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Coray RC, Berberat J, Zimmermann J, Seifritz E, Stock AK, Beste C, Cole DM, Unschuld PG, Quednow BB. Striatal Iron Deposition in Recreational MDMA (Ecstasy) Users. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2023; 8:956-966. [PMID: 36848948 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The common club drug MDMA (also known as ecstasy) enhances mood, sensory perception, energy, sociability, and euphoria. While MDMA has been shown to produce neurotoxicity in animal models, research on its potential neurotoxic effects in humans is inconclusive and has focused primarily on the serotonin system. METHODS We investigated 34 regular, largely pure MDMA users for signs of premature neurodegenerative processes in the form of increased iron load in comparison to a group of 36 age-, sex-, and education-matched MDMA-naïve control subjects. We used quantitative susceptibility mapping, a novel tool able to detect even small tissue (nonheme) iron accumulations. Cortical and relevant subcortical gray matter structures were grouped into 8 regions of interest and analyzed. RESULTS Significantly increased iron deposition in the striatum was evident in the MDMA user group. The effect survived correction for multiple comparisons and remained after controlling for relevant confounding factors, including age, smoking, and stimulant co-use. Although no significant linear relationship between measurements of the amounts of MDMA intake (hair analysis and self-reports) and quantitative susceptibility mapping values was observed, increased striatal iron deposition might nevertheless point to MDMA-induced neurotoxic processes. Additional factors (hyperthermia and simultaneous co-use of other substances) that possibly amplify neurotoxic effects of MDMA during the state of acute intoxication are discussed. CONCLUSIONS The demonstrated increased striatal iron accumulation may indicate that regular MDMA users have an increased risk potential for neurodegenerative diseases with progressing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca C Coray
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Jatta Berberat
- Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Institute of Neuroradiology, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Josua Zimmermann
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ann-Kathrin Stock
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - David M Cole
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Translational Psychiatry Lab, University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Paul G Unschuld
- Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Boris B Quednow
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Abd-Allah H, Nasr M, Ahmed-Farid OAH, El-Marasy SA, Bakeer RM, Ahmed RF. Biological and Pharmacological Characterization of Ascorbic Acid and Nicotinamide Chitosan Nanoparticles against Insulin-Resistance-Induced Cognitive Defects: A Comparative Study. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:3587-3601. [PMID: 33585742 PMCID: PMC7876703 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c05096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
High consumption of industrialized food with high fat content is generally associated with insulin resistance, which in turn causes memory impairment and cognitive decline. Nicotinamide and ascorbic acid are among the promising neuroprotective molecules; however, an appreciable therapeutic activity necessitates the administration of a large dose of either. Therefore, the study aimed to assess if loading them in chitosan nanoparticles in doses 5-10 times lower than the unencapsulated forms would achieve comparable therapeutic results. Animals were fed a high-fat-high-fructose (HFHF) diet for 75 days. The vitamins in their conventional form (100 mg/kg) and the nanoparticles under investigation (10 and 20 mg/kg) were given orally concomitantly with the diet in the last 15 days. The intake of HFHF diet for 75 days led to an insulin-resistant state, with memory impairment, which was verified behaviorally through the object recognition test. This was accompanied by significant reduction in brain insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), increased acetylcholine esterase activity, increase in the serotonin and dopamine turnover ratio, and increase in oxidative stress and 8-OHdG, indicating cellular DNA fragmentation. Cellular energy was also decreased, and immunohistochemical examination verified the high immunoreactivity in both the cortex and hippocampus of the brain. The administration of nanoparticulated nicotinamide or ascorbic acid with a 10 times lesser dose than the unencapsulated forms managed to reverse all aforementioned harmful effects, with an even lesser immunoreactivity score than the unencapsulated form. Therefore, it can be concluded that nicotinamide or ascorbic acid chitosan nanoparticles can be recommended as daily supplements for neuroprotection in patients suffering from insulin resistance after conduction of clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hend Abd-Allah
- Department
of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, African Organization Unity Street, 11561 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha Nasr
- Department
of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, African Organization Unity Street, 11561 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Omar A. H. Ahmed-Farid
- Department
of Physiology, National Organization for
Drug Control and Research, 35521 Giza, Egypt
| | - Salma A. El-Marasy
- Department
