1
|
Chen Y, Wang H. The changes in adrenal developmental programming and homeostasis in offspring induced by glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2024; 124:463-490. [PMID: 38408809 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Clinically, synthetic glucocorticoids are often used to treat maternal and fetal related diseases, such as preterm birth and autoimmune diseases. Although its clinical efficacy is positive, it will expose the fetus to exogenous glucocorticoids. Adverse environments during pregnancy (e.g., exogenous glucocorticoids exposure, malnutrition, infection, hypoxia, and stress) can lead to fetal overexposure to endogenous maternal glucocorticoids. Basal glucocorticoids levels in utero are crucial in determining fetal tissue maturation and its postnatal fate. As the synthesis and secretion organ of glucocorticoids, the adrenal development is crucial for the growth and development of the body. Studies have found that glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy could cause abnormal fetal adrenal development, which could last after birth or even adulthood. As the key organ of fetal-originated adult disease, the adrenal developmental programming has a profound impact on the health of offspring, which can lead to many chronic diseases in adulthood. However, the aberrant adrenal development in offspring caused by glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy and its intrauterine programming mechanism have not been systematically clarified. Therefore, this review summarizes recent research progress on the short and long-term hazards of aberrant adrenal development induced by glucocorticoids exposure during pregnancy, which is of great significance for the analysis of aberrant adrenal development and clarify the intrauterine origin mechanism of fetal-originated adult disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, P.R. China; Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, P.R. China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lin Y, Li H, Zhang J, Yang Z, Zhou Y, Liu L, Qian Q. Polymorphism of Estrogen Receptor Genes and Its Interactions With Neurodevelopmental Genes in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Among Chinese Han Descent. Psychiatry Investig 2023; 20:775-785. [PMID: 37614014 PMCID: PMC10460975 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2023.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a polygenic neurodevelopmental disorder with significant gender differences. The sexual dimorphism of ADHD may be associated with estrogen acting through estrogen receptors (ESR). This study investigates the impact of ESR gene polymorphism and its interactions with neurodevelopmental genes on ADHD susceptibility. METHODS The study compared genotyping data of single nucleotide polymorphisms in ESR1 and ESR2 in 1,035 ADHD cases and 962 controls. The gene-gene interactions between ESR genes and three neurodevelopmental genes (brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF], synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa gene [SNAP25], and cadherin-13 [CDH13]) in ADHD were investigated using generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction and verified by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS The G allele of rs960070/ESR2 (empirical p=0.0076) and the A allele of rs8017441/ESR2 (empirical p=0.0426) were found significantly higher in ADHD cases than in the controls but not in male or female subgroups. Though no difference was found in all subjects or females, the A allele of rs9340817/ESR1 (empirical p=0.0344) was found significantly higher in ADHD cases than controls in males. We also found genetic interaction models between ESR2 gene, neurodevelopmental genes and ADHD susceptibility in males (ESR2 rs960070/BDNF rs6265/BDNF rs2049046/SNAP25 rs362987/CDH13 rs6565113) and females (ESR2 rs960070/BDNF rs6265/BDNF rs2049046) separately, though it was negative in overall subjects. CONCLUSION The ESR gene polymorphism associates with ADHD among Chinese Han children, with interactions between ESR genes and neurodevelopmental genes potentially influencing the susceptibility of ADHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Lin
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Haimei Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Ziqi Yang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Lu Liu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Qiujin Qian
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & The Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Migliori C, Braga M, Siragusa V, Villa MC, Luzi L. The impact of gender medicine on neonatology: the disadvantage of being male: a narrative review. Ital J Pediatr 2023; 49:65. [PMID: 37280693 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-023-01447-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This narrative non-systematic review addresses the sex-specific differences observed both in prenatal period and, subsequently, in early childhood. Indeed, gender influences the type of birth and related complications. The risk of preterm birth, perinatal diseases, and differences on efficacy for pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, as well as prevention programs, will be evaluated. Although male newborns get more disadvantages, the physiological changes during growth and factors like social, demographic, and behavioural reverse this prevalence for some diseases. Therefore, given the primary role of genetics in gender differences, further studies specifically targeted neonatal sex-differences will be needed to streamline medical care and improve prevention programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Migliori
- Department of Neonatology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, 20123, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marta Braga
- Department of Neonatology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, 20123, Milan, Italy
| | - Virginia Siragusa
- Department of Neonatology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, 20123, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Villa
- Department of Neonatology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, 20123, Milan, Italy
| | - Livio Luzi
- Department of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chang YC, Chen WT, Su SH, Jung CR, Hwang BF. PM 2.5 exposure and incident attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder during the prenatal and postnatal periods: A birth cohort study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113769. [PMID: 35777438 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Only a few studies have assessed the effects of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure during the prenatal and postnatal periods on the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We investigated the association of exposure to PM2.5 during pregnancy and early life with ADHD. This birth cohort consisted of 425,736 singleton live-term births between 2004 and 2015 in Taiwan. Daily PM2.5 concentrations were derived from a 1-km satellite-based estimation model. A time-dependent Cox model was used to assess the effects of PM2.5 on ADHD during the first, second, and third trimesters and from age 1-5 years after birth. The distributed lag nonlinear model was utilized to explore the dose-response relationship. Total 9,294 children were diagnosed with ADHD during the study period. The hazard ratio (HR) of ADHD was significantly associated with a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 during the first trimester (HR = 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13-1.40) and increased at PM2.5 over 16 μg/m3. For postnatal periods, the HR of ADHD was significantly associated with increased PM2.5 at the first to third year of life (HR ranged between 1.40 and 1.87). According to the dose-response relationship of exposure to PM2.5 at the third year of life, the HR of ADHD was significantly associated with PM2.5 above 16 μg/m3 and sharply increased as PM2.5 >50 μg/m3. We did not observe a significant modification of sex on the relation between PM2.5 and ADHD. Exposure of pregnant women to PM2.5 above 16 μg/m3 from conception to the early life of their children may increase the risk of ADHD. The government should improve the criteria for air quality control and meet the WHO air quality guidelines to protect pregnant women and children from developing ADHD in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Chu Chang
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ting Chen
- Department of Atmospheric Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hao Su
- Department of Atmospheric Sciences, Chinese Culture University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ren Jung
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Japan Environment and Children's Study Programme Office, Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan.
