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Kanen JW, Robbins TW, Trofimova IN. Harnessing temperament to elucidate the complexities of serotonin function. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2022.101108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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2
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Hjorth OR, Frick A, Gingnell M, Hoppe JM, Faria V, Hultberg S, Alaie I, Månsson KNT, Rosén J, Reis M, Wahlstedt K, Jonasson M, Lubberink M, Antoni G, Fredrikson M, Furmark T. Expectancy effects on serotonin and dopamine transporters during SSRI treatment of social anxiety disorder: a randomized clinical trial. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:559. [PMID: 34732695 PMCID: PMC8566580 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01682-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been extensively debated whether selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are more efficacious than placebo in affective disorders, and it is not fully understood how SSRIs exert their beneficial effects. Along with serotonin transporter blockade, altered dopamine signaling and psychological factors may contribute. In this randomized clinical trial of participants with social anxiety disorder (SAD) we investigated how manipulation of verbally-induced expectancies, vital for placebo response, affect brain monoamine transporters and symptom improvement during SSRI treatment. Twenty-seven participants with SAD (17 men, 10 women), were randomized, to 9 weeks of overt or covert treatment with escitalopram 20 mg. The overt group received correct treatment information whereas the covert group was treated deceptively with escitalopram, described as an active placebo in a cover story. Before and after treatment, patients underwent positron emission tomography (PET) assessments with the [11C]DASB and [11C]PE2I radiotracers, probing brain serotonin (SERT) and dopamine (DAT) transporters. SAD symptoms were measured by the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale. Overt was superior to covert SSRI treatment, resulting in almost a fourfold higher rate of responders. PET results showed that SERT occupancy after treatment was unrelated to anxiety reduction and equally high in both groups. In contrast, DAT binding decreased in the right putamen, pallidum, and the left thalamus with overt SSRI treatment, and increased with covert treatment, resulting in significant group differences. DAT binding potential changes in these regions correlated negatively with symptom improvement. Findings support that the anxiolytic effects of SSRIs involve psychological factors contingent on dopaminergic neurotransmission while serotonin transporter blockade alone is insufficient for clinical response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olof R Hjorth
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Andreas Frick
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Malin Gingnell
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johanna M Hoppe
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Vanda Faria
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Center for Pain and the Brain, Department of Anesthesiology Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Smell & Taste Clinic, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sara Hultberg
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Iman Alaie
- Department of Neuroscience, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kristoffer N T Månsson
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck UCL Center for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, Berlin/London, UK
| | - Jörgen Rosén
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Margareta Reis
- Department of Biomedical And Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Skåne University hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kurt Wahlstedt
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - My Jonasson
- Department of of Surgical Sciences/Nuclear Medicine and PET, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mark Lubberink
- Department of of Surgical Sciences/Nuclear Medicine and PET, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Antoni
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mats Fredrikson
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tomas Furmark
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Ankali KN, Rangaswamy J, Shalavadi M, Naik N, Krishnamurthy GN. Synthesis and Molecular Docking of novel 1,3-Thiazole Derived 1,2,3-Triazoles and In vivo Biological Evaluation for their Anti anxiety and Anti inflammatory Activity. J Mol Struct 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.130357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Sen A. Does serotonin deficiency lead to anosmia, ageusia, dysfunctional chemesthesis and increased severity of illness in COVID-19? Med Hypotheses 2021; 153:110627. [PMID: 34139598 PMCID: PMC8180092 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Different mechanisms forwarded to understand anosmia and ageusia in coronavirus patients are not adequate to explain reversible anosmia and ageusia, which are resolved quickly. In addition, the reason behind the impaired chemesthetic sensations in some coronavirus patients remains unknown. In the present paper it is proposed that SARS-CoV-2 patients suffer from depletion of tryptophan, as ACE2, a key element in the process of absorption of tryptophan from the food, is significantly reduced in the patients as coronavirus uses ACE2 as the receptor to enter the host cells. The tryptophan depletion leads to a deficit of serotonin (5-HT) in SARS-COV-2 patients because tryptophan is the precursor in the synthesis of 5-HT. Such 5-HT deficiency can explain anosmia, ageusia and dysfunctional chemesthesis in COVID-19, given the fact that 5-HT is an important neuromodulator in the olfactory neurons, taste receptor cells and transient receptor potential channels (TRP channels) involved in chemesthesis. In addition, 5-HT deficiency worsens silent hypoxemia and depresses hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction leading to increased severity of the disease. Also, the levels of anti-inflammatory melatonin (synthesized from 5-HT) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+, produced from niacin whose precursor is the tryptophan) might decrease in coronavirus patients resulting in the aggravation of the disease. Interestingly, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may not be of much help in correcting the 5-HT deficiency in COVID-19 patients, as their efficacy goes down significantly when there is depletion of tryptophan in the system. Hence, tryptophan supplementation may herald a radical change in the treatment of COVID-19 and accordingly, clinical trials (therapeutic / prophylactic) should be conducted on coronavirus patients to find out how tryptophan supplementation (oral or parenteral, the latter in severe cases where there is hardly any absorption of tryptophan from the food) helps in curing, relieving or preventing the olfactory, gustatory and chemesthetic dysfunctions and in lessening the severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amarnath Sen
- 40 Jadunath Sarbovouma Lane, Kolkata 700035, India.
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Effects of tryptophan depletion on anxiety, a systematic review. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:118. [PMID: 33574223 PMCID: PMC7878770 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01219-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulnerability markers for onset of anxiety disorders are scarce. In depression, patients at risk tend to respond with a negative mood to 'acute tryptophan depletion' (ATD), while healthy volunteers and current patients do not. The serotonergic system thus provides indications for vulnerability for depression. It is unknown whether ATD reveals vulnerability in anxiety too. This study systematically reviews the effects of ATD on anxiety and assesses whether challenging anxiety modifies the response. PubMed, Embase and PsychInfo were systematically searched up to April 2019 for studies in which (1) healthy volunteers or patients with a (remitted) anxiety disorder underwent ATD and (2) levels of anxiety were reported. In total, 21 studies were included. Studies conducted in healthy volunteers (n = 13), and patients with a remitted (n = 6) or current (panic, social or generalised) anxiety disorder (n = 4). Studies were mostly of poor quality and heterogeneous regarding population, challenge test used and outcome measures. ATD did not consistently affect anxiety in any of the groups. Moreover, a challenge test after ATD (n = 17 studies) did not consistently provoke anxiety in healthy volunteers or remitted patients. A 35% CO2 challenge did consistently increase anxiety in patients with a current panic disorder (PD). To conclude, this systematic review found no clear indications that ATD provokes anxiety in those at risk for anxiety disorders. Hence, unlike in depression, ATD does not indicate vulnerability to develop an anxiety disorder. Because included studies were heterogeneous and mostly of poor quality, there is an urgent need for high quality research in homogeneous samples.
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Disruption of the structural and functional connectivity of the frontoparietal network underlies symptomatic anxiety in late-life depression. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2020; 28:102398. [PMID: 32919365 PMCID: PMC7491145 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
LLD patients present lower functional connectivity in the right FPN. LLD patients present impaired white matter integrity in tracts to the right FPN. FPN alterations were negatively correlated with anxiety severity in LLD patients. The right IFG might be a crucial hub underlying the neuropathology of LLD.
The present study investigated functional connectivity and white matter integrity of the fronto-parietal network (FPN) to reveal the neural mechanisms that underlie late-life depression (LLD). Fifty patients with LLD and 40 non-depressed controls were included in the study. A multi-parametric approach was used by applying independent component analysis (ICA) to estimate functional connectivity of the FPN and by applying tractbased spatial statistics to examine white-matter integrity in tracts to the FPN. Patients with LLD exhibited functional abnormalities in the right inferior frontal gyrus, middle frontal gyrus, and inferior parietal gyrus and lower white matter fractional anisotropy in the right inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, anterior thalamic radiation, and uncinate fasciculus. Alterations of functional connectivity and white matter fractional anisotropy in these regions were negatively correlated with the severity of symptomatic anxiety in LLD patients. The right inferior frontal gyrus might be a crucial hub in transferring information between these abnormal regions. Significant correlations were found between anxiety symptoms and brain alterations, suggesting that impairments in the FPN network might be involved in symptomatic anxiety in elderly individuals with depression.