of Pharmacology, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622 Giza, Egypt
| | - Rofanda M. Bakeer
- Department
of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan
University, 11795 Helwan, Egypt
- October
University of Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA) University, 12451 6th October
City, Egypt
| | - Rania F. Ahmed
- Department
of Pharmacology, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622 Giza, Egypt
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Teixeira-Gomes A, Costa VM, Feio-Azevedo R, Duarte JA, Duarte-Araújo M, Fernandes E, Bastos MDL, Carvalho F, Capela JP. "Ecstasy" toxicity to adolescent rats following an acute low binge dose. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2016; 17:28. [PMID: 27349892 PMCID: PMC4924304 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-016-0070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or "ecstasy") is a worldwide drug of abuse commonly used by adolescents. Most reports focus on MDMA's neurotoxicity and use high doses in adult animals, meanwhile studies in adolescents are scarce. We aimed to assess in rats the acute MDMA toxicity to the brain and peripheral organs using a binge dose scheme that tries to simulate human adolescent abuse. METHODS Adolescent rats (postnatal day 40) received three 5 mg/kg doses of MDMA (estimated equivalent to two/three pills in a 50 kg adolescent), intraperitoneally, every 2 h, while controls received saline. After 24 h animal sacrifice took place and collection of brain areas (cerebellum, hippocampus, frontal cortex and striatum) and peripheral organs (liver, heart and kidneys) occurred. RESULTS Significant hyperthermia was observed after the second and third MDMA doses, with mean increases of 1 °C as it occurs in the human scenario. MDMA promoted ATP levels fall in the frontal cortex. No brain oxidative stress-related changes were observed after MDMA. MDMA-treated rat organs revealed significant histological tissue alterations including vascular congestion, but no signs of apoptosis or necrosis were found, which was corroborated by the lack of changes in plasma biomarkers and tissue caspases. In peripheral organs, MDMA did not affect significantly protein carbonylation, glutathione, or ATP levels, but liver presented a higher vulnerability as MDMA promoted an increase in quinoprotein levels. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent rats exposed to a moderate MDMA dose, presented hyperthermia and acute tissue damage to peripheral organs without signs of brain oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armanda Teixeira-Gomes
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Vera Marisa Costa
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Feio-Azevedo
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Margarida Duarte-Araújo
- Biotério do Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Fernandes
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Química Aplicada, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Bastos
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Capela
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
- FP-ENAS (Unidade de Investigação UFP em Energia, Ambiente e Saúde), CEBIMED (Centro de Estudos em Biomedicina), Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal.
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Barbosa DJ, Capela JP, Feio-Azevedo R, Teixeira-Gomes A, Bastos MDL, Carvalho F. Mitochondria: key players in the neurotoxic effects of amphetamines. Arch Toxicol 2015; 89:1695-725. [PMID: 25743372 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-015-1478-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Amphetamines are a class of psychotropic drugs with high abuse potential, as a result of their stimulant, euphoric, emphathogenic, entactogenic, and hallucinogenic properties. Although most amphetamines are synthetic drugs, of which methamphetamine, amphetamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine ("ecstasy") represent well-recognized examples, the use of natural related compounds, namely cathinone and ephedrine, has been part of the history of humankind for thousands of years. Resulting from their amphiphilic nature, these drugs can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and elicit their well-known psychotropic effects. In the field of amphetamines' research, there is a general consensus that mitochondrial-dependent pathways can provide a major understanding concerning pathological processes underlying the neurotoxicity of these drugs. These events include alterations on tricarboxylic acid cycle's enzymes functioning, inhibition of mitochondrial electron transport chain's complexes, perturbations of mitochondrial clearance mechanisms, interference with mitochondrial dynamics, as well as oxidative modifications in mitochondrial macromolecules. Additionally, other studies indicate that amphetamines-induced neuronal toxicity is closely regulated by B cell lymphoma 2 superfamily of proteins with consequent activation of caspase-mediated downstream cell death pathway. Understanding the molecular mechanisms at mitochondrial level involved in amphetamines' neurotoxicity can help in defining target pathways or molecules mediating these effects, as well as in developing putative therapeutic approaches to prevent or treat the acute- or long-lasting neuropsychiatric complications seen in human abusers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel José Barbosa
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal. .,Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal. .,IBMC - Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 823, 4150-180, Porto, Portugal.
