last two observations could point to hypervigilance, a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in human patients. Increased vocalization may be a valuable measure of hypervigilance used for PTSD modeling.
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Papadopoulos NG. Current Grand Challenges in Allergy. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2020; 1:547654. [PMID: 35386930 PMCID: PMC8974771 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2020.547654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Panta CR, Ruisanchez É, Móré D, Dancs PT, Balogh A, Fülöp Á, Kerék M, Proia RL, Offermanns S, Tigyi GJ, Benyó Z. Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Enhances α 1-Adrenergic Vasoconstriction via S1P2-G 12/13-ROCK Mediated Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246361. [PMID: 31861195 PMCID: PMC6941080 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) has been implicated recently in the physiology and pathology of the cardiovascular system including regulation of vascular tone. Pilot experiments showed that the vasoconstrictor effect of S1P was enhanced markedly in the presence of phenylephrine (PE). Based on this observation, we hypothesized that S1P might modulate α1-adrenergic vasoactivity. In murine aortas, a 20-minute exposure to S1P but not to its vehicle increased the Emax and decreased the EC50 of PE-induced contractions indicating a hyperreactivity to α1-adrenergic stimulation. The potentiating effect of S1P disappeared in S1P2 but not in S1P3 receptor-deficient vessels. In addition, smooth muscle specific conditional deletion of G12/13 proteins or pharmacological inhibition of the Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) by Y-27632 or fasudil abolished the effect of S1P on α1-adrenergic vasoconstriction. Unexpectedly, PE-induced contractions remained enhanced markedly as late as three hours after S1P-exposure in wild-type (WT) and S1P3 KO but not in S1P2 KO vessels. In conclusion, the S1P–S1P2–G12/13–ROCK signaling pathway appears to have a major influence on α1-adrenergic vasoactivity. This cooperativity might lead to sustained vasoconstriction when increased sympathetic tone is accompanied by increased S1P production as it occurs during acute coronary syndrome and stroke.
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Hadebe S, Brombacher F. Environment and Host-Genetic Determinants in Early Development of Allergic Asthma: Contribution of Fungi. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2696. [PMID: 31824491 PMCID: PMC6879655 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic debilitating airway disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Although largely thought to be a disease of the first world, it is now clear that it is on the rise in many middle- and lower-income countries. The disease is complex, and its etiology is poorly understood, which explains failure of most treatment strategies. We know that in children, asthma is closely linked to poor lung function in the first 3-years of life, when the lung is still undergoing post-natal alveolarization phase. Epidemiological studies also suggest that environmental factors around that age do play a critical part in the establishment of early wheezing which persists until adulthood. Some of the factors that contribute to early development of asthma in children in Western world are clear, however, in low- to middle-income countries this is likely to differ significantly. The contribution of fungal species in the development of allergic diseases is known in adults and in experimental models. However, it is unclear whether early exposure during perinatal or post-natal lung development influences a protective or promotes allergic asthma. Host immune cells and responses will play a crucial part in early development of allergic asthma. How immune cells and their receptors may recognize fungi and promote allergic asthma or protect by tolerance among other immune mechanisms is not fully understood in this early lung development stage. The aim of this review is to discuss what fungal species are present during early exposure as well as their contribution to the development of allergic responses. We also discuss how the host has evolved to promote tolerance to limit hyper-responsiveness to innocuous fungi, and how host evasion by fungi during early development consequentially results in allergic diseases.
