1
|
Li W, Cao X, Liang Q, Li Y, Zhou C, Du J, Xie S. Gender differences in cognitive improvements after two months of atypical antipsychotic treatment in first episode schizophrenia. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1369532. [PMID: 38742135 PMCID: PMC11089100 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1369532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims This study aims to explore the gender differences in cognitive improvements after two months of atypical antipsychotic treatment in first episode schizophrenia (FES). Methods 82 patients with FES, including 50 male patients and 32 female patients, were enrolled in the present study. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) were respectively conducted to evaluate the clinical symptoms and cognitive function of patients with FES at baseline and after treatment. Repeated measure ANOVA was performed to compare gender differences in cognitive domains scores between baseline and 2-month follow-up. Stepwise liner regression model was performed to explore the effect factors of cognitive improvements in patients. Results There was no significant difference in age of onset, education years, PANSS scores, duration of untreated psychosis and Olanzapine equivalent doses between male and female patients (all p > 0.05). In the comparisons of cognition function, male patients exhibited better performance in social cognition compared with female patients at baseline (t = 3.20, p < 0.05). After treatment, improvements of attention/vigilance and working memory were both found in male patients and female patients (attention/vigilance, F = 11.867, p < 0.05; working memory, F = 18.265, p < 0.05). In addition, improvement of speed of information processing was only found in female patients (F = 11.65, p < 0.01). Significant interaction between time and gender was found in speed information of processing (F = 4.140, p = 0.045). Stepwise liner regression model revealed that improvements of negative symptoms promote improvements of cognitive function in female patients (all p < 0.05). Conclusions Our findings revealed gender differences of cognitive improvements in patients with FES after 2-month treatment. It provides new evidence for gender differences in cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, and also provides preliminary clues for further individualized cognitive intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jinglun Du
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shiping Xie
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Williams KE, Zou Y, Qiu B, Kono T, Guo C, Garcia D, Chen H, Graves T, Lai Z, Evans-Molina C, Ma YY, Liangpunsakul S, Yong W, Liang T. Sex-Specific Impact of Fkbp5 on Hippocampal Response to Acute Alcohol Injection: Involvement in Alterations of Metabolism-Related Pathways. Cells 2023; 13:89. [PMID: 38201293 PMCID: PMC10778370 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
High levels of alcohol intake alter brain gene expression and can produce long-lasting effects. FK506-binding protein 51 (FKBP51) encoded by Fkbp5 is a physical and cellular stress response gene and has been associated with alcohol consumption and withdrawal severity. Fkbp5 has been previously linked to neurite outgrowth and hippocampal morphology, sex differences in stress response, and epigenetic modification. Presently, primary cultured Fkbp5 KO and WT mouse neurons were examined for neurite outgrowth and mitochondrial signal with and without alcohol. We found neurite specification differences between KO and WT; particularly, mesh-like morphology was observed after alcohol treatment and confirmed higher MitoTracker signal in cultured neurons of Fkbp5 KO compared to WT at both naive and alcohol-treated conditions. Brain regions that express FKBP51 protein were identified, and hippocampus was confirmed to possess a high level of expression. RNA-seq profiling was performed using the hippocampus of naïve or alcohol-injected (2 mg EtOH/Kg) male and female Fkbp5 KO and WT mice. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between Fkbp5 KO and WT at baseline and following alcohol treatment, with female comparisons possessing a higher number of DEGs than male comparisons. Pathway analysis suggested that genes affecting calcium signaling, lipid metabolism, and axon guidance were differentially expressed at naïve condition between KO and WT. Alcohol treatment significantly affected pathways and enzymes involved in biosynthesis (Keto, serine, and glycine) and signaling (dopamine and insulin receptor), and neuroprotective role. Functions related to cell morphology, cell-to-cell signaling, lipid metabolism, injury response, and post-translational modification were significantly altered due to alcohol. In summary, Fkbp5 plays a critical role in the response to acute alcohol treatment by altering metabolism and signaling-related genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kent E. Williams
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (K.E.W.); (T.G.); (S.L.)