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Liebenberg N, Jensen E, Larsen ER, Kousholt BS, Pereira VS, Fischer CW, Wegener G. A Preclinical Study of Casein Glycomacropeptide as a Dietary Intervention for Acute Mania. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 21:473-484. [PMID: 29726996 PMCID: PMC5932479 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyy012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Casein glycomacropeptide is a peptide that lacks phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. This profile may enable it to deplete phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, and subsequently the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Dopamine- and serotonin-depleting amino acid mixtures have shown promise as acute antimanic treatments. In this study, we explore the depleting effects on amino acids, dopamine and serotonin as well as its actions on manic-like and other behavior in rats. METHODS Casein glycomacropeptide and a selection of amino acid mixtures were administered orally at 2, 4, or 8 h or for 1 week chronically. Amino acid and monoamine levels were measured in plasma and brain and behavior was assessed in the amphetamine-hyperlocomotion, forced swim, prepulse inhibition, and elevated plus maze tests. RESULTS Casein glycomacropeptide induced a time-dependent reduction in tyrosine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine in brain and plasma which was augmented by supplementing with leucine. Casein glycomacropeptide +leucine reduced dopamine in the frontal cortex and serotonin in the hippocampus, frontal cortex, and striatum after 2 and 4 h. Casein glycomacropeptide+leucine also had antimanic activity in the amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion test at 2 h after a single acute treatment and after 1 week of chronic treatment. CONCLUSIONS Casein glycomacropeptide-based treatments and a branched-chain amino acid mixture affected total tissue levels of dopamine in the frontal cortex and striatum and serotonin in the frontal cortex, striatum, and hippocampus of rats in a time-dependent fashion and displayed antimanic efficacy in a behavioral assay of mania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Liebenberg
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | | | - Erik Roj Larsen
- Department Psychiatry Odense, Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark,Department of Psychiatry, Institute for Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Saima Kousholt
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, AUGUST Centre, Aarhus University, Risskov, Denmark
| | - Vitor Silva Pereira
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Christina Weide Fischer
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Gregers Wegener
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, AUGUST Centre, Aarhus University, Risskov, Denmark,Centre for Pharmaceutical Excellence, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, South Africa,Correspondence: Gregers Wegener, Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Skovagervej 2, 8240 Risskov, Denmark ()
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Effects of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors on the Shock-Induced Ultrasonic Vocalization of Rats in Different Experimental Designs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-809600-0.00029-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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9
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Ulhaq ZS, Kishida M. Brain Aromatase Modulates Serotonergic Neuron by Regulating Serotonin Levels in Zebrafish Embryos and Larvae. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:230. [PMID: 29867763 PMCID: PMC5954033 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Teleost fish are known to express two isoforms of P450 aromatase, a key enzyme for estrogen synthesis. One of the isoforms, brain aromatase (AroB), cyp19a1b, is highly expressed during early development of zebrafish, thereby suggesting its role in brain development. On the other hand, early development of serotonergic neuron, one of the major monoamine neurons, is considered to play an important role in neurogenesis. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the role of AroB in development of serotonergic neuron by testing the effects of (1) estradiol (E2) exposure and (2) morpholino (MO)-mediated AroB knockdown. When embryos were exposed to E2, the effects were biphasic. The low dose of E2 (0.005 µM) significantly increased serotonin (5-HT) positive area at 48 hour post-fertilization (hpf) detected by immunohistochemistry and relative mRNA levels of tryptophan hydroxylase isoforms (tph1a, tph1b, and tph2) at 96 hpf measured by semi-quantitative PCR. To test the effects on serotonin transmission, heart rate and thigmotaxis, an indicator of anxiety, were analyzed. The low dose also significantly increased heart rate at 48 hpf and decreased thigmotaxis. The high dose of E2 (1 µM) exhibited opposite effects in all parameters. The effects of both low and high doses were reversed by addition of estrogen receptor (ER) blocker, ICI 182,780, thereby suggesting that the effects were mediated through ER. When AroB MO was injected to fertilized eggs, 5-HT-positive area was significantly decreased, while the significant decrease in relative tph mRNA levels was found only with tph2 but not with two other isoforms. AroB MO also decreased heart rate and increased thigmotaxis. All the effects were rescued by co-injection with AroB mRNA and by exposure to E2. Taken together, this study demonstrates the role of brain aromatase in development of serotonergic neuron in zebrafish embryos and larvae, implying that brain-formed estrogen is an important factor to sustain early development of serotonergic neuron.
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Hood SD, Broyd A, Robinson H, Lee J, Hudaib AR, Hince DA. Effects of tryptophan depletion on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-remitted patients with obsessive compulsive disorder. J Psychopharmacol 2017; 31:1615-1623. [PMID: 29095069 DOI: 10.1177/0269881117736916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotonergic antidepressants are first-line medication therapies for obsessive-compulsive disorder, however it is not known if synaptic serotonin availability is important for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor efficacy. The present study tested the hypothesis that temporary reduction in central serotonin transmission, through acute tryptophan depletion, would result in an increase in anxiety in selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-remitted obsessive-compulsive disorder patients. METHODS Eight patients (four males) with obsessive-compulsive disorder who showed sustained clinical improvement with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment underwent acute tryptophan depletion in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subjects design, over two days one week apart. Five hours after consumption of the depleting/sham drink the participants performed a personalized obsessive-compulsive disorder symptom exposure task. Psychological responses were measured using the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory, Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale and Visual Analogue Scales. RESULTS Free plasma tryptophan to large neutral amino acid ratio decreased by 93% on the depletion day and decreased by 1% on the sham day, as anticipated. Psychological rating scores as measured by Visual Analogue Scale showed a significant decrease in perceived control and increase in interfering thoughts at the time of provocation on the depletion day but not on the sham day. A measure of convergent validity, namely Visual Analogue Scale Similar to past, was significantly higher at the time of provocation on both the depletion and sham days. Both the depletion and time of provocation scores for Visual Analogue Scale Anxiety, Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory, Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale and blood pressure were not significant. CONCLUSIONS Acute tryptophan depletion caused a significant decrease in perceived control and increase in interfering thoughts at the time of provocation. Acute tryptophan depletion had no effect on the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory or Visual Analogue Scale Anxiety measures, which suggests that the mechanism of action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be different to that seen in panic, social anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Successful selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder may involve the ability of serotonin to switch habitual responding to goal-directed behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean D Hood
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Annabel Broyd
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Hayley Robinson
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Jessica Lee
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Abdul-Rahman Hudaib
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Dana A Hince
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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11
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Preliminary evaluation on the effectiveness of varying doses of supplemental tryptophan as a calmative in horses. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Hood SD, Bell CJ, Argyropoulos SV, Nutt DJ. Don't panic. A guide to tryptophan depletion with disorder-specific anxiety provocation. J Psychopharmacol 2016; 30:1137-1140. [PMID: 27329165 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116655321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The 2002 paper "Does 5-HT restrain panic? A tryptophan depletion study in panic disorder patients recovered on paroxetine" by Bell and colleagues - reprinted in this issue of the Journal - reports on a study undertaken in the halcyon days of David Nutt's Psychopharmacology Unit at the University of Bristol, England. In this invited commentary authors of the original work discuss the impact of this paper on the field of acute tryptophan depletion research (especially in the field of clinical anxiety disorders) and the development of disorder-specific anxiogenic provocations over the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Hood
- School of Psychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences (M521), University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - C J Bell
- Mental Health Clinical Research Unit, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - S V Argyropoulos
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - D J Nutt
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Furmark T, Marteinsdottir I, Frick A, Heurling K, Tillfors M, Appel L, Antoni G, Hartvig P, Fischer H, Långström B, Eriksson E, Fredrikson M. Serotonin synthesis rate and the tryptophan hydroxylase-2: G-703T polymorphism in social anxiety disorder. J Psychopharmacol 2016; 30:1028-35. [PMID: 27189957 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116648317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