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Liao Z, Xiao HT, Zhang Y, Tong RS, Zhang LJ, Bian Y, He X. IL-1β: a key modulator in asthmatic airway smooth muscle hyper-reactivity. Expert Rev Respir Med 2015; 9:429-36. [PMID: 26134749 DOI: 10.1586/17476348.2015.1063422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airway. It is characterized by airway hyper-reactivity, which can be attributed to the chronically inflamed airway. However, the molecular mechanism is still under investigation. In this article, we have shown that IL-1β is a key molecule that can orchestrate both Toll-like receptor and muscarinic receptor pathways, and that antagonizing the function of IL-1β has a promising future as a potential drug target for asthma treatment. IL-1β can activate NF-κB pathways via Toll-like receptors, and NF-κB will eventually transactivate the genes of cytokines, chemokines, proteins of the complement system, adhesion molecules and immune receptors involved in inflammation. IL-1β can activate eosinophils, which can release major basic protein (MBP) to antagonize the M2 receptors leading to excessive acetylcholine release. Acetylcholine has an effect on M3 receptors, which are related to airway smooth muscle contraction and mucus production. IL-1β is reported to activate COX-2 resulting in heterologous desensitization of adenylate cyclase and impairs relaxation of the ASM. IL-1β is involved in mediation of neutrophilic inflammation. Identification of the prominent role of IL-1β in asthma could lead to successful use of anti-IL1β agents.
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Zanini A, Cherubino F, Zampogna E, Croce S, Pignatti P, Spanevello A. Bronchial hyperresponsiveness, airway inflammation, and reversibility in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2015; 10:1155-61. [PMID: 26124655 PMCID: PMC4476439 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s80992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), sputum eosinophilia, and bronchial reversibility are often thought to be a hallmark of asthma, yet it has been shown to occur in COPD as well. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the relationship between BHR, lung function, and airway inflammation in COPD patients. METHODS Thirty-one, steroid-free patients with stable, mild and moderate COPD were studied. The following tests were carried out: baseline lung function, reversibility, provocative dose of methacholine causing a 20% fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 second, a COPD symptom score, and sputum induction. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients completed the procedures. About 41.4% had BHR, 31.0% had increased sputum eosinophils, and 37.9% had bronchial reversibility. Some of the patients had only one of these characteristics while others had two or the three of them. Patients with BHR had higher sputum eosinophils than patients without BHR (P=0.046) and those with sputum eosinophils ≥3% had more exacerbations in the previous year and a higher COPD symptom score than patients with sputum eosinophils <3% (P=0.019 and P=0.031, respectively). In patients with BHR, the cumulative dose of methacholine was negatively related to the symptom score and the number of exacerbations in the previous year. When patients with bronchial reversibility were considered, bronchodilation was positively related to sputum eosinophils. CONCLUSION Our study showed that BHR, sputum eosinophilia, and bronchial reversibility were not clustered in one single phenotype of COPD but could be present alone or together. Of interest, BHR and airway eosinophilia were associated with clinical data in terms of exacerbations and symptoms. Further investigation is needed to clarify this topic.
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Wang H, Jafri A, Martin RJ, Nnanabu J, Farver C, Prakash YS, MacFarlane PM. Severity of neonatal hyperoxia determines structural and functional changes in developing mouse airway. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2014; 307:L295-301. [PMID: 24951774 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00208.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Wheezing is a major long-term respiratory morbidity in preterm infants with and without bronchopulmonary dysplasia. We hypothesized that mild vs. severe hyperoxic exposure in neonatal mice differentially affects airway smooth muscle hypertrophy and resultant airway reactivity. Newborn mice were exposed to 7 days of mild (40% oxygen) or severe (70% oxygen) hyperoxia vs. room air controls. Respiratory system resistance (Rrs), compliance (Crs), and airway reactivity were measured 14 days after oxygen exposure ended under ketamine/xylazine anesthesia. Baseline Rrs increased and Crs decreased in both treatment groups. Methacholine challenge dose dependently increased Rrs and decreased Crs in 40% oxygen-exposed mice, whereas Rrs and Crs responses were similar between 70% oxygen-exposed and normoxic controls. Airway smooth muscle thickness was increased in 40%- but not 70%-exposed mice, whereas collagen increased and both alveolar number and radial alveolar counts decreased after 40% and 70% oxygen. These data indicate that severity of hyperoxia may differentially affect structural and functional changes in the developing mouse airway that contribute to longer-term hyperreactivity. These findings may be important to our understanding of the complex role of neonatal supplemental oxygen therapy in postnatal development of airway responsiveness.