| | - João Paulo Capela
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.,FP-ENAS (Unidade de Investigação UFP em energia, Ambiente e Saúde), CEBIMED (Centro de Estudos em Biomedicina), Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Fernando Pessoa, Rua 9 de Abril 349, 4249-004, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Feio-Azevedo
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Armanda Teixeira-Gomes
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Bastos
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
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5
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Adenosine A2a receptors activate Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NF-κB) in rat hippocampus after exposure to different doses of MDMA. Mol Cell Toxicol 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s13273-014-0007-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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6
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MDMA impairs mitochondrial neuronal trafficking in a Tau- and Mitofusin2/Drp1-dependent manner. Arch Toxicol 2014; 88:1561-72. [PMID: 24522274 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-014-1209-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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7
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Parrott AC, Moore DG, Turner JJD, Goodwin J, Min MO, Singer LT. MDMA and heightened cortisol: a neurohormonal perspective on the pregnancy outcomes of mothers used 'Ecstasy' during pregnancy. Hum Psychopharmacol 2014; 29:1-7. [PMID: 24424703 PMCID: PMC10187755 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The illicit recreational drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or Ecstasy has strong neurohormonal effects. When taken by recreational users at dance clubs and raves, it can generate an 800% increase in the stress hormone cortisol, whereas drug-free users show chronically raised levels of cortisol. The aim here is to critically debate this neurohormonal influence for the children of pregnant MDMA-using mothers. METHODS High levels of cortisol are known to be damaging for neuropsychobiological well-being in adult humans. MDMA can damage foetal development in laboratory animals, and the prospective Drugs and Infancy Study was established to monitor the effects of MDMA taken recreationally by pregnant women. RESULTS The Drugs and Infancy Study revealed that young mothers, who took MDMA during the first trimester of pregnancy, gave birth to babies with significant gross psychomotor retardation. These mothers would have experienced high levels of cortisol due to Ecstasy/MDMA use, and since cortisol can cross the placenta, this is likely to have also occurred in the foetus. CONCLUSIONS In terms of causation, the developmental problems may reflect a combination of neurotransmitter and neurohormonal effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, with serotonergic activity being influenced by the high levels of cortisol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C Parrott
- Swansea University, Swansea, UK; Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
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Halpin LE, Collins SA, Yamamoto BK. Neurotoxicity of methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. Life Sci 2013; 97:37-44. [PMID: 23892199 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamines are a class of psychostimulant drugs that are widely abused for their stimulant, euphoric, empathogenic and hallucinogenic properties. Many of these effects result from acute increases in dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission. Subsequent to these acute effects, methamphetamine and 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) produce persistent damage to dopamine and serotonin nerve terminals. This review summarizes the numerous interdependent mechanisms including excitotoxicity, mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress that have been demonstrated to contribute to this damage. Emerging non-neuronal mechanisms by which the drugs may contribute to monoaminergic terminal damage, as well as the neuropsychiatric consequences of this terminal damage are also presented. Methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) have similar chemical structures and pharmacologic properties compared to other abused substances including cathinone (khat), as well as a relatively new class of novel synthetic amphetamines known as 'bath salts' that have gained popularity among drug abusers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Halpin
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Stuart A Collins
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Bryan K Yamamoto
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA.