It is disputed whether anxiety disorders, like social anxiety disorder, are characterized by serotonin over- or underactivity. Here, we evaluated whether our recent finding of elevated neural serotonin synthesis rate in patients with social anxiety disorder could be reproduced in a separate cohort, and whether allelic variation in the tryptophan hydroxylase-2 (TPH2) G-703T polymorphism relates to differences in serotonin synthesis assessed with positron emission tomography. Eighteen social anxiety disorder patients and six healthy controls were scanned during 60 minutes in a resting state using positron emission tomography and 5-hydroxy-L-[β -(11)C]tryptophan, [(11)C]5-HTP, a substrate of the second enzymatic step in serotonin synthesis. Parametric images were generated, using the reference Patlak method, and analysed using Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM8). Blood samples for genotyping of the TPH2 G-703T polymorphism were obtained from 16 social anxiety disorder patients (T carriers: n=5, GG carriers: n=11). A significantly elevated [(11)C]5-HTP accumulation rate, indicative of enhanced decarboxylase activity and thereby serotonin synthesis capacity, was detected in social anxiety disorder patients compared with controls in the hippocampus and basal ganglia nuclei and, at a more lenient (uncorrected) statistical threshold, in the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex. In patients, the serotonin synthesis rate in the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex was significantly elevated in TPH2 T carriers in comparison with GG homozygotes. Our results support that social anxiety disorder entails an overactive presynaptic serotonergic system that, in turn, seems functionally influenced by the TPH2 G-703T polymorphism in emotionally relevant brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Furmark
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ina Marteinsdottir
- Centre for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Andreas Frick
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Heurling
- Section of Nuclear Medicine and PET, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Tillfors
- Centre for Health and Medical Psychology, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Lieuwe Appel
- Section of Nuclear Medicine and PET, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Antoni
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Hartvig
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Håkan Fischer
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bengt Långström
- Department of Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden Odense University Hospital, Southern Denmark University, Odense, Denmark
| | - Elias Eriksson
- Department of Pharmacology, Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Mats Fredrikson
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Hsiao CY, Tsai HC, Chi MH, Chen KC, Chen PS, Lee IH, Yeh TL, Yang YK. The Association between Baseline Subjective Anxiety Rating and Changes in Cardiac Autonomic Nervous Activity in Response to Tryptophan Depletion in Healthy Volunteers. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3498. [PMID: 27175645 PMCID: PMC4902487 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000003498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of serotonin on anxiety and autonomic nervous system (ANS) function; the correlation between subjective anxiety rating and changes of ANS function following tryptophan depletion (TD) in healthy volunteers was examined. Twenty-eight healthy participants, consisting of 15 females and 13 males, with an average age of 33.3 years, were recruited.Baseline Chinese Symptom Checklist-90-Revised and ANS function measurements were taken. TD was carried out on the testing day, and participants provided blood samples right before and 5 hours after TD. ANS function, somatic symptoms, and Visual Analogue Scales (VASs) were determined after TD. Wilcoxon signed rank test and Spearman ρ correlation were adapted for analyses of the results.The TD procedure reduced total and free plasma tryptophan effectively. After TD, the sympathetic nervous activity increased and parasympathetic nervous activity decreased. Baseline anxiety ratings positively correlated with post-TD changes in sympathetic nervous activity, VAS ratings, and physical symptoms. However, a negative correlation with post-TD changes in parasympathetic nervous activity was found.The change in ANS function after TD was associated with the severity of anxiety in healthy volunteers. This supports the fact that the effect of anxiety on heart rate variability is related to serotonin vulnerability. Furthermore, it also shows that the subjective anxiety rating has a biological basis related to serotonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih Yin Hsiao
- From the Department of Psychiatry, National Cheng Kung University Hospital (CYH, HCT, MHC, KCC, PSC, IHL, TLY, YKY), College of Medicine; Addiction Research Center (CYH, KCC, PSC, IHL, TLY, YKY), National Cheng Kung University, Tainan; Department of Psychiatry (HCT, KCC, YKY), National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Dou-Liou Branch, Yunlin; and Institute of Behavioral Medicine (YKY), College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Johnson SB, Anderson PL. Don't ask, don't tell: a systematic review of the extent to which participant characteristics are reported in social anxiety treatment studies. ANXIETY STRESS AND COPING 2016; 29:589-605. [DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2016.1138289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Corchs F, Nutt DJ, Hince DA, Davies SJC, Bernik M, Hood SD. Evidence for serotonin function as a neurochemical difference between fear and anxiety disorders in humans? J Psychopharmacol 2015; 29:1061-9. [PMID: 26187054 DOI: 10.1177/0269881115590603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The relationships between serotonin and fear and anxiety disorders have been much studied yet many important questions remain, despite selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors having been the primary treatments for these disorders for some time. In order to explore this issue we performed a pooled analysis of six of our studies in remitted patients with a fear/anxiety disorder who were exposed to syndrome-specific aversive stimulation under acute tryptophan depletion. We based our analysis on the hypothesis that the inconsistencies observed in the studies could be predicted by Deakin and Graeff's theory about the dual role of serotonin in responses to threats, whereby serotonin is critical to prevent fear (panic) but not anxiety. In accordance with this view, our results give support to a dissociation of the disorders traditionally grouped under fear and anxiety-related disorders in terms of different roles of serotonin in modulation of responses to aversive stimulation. Implications for future studies and psychiatric nosology are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Corchs
- Institute and Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - David J Nutt
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Division of Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Dana A Hince
- School of Psychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences (M521), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Simon J C Davies
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marcio Bernik
- Institute and Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sean D Hood
- School of Psychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences (M521), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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The GKH, Verkes RJ, Fekkes D, Bleijenberg G, van der Meer JWM, Buitelaar JK. Tryptophan depletion in chronic fatigue syndrome, a pilot cross-over study. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:650. [PMID: 25227994 PMCID: PMC4176591 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is still an enigmatic disorder. CFS can be regarded as a complex disorder with tremendous impact on lives of CFS-patients. Full recovery without treatment is rare. A somatic explanation for the fatigue is lacking. There is clinical and experimental evidence implicating enhanced serotonergic neurotransmission in CFS. Genetic studies and imaging studies support the hypothesis of upregulated serotonin system in CFS. In line with the hypothesis of an increased serotonergic state in CFS, we performed a randomised clinical trial investigated the effect of 5-HT3 receptor antagonism in CFS. No benefit was found of the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron compared to placebo. To further investigate the involvement of serotonin in CFS we performed a placebo controlled cross over pilot study investigating the effect of Acute Tryptophan Depletion. Findings Five female CFS-patients who met the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for CFS were recruited. There were two test days, one week apart. Each participant received placebo and ATD. To evaluate the efficacy of the ATD procedure tryptophan and the large neutral amino acids were measured. The outcome measures were fatigue severity, concentration and mood states. ATD resulted in a significant plasma tryptophan to large neutral amino acid ratio reduction of 96%. There were no significant differences in fatigue-, depression and concentration between the placebo- and ATD condition. Conclusions These first five CFS-patients did not respond to the ATD procedure. However, a much larger sample size is needed to draw final conclusions on the hypothesis of an increased serotonergic state in the pathophysiology of CFS. Trial registration ISRCTN07518149
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard K H The
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Nijmegen Expert Centre Chronic Fatigue, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Reinier Postlaan 4, 6525 GC Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Ownby RL, Acevedo A, Jacobs RJ, Caballero J, Waldrop-Valverde D. Negative and positive beliefs related to mood and health. Am J Health Behav 2014; 38:586-97. [PMID: 24636121 PMCID: PMC5509063 DOI: 10.5993/ajhb.38.4.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To observe whether elderly patients' positive and negative beliefs about efforts improving or maintaining health are related to health and mood. METHODS We developed a brief scale to assess these beliefs. Factor analysis was used to evaluate its dimensions; the extent to which the scale's dimensions mediate the relationship between mood and self-reported health was explored. RESULTS Analyses show that the scale reflects a general factor as well as 2 subscales that evaluate distinct but related positive and negative dimensions. The scale was not related to race, sex, or education, but showed modest relations to age. Scales were significantly related to mood, health status, and health-related quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Both negative and positive beliefs mediated the relation between depression and self-reported health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond L Ownby
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA.