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Gao FS, Cao TM, Gao YY, Liu MJ, Liu YQ, Wang Z. Effects of chronic exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus on epidermal growth factor receptor expression in the airway epithelial cells of asthmatic rats. Exp Lung Res 2014; 40:298-307. [PMID: 24927409 DOI: 10.3109/01902148.2014.918212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies suggest that increased concentrations of airborne spores of Aspergillus fumigatus closely relate to asthma aggravation. Chronic exposure to A. fumigatus aggravates airway inflammation, remodeling, and airway hyperresponsiveness in asthmatic rats. The effects of chronic exposure to A. fumigatus on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression in the airway epithelial cells of asthmatic rats remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of chronic exposure to A. fumigatus on injury and shedding of airway epithelium, goblet cell metaplasia, and EGFR expression in the airway epithelial cells of asthmatic rats. A rat model of chronic asthma was established using ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization and challenge. Rats with chronic asthma were then exposed to long-term inhalation of spores of A. fumigatus, and the dynamic changes in injury and shedding of airway epithelium, goblet cell metaplasia, and EGFR expression were observed and analyzed. Chronic exposure to A. fumigatus could aggravate airway epithelial cell damage, upregulate the expression of EGFR and its ligands EGF and TGF-α, promote goblet cell metaplasia, and increase airway responsiveness in rats with asthma. Chronic exposure to A. fumigatus upregulates the expression of EGFR and its ligands in asthmatic rats. The EGFR pathway may play a role in asthma aggravation induced by exposure to A. fumigatus.
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Takahashi H, Nakahachi T, Komatsu S, Ogino K, Iida Y, Kamio Y. Hyperreactivity to weak acoustic stimuli and prolonged acoustic startle latency in children with autism spectrum disorders. Mol Autism 2014; 5:23. [PMID: 24618368 PMCID: PMC4008133 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-5-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are known to have enhanced auditory perception, however, acoustic startle response to weak stimuli has not been well documented in this population. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the basic profile of acoustic startle response, including peak startle latency and startle magnitude to weaker stimuli, in children with ASD and typical development (TD), and to evaluate their relationship to ASD characteristics. METHODS We investigated acoustic startle response with weak and strong acoustic stimuli in 12 children with ASD and 28 children with TD, analyzing the relationship between startle measures and quantitative autistic traits assessed with the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). The electromyographic activity of the left orbicularis oculi muscle to acoustic stimuli of 65 to 115 dB sound pressure level (SPL), in increments of 5 dB, was measured to evaluate acoustic startle response. The average eyeblink magnitude for each acoustic stimuli intensity and the average peak startle latency of acoustic startle response were evaluated. RESULTS The magnitude of the acoustic startle response to weak stimuli (85 dB or smaller) was greater in children with ASD. The peak startle latency was also prolonged in individuals with ASD. The average magnitude of the acoustic startle response for stimulus intensities greater than 85 dB was not significantly larger in the ASD group compared with the controls. Both greater startle magnitude in response to weak stimuli (particularly at 85 dB) and prolonged peak startle latency were significantly associated with total scores, as well as several subscales of the SRS in the whole sample. We also found a significant relationship between scores on the social cognition subscale of the SRS and the average magnitude of the acoustic startle response for stimulus intensities of 80 and 85 dB in the TD group. CONCLUSIONS Children with ASD exhibited larger startle magnitude to weak stimuli and prolonged peak startle latency. These startle indices were related to several characteristics of ASD. A comprehensive investigation of acoustic startle response, including the magnitude of startle responses to weak stimuli and peak startle latency, might further our understanding of the neurophysiological impairments underlying ASD.
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Abstract
Many women report a heightened sense of smell during pregnancy. Accounts of these anecdotes have existed for over 100 years, but scientific evidence has been sparse and inconclusive. In this review, I examine the literature on olfactory perception during pregnancy including measures of self-report, olfactory thresholds, odor identification, intensity and hedonic ratings, and disgust. Support for a general decrease in olfactory thresholds (increase in sensitivity) is generally lacking. There is limited evidence that some suprathreshold measures of olfactory perception, such as hedonic ratings of odors, are affected by pregnancy, but these effects are idiosyncratic. In this review, I explore the hypotheses that have been put forth to explain changes in olfactory perception during pregnancy and provide suggestions for further research.