| | - Yi Zou
- Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.Z.); (D.G.); (Z.L.)
| | - Bin Qiu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
| | - Tatsuyoshi Kono
- Diabetes Research Center, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (T.K.); (C.E.-M.)
| | - Changyong Guo
- Department Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (C.G.); (Y.-Y.M.)
| | - Dawn Garcia
- Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.Z.); (D.G.); (Z.L.)
| | - Hanying Chen
- Department Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Tamara Graves
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (K.E.W.); (T.G.); (S.L.)
| | - Zhao Lai
- Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.Z.); (D.G.); (Z.L.)
| | - Carmella Evans-Molina
- Diabetes Research Center, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (T.K.); (C.E.-M.)
| | - Yao-Ying Ma
- Department Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (C.G.); (Y.-Y.M.)
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (K.E.W.); (T.G.); (S.L.)
- Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Weidong Yong
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Tiebing Liang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (K.E.W.); (T.G.); (S.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
The potential use of folate and its derivatives in treating psychiatric disorders: A systematic review. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112541. [PMID: 34953391 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the strengths and limitations of existing data to provide guidance for the use of folate supplements as treatment, with or without other psychotropic medications, in various psychiatric disorders. To identify area for further research in terms of the biosynthesis of mechanism of folate and genetic variants in metabolic pathway in human. METHODS A systematic review of published literature following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, to assess whether folate supplements are beneficial in certain psychiatric disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Methodology of this review is registered with Prospero (Registration number CRD 42021266605). DATA SOURCES Eligible studies were identified using a systematic search of four electronic databases: Embase, Pubmed, PsycINFO, and Cochrane. The search strategy covered the time period from 1974 to August 16th, 2021. Therefore, this review examines randomized control trials or open-label trials completed during this period. RESULTS We identified 23 studies of folate supplements in various psychiatric disorders for critical review. Of these, 9 studies investigated the efficacy of folate supplements in major depressive disorders, 5 studies in schizophrenia, 6 studies in autism spectrum disorder, 2 studies in bipolar affective disorder and 1 study in attention deficit hyperactive disorder. The most consistent finding association of oral levomefolic acid or 5-methylfolate with improvement in clinical outcomes in mental health conditions as mentioned above, especially in major depressive disorder (including postpartum and post-menopausal depression), schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar affective disorder. Folate supplements were well tolerated. LIMITATION Our results are not representative of all types of studies such as case reports or case series studies, nor are they representative of the studies conducted in languages that are not in English or not translated in English. CONCLUSION Increasing evidence from clinical trials consistently demonstrate folate supplements, especially levomefolic acid or 5-methylfolate, may improve clinical outcomes for certain psychiatric diseases, especially as an adjunct pharmacotherapy with minimal side effects.