| | - Bing-Fang Hwang
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Carucci S, Narducci C, Bazzoni M, Balia C, Donno F, Gagliano A, Zuddas A. Clinical characteristics, neuroimaging findings, and neuropsychological functioning in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: Sex differences. J Neurosci Res 2022; 101:704-717. [PMID: 35293009 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent clinical studies, in both children/adolescents and adults, have shown the extreme neuropsychological heterogeneity of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): specific neuropsychological deficits have been found only in a minority of individuals, with no direct correlation between discrete cognitive performances and the trajectory of clinical symptoms. Deficits in specific neuropsychological functions may be common in ADHD, but nevertheless no cognitive or neuropsychological profile may fully explain the disorder. Sex differences in the ADHD presentation, both at a neuropsychological and clinical level, also contribute to this clinical and neuropsychological heterogeneity. At a neuropsychological level, females with ADHD may show greater working memory problems, poorer vocabulary skills and worse visual spatial reasoning. Structural and functional imaging study also show discrete differences across sex; however, the great majority of clinical studies mainly or exclusively include male participants with insufficient data to draw firm conclusions on sex differences within the disorder. Here, we report the recent literature data, discussing still open research questions about the clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings, and neuropsychological functioning in ADHD with a focus on the impact of sex differences-a deeper insight in these unresolved issues may have relevant clinical and therapeutic implications for tailored, effective, and long-lasting interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Carucci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Child & Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, "A.Cao" Paediatric Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Chiara Narducci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marzia Bazzoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carla Balia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Child & Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, "A.Cao" Paediatric Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Donno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Child & Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, "A.Cao" Paediatric Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonella Gagliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Child & Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, "A.Cao" Paediatric Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zuddas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Child & Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, "A.Cao" Paediatric Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sex-specific differences in KCC2 localisation and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the rat hippocampus. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3186. [PMID: 35210456 PMCID: PMC8873453 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06769-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual differentiation of the brain is influenced by testosterone and its metabolites during the perinatal period, when many aspects of brain development, including the maturation of GABAergic transmission, occur. Whether and how testosterone signaling during the perinatal period affects GABAergic transmission is unclear. Here, we analyzed GABAergic circuit functional markers in male, female, testosterone-treated female, and testosterone-insensitive male rats after the first postnatal week and in young adults. In the hippocampus, mRNA levels of proteins associated with GABA signaling were not significantly affected at postnatal day (P) 7 or P40. Conversely, membrane protein levels of KCC2, which are critical for determining inhibition strength, were significantly higher in females compared to males and testosterone-treated females at P7. Further, female and testosterone-insensitive male rats at P7 showed higher levels of the neurotrophin BDNF, which is a powerful regulator of neuronal function, including GABAergic transmission. Finally, spontaneous GABAergic currents in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells were more frequent in females and testosterone-insensitive males at P40. Overall, these results show that perinatal testosterone levels modulate GABAergic circuit function, suggesting a critical role of perinatal sex hormones in regulating network excitability in the adult hippocampus.
Collapse
|
7
|
del Campo-Vera RM, Tang AM, Gogia AS, Chen KH, Sebastian R, Gilbert ZD, Nune G, Liu CY, Kellis S, Lee B. Neuromodulation in Beta-Band Power Between Movement Execution and Inhibition in the Human Hippocampus. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:232-244. [PMID: 35125142 PMCID: PMC8727636 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The hippocampus is thought to be involved in movement, but its precise role in movement execution and inhibition has not been well studied. Previous work with direct neural recordings has found beta-band (13-30 Hz) modulation in both movement execution and inhibition throughout the motor system, but the role of beta-band modulation in the hippocampus during movement inhibition is not well understood. Here, we perform a Go/No-Go reaching task in ten patients with medically refractory epilepsy to study human hippocampal beta-power changes during movement. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten epilepsy patients (5 female; ages 21-46) were implanted with intracranial depth electrodes for seizure monitoring and localization. Local field potentials were sampled at 2000 Hz during a Go/No-Go movement task. Comparison of beta-band power between Go and No-Go conditions was conducted using Wilcoxon signed-rank hypothesis testing for each patient. Sub-analyses were conducted to assess differences in the anterior vs posterior contacts, ipsilateral vs contralateral contacts, and male vs female beta-power values. RESULTS Eight out of ten patients showed significant beta-power decreases during the Go movement response (p < 0.05) compared to baseline. Eight out of ten patients also showed significant beta-power increases in the No-Go condition, occurring in the absence of movement. No significant differences were noted between ipsilateral vs contralateral contacts nor in anterior vs posterior hippocampal contacts. Female participants had a higher task success rate than males and had significantly greater beta-power increases in the No-Go condition (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION These findings indicate that increases in hippocampal beta power are associated with movement inhibition. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report this phenomenon in the human hippocampus. The beta band may represent a state-change signal involved in motor processing. Future focus on the beta band in understanding human motor and impulse control will be vital.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Martin del Campo-Vera
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Austin M. Tang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Angad S. Gogia
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Kuang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Rinu Sebastian
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Zachary D. Gilbert
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - George Nune