| | - Amarilis Acevedo
- Center for Psychological Studies, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Robin J Jacobs
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Joshua Caballero
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
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Kamijima K, Aoki M. Effectiveness of paroxetine in the treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorders. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 6:945-56. [PMID: 16831110 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.6.7.945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Clomipramine ushered in a new age of pharmacotherapy for obsessive-compulsive disorders, and it also facilitated our understanding of the biological aspects of obsessive-compulsive disorder, focusing on the serotonergic systems. The introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors has led to great progress in the pharmacological study of obsessive-compulsive disorder based on the serotonin hypothesis. Currently, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are positioned as a first-line drug of obsessive-compulsive disorder pharmacotherapy in the various guidelines and algorithms. Among six different selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (paroxetine, sertraline, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, citalopram, escitalopram) that are available worldwide, paroxetine has the broadest treatment spectrum and promises great benefits not only for obsessive-compulsive disorder patients, but also for those with comorbid depression and/or various kinds of anxiety disorders. This paper presents several clinical trials of paroxetine carried out, and discusses and reviews the therapeutic strategies for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunitoshi Kamijima
- International University of Health and Welfare, Department of Health and Social Service, 2600-1, Kitakanemaru, Otawara-city, Tochigi, 324-8501, Japan.
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20
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Bijanki KCR, Stillman AN, Arndt S, Magnotta VA, Fiedorowicz JG, Haynes WG, Matsui JT, Johnson HJ, Moser DJ. White matter fractional anisotropy is inversely related to anxious symptoms in older adults with atherosclerosis. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2013; 28:1069-76. [PMID: 23348834 PMCID: PMC3690172 DOI: 10.1002/gps.3930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinical anxiety disorders are associated with white matter hyperintensities and diffusion abnormalities measured using diffusion tensor imaging. However, it is not known if this association extends into individuals with mild anxious symptoms without formal diagnosis, in those who are older, or in those who have atherosclerosis. The current study explores whether white matter integrity and/or organization significantly associates with anxious symptoms in older adults with and without atherosclerosis. METHODS We recruited older adults (ages 55-90 years); 35 with clinically diagnosed atherosclerotic vascular disease (AVD) and 22 without AVD. Anxious symptoms were measured using the validated Symptom Checklist-90-Revised. Fractional anisotropy (FA), a proxy for white matter organization and health, was measured in the white matter globally, by lobe, and in several smaller regions of interest suggested by the literature. Partial correlations between anxious symptoms and FA were calculated, controlling for significant covariates. RESULTS Participants with and without AVD did not differ in severity of anxious symptom endorsement. There was a unique inverse relationship between white matter health and anxious symptoms in the AVD participants, but not in healthy comparisons. Significant relationships were observed in the superior longitudinal fasciculus (r = -0.476, df = 32, p = 0.004), as well as the cingulum bundle, the frontal lobes, and the parietal lobes. CONCLUSIONS Anxiety symptoms uniquely correlated with low FA in older adults with atherosclerosis. These findings may have implications for future research on the topic of anxiety in aging and vascular disease and warrant replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C. R. Bijanki
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Ashley N. Stillman
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Stephan Arndt
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Vincent A. Magnotta
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Radiology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa College of Engineering, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Jess G. Fiedorowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - William G. Haynes
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Institute for Clinical and Translational Sciences, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Joy T. Matsui
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa College of Engineering, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Hans J. Johnson
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa College of Engineering, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - David J. Moser
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States,Corresponding Author: David J. Moser, W278 General Hospital, 200 Hawkins Dr., Iowa City, IA 52242. Telephone: 1-319-384-9211, Fax: 1-319-353-8656,
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21
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Moylan S, Jacka FN, Pasco JA, Berk M. How cigarette smoking may increase the risk of anxiety symptoms and anxiety disorders: a critical review of biological pathways. Brain Behav 2013; 3:302-26. [PMID: 23785661 PMCID: PMC3683289 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple studies have demonstrated an association between cigarette smoking and increased anxiety symptoms or disorders, with early life exposures potentially predisposing to enhanced anxiety responses in later life. Explanatory models support a potential role for neurotransmitter systems, inflammation, oxidative and nitrosative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neurotrophins and neurogenesis, and epigenetic effects, in anxiety pathogenesis. All of these pathways are affected by exposure to cigarette smoke components, including nicotine and free radicals. This review critically examines and summarizes the literature exploring the role of these systems in increased anxiety and how exposure to cigarette smoke may contribute to this pathology at a biological level. Further, this review explores the effects of cigarette smoke on normal neurodevelopment and anxiety control, suggesting how exposure in early life (prenatal, infancy, and adolescence) may predispose to higher anxiety in later life. A large heterogenous literature was reviewed that detailed the association between cigarette smoking and anxiety symptoms and disorders with structural brain changes, inflammation, and cell-mediated immune markers, markers of oxidative and nitrosative stress, mitochondrial function, neurotransmitter systems, neurotrophins and neurogenesis. Some preliminary data were found for potential epigenetic effects. The literature provides some support for a potential interaction between cigarette smoking, anxiety symptoms and disorders, and the above pathways; however, limitations exist particularly in delineating causative effects. The literature also provides insight into potential effects of cigarette smoke, in particular nicotine, on neurodevelopment. The potential treatment implications of these findings are discussed in regards to future therapeutic targets for anxiety. The aforementioned pathways may help mediate increased anxiety seen in people who smoke. Further research into the specific actions of nicotine and other cigarette components on these pathways, and how these pathways interact, may provide insights that lead to new treatment for anxiety and a greater understanding of anxiety pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Moylan
- Deakin University School of Medicine Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Masuda T, Nishikawa H, Inoue T, Toda H, Nakagawa S, Boku S, Koyama T. 5-HT depletion, but not 5-HT1A antagonist, prevents the anxiolytic-like effect of citalopram in rat contextual conditioned fear stress model. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2013; 25:77-84. [PMID: 25287308 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5215.2012.00669.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been widely used in the treatment of most anxiety disorders. In this study, to clarify the mechanism of the anxiolytic effect, we investigated the mechanism underlying the effect of the SSRI citalopram on rat contextual conditioned fear stress (CFS), an animal model of anxiety. METHODS Rats individually received footshocks in a shock chamber. More than 1 day later, they were given citalopram and/or dl-p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), various subtype-selective serotonin (5-HT) receptor antagonists: the 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY 100635, the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist MDL 100907, the 5-HT2C receptor antagonist SB 242084, the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist tropisetron, the 5-HT4 receptor antagonist GR 125487, the 5-HT6 receptor antagonist SB 258585 or the 5-HT7 receptor antagonist SB 269970. After drug administration, freezing behaviour, which was used as an index of anxiety, was analysed in the same shock chamber without shocks. RESULTS Citalopram dose dependently reduced conditioned freezing behaviour. The anxiolytic-like effect of citalopram was prevented completely by pretreatment with the 5-HT-depleting agent PCPA, but not by the 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY 100635. Furthermore, none of the subtype-selective 5-HT receptor antagonists significantly affected conditioned freezing or affected the anxiolytic-like effect of citalopram. CONCLUSION The anxiolytic-like effect of citalopram in contextual CFS model depends on 5-HT availability. In addition, contextual CFS model is suggested to be completely different from conventional anxiety models in neural mechanism or manners of serotonergic involvement. However, further studies are needed to identify the pharmacological mechanisms responsible for the anxiolytic-like effect of citalopram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Masuda