Collapse
|
4
|
Requena-Jimenez A, Nabiuni M, Miyan JA. Profound changes in cerebrospinal fluid proteome and metabolic profile are associated with congenital hydrocephalus. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2021; 41:3400-3414. [PMID: 34415213 PMCID: PMC8669293 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x211039612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aetiology of congenital hydrocephalus (cHC) has yet to be resolved. cHC manifests late in rodent gestation, and by 18-22 weeks in human fetuses, coinciding with the start of the major phase of cerebral cortex development. Previously we found that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulation is associated with compositional changes, folate metabolic impairment and consequential arrest in cortical development. Here, we report a proteomics study on hydrocephalic and normal rat CSF using LC-MSMS and a metabolic pathway analysis to determine the major changes in metabolic and signalling pathways. Non-targeted analysis revealed a proteome transformation across embryonic days 17-20, with the largest changes between day 19 and 20. This provides evidence for a physiological shift in CSF composition and identifies some of the molecular mechanisms unleashed during the onset of cHC. Top molecular regulators that may control the shift in the CSF metabolic signature are also predicted, with potential key biomarkers proposed for early detection of these changes that might be used to develop targeted early therapies for this condition. This study confirms previous findings of a folate metabolic imbalance as well as providing more in depth metabolic analysis and understanding of cHC CSF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Requena-Jimenez
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mohammad Nabiuni
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jaleel A Miyan
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Guerrin CGJ, Doorduin J, Sommer IE, de Vries EFJ. The dual hit hypothesis of schizophrenia: Evidence from animal models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:1150-1168. [PMID: 34715148 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous psychiatric disorder, which can severely impact social and professional functioning. Epidemiological and clinical studies show that schizophrenia has a multifactorial aetiology comprising genetic and environmental risk factors. Although several risk factors have been identified, it is still not clear how they result in schizophrenia. This knowledge gap, however, can be investigated in animal studies. In this review, we summarise animal studies regarding molecular and cellular mechanisms through which genetic and environmental factors may affect brain development, ultimately causing schizophrenia. Preclinical studies suggest that early environmental risk factors can affect the immune, GABAergic, glutamatergic, or dopaminergic system and thus increase the susceptibility to another risk factor later in life. A second insult, like social isolation, stress, or drug abuse, can further disrupt these systems and the interactions between them, leading to behavioural abnormalities. Surprisingly, first insults like maternal infection and early maternal separation can also have protective effects. Single gene mutations associated with schizophrenia did not have a major impact on the susceptibility to subsequent environmental hits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyprien G J Guerrin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Janine Doorduin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Iris E Sommer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Erik F J de Vries
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brütting C, Hildebrand P, Brandsch C, Stangl GI. Ability of dietary factors to affect homocysteine levels in mice: a review. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2021; 18:68. [PMID: 34193183 PMCID: PMC8243555 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-021-00594-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Homocysteine is associated with several diseases, and a series of dietary factors are known to modulate homocysteine levels. As mice are often used as model organisms to study the effects of dietary hyperhomocysteinemia, we collected data about concentrations of vitamin B12, vitamin B6, folate, methionine, cystine, and choline in mouse diets and the associated plasma/serum homocysteine levels. In addition, we more closely examined the composition of the control diet, the impact of the mouse strain, sex and age, and the duration of the dietary intervention on homocysteine levels. In total, 113 out of 1103 reviewed articles met the inclusion criteria. In the experimental and control diets, homocysteine levels varied from 0.1 to 280 µmol/l. We found negative correlations between dietary vitamin B12 (rho = − 0.125; p < 0.05), vitamin B6 (rho = − 0.191; p < 0.01) and folate (rho = − 0.395; p < 0.001) and circulating levels of homocysteine. In contrast, a positive correlation was observed between dietary methionine and homocysteine (methionine: rho = 0.146; p < 0.05). No significant correlations were found for cystine or choline and homocysteine levels. In addition, there was no correlation between the duration of the experimental diets and homocysteine levels. More importantly, the data showed that homocysteine levels varied widely in mice fed control diets as well. When comparing control diets with similar nutrient concentrations (AIN-based), there were significant differences in homocysteine levels caused by the strain (ANOVA, p < 0.05) and age of the mice at baseline (r = 0.47; p < 0.05). When comparing homocysteine levels and sex, female mice tended to have higher homocysteine levels than male mice (9.3 ± 5.9 µmol/l vs. 5.8 ± 4.5 µmol/l; p = 0.069). To conclude, diets low in vitamin B12, vitamin B6, or folate and rich in methionine are similarly effective in increasing homocysteine levels. AIN recommendations for control diets are adequate with respect to the amounts of homocysteine-modulating dietary parameters. In addition, the mouse strain and the age of mice can affect the homocysteine level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Brütting
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Von-Danckelmann-Platz 2, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Pia Hildebrand
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Von-Danckelmann-Platz 2, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Corinna Brandsch
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Von-Danckelmann-Platz 2, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Gabriele I Stangl
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Von-Danckelmann-Platz 2, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Carvalho FR, Nóbrega CDR, Martins AT. Mapping gene expression in social anxiety reveals the main brain structures involved in this disorder. Behav Brain Res 2020; 394:112808. [PMID: 32707139 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is characterized by emotional and attentional biases as well as distorted negative self-beliefs. According this, we proposed to identify the brain structures and hub genes involved in SAD. An analysis in Pubmed and TRANSFAC was conducted and 72 genes were identified. Using Microarray data, from Allen Human Brain Atlas, it was possible to identify three modules of co-expressed genes from our gene set (R package WGCNA). Higher mean gene expression was found in cortico-medial group, basomedial nucleus, ATZ in amygdala and in head and tail of the caudate nucleus, nucleus accumbens and putamen in striatum. Our enrichment analysis identified the followed hub genes: DRD2, HTR1A, JUN, SP1 and HDAC4. We suggest that SAD is explained by delayed extinction of circuitry for conditioned fear. Caused by reduced activation of the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems,due diminished expectation of reward during social interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Ricardo Carvalho
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Medicine, University of Algarve, Portugal; University of Algarve Campus De Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal.