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Ros-Simó C, Moscoso-Castro M, Ruiz-Medina J, Ros J, Valverde O. Memory impairment and hippocampus specific protein oxidation induced by ethanol intake and 3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in mice. J Neurochem 2013; 125:736-46. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Ros-Simó
- Grup de Recerca en Neurobiologia del Comportament (GReNeC), Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
| | - Maria Moscoso-Castro
- Grup de Recerca en Neurobiologia del Comportament (GReNeC), Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
| | - Jéssica Ruiz-Medina
- Grup de Recerca en Neurobiologia del Comportament (GReNeC), Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
| | - Joaquim Ros
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques; IRBLLEIDA; Universitat de Lleida; Lleida Spain
| | - Olga Valverde
- Grup de Recerca en Neurobiologia del Comportament (GReNeC), Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
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Parrott AC, Lock J, Adnum L, Thome J. MDMA can increase cortisol levels by 800% in dance clubbers. J Psychopharmacol 2013; 27:113-4. [PMID: 23255436 DOI: 10.1177/0269881112454231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- AC Parrott
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - J Lock
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - L Adnum
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - J Thome
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Rostock University, Rostock, Germany
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Kermanian F, Mehdizadeh M, Soleimani M, Ebrahimzadeh Bideskan AR, Asadi-Shekaari M, Kheradmand H, Haghir H. The role of adenosine receptor agonist and antagonist on Hippocampal MDMA detrimental effects; a structural and behavioral study. Metab Brain Dis 2012; 27:459-69. [PMID: 22961480 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-012-9334-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
There is abundant evidence showing that repeated use of MDMA (3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ecstasy) has been associated with depression, anxiety and deficits in learning and memory, suggesting detrimental effects on hippocampus. Adenosine is an endogenous purine nucleoside that has a neuromodulatory role in the central nervous system. In the present study, we investigated the role of A2a adenosine receptors agonist (CGS) and antagonist (SCH) on the body temperature, learning deficits, and hippocampal cell death induced by MDMA administration. In this study, 63 adult, male, Sprague - Dawley rats were subjected to MDMA (10 and 20 mg/kg) followed by intraperitoneal CGS (0.03 mg/kg) or SCH (0.03 mg/kg) injection. The animals were tested for spatial learning in the Morris water maze (MWM) task performance, accompanied by a recording of body temperature, electron microscopy and stereological study. Our results showed that MDMA treatment increased body temperature significantly, and impaired the ability of rats to locate the hidden platform(P < 0.05). The number of hippocampal dark neurons also increased especially in CA1. These impairments were aggravated by co-administration of A2a antagonist (SCH) with MDMA. Furthermore, the administration of the A2a receptor agonist (CGS) provided partial protection against MWM deficits and hippocampal cell death(P < 0.05). This study provides for the first time evidence that, in contrast to A2a antagonist (SCH) effects, co-administration of A2a agonist (CGS) with MDMA can protect against MDMA hippocampal neurotoxic effects; providing a potential value in the prevention of learning deficits observed in MDMA users. However, the exact mechanism of these interactions requires further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Kermanian
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Capilla-Gonzalez V, Hernandez-Rabaza V. Cocaine and MDMA Induce Cellular and Molecular Changes in Adult Neurogenic Systems: Functional Implications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2011. [PMCID: PMC4055961 DOI: 10.3390/ph4060915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The capacity of the brain to generate new adult neurons is a recent discovery that challenges the old theory of an immutable adult brain. A new and fascinating field of research now focuses on this regenerative process. The two brain systems that constantly produce new adult neurons, known as the adult neurogenic systems, are the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus and the lateral ventricules/olfactory bulb system. Both systems are involved in memory and learning processes. Different drugs of abuse, such as cocaine and MDMA, have been shown to produce cellular and molecular changes that affect adult neurogenesis. This review summarizes the effects that these drugs have on the adult neurogenic systems. The functional relevance of adult neurogenesis is obscured by the functions of the systems that integrate adult neurons. Therefore, we explore the effects that cocaine and MDMA produce not only on adult neurogenesis, but also on the DG and olfactory bulbs. Finally, we discuss the possible role of new adult neurons in cocaine- and MDMA-induced impairments. We conclude that, although harmful drug effects are produced at multiple physiological and anatomical levels, the specific consequences of reduced hippocampus neurogenesis are unclear and require further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Capilla-Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Comparative Neurobiology, Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biologia Evolutiva, Universidad de Valencia, Catedratico Jose Beltran 2, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