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nishikawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Inoue
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Toda
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shin Nakagawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shuken Boku
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Koyama
- Department of Psychiatry, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
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23
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Jing L, Wang L, Zhao Y, Tan R, Xing X, Liu T, Huang W, Luo Y, Li Z. Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Evaluation of Cancer Inhibitory Activity of 4-[indol-3-yl-Methylene]-1H-pyrazol-5(4H)-one derivatives. JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL RESEARCH 2012. [DOI: 10.3184/174751912x13501278349974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A series of 4-(1 H-indol-3-yl-methylene)-1 H-pyrazol-5(4 H)-one derivatives have been synthesised. The Z structure of 4-[(1-methyl-1 H-indol-3-yl)methylene]-3-phenyl-1 -p-tolyl-1 H-pyrazol-5-one was determined by X-ray crystallography. The antitumour activity was evaluated against five cancer cells by MTT assay. [(1 H-Indol-3-yl)methylene]-1-(2,4-dini-trophenyl)-3-methyl-1 H-pyrazole-5-one and 4-{4-[(1-benzyl-1 H-indol-3-yl)methylene]-3-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-1 H-pyrazol-1-yl}-benzoic acid have similar anticancer activity with 5-UF on the test cancer cells (exception of A375). Almost all the target compounds displayed antitumour activity against A549 and PC-9, and those with benzyl at 1-position of indole had higher activity against PC-9 (IC50 value lower than 30 μM). Those with benzyl at the indole and carboxyl at the phenyl part of of pyrazole were more active against PC-9 and A549 cells, providing a good indication for subsequent optimisation as lung cancer inhibitory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Jing
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Liang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yinglan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Rui Tan
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Xiumei Xing
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Wencai Huang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Youfu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Zicheng Li
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
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Garcia de Miguel B, Nutt DJ, Hood SD, Davies SJC. Elucidation of neurobiology of anxiety disorders in children through pharmacological challenge tests and cortisol measurements: a systematic review. J Psychopharmacol 2012; 26:431-42. [PMID: 20643698 DOI: 10.1177/0269881110372818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are common both in adults and children. While there have been major advances in understanding the neurobiology of anxiety disorders in adults, progress has been more limited in the elucidation of the mechanisms underlying these disorders in childhood. There is a need to delineate childhood biological models, since anxiety represents a significant clinical problem in children and is a risk factor for the subsequent development of anxiety and depression in adulthood. We conducted a review of the literature regarding pharmacological challenge tests and direct hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis measurement in children with anxiety disorders, with emphasis on panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Studies identified were contrasted with those in adult panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Despite this broad approach few studies emerged in children, with only 22 studies meeting inclusion criteria. When contrasted with adult neurobiological models of panic disorder and social anxiety disorder, children studied showed some abnormalities which mirrored those reported in adults, such as altered baseline respiration, altered responses to CO(2) challenge tests and blunted growth hormone response to yohimbine. However, results differed from adults with panic disorder and social anxiety in some aspects of noradrenergic and serotonergic function. For endpoints studied in panic disorder children, unlike adults, displayed a lack of baseline end-tidal CO(2) abnormalities and a different hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal pattern response under low-dose CO(2). The biology of these anxiety disorders in children may only partially mirror that of adult anxiety disorders. However, caution is required as the evidence is limited, and many studies combined patients with panic disorder and social anxiety disorder with other disorders or non-specific anxiety. Further research is required to fully understand the biology and progression of childhood anxiety disorders.
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Browne CA, Clarke G, Dinan TG, Cryan JF. An effective dietary method for chronic tryptophan depletion in two mouse strains illuminates a role for 5-HT in nesting behaviour. Neuropharmacology 2012; 62:1903-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2011] [Revised: 12/01/2011] [Accepted: 12/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Attentional biases to threat and serotonin transporter gene promoter (5-HTLPR) polymorphisms: Evidence from a probe discrimination task with endogenous cues. Transl Neurosci 2012. [DOI: 10.2478/s13380-012-0021-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractRecent studies have investigated the association between serotonin transporter gene promoter (5-HTTLPR) functional polymorphisms and attentional biases to threat, a cognitive mechanism that probably contributes to the development and maintenance of anxiety. The present study genotyped a sample of N = 141 healthy volunteers for an insertion/deletion polymorphism and the rs25531 single-nucleotide polymorphism in 5-HTTLPR. In order to investigate attentional biases to threat, we used a probe discrimination task in which the gaze direction of centrally presented fearful or neutral faces endogenously cued attention. The results indicated no significant differences in attentional biases to threat between 5-HTTLPR genotype groups. However, we found that carriers of two low-expressing alleles (i.e., S or LG) of 5-HTTLPR displayed a significant slowing of responses across trials with fearful compared to neutral faces. This effect may indicate that fearful faces triggered increased emotional arousal in these genotypes, which may have interfered with the processing of gaze direction and spatial cuing. These results suggest that using fearful faces as endogenous spatial cues may be problematic in genotypes associated with facilitated emotional arousal to these stimuli, and underscore the hypothesis that 5-HTTLPR specifically influences automatic rather than consciously-controlled processes of attention.
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Badawy AAB, Dougherty DM, Richard DM. Specificity of the acute tryptophan and tyrosine plus phenylalanine depletion and loading tests I. Review of biochemical aspects and poor specificity of current amino Acid formulations. Int J Tryptophan Res 2011; 2010:23-34. [PMID: 20676231 PMCID: PMC2911801 DOI: 10.4137/ijtr.s5134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The acute tryptophan or tyrosine plus phenylalanine depletion and loading tests are powerful tools for studying the roles of serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline in normal subjects and those with behavioural disorders. The current amino acid formulations for these tests, however, are associated with undesirable decreases in ratios of tryptophan or tyrosine plus phenylalanine to competing amino acids resulting in loss of specificity. This could confound biochemical and behavioural findings. Compositions of current formulations are reviewed, the biochemical principles underpinning the tests are revisited and examples of unintended changes in the above ratios and their impact on monoamine function and behaviour will be demonstrated from data in the literature. The presence of excessive amounts of the 3 branched-chain amino acids Leu, Ile and Val is responsible for these unintended decreases and the consequent loss of specificity. Strategies for enhancing the specificity of the different formulations are proposed.
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Rapid tryptophan depletion following cognitive behavioural therapy for panic disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2011; 213:593-602. [PMID: 19823804 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-009-1696-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2009] [Accepted: 09/23/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the effect of rapid tryptophan depletion (RTD) combined with a panicogenic challenge in patients with panic disorder who had responded to treatment with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). We hypothesised that RTD (compared with the control drink) would result in an increase in anxiety symptoms when provoked by a panicogenic challenge with the benzodiazepine antagonist, flumazenil. METHODS Nine patients with panic disorder who had responded to CBT received a tryptophan-free amino acid drink on one occasion and a control drink on the other in a double-blind crossover design. In addition, they received flumazenil and placebo infusions on each day. RESULTS Our hypothesis regarding the effects of RTD was supported by findings of a significant interaction between RTD and flumazenil on measures from visual analogues scales (total) and the Spielberger State Anxiety inventory. A somewhat unexpected finding was that in this group of CBT responders, the panicogenic effect of flumazenil was not completely blocked by treatment. This meant that although four of the nine subjects (44%) reported a panicogenic effect of flumazenil on the RTD day, this was not significantly different from the rate of panic attacks in response to flumazenil on the control day. CONCLUSION We suggest that the partial return of symptoms in response to flumazenil reflects a vulnerability to RTD in this group of panic disorder patients who had responded to treatment with CBT.