| | - Clévio David Rodrigues Nóbrega
- Center for Biomedicine Research (CBMR), University of Algarve, Portugal; Department of Biomedical Sciences and Medicine, University of Algarve, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC); University of Algarve Campus De Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Ana Teresa Martins
- Center for Biomedicine Research (CBMR), University of Algarve, Portugal; Department of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Algarve, Portugal; University of Algarve Campus De Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Khan A, Powell SB. Sensorimotor gating deficits in "two-hit" models of schizophrenia risk factors. Schizophr Res 2018; 198:68-83. [PMID: 29070440 PMCID: PMC5911431 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental models of neuropsychiatric disease have grown exponentially over the last 20years. One measure that is often used to evaluate the translational relevance of these models to human neuropsychiatric disease is prepulse inhibition of startle (PPI), an operational measure of sensorimotor gating. Deficient PPI characterizes several neuropsychiatric disorders but has been most extensively studied in schizophrenia. It has become a useful tool in translational neuropharmacological and molecular genetics studies because it can be measured across species using almost the same experimental parameters. Although initial studies of PPI in rodents were pharmacological because of the robust predictive validity of PPI for antipsychotic efficacy, more recently, PPI has become standard common behavioral measures used in genetic and neurodevelopmental models of schizophrenia. Here we review "two hit" models of schizophrenia and discuss the utility of PPI as a tool in phenotyping these models of relevant risk factors. In the review, we consider approaches to rodent models of genetic and neurodevelopmental risk factors and selectively review "two hit" models of gene×environment and environment×environment interactions in which PPI has been measured.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asma Khan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093, United States; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Susan B Powell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093, United States; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gender differences measured by the MATRICS consensus cognitive battery in chronic schizophrenia patients. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11821. [PMID: 28928440 PMCID: PMC5605539 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12027-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Using Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), previous study showed significant gender differences for cognitive deficits in immediate and delayed memory in schizophrenia patients. However, RBANS does not include reasoning and problem solving, and social cognition. These cognitive functions can significantly affect the outcomes and daily life in patients. This study examined the gender differences of cognition using the measurement and treatment research to improve cognition in schizophrenia (MATRICS) consensus cognitive battery (MCCB), especially focusing on reasoning and problem solving, and social cognition in schizophrenia patients. The results showed that healthy controls exemplified better cognition than patients in both genders in all examined MCCB scores. Male healthy controls had better reasoning and problem solving and working memory than females, but these gender differences were not presented in schizophrenia patients. Also, male schizophrenia patients showed worse cognition than females on social cognition, processing speed, verbal learning and visual learning. Our results support that male schizophrenia patients had more cognitive impairment than females on reasoning and problem solving, social cognition, processing speed, working memory, verbal learning and visual learning.