- Brain Tumor Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, USA
| | - Vicente Hernandez-Rabaza
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigacion Principe Felipe, Avda Autopista del Saler 16, 46012, Valencia, Spain
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel: +34-96-328-9680; Fax: +34-96-328-9701
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Parrott A. Cortisol and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine: neurohormonal aspects of bioenergetic stress in ecstasy users. Neuropsychobiology 2009; 60:148-58. [PMID: 19893332 PMCID: PMC2826870 DOI: 10.1159/000253551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) can affect both neurotransmitter and neurohormonal activity. This review will debate the role of the metabolic activation hormone cortisol for the psychobiological effects of ecstasy/MDMA. METHODS The empirical literature on cortisol release following acute MDMA administration and cortisol functioning in drug-free recreational ecstasy/MDMA users will be reviewed. This will be followed by an overview of cortisol as a bioenergetic stress neurohormone, and a debate on how it could be modulating the acute and chronic psychobiological effects of MDMA. RESULTS Cortisol release is increased by stimulatory factors, including physical activity, thermal stress and stimulant drugs. In laboratory studies MDMA leads to an acute cortisol increase of around 150% in sedentary humans. In MDMA-using dance clubbers, the cortisol levels are increased by around 800%, possibly due to the combined factors of stimulant drug, physical exertion and psychosocial stimulation. Regular ecstasy/MDMA users also demonstrate changes in baseline cortisol levels and cortisol reactivity, with compromised hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity. Nonpharmacological research has shown how cortisol is important for psychological aspects such as memory, cognition, sleep, impulsivity, depression and neuronal damage. These same functions are often impaired in recreational ecstasy/MDMA users, and cortisol may be an important modulatory co-factor. CONCLUSIONS The energizing hormone cortisol is involved in the psychobiology of MDMA, probably via its effects on energy metabolism. Acute cortisol release may potentiate the stimulating effects of MDMA in dance clubbers. Chronically, cortisol may contribute to the variance in functional and structural consequences of repeated ecstasy usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.C. Parrott
- *Prof. A.C. Parrott, Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP (UK), Tel. +44 1792 295 271, E-Mail
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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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15
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Bhide NS, Lipton JW, Cunningham JI, Yamamoto BK, Gudelsky GA. Repeated exposure to MDMA provides neuroprotection against subsequent MDMA-induced serotonin depletion in brain. Brain Res 2009; 1286:32-41. [PMID: 19555677 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2009.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2008] [Revised: 06/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Repeated exposure to sub-lethal insults has been reported to result in neuroprotection against a subsequent deleterious insult. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether repeated exposure (preconditioning) to a non-5-HT depleting dose of MDMA in adult rats provides neuroprotection against subsequent MDMA-induced 5-HT depletion. Treatment of rats with MDMA (10 mg/kg, ip every 2 h for 4 injections) resulted in a 50-65% depletion of 5-HT in the striatum, hippocampus and cortex, and these depletions were significantly attenuated in rats that received a preconditioning regimen of MDMA (10 mg/kg, ip daily for 4 days). The 5-HT depleting regimen of MDMA also resulted in a 40-80% reduction in 5-HT transporter immunoreactivity (SERT(ir)), and the reduction in SERT(ir) also was completely attenuated in MDMA-preconditioned animals. Preconditioning with MDMA (10 mg/kg, ip) daily for 4 days provided neuroprotection against methamphetamine-induced 5-HT depletion, but not dopamine depletion, in the striatum. Additional studies were conducted to exclude the possibility that alterations in MDMA pharmacokinetics or MDMA-induced hyperthermia in rats previously exposed to MDMA contribute towards neuroprotection. During the administration of the 5-HT depleting regimen of MDMA, there was no difference in the extracellular concentration of the drug in the striatum of rats that had received 4 prior, daily injections of vehicle or MDMA. Moreover, there was no difference in the hyperthermic response to the 5-HT depleting regimen of MDMA in rats that had earlier received 4 daily injections of vehicle or MDMA. Furthermore, hyperthermia induced by MDMA during preconditioning appears not to contribute towards neuroprotection, inasmuch as preconditioning with MDMA at a low ambient temperature at which hyperthermia was absent did not alter the neuroprotection provided by the preconditioning regimen. Thus, prior exposure to MDMA affords protection against the long-term depletion of brain 5-HT produced by subsequent MDMA administration. The mechanisms underlying preconditioning-induced neuroprotection for MDMA remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmal S Bhide
- College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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16