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Lim LW, Blokland A, Tan S, Vlamings R, Sesia T, Aziz-Mohammadi M, Visser-Vandewalle V, Steinbusch HW, Schruers K, Temel Y. Attenuation of fear-like response by escitalopram treatment after electrical stimulation of the midbrain dorsolateral periaqueductal gray. Exp Neurol 2010; 226:293-300. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2010.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2010] [Revised: 08/26/2010] [Accepted: 08/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Contribution of diet and major depression to incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Lipids Health Dis 2010; 9:133. [PMID: 21087475 PMCID: PMC2994859 DOI: 10.1186/1476-511x-9-133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Accepted: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite significant improvements in the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD), it is still a major cause of mortality and morbidity among the Iranian population. Epidemiological studies have documented that risk factors including smoking and the biochemical profile are responsible for the development of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Psychological factors have been discussed as potential risk factors for coronary heart disease. Among emotional factors, depression correlates with coronary heart disease, particularly myocardial infarction. METHODS This case-control study was conducted on 120 cases (69 males and 51 females) of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and 120 controls, with a mean age of 62.48 ± 15.39 years. Cases and controls were matched by age, residence and sex. RESULTS The results revealed that severe depression was independently associated with the risk of AMI (P = 0.025, OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.1-5.8). The analysis of variables indicated that risk factors for developing depression were unmarried, low levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), total dietary fiber (TDF) and carbohydrates. The levels of these dietary factors were lowest in severely depressed patients compared to those categorised as moderate or mild cases. Furthermore, severely depressed subjects were associated with higher levels of total cholesterol, high systolic blood pressure (SBP) and WHR. Age, income, a family history of coronary heart disease, education level, sex, employment and smoking were not associated with severe depression. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that severe depression symptoms are independent risk factors for AMI. Furthermore, severe depression was associated with an unhealthy diet and AMI risk factors.
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Costas J, Gratacòs M, Escaramís G, Martín-Santos R, de Diego Y, Baca-García E, Canellas F, Estivill X, Guillamat R, Guitart M, Gutiérrez-Zotes A, García-Esteve L, Mayoral F, Moltó MD, Phillips C, Roca M, Carracedo A, Vilella E, Sanjuán J. Association study of 44 candidate genes with depressive and anxiety symptoms in post-partum women. J Psychiatr Res 2010; 44:717-24. [PMID: 20092830 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2009.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2009] [Revised: 12/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The post-partum period is a time of extreme vulnerability for a whole spectrum of psychiatric disorders. Delivery may be considered an important risk factor in genetically susceptible women. Five hundred and eight SNPs in 44 genes at candidate pathways putatively related to mood changes after delivery were genotyped in a multicenter cohort of 1804 women from Spain. Participants completed two scales at 2-3 days, 8 weeks, and 32 weeks post-partum, the Edinburgh Post-partum Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Those women who scored 9 or more on EPDS were evaluated for major depression using the Diagnostic Interview for Genetics Studies (DIGS) adapted for post-partum depression. Association with major depression was assessed using likelihood ratio tests under a codominant genotype model. Association with scale scores was tested using linear mixed models to take into account repeated measures over time. Two intronic SNPs, one at the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) and another at dopa decarboxylase (DDC), were significantly associated to STAI anxiety scores after multiple testing correction (nominal P=0.0000513 and 0.000097, respectively). In addition, post hoc analysis at the unphased haplotype level using nominal significant SNPs revealed an association with a combination of three SNPs at protein kinase C, beta (PRKCB) with major depression, significant after multiple testing correction (nominal global P=0.0001596). In conclusion, we detected a role of SLC6A4 in mood changes after stressful events, and revealed new putative associations involving DDC and PRKCB. Therefore, these genes deserve further investigation to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Costas
- Fundación Pública Galega de Medicina Xenómica-SERGAS, Hospital Clínico Universitario, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Abstract
Although the complimentary roles of heart and brain in anxiety have been recognised for centuries, the precise contribution of each and more importantly perhaps their interplay has proved difficult to describe. Recent data from human brain imaging and cardiovascular physiology studies are beginning to delineate the mechanistic pathways of anxiety disorders in general and panic in particular. Evidence for a dysfunction of brain gamma-amino butyric acid-A and serotonin (5HT) systems in both panic and cardiovascular regulation is reviewed along with new evidence for altered sympathetic nervous system activity in the heart and periphery. Testable hypotheses and research ideas are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J C Davies
- Psychopharmacology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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Hood SD, Potokar JP, Davies SJC, Hince DA, Morris K, Seddon KM, Nutt DJ, Argyropoulos SV. Dopaminergic challenges in social anxiety disorder: evidence for dopamine D3 desensitisation following successful treatment with serotonergic antidepressants. J Psychopharmacol 2010; 24:709-16. [PMID: 18838500 DOI: 10.1177/0269881108098144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Serotonergic antidepressants (SSRIs) are first-line treatments for social anxiety disorder [SAnD], though there is evidence of dopaminergic system dysfunction. Twenty subjects with DSM-IV SAnD, untreated (n = 10) and SSRI-remitted DSM-IV SAnD (n = 10), were administered a single dose of 1) a dopamine agonist (pramipexole 0.5 mg) and 2) a dopamine antagonist (sulpiride 400 mg), followed by anxiogenic challenges (verbal tasks and autobiographical scripts) in a double-blind crossover design, the two test days being one week apart. Anxiety symptoms were measured by self-reported changes in Visual Analogue Scales, specific SAnD scales and anxiety questionnaires. Plasma levels of prolactin were obtained. Untreated SAnD subjects experienced significant increases in anxiety symptoms following behavioural challenges after either sulpiride or pramipexole. Following remission with SSRIs, the socially anxiogenic effect of behavioural provocation was significantly attenuated under pramipexole, whereas under sulpiride effects remained significantly elevated. There appears to be instability of the dopamine system under behavioural stress in social anxiety subjects that is only partly rectified by successful treatment with an SSRI, which may induce a desensitisation of postsynaptic dopamine D(3) receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Hood
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences (M521), University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
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Effects of acute tryptophan depletion in serotonin reuptake inhibitor-remitted patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2010; 208:223-32. [PMID: 19936713 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-009-1722-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2009] [Accepted: 11/01/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotonergic antidepressants [selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)] are first-line treatments for generalised anxiety disorder (GAD); however, it is not known if synaptic serotonin (5-HT) availability is important for SSRI efficacy. The present study tested the hypothesis that temporary reduction in central 5-HT transmission, through acute tryptophan depletion (ATD), would reverse the therapeutic effect of the SSRIs in GAD patients. METHODS Twelve patients (six males) with GAD, who showed sustained clinical improvement with SSRI treatment, underwent ATD in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subjects design over 2 days, 1 week apart. At the peak time of depletion, the participants inhaled 7.5% CO2 and air in random order for at least 12 min each. Psychological responses were measured using the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) and GAD-symptom visual analogue scales (VASs; e.g., worry and tense) and Profile of Mood States. RESULTS Free plasma tryptophan to large neutral amino acid (LNAA) ratio decreased by 92% on the depletion day and decreased by 2% on the control day. Irrespective of depletion condition, 7.5% CO(2) inhalation significantly increased STAI-S and GAD-related VAS scores (all p < 0.05) compared with air inhalation. ATD had no effect on any of these measures despite the substantial reduction in free tryptophan/LNAA ratio. CONCLUSIONS Although SSRIs treat GAD effectively, the present results suggest that the mechanism of action is different to that seen in panic, social anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorders. Successful SSRI treatment of GAD may involve long-term receptor changes or alterations in other neurotransmitter systems downstream of serotonin.
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Guimarães FS, Zangrossi H, Del Ben CM, Graeff FG. Serotonin in Panic and Anxiety Disorders. HANDBOOK OF BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-7339(10)70105-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
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Abstract
Understanding the neurochemistry of anxiety is of fundamental importance in the development and use of novel anxiolytics. Through measuring peripheral markers of brain biochemistry, direct pharmacological challenges and brain neuroimaging techniques our understanding of this field has increased substantially in the past few decades. We review the four most studied neurotransmitter systems with respect to in anxiety disorders: gamma amino-butyric acid, serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine. We have focussed upon clinical studies to highlight the current techniques used to determine brain neurochemistry in vivo. Future research in this field will greatly benefit from recent advances in neuroimaging techniques and the discovery of novel ligands targeting specific receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Durant
- Psychopharmacology Unit, University of Bristol, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK.