Collapse
|
10
|
A systematic review comparing sex differences in cognitive function in schizophrenia and in rodent models for schizophrenia, implications for improved therapeutic strategies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:979-1000. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
11
|
Nuttall JR. The plausibility of maternal toxicant exposure and nutritional status as contributing factors to the risk of autism spectrum disorders. Nutr Neurosci 2015; 20:209-218. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2015.1103437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johnathan R. Nuttall
- Departments of Nutrition and Environmental Toxicology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ramaekers VT, Thöny B, Sequeira JM, Ansseau M, Philippe P, Boemer F, Bours V, Quadros EV. Folinic acid treatment for schizophrenia associated with folate receptor autoantibodies. Mol Genet Metab 2014; 113:307-14. [PMID: 25456743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Auto-antibodies against folate receptor alpha (FRα) at the choroid plexus that block N(5)-methyltetrahydrofolate (MTHF) transfer to the brain were identified in catatonic schizophrenia. Acoustic hallucinations disappeared following folinic acid treatment. Folate transport to the CNS prevents homocysteine accumulation and delivers one-carbon units for methyl-transfer reactions and synthesis of purines. The guanosine derivative tetrahydrobiopterin acts as common co-factor for the enzymes producing dopamine, serotonin and nitric oxide. METHODS Our study selected patients with schizophrenia unresponsive to conventional treatment. Serum from these patients with normal plasma homocysteine, folate and vitamin B12 was tested for FR autoantibodies of the blocking type on serial samples each week. Spinal fluid was analyzed for MTHF and the metabolites of pterins, dopamine and serotonin. The clinical response to folinic acid treatment was evaluated. RESULTS Fifteen of 18 patients (83.3%) had positive serum FR auto-antibodies compared to only 1 in 30 controls (3.3%) (χ(2)=21.6; p<0.0001). FRα antibody titers in patients fluctuated over time varying between negative and high titers, modulating folate flux to the CNS, which explained low CSF folate values in 6 and normal values in 7 patients. The mean±SD for CSF MTHF was diminished compared to previously established controls (t-test: 3.90; p=0.0002). A positive linear correlation existed between CSF MTHF and biopterin levels. CSF dopamine and serotonin metabolites were low or in the lower normal range. Administration of folinic acid (0.3-1mg/kg/day) to 7 participating patients during at least six months resulted in clinical improvement. CONCLUSION Assessment of FR auto-antibodies in serum is recommended for schizophrenic patients. Clinical negative or positive symptoms are speculated to be influenced by the level and evolution of FRα antibody titers which determine folate flux to the brain with up- or down-regulation of brain folate intermediates linked to metabolic processes affecting homocysteine levels, synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin and neurotransmitters. Folinic acid intervention appears to stabilize the disease process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V T Ramaekers
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium; Centre for Autism Liège, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium.
| | - B Thöny
- Division of Metabolism, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J M Sequeira
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - M Ansseau
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - P Philippe
- Centre for Autism Liège, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - F Boemer
- Department of Human Genetics and Metabolism, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - V Bours
- Department of Human Genetics and Metabolism, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - E V Quadros
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Genetically modified mice related to schizophrenia and other psychoses: seeking phenotypic insights into the pathobiology and treatment of negative symptoms. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 24:800-21. [PMID: 24290531 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Revised: 08/11/2013] [Accepted: 08/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Modelling negative symptoms in any animal model, particularly in mice mutant for genes related to schizophrenia, is complicated by the absence of the following key elements that might assist in developing validation criteria: clinical clarity surrounding this symptom constellation; any clear association between negative symptoms and pathological signature(s) in the brain; and therapeutic strategies with material clinical efficacy against these symptoms. In this review, the application of mutant mouse models to the study of negative symptoms is subjected to critical evaluation, focussing on the following challenges: (a) conceptual issues relating to negative symptoms and their evaluation in mutant models; (b) measurement of negative symptoms in mice, in terms of social behaviour, motivational deficits/avolition and anhedonia; (c) studies in mutants with disruption of genes either regulating aspects of neurotransmission implicated in schizophrenia or associated with risk for psychotic illness; (d) the disaggregation of behavioural phenotypes into underlying pathobiological processes, as a key to the development of new therapeutic strategies for negative symptoms. Advances in genetic and molecular technologies are facilitating these processes, such that more accurate models of putative schizophrenia-linked genetic abnormalities are becoming feasible. This progress in terms of mimicking the genetic contribution to distinct domains of psychopathology associated with psychotic illness must be matched by advances in conceptual/clinical relevance and sensitivity/specificity of phenotypic assessments at the level of behaviour.