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Johnson BN, Yamamoto BK. Chronic unpredictable stress augments +3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced monoamine depletions: the role of corticosterone. Neuroscience 2009; 159:1233-43. [PMID: 19409219 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.01.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2008] [Revised: 01/14/2009] [Accepted: 01/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to stress alters the behavioral and neurochemical effects of drugs of abuse. However, it is unknown if chronic stress can affect the serotonergic depletions induced by the psychostimulant drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Rats were exposed to 10 days of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) which resulted in the predicted elevation of basal plasma corticosterone concentrations. On the 11th day, rats received four challenge doses of MDMA (5 mg/kg every 2 h, i.p.) or saline. Five days later, rats were killed and serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine content were measured in the striatum, hippocampus, and frontal cortex. MDMA produced greater depletions of 5-HT in all three brain regions of rats pre-exposed to CUS compared to rats not exposed to CUS. CUS-exposed rats also had an augmented acute hyperthermic response but a similar increase in plasma corticosterone after challenge injections of MDMA compared with non-stressed rats similarly challenged with MDMA. Moreover, CUS-exposed rats exhibited an MDMA-induced depletion of striatal dopamine that was absent in non-stressed rats that received MDMA. To investigate the role of corticosterone in these effects, the corticosterone synthesis inhibitor, metyrapone (50 mg/kg i.p.), was administered prior to each stressor on each of the 10 days of CUS. Metyrapone blocked the chronic stress-induced elevation in basal plasma corticosterone, prevented the enhancement of MDMA-induced hyperthermia, and blocked the enhanced depletions of 5-HT and dopamine in CUS-exposed rats, but had no effect on the acute MDMA-induced increases in plasma corticosterone. These findings suggest that CUS alone can increase the basal level of corticosterone that in turn, plays an important role in enhancing the sensitivity of both 5-HT and dopamine terminals to the hyperthermic and monoamine depleting effects of MDMA without altering the acute corticosterone response to an MDMA challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- B N Johnson
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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17
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Alves E, Binienda Z, Carvalho F, Alves CJ, Fernandes E, de Lourdes Bastos M, Tavares MA, Summavielle T. Acetyl-L-carnitine provides effective in vivo neuroprotection over 3,4-methylenedioximethamphetamine-induced mitochondrial neurotoxicity in the adolescent rat brain. Neuroscience 2008; 158:514-23. [PMID: 19015003 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioximethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) is a worldwide abused stimulant drug, with persistent neurotoxic effects and high prevalence among adolescents. The massive release of 5-HT from pre-synaptic storage vesicles induced by MDMA followed by monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) metabolism, significantly increases oxidative stress at the mitochondrial level. l-Carnitine and its ester, acetyl-l-carnitine (ALC), facilitate the transport of long chain free fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane enhancing neuronal anti-oxidative defense. Here, we show the potential of ALC against the neurotoxic effects of MDMA exposure. Adolescent male Wistar rats were assigned to four groups: control saline solution, isovolumetric to the MDMA solution, administered i.p.; MDMA (4x10 mg/kg MDMA, i.p.); ALC/MDMA (100 mg/kg 30 min of ALC prior to MDMA, i.p.) and ALC (100 mg/kg, i.p.). Rats were killed 2 weeks after exposure and brains were analyzed for lipid peroxidation, carbonyl formation, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletion and altered expression of the DNA-encoded subunits of the mitochondrial complexes I (NADH dehydrogenase, NDII) and IV (cytochrome c oxidase, COXI) from the respiratory chain. Levels of 5-HT and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were also assessed. The present work is the first to successfully demonstrate that pretreatment with ALC exerts effective neuroprotection against the MDMA-induced neurotoxicity at the mitochondrial level, reducing carbonyl formation, decreasing mtDNA deletion, improving the expression of the respiratory chain components and preventing the decrease of 5-HT levels in several regions of the rat brain. These results indicate potential benefits of ALC application in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Alves
- IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroprotection Laboratory, Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
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18
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Yamamoto BK, Raudensky J. The role of oxidative stress, metabolic compromise, and inflammation in neuronal injury produced by amphetamine-related drugs of abuse. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2008; 3:203-17. [PMID: 18709468 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-008-9121-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2008] [Accepted: 07/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) are amphetamine derivatives with high abuse liability. These amphetamine-related drugs of abuse mediate their effects through the acute activation of both dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons. Long-term abuse of these amphetamine derivatives, however, results in damage to both dopaminergic and serotonergic terminals throughout the brain. This toxicity is mediated in part by oxidative stress, metabolic compromise, and inflammation. The overall objective of this review is to highlight experimental evidence that METH and MDMA increase oxidative stress, produce mitochondrial dysfunction, and increase inflammation that converge and culminate in the long-term toxicity to dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan K Yamamoto