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States,USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Charles Y. Liu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States,USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, United States,Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Spencer Kellis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States,USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, United States,Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States,Tianqiao and Chrissy Chen Brain-Machine Interface Center, Chen Institute for Neuroscience, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Brian Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States,USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, United States,Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen Y, Xia X, Fang M, Chen G, Cao J, Qu H, Wang H. Maternally derived low glucocorticoid mediates adrenal developmental programming alteration in offspring induced by dexamethasone. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 797:149084. [PMID: 34303245 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Adverse environments during pregnancy can increase susceptibility to chronic diseases in adult offspring. The occurrence and development of fetal-originated diseases were associated with adrenal developmental programming and homeostasis alteration in offspring. Dexamethasone is widely used for preterm delivery-related pregnancy diseases, but the intrauterine programming alteration and its occurrence mechanism of prenatal dexamethasone exposure (PDE) on adrenal development in offspring have not been clarified. In this study, prenatal dexamethasone therapy could inhibit neonatal development and cause a low exposure of maternally derived glucocorticoid in clinic. Then, we established a rat model of PDE and observed a similar phenomenon. Further, the adrenal steroidogenic function was continuously inhibited in the PDE male offspring rats, accompanied by the decreased H3K27ac level of adrenal insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and its expression. Moreover, chronic stress in PDE adult offspring rats could reverse the changes of the above indicators through the high level of glucocorticoid. In combination with in vivo, in vitro and a series of interference experiments, we confirmed that the low level of endogenous glucocorticoids inhibited the adrenal IGF1 expression and steroidogenic function through the GRα/miR-370-3p/Sirt3 pathway. In summary, PDE could continuously inhibit the adrenal steroidogenic function in the male offspring, which is associated with the maternally derived low glucocorticoid-mediated the adrenal developmental programming alteration in offspring. This study provides a theoretical and experimental basis for explaining the adrenal development origin of PDE-induced adult chronic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xuan Xia
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Man Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guanghui Chen
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jiangang Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hui Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sulkama S, Puurunen J, Salonen M, Mikkola S, Hakanen E, Araujo C, Lohi H. Canine hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention share similar demographic risk factors and behavioural comorbidities with human ADHD. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:501. [PMID: 34599148 PMCID: PMC8486809 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01626-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder impairing the quality of life of the affected individuals. The domestic dog can spontaneously manifest high hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention which are components of human ADHD. Therefore, a better understanding of demographic, environmental and behavioural factors influencing canine hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention could benefit both humans and dogs. We collected comprehensive behavioural survey data from over 11,000 Finnish pet dogs and quantified their level of hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention. We performed generalised linear model analyses to identify factors associated with these behavioural traits. Our results indicated that high levels of hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention were more common in dogs that are young, male and spend more time alone at home. Additionally, we showed several breed differences suggesting a substantial genetic basis for these traits. Furthermore, hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention had strong comorbidities with compulsive behaviour, aggressiveness and fearfulness. Multiple of these associations have also been identified in humans, strengthening the role of the dog as an animal model for ADHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sini Sulkama
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.428673.c0000 0004 0409 6302Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Puurunen
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.428673.c0000 0004 0409 6302Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Milla Salonen
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.428673.c0000 0004 0409 6302Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Salla Mikkola
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.428673.c0000 0004 0409 6302Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Emma Hakanen
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.428673.c0000 0004 0409 6302Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - César Araujo
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland ,grid.428673.c0000 0004 0409 6302Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Arnold ML, Saijo K. Estrogen Receptor β as a Candidate Regulator of Sex Differences in the Maternal Immune Activation Model of ASD. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:717411. [PMID: 34531723 PMCID: PMC8438209 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.717411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Interestingly, more males are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than females, yet the mechanism behind this difference is unclear. Genes on the sex chromosomes and differential regulation by sex steroid hormones and their receptors are both candidate mechanisms to explain this sex-dependent phenotype. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a large family of transcription factors, including sex hormone receptors, that mediate ligand-dependent transcription and may play key roles in sex-specific regulation of immunity and brain development. Infection during pregnancy is known to increase the probability of developing ASD in humans, and a mouse model of maternal immune activation (MIA), which is induced by injecting innate immune stimulants into pregnant wild-type mice, is commonly used to study ASD. Since this model successfully recaptures the behavioral phenotypes and male bias observed in ASD, we will discuss the potential role of sex steroid hormones and their receptors, especially focusing on estrogen receptor (ER)β, in MIA and how this signaling may modulate transcription and subsequent inflammation in myeloid-lineage cells to contribute to the etiology of this neurodevelopmental disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeline L Arnold
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Kaoru Saijo