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Gilley SK, Stenbit AE, Pasek RC, Sas KM, Steele SL, Amria M, Bunni MA, Estell KP, Schwiebert LM, Flume P, Gooz M, Haycraft CJ, Yoder BK, Miller C, Pavlik JA, Turner GA, Sisson JH, Bell PD. Deletion of airway cilia results in noninflammatory bronchiectasis and hyperreactive airways. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2013; 306:L162-9. [PMID: 24213915 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00095.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms for the development of bronchiectasis and airway hyperreactivity have not been fully elucidated. Although genetic, acquired diseases and environmental influences may play a role, it is also possible that motile cilia can influence this disease process. We hypothesized that deletion of a key intraflagellar transport molecule, IFT88, in mature mice causes loss of cilia, resulting in airway remodeling. Airway cilia were deleted by knockout of IFT88, and airway remodeling and pulmonary function were evaluated. In IFT88(-) mice there was a substantial loss of airway cilia on respiratory epithelium. Three months after the deletion of cilia, there was clear evidence for bronchial remodeling that was not associated with inflammation or apparent defects in mucus clearance. There was evidence for airway epithelial cell hypertrophy and hyperplasia. IFT88(-) mice exhibited increased airway reactivity to a methacholine challenge and decreased ciliary beat frequency in the few remaining cells that possessed cilia. With deletion of respiratory cilia there was a marked increase in the number of club cells as seen by scanning electron microscopy. We suggest that airway remodeling may be exacerbated by the presence of club cells, since these cells are involved in airway repair. Club cells may be prevented from differentiating into respiratory epithelial cells because of a lack of IFT88 protein that is necessary to form a single nonmotile cilium. This monocilium is a prerequisite for these progenitor cells to transition into respiratory epithelial cells. In conclusion, motile cilia may play an important role in controlling airway structure and function.
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Cooke NM, Egan K, McFadden S, Grogan L, Breathnach OS, O'Leary J, Hennessy BT, Kenny D. Increased platelet reactivity in patients with late-stage metastatic cancer. Cancer Med 2013; 2:564-70. [PMID: 24156029 PMCID: PMC3799291 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Revised: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelet hyperreactivity is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis. Cancer patients are at an increased risk of thrombosis, a risk that increases with disease progression. While cancer patients show evidence of platelet activation in vivo, few studies have extensively assessed whether these patients display platelet hyperreactivity. We hypothesized that patients with metastatic cancer would display platelet hyperreactivity, reflecting their associated high risk of thrombosis. In a cohort of patients with metastatic cancer (n = 13), we assessed platelet function using well-established assays of platelet reactivity (agonist-induced platelet aggregation, spontaneous platelet aggregation, and agonist-induced P-selectin expression). In comparison with healthy controls (n = 10), patients with metastatic cancer displayed global platelet hyperreactivity. Agonist-induced platelet aggregation responses to ADP (adenosine diphosphate), epinephrine, collagen, arachidonic acid, and PAR-1 (protease-activated receptor-1) activating peptide, as well as spontaneous platelet aggregation, were significantly increased in patients with metastatic cancer. Furthermore, agonist-induced platelet P-selectin expression was also significantly increased within the patient cohort. We demonstrate that patients with metastatic cancer are characterized by global platelet hyperreactivity, a factor that may contribute to their increased risk of thrombosis. We assessed platelet function in a cohort of patients with metastatic cancer (n = 13) using well-established assays of platelet reactivity. Agonist-induced platelet aggregation and activation in response to platelet agonists, as well as spontaneous platelet aggregation, was significantly increased in cancer patients compared with healthy controls. We demonstrate that patients with metastatic cancer are characterized by global platelet hyperreactivity, a factor that may contribute to their increased risk of thrombosis.
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