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van Veen JF, van Vliet IM, de Rijk RH, van Pelt J, Mertens B, Fekkes D, Zitman FG. Tryptophan depletion affects the autonomic stress response in generalized social anxiety disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2009; 34:1590-4. [PMID: 19523772 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2009] [Revised: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 05/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In generalized social anxiety disorder (gSAD), serotonergic dysfunctions are found, as well as abnormalities of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in basal conditions and of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis in response to psychological challenges. These findings raise the question whether these phenomena are interrelated. Therefore we designed a study in which two groups with nine pair wise age and gender matched gSAD patients (total of 10 men and 8 women), who were successfully treated with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), underwent a tryptophan depletion challenge (TD) or a placebo condition. A TD procedure temporarily decreases serotonergic neurotransmission. In order to activate the stress system the TD/placebo challenge was combined with a public speaking task. We assessed ANS responses, as measured with the promising new marker salivary alpha-amylase (sAA), and HPA-axis responses, as measured with salivary cortisol. The most important result was that the TD group showed a significant larger sAA response to the public speaking task as compared to the placebo group, reflecting hyperresponsivity of the ANS in this group, whereas no differences were seen in cortisol responses. This suggests that in gSAD there is a vulnerability of the ANS more than the HPA-axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Frederieke van Veen
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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León LA, Landeira-Fernandez J, Cardenas FP. Effects of chronic intracerebroventricular 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine (MDMA) or fluoxetine on the active avoidance test in rats with or without exposure to mild chronic stress. Behav Brain Res 2009; 205:259-64. [PMID: 19589359 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2009.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2009] [Revised: 06/24/2009] [Accepted: 06/26/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In despite the similarity of mechanisms of action between both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) and MDMA (main compound of "Ecstasy") there are relatively few reports on the effects of the later on animal models of depression. There are many animal models designed to create or to assess depression. Mild chronic stress (MCS) is a procedure designed to create depression. MCS includes the chronic exposure of the animal to several stressors. After that, rats show behavioural changes associated to depression. In the other hand, the active avoidance task (AAT) is an experimental situation in which an animal has to accomplish a particular behaviour in order to avoid the application of a stressor. Animals exhibiting depression fail to acquire avoidance responses as rapidly as normal animals do. In order to assess the effect of MDMA on the acquisition of an active avoidance response, forty-five rats were divided in two groups exposed or not exposed to MCS. Rats also received chronic intracerebroventricular MDMA (0.2microg/microl; 1microl), fluoxetine (2.0microg/microl; 1microl) or saline solution (0.9%; 1microl). Our results showed that the effect of MDMA depends upon the level of stress. MDMA treated animals showed better acquisition (F([2,37])=7.046; P=0.003) and retention (F([2,37])=3.900; P=0.029) of the avoidance response than fluoxetine or saline treated animals when exposed to MCS. This finding suggests that MDMA (and no fluoxetine) was able to change the aversive valence of the stressors maybe enhancing coping strategies. This effect could serve as a protective factor against helplessness and maybe post-traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A León
- Laboratory of Neuroscience and Behaviour, Department of Psychology, Universidad de los Andes, Cra 1 #18A-12, Bogotá, Colombia
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Corchs F, Nutt DJ, Hood S, Bernik M. Serotonin and sensitivity to trauma-related exposure in selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors-recovered posttraumatic stress disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2009; 66:17-24. [PMID: 19268914 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2009.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2008] [Revised: 01/07/2009] [Accepted: 01/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are first-line treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Serotonergic (5HT) attenuation of stress sensitivity is postulated from SSRIs' effects in other anxiety disorders, and we studied this in PTSD. METHODS Ten patients with PTSD fully recovered on SSRIs (Clinical Global Impression Scale-I 1 and 2) were enrolled in the study. Patients were tested on two occasions 1 week apart; in each session, they received a drink containing large neutral amino acids (LNAAs) either with (sham tryptophan depletion [STD], control) or without (acute tryptophan depletion [ATD]) tryptophan. At 5.5 hours after the drink, subjects were exposed to a trauma-related exposure challenge. Self-reports of PTSD (visual analogue scales [VAS] and the Davidson Trauma Scale [DTS]), anxiety (Spielberger State Inventory [STAI] Form Y-1), and mood (Profile of Mood States [POMS]) were obtained. Heart rate (HR), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure were also measured. RESULTS The trauma-related exposure challenge induced anxiety on both days, with more marked responses on the ATD day according to VAS, DTS, POMS, and DBP (p < .05). A trend of significance (.1 > p > .05) was observed for STAI Form Y-1, HR, and SBP. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that ATD accentuates responses to trauma-related stimuli in SSRI-recovered PTSD. They also suggest that SSRI-induced increases in serotonin function restrain PTSD symptoms, especially under provocation, supporting a role for serotonin in mediating stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Corchs
- Anxiety Disorders Unit, Department and Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, Brazil.
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Garner M, Möhler H, Stein DJ, Mueggler T, Baldwin DS. Research in anxiety disorders: from the bench to the bedside. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2009; 19:381-90. [PMID: 19327970 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2009.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2009] [Accepted: 01/30/2009] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The development of ethologically based behavioural animal models has clarified the anxiolytic properties of a range of neurotransmitter and neuropeptide receptor agonists and antagonists, with several models predicting efficacy in human clinical samples. Neuro-cognitive models of human anxiety and findings from fMRI suggest dysfunction in amygdala-prefrontal circuitry underlies biases in emotion activation and regulation. Cognitive and neural mechanisms involved in emotion processing can be manipulated pharmacologically, and research continues to identify genetic polymorphisms and interactions with environmental risk factors that co-vary with anxiety-related behaviour and neuro-cognitive endophenotypes. This paper describes findings from a range of research strategies in anxiety, discussed at the recent ECNP Targeted Expert Meeting on anxiety disorders and anxiolytic drugs. The efficacy of existing pharmacological treatments for anxiety disorders is discussed, with particular reference to drugs modulating serotonergic, noradrenergic and gabaergic mechanisms, and novel targets including glutamate, CCK, NPY, adenosine and AVP. Clinical and neurobiological predictors of active treatment and placebo response are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Garner
- School of Psychology and Division of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK.
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Abstract
The common occurrence and high level of morbidity and burden associated with social anxiety disorder (SAD) are gaining widespread recognition. Interest in understanding and treating the disorder has also grown in response to large-scale investigations that have demonstrated high levels of efficacy with both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments. Such trials indicate that many patients with generalized SAD (roughly 40% to 60%) respond (eg, Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement rating 1 or 2) after an adequate treatment trial, despite having suffered with disabling symptoms for most of their adult lives. First-line therapy options include the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and the dual-acting serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor venlafaxine. Second-line options consist of anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin, valproic acid) and benzodiazepines (clonazepam). Reversible and irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors (moclobemide and phenelzine, respectively), while effective, are not widely used. Nonpharmacologic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are also effective for SAD. Newer treatment strategies such as levetiracetam, atypical antipsychotics, or D-cycloserine in combination with CBT appear promising but require further investigation. Finding a well-tolerated, safe, and effective treatment for each individual patient is crucial as most will require ongoing treatment in order to maintain benefits, prevent SAD relapse, and to experience optimal outcomes in the long term.