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States.,Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lin HY, Kessler D, Tseng WYI, Gau SSF. Increased Functional Segregation Related to the Salience Network in Unaffected Siblings of Youths With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:152-165. [PMID: 31778781 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2019.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although there are frequent reports of shared neurofunctional and neurostructural alterations among probands with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their unaffected siblings, there is little knowledge regarding whether abnormalities in the resting-state functional connectivity of ADHD probands is also expressed in unaffected siblings, or whether this unaffected (but at-risk) cohort manifests distinct patterns. METHOD We used a multivariate connectome-wide association study examining intrinsic functional connectivity with resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a sample (aged 8-17 years) of medication-naive ADHD probands (n = 56), their unaffected siblings (n = 55), and typically developing (TD) youths (n = 106). RESULTS ADHD probands showed, relative to TD youths, increased connectivity between the default-mode network (DMN) and task-positive networks. Relative to ADHD and TD groups, respectively, unaffected siblings showed increased connectivity within the salience network and reduced connectivity between the DMN and salience network. No shared alterations in functional connectivity among ADHD probands and their unaffected siblings were identified. These findings were largely confirmed by complementary pairwise connectomic comparisons. However, the main connectivity differences between ADHD and unaffected siblings were not replicated in a tightly age- and sex-matched subsample (20 proband-sibling pairs and 60 TD youths). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that increased functional segregation related to the attention networks, especially the salience (ventral attention) system, may be a potential feature of at-risk siblings who remain unaffected by ADHD expression. Further replications are needed in other larger and sex-matched samples. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Structural and Functional Connectivity of Frontostriatal and Frontoparietal Networks as Endophenotypes of ADHD; https://clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT01682915.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsiang-Yuan Lin
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Wen-Yih Isaac Tseng
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Medical Device and Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chiang HL, Hsu YC, Shang CY, Tseng WYI, Gau SSF. White matter endophenotype candidates for ADHD: a diffusion imaging tractography study with sibling design. Psychol Med 2020; 50:1203-1213. [PMID: 31115278 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291719001120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain structural alterations are frequently observed in probands with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Here we examined the microstructural integrity of 76 white matter tracts among unaffected siblings of patients with ADHD to evaluate the potential familial risk and its association with clinical and neuropsychological manifestations. METHODS The comparison groups included medication-naïve ADHD probands (n = 50), their unaffected siblings (n = 50) and typically developing controls (n = 50, age-and-sex matched with ADHD probands). Whole brain tractography was reconstructed automatically by tract-based analysis of diffusion spectrum imaging (DSI). Microstructural properties of white matter tracts were represented by the values of generalized fractional anisotropy (GFA), fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD) and axial diffusivity (AD). RESULTS Compared to the control group, ADHD probands showed higher AD values in the perpendicular fasciculus, superior longitudinal fasciculus I, corticospinal tract, and corpus callosum. The AD values of unaffected siblings were in the intermediate position between those of the ADHD and control groups. These AD values were significantly associated with ADHD symptoms, sustained attention and working memory, for all white matter tracks evaluated except for the perpendicular fasciculus. Higher FA and lower RD values in the right frontostriatal tract connecting ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (FS-VLPFC) were associated with better performance in spatial span only in the unaffected sibling group. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal AD values of specific white matter tracts among unaffected siblings of ADHD probands suggest the presence of familial risk in this population. The right FS-VLPFC may have a role in preventing the expression of the ADHD-related behavioral phenotype. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV NUMBER NCT01682915.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huey-Ling Chiang
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Chin Hsu
- Institute of Medical Device and Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- AcroViz Technology Inc., Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Yuan Shang
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yih Isaac Tseng
- Institute of Medical Device and Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Molecular Imaging Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, and Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen Y, He Z, Chen G, Liu M, Wang H. Prenatal glucocorticoids exposure and fetal adrenal developmental programming. Toxicology 2019; 428:152308. [PMID: 31614174 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2019.152308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Clinically, we apply synthetic glucocorticoids to treat fetal and maternal diseases, such as premature labor and autoimmune diseases. Although its clinical efficacy is positive, the fetus will be exposed to exogenous synthetic glucocorticoids. Prenatal adverse environments (such as xenobiotics exposure, malnutrition, infection, hypoxia and stress) can cause fetuses overexposure to excessive endogenous maternal glucocorticoids. The level of glucocorticoids is the key to fetal tissue maturation and postnatal fate. A large number of studies have found that prenatal glucocorticoids exposure can lead to fetal adrenal dysplasia and dysfunction, continuing after birth and even into adulthood. As the core organ of fetal-originated adult diseases, fetal adrenal dysplasia is closely related to the susceptibility and occurrence of multiple chronic diseases, and there are also obvious gender differences. However, its intrauterine programming mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. This review summarizes recent advances in prenatal glucocorticoids exposure and fetal adrenal developmental programming alterations, which is of great significance for explaining adrenal developmental toxicity and the intrauterine origin of fetal-originated adult diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Zheng He
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guanghui Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical School of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rosenkrantz TS, Hussain Z, Fitch RH. Sex Differences in Brain Injury and Repair in Newborn Infants: Clinical Evidence and Biological Mechanisms. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:211. [PMID: 31294000 PMCID: PMC6606734 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences in the development of the male and female brain are an evolving area of investigation. We are beginning to understand the underpinnings of male and female advantages due to differences in brain development as well as the consequences following hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in the newborn. The two main factors that appear to affect outcomes are gestation age at the time of injury and sex of the subject. This review starts with a summary of differences in the anatomy and physiology of the developing male and female brain. This is followed by a review of the major factors responsible for the observed differences in the face of normal development and hypoxic injury. The last section reviews the response of male and female subjects to various neuroprotective strategies that are currently being used and where there is a need for additional information for more precise therapy based on the sex of the infant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ted S Rosenkrantz
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Zeenat Hussain
- Department of Volunteer Services, UCONN Health, Farmington, CT, United States.,Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Roslyn Holly Fitch
- Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Roux S, Lohof A, Ben-Ari Y, Poulain B, Bossu JL. Maturation of GABAergic Transmission in Cerebellar Purkinje Cells Is Sex Dependent and Altered in the Valproate Model of Autism. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:232. [PMID: 30104962 PMCID: PMC6077203 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain development is accompanied by a shift in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) response from depolarizing-excitatory to hyperpolarizing-inhibitory, due to a reduction of intracellular chloride concentration. This sequence is delayed in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). We now report a similar alteration of this shift in the cerebellum, a structure implicated in ASD. Using single GABAA receptor channel recordings in cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs), we found two conductance levels (18 and 10 pS), the former being dominant in newborns and the latter in young-adults. This conductance shift and the depolarizing/excitatory to hyperpolarizing/inhibitory GABA shift occurred 4 days later in females than males. Our data support a sex-dependent developmental shift of GABA conductance and chloride gradient, leading to different developmental timing in males and females. Because these developmental sequences are altered in ASD, this study further stresses the importance of developmental timing in pathological neurodevelopment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Roux
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (INCI)-CNRS, UPR 3212, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ann Lohof
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR 8256, Biological Adaptation and Ageing, Paris, France
| | - Yehezkel Ben-Ari
- Neurochlore, Ben-Ari Institute of Neuroarcheology, Campus Scientifique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Bernard Poulain
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (INCI)-CNRS, UPR 3212, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Louis Bossu
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (INCI)-CNRS, UPR 3212, Strasbourg, France
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rice TR, Shah LD, Trelles P, Lin SK, Christensen DS, Walther A, Sher L. Mental health of the male adolescent and young man: the Copenhagen statement. World J Pediatr 2018; 14:224-232. [PMID: 29679360 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-018-0155-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male adolescents and young men benefit when their mental health care is specialized to match their unique gendered and developmental needs. Sensitivity to the social circumstances of this population is important; additionally, the emerging ability to tailor care through knowledge gleaned from the intersection of psychiatry, neurology, and endocrinology informs care. DATA SOURCES This article summarized the views of six experts in the area of the adolescent and young adult male mental health. These experts were select members of the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry's Task Force on Men's Mental Health. They convened to present two symposia on the topic of men's mental health at the 13th World Congress of Biological Psychiatry (WCBP) in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2017. RESULTS In these works, a special focus is paid to addictive disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, aggression, and brain development. Collectively, the authors present an argument for the merits of a male-specific model of mental health care to advance the overall well-being of this population. CONCLUSIONS Men's mental health should be recognized as a social issue as much as a medical issue, with special attention paid to problems such as unemployment, familial disruption, and substance abuse. These problems, and especially those of major societal impact including violence and suicide which are much more frequently the product of male youth and men, should have more male-tailored options for service provision that respond to men's mental health needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Rice
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Lesha D Shah
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pilar Trelles
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Shih-Ku Lin
- Taipei City Hospital and Taipei Medical University, Taipei, China
| | - Dinne Skjærlund Christensen
- Department of Public Health, Center for Healthy Aging and Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Walther
- Biological Psychology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Leo Sher
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chung AS, Miller SM, Sun Y, Xu X, Zweifel LS. Sexual congruency in the connectome and translatome of VTA dopamine neurons. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11120. [PMID: 28894175 PMCID: PMC5593921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11478-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine system is important for reward, motivation, emotion, learning, and memory. Dysfunctions in the dopamine system are linked to multiple neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, many of which present with sex differences. Little is known about the extent of heterogeneity in the basic organization of VTA dopamine neurons with regard to sex. Here, we characterized the cell-specific connectivity of VTA dopamine neurons, their mRNA translational profile, and basic electrophysiological characteristics in a common strain of mice. We found no major differences in these metrics, except for differential expression of a Y-chromosome associated mRNA transcript, Eif2s3y, and the X-linked, X-inactivation transcript Xist. Of note, Xist transcript was significantly enriched in dopamine neurons, suggesting tight regulation of X-linked gene expression to ensure sexual congruency. These data indicate that the features that make dopamine neurons unique are highly concordant and not a principal source of sexual dimorphism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda S Chung
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Samara M Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Yanjun Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Xiangmin Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Larry S Zweifel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lowe DW, Fraser JL, Rollins LG, Bentzley J, Nie X, Martin R, Singh I, Jenkins D. Vitamin D improves functional outcomes in neonatal hypoxic ischemic male rats treated with N-acetylcysteine and hypothermia. Neuropharmacology 2017; 123:186-200. [PMID: 28599922 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hypothermia treatment neuroprotects approximately 50% of neonates who present with moderate to severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a potent antioxidant, is neuroprotective in combination with hypothermia in neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) female rats, but less protective in males. Vitamin D is a neurosteroid, which may provide immunomodulation and improve outcomes for both sexes. We investigated the efficacy of this combination of drugs with hypothermia after severe HI, as well as potential mechanisms of vitamin D effects in the transition to chronic inflammation. DOL 7 rats were randomized to sham, or HI and hypothermia treated with either saline (HYPO), NAC (50 mg/kg/d, HNAC), or HNAC plus 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 (0.1 μg/kg/d, HNAC + VitD) daily for 2 weeks. A second set of animals were randomized and treated for 11 days to investigate vitamin D metabolism and inflammatory mediators. Rats treated with HNAC + VitD performed significantly better on tests of strength and use of affected limb, adaptive sensorimotor skills, motor sequence learning, and working memory than either HYPO or HNAC, particularly benefiting male rats. Significantly fewer rats in the HNAC + VitD group had severe hemispheric volume loss. HI injury decreased serum vitamin D at 11 days and induced the enzyme that deactivates vitamin D in the hippocampus, particularly in males. Persistent vitamin D dysregulation was seen in both hippocampi in males, which was not reversed by hypothermia. Vitamin D in combination with hypothermia and NAC supports functional recovery in both sexes of neonatal rats significantly better than hypothermia alone or hypothermia and NAC in this severe HI model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle W Lowe
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| | - Jamie L Fraser
- Division of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Laura Grace Rollins
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Jessica Bentzley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.