Collapse
|
14
|
Schaevitz L, Berger-Sweeney J, Ricceri L. One-carbon metabolism in neurodevelopmental disorders: using broad-based nutraceutics to treat cognitive deficits in complex spectrum disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 46 Pt 2:270-84. [PMID: 24769289 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Folate and choline, two nutrients involved in the one-carbon metabolic cycle, are intimately involved in regulating DNA integrity, synthesis, biogenic amine synthesis, and methylation. In this review, we discuss evidence that folate and choline play an important role in normal cognitive development, and that altered levels of these nutrients during periods of high neuronal proliferation and synaptogenesis can result in diminished cognitive function. We also discuss the use of these nutrients as therapeutic agents in a spectrum of developmental disorders in which intellectual disability is a prominent feature, such as in Fragile-X, Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, and Autism spectrum disorders. A survey of recent literature suggests that nutritional supplements have mild, but generally consistent, effects on improving cognition. Intervening with supplements earlier rather than later during development is more effective in improving cognitive outcomes. Given the mild improvements seen after treatments using nutrients alone, and the importance of the genetic profile of parents and offspring, we suggest that using nutraceutics early in development and in combination with other therapeutics are likely to have positive impacts on cognitive outcomes in a broad spectrum of complex neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Ricceri
- Section of Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology, Dept Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The need for a comprehensive molecular characterization of autism spectrum disorders. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 17:651-73. [PMID: 24229490 DOI: 10.1017/s146114571300117x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a heterogeneous group of disorders which have complex behavioural phenotypes. Although ASD is a highly heritable neuropsychiatric disorder, genetic research alone has not provided a profound understanding of the underlying causes. Recent developments using biochemical tools such as transcriptomics, proteomics and cellular models, will pave the way to gain new insights into the underlying pathological pathways. This review addresses the state-of-the-art in the search for molecular biomarkers for ASD. In particular, the most important findings in the biochemical field are highlighted and the need for establishing streamlined interaction between behavioural studies, genetics and proteomics is stressed. Eventually, these approaches will lead to suitable translational ASD models and, therefore, a better disease understanding which may facilitate novel drug discovery efforts in this challenging field.
Collapse
|
16
|
O'Tuathaigh CMP, Moran PM, Waddington JL. Genetic models of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders: progress and pitfalls across the methodological "minefield". Cell Tissue Res 2013; 354:247-57. [PMID: 23715722 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1652-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The challenge of modelling a complex and multifaceted disorder such as schizophrenia is epitomised by the considerable degree of phenotypic variability described in patients and by the absence of specific and consistent neuropathological biomarkers. The pattern and severity of a range of clinical features, including florid psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, negative symptoms and cognitive dysfunction, together with age at onset, course of illness and other indices, can vary greatly between individual patients. The undefined nature of the relationship between diagnosis and underlying aetiology has complicated research in the field of clinical and preclinical neuroscience, thereby making it difficult to generate or evaluate appropriate disease models of schizophrenia. In the present review, we explore those conceptual and practical issues that relate specifically to the genetic modelling of schizophrenia and related disorders in rodents. Practical issues that impact on the robustness of endophenotypic findings and their translational relevance are discussed with reference to evidence from selective genetic models of candidate risk genes and copy number variants implicated in schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colm M P O'Tuathaigh
- School of Medicine, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Schaevitz LR, Berger-Sweeney JE. Gene-Environment Interactions and Epigenetic Pathways in Autism: The Importance of One-Carbon Metabolism. ILAR J 2012; 53:322-40. [DOI: 10.1093/ilar.53.3-4.322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
|