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Nash JR, Sargent PA, Rabiner EA, Hood SD, Argyropoulos SV, Potokar JP, Grasby PM, Nutt DJ. Serotonin 5-HT1A receptor binding in people with panic disorder: positron emission tomography study. Br J Psychiatry 2008; 193:229-34. [PMID: 18757983 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.107.041186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) in the pathophysiology of anxiety is well known. A key role for postsynaptic 5-HT(1A) receptors has recently been suggested in studies of genetic knockout mice. AIMS To measure 5-HT(1A) receptor binding in patients with panic disorder in the untreated state and after recovery on treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). METHOD Nine symptomatic untreated patients with panic disorder, seven patients recovered on SSRI medication and nineteen healthy volunteers underwent a single positron emission tomography (PET) scan using the 5-HT(1A) tracer [(11)C]WAY-100635. RESULTS In comparison with controls, both presynaptic and postsynaptic 5-HT(1A) receptor binding was reduced in untreated patients, with the most significant reductions being in the raphe, orbitofrontal cortex, temporal cortex and amygdala. In recovered patients presynaptic binding was reduced, but there was no significant reduction in postsynaptic binding. CONCLUSIONS Panic disorder is associated with reduced 5-HT(1A) receptor availability, which is also known to have a key role in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon R Nash
- University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
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Abstract
A considerable body of evidence suggests the involvement of serotonin neurotransmission in the pathogenesis of panic disorder. Research on pathways and functions of tryptophan, an essential amino acid converted into serotonin, may advance our understanding of serotonergic actions in panic disorder and related phenomena. The investigative approaches in this field include manipulations of tryptophan availability as well as genetic association and functional brain imaging studies. In this review we examine the principle findings of these studies and propose further research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard Maron
- Research Department of Mental Health, The North Estonian Regional Hospital, Psychiatry Clinic, Tallinn, Estonia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Estonian Genome Project, University of Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jakov Shlik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - David J. Nutt
- Department of Community Based Medicine, Psychopharmacology Unit, University of Bristol, U.K
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van der Wee NJ, van Veen JF, Stevens H, van Vliet IM, van Rijk PP, Westenberg HG. Increased serotonin and dopamine transporter binding in psychotropic medication-naive patients with generalized social anxiety disorder shown by 123I-beta-(4-iodophenyl)-tropane SPECT. J Nucl Med 2008; 49:757-63. [PMID: 18413401 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.107.045518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED There is circumstantial evidence for the involvement of serotonergic and dopaminergic systems in the pathophysiology of social anxiety disorder. In the present study, using SPECT imaging we examined the (123)I-beta-(4-iodophenyl)-tropane binding potential for the serotonin and dopamine transporters in patients with a generalized social anxiety disorder and in age- and sex-matched healthy controls. METHODS Twelve psychotropic medication-naïve patients with social anxiety disorder, generalized type (5 women and 7 men) and 12 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were studied. Volumes of interest were constructed on MRI-coregistered SPECT scans. Binding ratios were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Possible correlations between binding patterns and symptomatology were assessed using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. RESULTS Significantly higher binding potentials were found for the serotonin in the left and right thalamus of patients. Patients had also a significantly higher binding potential for the dopamine transporter in the striatum. CONCLUSION The present study provided direct evidence for abnormalities in both the dopaminergic and the serotonergic systems in patients with generalized social anxiety disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nic J van der Wee
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
Our understanding of social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia) has moved from rudimentary awareness that it is not merely shyness to a much more sophisticated appreciation of its prevalence, its chronic and pernicious nature, and its neurobiological underpinnings. Social anxiety disorder is the most common anxiety disorder; it has an early age of onset--by age 11 years in about 50% and by age 20 years in about 80% of individuals--and it is a risk factor for subsequent depressive illness and substance abuse. Functional neuroimaging studies point to increased activity in amygdala and insula in patients with social anxiety disorder, and genetic studies are increasingly focusing on this and other (eg, personality trait neuroticism) core phenotypes to identify risk loci. A range of effective cognitive behavioural and pharmacological treatments for children and adults now exists; the challenges lie in optimum integration and dissemination of these treatments, and learning how to help the 30-40% of patients for whom treatment does not work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murray B Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego 92093-0855, USA.
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Organization of brain somatomotor-sympathetic circuits. Exp Brain Res 2008; 187:1-16. [PMID: 18369609 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-008-1337-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2007] [Accepted: 02/27/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Numerous physiological and emotionally motivated behaviors require concomitant activation of somatomotor and sympathetic efferents. Likewise, adaptive and maladaptive responses to stress are often characterized by simultaneous recruitment of these efferent systems. This review describes recent literature that outlines the organization of somatomotor-sympathetic circuitry in the rat. These circuits were delineated by employing recombinant pseudorabies (PRV) viral vectors as retrograde trans-synaptic tract tracers. In these studies PRV-152, a strain that expresses enhanced green fluorescent protein, was injected into sympathectomized hindlimb muscle, while PRV-BaBlu, which expresses beta-galactosidase, was injected into the adrenal gland in the same animals. Immunofluorescent methods were then used to determine the presence of putative dual-function neurons that were infected with both viral strains. These somatomotor-sympathetic neurons (SMSNs) were detected in a number of brain regions. However, the most prominent nodes in this circuitry included the paraventricular, dorsomedial, and lateral nuclei of the hypothalamus, ventrolateral periaqueductal grey and ventromedial medulla. Phenotypic studies revealed subsets of SMSNs to be capable of synthesizing serotonin, or to contain neuroactive peptides vasopressin, oxytocin, orexins, or melanin-concentrating hormone. Based on these data and the results of studies employing monosynaptic tracers a central somatomotor-sympathetic circuit is proposed. This circuitry is likely recruited in diverse situations, including stress responses, cold defense, exercise and sleep. Furthermore, activation of specific classes of SMSNs likely shapes distinct stress-coping strategies. Dysregulation in the organization and function of this circuit may also contribute to the expression of physical symptoms of affective disorders, such as major depression, anxiety and panic.
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Guimarães FS, Carobrez AP, Graeff FG. Chapter 4.3 Modulation of anxiety behaviors by 5-HT-interacting drugs. HANDBOOK OF ANXIETY AND FEAR 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-7339(07)00012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Chapter 5.2 How effective are current drug treatments for anxiety disorders, and how could they be improved? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-7339(07)00018-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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Consoli D, Leggio GM, Mazzola C, Micale V, Drago F. Behavioral effects of the β3 adrenoceptor agonist SR58611A: Is it the putative prototype of a new class of antidepressant/anxiolytic drugs? Eur J Pharmacol 2007; 573:139-47. [PMID: 17669397 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2007.06.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2006] [Revised: 06/18/2007] [Accepted: 06/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A large body of evidence corroborates the notion that deficiencies of serotonergic system are likely involved in the pathogenesis of both depression and anxiety. Activation of beta(3) adrenoceptors has been shown to increase brain tryptophan content suggesting an elevation of brain serotonin (5HT) synthesis. SR58611A is a selective beta(3) adrenergic agent possessing a profile of antidepressant activity in routine rodents' experimental models of depression. The present study was undertaken to evaluate in rodents the antidepressant properties of SR58611A and to assess its putative anxiolytic value in experimental models of depression and anxiety. Compared to the control group, SR58611A (0.1, 1, 5 or 10 mg/kg) caused a dose-dependent reduction in immobility of Wistar male rats in the forced swim test. The maximum dose appeared to be equivalent to an effective dose of clomipramine (50 mg/kg). In addition, acute injection of SR58611A induced in rats a dose-dependent decrease in grooming response to a novel environment (novelty-induced grooming test). For any dose, the effect was lower than that of diazepam (1 mg/kg). Chronic treatment with SR58611A resulted also in an increased social interaction time in the social interaction test without affecting motor activity of rats. Furthermore, similarly to diazepam a chronic treatment with the highest doses of SR58611A was followed by increased exploratory behavior in Swiss male mice exposed to the elevated plus maze test. These effects are mediated by beta(3) adrenoceptors since i.p. pretreatment with the selective beta(3) adrenoceptor antagonist SR59230A (5 mg/kg) blocked the effects of SR58611A. Finally, also the 5HT antagonist methysergide (2 mg/kg) prevented the antidepressant and anxiolytic-like activity of SR58611A indicating that 5HT transmission is strictly involved in its action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Consoli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
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