| | - Xingju Nie
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| | - Renee Martin
- Department of Public Health, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| | - Inderjit Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| | - Dorothea Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Genes, Gender, Environment, and Novel Functions of Estrogen Receptor Beta in the Susceptibility to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7030024. [PMID: 28241485 PMCID: PMC5366823 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7030024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Many neurological disorders affect men and women differently regarding prevalence, progression, and severity. It is clear that many of these disorders may originate from defective signaling during fetal or perinatal brain development, which may affect males and females differently. Such sex-specific differences may originate from chromosomal or sex-hormone specific effects. This short review will focus on the estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) signaling during perinatal brain development and put it in the context of sex-specific differences in neurodevelopmental disorders. We will discuss ERβ’s recent discovery in directing DNA de-methylation to specific sites, of which one such site may bear consequences for the susceptibility to the neurological reading disorder dyslexia. We will also discuss how dysregulations in sex-hormone signaling, like those evoked by endocrine disruptive chemicals, may affect this and other neurodevelopmental disorders in a sex-specific manner through ERβ.
Collapse
|
20
|
Buhusi M, Bartlett MJ, Buhusi CV. Sex differences in interval timing and attention to time in C57Bl/6J mice. Behav Brain Res 2017; 324:96-99. [PMID: 28212945 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Interval timing is crucial for decision-making and motor control and is impaired in many neuropsychiatric disorders. Previous studies examined timing in various strains or genetically-altered mice, but not in parallel in male and female mice in the same experimental setting. We investigated timing and attention to time in male and female C57Bl/6J mice, when presented with gaps in the timed stimulus, novel auditory distracters presented during the un-interrupted timed stimulus, and gap+distracter combinations. No sex differences were found in regard to timing accuracy and precision. However, presentation of the gap+distracter combination over-reset timing in males but had a much smaller effect in females. The over-reset strategy was reported previously with emotional distracters (e.g., previously paired with footshock) but not with neutral distracters. These results reveal sex differences in attentional gating/switching or working memory for time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mona Buhusi
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, USTAR BioInnovations Center, Dept. Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States.
| | - Mitchell J Bartlett
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, USTAR BioInnovations Center, Dept. Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Catalin V Buhusi
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, USTAR BioInnovations Center, Dept. Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
McCarthy MM. Multifaceted origins of sex differences in the brain. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2016; 371:20150106. [PMID: 26833829 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2015.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies of sex differences in the brain range from reductionistic cell and molecular analyses in animal models to functional imaging in awake human subjects, with many other levels in between. Interpretations and conclusions about the importance of particular differences often vary with differing levels of analyses and can lead to discord and dissent. In the past two decades, the range of neurobiological, psychological and psychiatric endpoints found to differ between males and females has expanded beyond reproduction into every aspect of the healthy and diseased brain, and thereby demands our attention. A greater understanding of all aspects of neural functioning will only be achieved by incorporating sex as a biological variable. The goal of this review is to highlight the current state of the art of the discipline of sex differences research with an emphasis on the brain and to contextualize the articles appearing in the accompanying special issue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret M McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gao Y, Heldt SA. Lack of neuronal nitric oxide synthase results in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder-like behaviors in mice. Behav Neurosci 2015; 129:50-61. [PMID: 25621792 DOI: 10.1037/bne0000031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is an important molecule for the proper development and function of the central nervous system. In this study, we investigated the behavioral alterations in the neuronal NO synthase knockout mice (NOS1 KO) with a deficient NO production mechanism in the brain, characterizing it as a potential rodent model for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). NOS1 KO exhibited higher locomotor activity than their wildtype counterparts in a novel environment, as measured by open field (OF) test. In a 2-way active avoidance paradigm (TWAA), we found sex-dependent effects, where male KO displayed deficits in avoidance and escape behavior, sustained higher incidences of shuttle crossings, and higher incidences of intertrial interval crossings, suggesting learning, and/or performance impairments. On the other hand, female KO demonstrated few deficits in TWAA. Molsidomine (MSD), a NO donor, rescued TWAA deficits in male KO when acutely administered before training. In a passive avoidance paradigm, KO of both sexes displayed significantly shorter step-through latencies after training. Further, abnormal spontaneous motor activity rhythms were found in the KO during the dark phase of the day, indicating dysregulation of rhythmic activities. These data indicate that NOS1 KO mimics certain ADHD-like behaviors and could potentially serve as a novel rodent model for ADHD.
Collapse
|
23
|
Porter AJ, Pillidge K, Grabowska EM, Stanford SC. The angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, captopril, prevents the hyperactivity and impulsivity of neurokinin-1 receptor gene 'knockout' mice: sex differences and implications for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:512-21. [PMID: 25703442 PMCID: PMC4414389 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 12/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Mice lacking functional neurokinin-1 receptors (NK1R-/-) display behavioural abnormalities resembling attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): locomotor hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattentiveness. The preferred ligand for NK1R, substance P, is metabolised by angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), which forms part of the brain renin angiotensin system (BRAS). In view of evidence that the BRAS modulates locomotor activity and cognitive performance, we tested the effects of drugs that target the BRAS on these behaviours in NK1R-/- and wildtype mice. We first tested the effects of the ACE inhibitor, captopril, on locomotor activity. Because there are well-established sex differences in both ADHD and ACE activity, we compared the effects of captopril in both male and female mice. Locomotor hyperactivity was evident in male NK1R-/- mice, only, and this was abolished by treatment with captopril. By contrast, male wildtypes and females of both genotypes were unaffected by ACE inhibition. We then investigated the effects of angiotensin AT1 (losartan) and AT2 (PD 123319) receptor antagonists on the locomotor activity of male NK1R-/- and wildtype mice. Both antagonists increased the locomotor activity of NK1R-/- mice, but neither affected the wildtypes. Finally, we tested the effects of captopril on the performance of male NK1R-/- and wildtype mice in the 5-choice serial reaction-time task (5-CSRTT) and found that ACE inhibition prevented the impulsivity of NK1R-/- mice. These results indicate that certain behaviours, disrupted in ADHD, are influenced by an interaction between the BRAS and NK1R, and suggest that ACE inhibitors could provide a novel treatment for this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley J Porter
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Katharine Pillidge
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ewelina M Grabowska
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - S Clare Stanford
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Tarrade A, Panchenko P, Junien C, Gabory A. Placental contribution to nutritional programming of health and diseases: epigenetics and sexual dimorphism. J Exp Biol 2015; 218:50-8. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.110320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The recent and rapid worldwide increase in non-communicable diseases challenges the assumption that genetic factors are the primary contributors to such diseases. A new concept of the ‘developmental origins of health and disease’ (DOHaD) is at stake and therefore requires a paradigm shift. Maternal obesity and malnutrition predispose offspring to develop metabolic syndrome, a vicious cycle leading to transmission to subsequent generation(s), with differences in response and susceptibility according to the sex of the individual. The placenta is a programming agent of adult health and disease. Adaptations of placental phenotype in response to maternal diet and metabolic status alter fetal nutrient supply. This implies important epigenetic changes that are, however, still poorly documented in DOHaD studies, particularly concerning overnutrition. The aim of this review is to discuss the emerging knowledge on the relationships between the effect of maternal nutrition or metabolic status on placental function and the risk of diseases later in life, with a specific focus on epigenetic mechanisms and sexual dimorphism. Explaining the sex-specific causal variables and how males versus females respond and adapt to environmental perturbations should help physicians and patients to anticipate disease susceptibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Tarrade
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Polina Panchenko
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Claudine Junien
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
- UVSQ, Université Versailles-Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, France
| | - Anne Gabory
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Davies W. Sex differences in attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: candidate genetic and endocrine mechanisms. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:331-46. [PMID: 24680800 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition characterised by severe inattention, pathological impulsivity and hyperactivity; it is relatively common affecting up to 6% of children, and is associated with a risk of long-term adverse educational and social consequences. Males are considerably more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than females; the course of the disorder and its associated co-morbidities also appear to be sensitive to sex. Here, I discuss fundamental biological (genetic and endocrine) mechanisms that have been shown to, or could theoretically, contribute towards these sexually dimorphic phenomena. Greater understanding of how and why the sexes differ with respect to ADHD vulnerability should allow us to identify and characterise novel protective and risk factors for the disorder, and should ultimately facilitate improved diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William Davies
- Behavioural Genetics Group, Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Schools of Psychology and Medicine, Cardiff University, Tower Building, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vande Voort JL, He JP, Jameson ND, Merikangas KR. Impact of the DSM-5 attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder age-of-onset criterion in the US adolescent population. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2014; 53:736-44. [PMID: 24954823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2014.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Revised: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aims to compare the prevalence and clinical correlates of DSM-IV versus DSM-5-defined attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and subtypes in a nationally representative sample of US youth based on the age-of-onset criterion. METHOD The sample includes 1,894 participants 12 to 15 years of age from cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) surveys conducted from 2001 to 2004. Data on DSM-IV and DSM-5 criteria for ADHD were derived from administration of the parental ADHD module of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, Version IV (DISC-IV). RESULTS Extension of the age-of-onset criterion from 7 to 12 years led to an increase in the prevalence rate of ADHD from 7.38% (DSM-IV) to 10.84% (DSM-5). Youth with later age of onset did not differ from those with earlier age of onset in terms of severity and patterns of comorbidity. However, the group with later age of onset was more likely to be from lower income and ethnic minority families. CONCLUSION The comparability of the clinical significance of the early and later age-of-onset groups supports the DSM-5 extension of the age-of-onset criterion in ADHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Vande Voort
- Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch in the Intramural Research Program at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jian-Ping He
- Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch in the Intramural Research Program at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nicole D Jameson
- Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch in the Intramural Research Program at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kathleen R Merikangas
- Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch in the Intramural Research Program at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gabory A, Vigé A, Ferry L, Attig L, Jais JP, Jouneau L, Junien C. Male and Female Placentas Have Divergent Transcriptomic and Epigenomic Responses to Maternal Diets: Not Just Hormones. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-02591-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
|
28
|
Gabory A, Roseboom TJ, Moore T, Moore LG, Junien C. Placental contribution to the origins of sexual dimorphism in health and diseases: sex chromosomes and epigenetics. Biol Sex Differ 2013; 4:5. [PMID: 23514128 PMCID: PMC3618244 DOI: 10.1186/2042-6410-4-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences occur in most non-communicable diseases, including metabolic diseases, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric and neurological disorders and cancer. In many cases, the susceptibility to these diseases begins early in development. The observed differences between the sexes may result from genetic and hormonal differences and from differences in responses to and interactions with environmental factors, including infection, diet, drugs and stress. The placenta plays a key role in fetal growth and development and, as such, affects the fetal programming underlying subsequent adult health and accounts, in part for the developmental origin of health and disease (DOHaD). There is accumulating evidence to demonstrate the sex-specific relationships between diverse environmental influences on placental functions and the risk of disease later in life. As one of the few tissues easily collectable in humans, this organ may therefore be seen as an ideal system for studying how male and female placenta sense nutritional and other stresses, such as endocrine disruptors. Sex-specific regulatory pathways controlling sexually dimorphic characteristics in the various organs and the consequences of lifelong differences in sex hormone expression largely account for such responses. However, sex-specific changes in epigenetic marks are generated early after fertilization, thus before adrenal and gonad differentiation in the absence of sex hormones and in response to environmental conditions. Given the abundance of X-linked genes involved in placentogenesis, and the early unequal gene expression by the sex chromosomes between males and females, the role of X- and Y-chromosome-linked genes, and especially those involved in the peculiar placenta-specific epigenetics processes, giving rise to the unusual placenta epigenetic landscapes deserve particular attention. However, even with recent developments in this field, we still know little about the mechanisms underlying the early sex-specific epigenetic marks resulting in sex-biased gene expression of pathways and networks. As a critical messenger between the maternal environment and the fetus, the placenta may play a key role not only in buffering environmental effects transmitted by the mother but also in expressing and modulating effects due to preconceptional exposure of both the mother and the father to stressful conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Gabory
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, F-78352, France.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Crowley MJ, Wu J, Hommer RE, South M, Molfese PJ, Fearon RMP, Mayes LC. A developmental study of the feedback-related negativity from 10-17 years: age and sex effects for reward versus non-reward. Dev Neuropsychol 2013; 38:595-612. [PMID: 24219697 PMCID: PMC3992989 DOI: 10.1080/87565641.2012.694512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We employed event-related potentials to examine the feedback-related negativity (FRN), during a non-learning reward versus non-reward task. We compared 10-12-year-old, 13-14-year-old, and 15-17-year-old youth (n = 91). Age effects included a larger FRN for younger age groups, regardless of feedback type, and a decrease in peak latency for feedback, across age groups as a linear trend. Males showed larger responses irrespective of feedback type and longer latency for rewarded feedback. Source modeling revealed reward/non-reward differences in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and orbitofrontal cortex, most strongly in the subgenual ACC. Males showed more subgenual ACC activity for feedback overall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Crowley
- a Yale Child Study Center , Yale School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lentini E, Kasahara M, Arver S, Savic I. Sex differences in the human brain and the impact of sex chromosomes and sex hormones. Cereb Cortex 2012; 23:2322-36. [PMID: 22891037 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhs222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While there has been increasing support for the existence of cerebral sex differences, the mechanisms underlying these differences are unclear. Based on animal data, it has long been believed that sexual differentiation of the brain is primarily linked to organizational effects of fetal testosterone. This view is, however, in question as more recent data show the presence of sex differences before the onset of testosterone production. The present study focuses on the impact that sex chromosomes might have on these differences. Utilizing the inherent differences in sex and X-chromosome dosage among XXY males, XY males, and XX females, comparative voxel-based morphometry was conducted using sex hormones and sex chromosomes as covariates. Sex differences in the cerebellar and precentral gray matter volumes (GMV) were found to be related to X-chromosome dosage, whereas sex differences in the amygdala, the parahippocamus, and the occipital cortex were linked to testosterone levels. An increased number of sex chromosomes was associated with reduced GMV in the amygdala, caudate, and the temporal and insular cortices, with increased parietal GMV and reduced frontotemporal white matter volume. No selective, testosterone independent, effect of the Y-chromosome was detected. Based on these observations, it was hypothesized that programming of the motor cortex and parts of cerebellum is mediated by processes linked to X-escapee genes, which do not have Y-chromosome homologs, and that programming of certain limbic structures involves testosterone and X-chromosome escapee genes with Y-homologs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Lentini
- Department of Women and Child Health
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
The influence of sex-linked genetic mechanisms on attention and impulsivity. Biol Psychol 2011; 89:1-13. [PMID: 21983394 PMCID: PMC3245859 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2011.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
It is now generally agreed that there are inherent sex differences in healthy individuals across a number of neurobiological domains (including brain structure, neurochemistry, and cognition). Moreover, there is a burgeoning body of evidence highlighting sex differences within neuropsychiatric populations (in terms of the rates of incidence, clinical features/progression, neurobiology and pathology). Here, we consider the extent to which attention and impulsivity are sexually dimorphic in healthy populations and the extent to which sex might modulate the expression of disorders characterised by abnormalities in attention and/or impulsivity such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and addiction. We then discuss general genetic mechanisms that might underlie sex differences in attention and impulsivity before focussing on specific positional and functional candidate sex-linked genes that are likely to influence these cognitive processes. Identifying novel sex-modulated molecular targets should ultimately enable us to develop more effective therapies in disorders associated with attentional/impulsive dysfunction.
Collapse
|