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, L-613, 715 Albany St., Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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Goñi-Allo B, Puerta E, Mathúna BO, Hervias I, Lasheras B, de la Torre R, Aguirre N. On the role of tyrosine and peripheral metabolism in 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced serotonin neurotoxicity in rats. Neuropharmacology 2008; 54:885-900. [PMID: 18329670 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2007] [Revised: 01/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-induced serotonergic (5-HT) toxicity remain unclear. It has been suggested that MDMA depletes 5-HT by increasing brain tyrosine levels, which via non-enzymatic hydroxylation leads to DA-derived free radical formation. Because this hypothesis assumes the pre-existence of hydroxyl radicals, we hypothesized that MDMA metabolism into pro-oxidant compounds is the limiting step in this process. Acute hyperthermia, plasma tyrosine levels and concentrations of MDMA and its main metabolites were higher after a toxic (15 mg/kg i.p.) vs. a non-toxic dose of MDMA (7.5mg/kg i.p.). The administration of a non-toxic dose of MDMA in combination with l-tyrosine (0.2 mmol/kg i.p.) produced a similar increase in serum tyrosine levels to those found after a toxic dose of MDMA; however, brain 5-HT content remained unchanged. The non-toxic dose of MDMA combined with a high dose of tyrosine (0.5 mmol/kg i.p.), caused long-term 5-HT depletions in rats treated at 21.5 degrees C but not in those treated at 15 degrees C, conditions known to decrease MDMA metabolism. Furthermore, striatal perfusion of MDMA (100 microM for 5h) combined with tyrosine (0.5 mmol/kg i.p.) in hyperthermic rats did not cause 5-HT depletions. By contrast, rats treated with the non-toxic dose of MDMA under heating conditions or combined with entacapone or acivicin, which interfere with MDMA metabolism or increase brain MDMA metabolite availability respectively, showed significant reductions of brain 5-HT content. Altogether, these data indicate that although tyrosine may contribute to MDMA-induced toxicity, MDMA metabolism appears to be the limiting step.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Goñi-Allo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, c/ Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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20
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Parrott A, Lock J, Conner A, Kissling C, Thome J. Dance clubbing on MDMA and during abstinence from Ecstasy/MDMA: prospective neuroendocrine and psychobiological changes. Neuropsychobiology 2008; 57:165-80. [PMID: 18654086 PMCID: PMC3575116 DOI: 10.1159/000147470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2007] [Accepted: 04/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The present study is the first to prospectively compare a group of recreational Ecstasy users when dance clubbing on 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and when clubbing during abstinence from Ecstasy/MDMA. METHODS Twelve normal healthy volunteers (mean age = 23.2 years) were assessed at a Saturday night dance club under self-administered MDMA. On the other weekend they went to the same dance club without taking MDMA (order counterbalanced). Both conditions involved 5 test sessions conducted at similar times: pre-drug baseline, 1 h post-drug clubbing, 2.5 h post-drug clubbing, and 2 and 4 days later. The assessments included body and ambient temperature, physical activity (pedometer), as well as self-ratings for mood state, physical activity, thermal comfort and thirst. Saliva samples were analyzed for MDMA, cortisol and testosterone. RESULTS The cortisol levels increased significantly by 800% when dance clubbing on MDMA, while testosterone increased significantly by 75%; neither neuroendocrine measure was altered during abstinence. Saliva analyses confirmed the presence of MDMA when dancing on Ecstasy and its absence when dancing off Ecstasy. The pedometer values and self-rated levels of dancing were similar at both weekends. Hot and cold flushes and feeling hot increased significantly under MDMA. The mean body temperature did not change significantly, although there was a borderline trend for increased values after MDMA. Feelings of happiness and excitement increased under MDMA, although they were not significantly greater than when clubbing during abstinence. CONCLUSIONS Neurohormonal release may be an important part of the acute MDMA experience. The large cortisol increase provides further data on the bioenergetic stress model of recreational Ecstasy/MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.C. Parrott
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea
| | - J. Lock
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea
| | - A.C. Conner
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - C. Kissling
- School of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea
| | - J. Thome
- School of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea
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21
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Gudelsky GA, Yamamoto BK. Actions of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on cerebral dopaminergic, serotonergic and cholinergic neurons. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2007; 90:198-207. [PMID: 18035407 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2007.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2007] [Revised: 09/22/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an amphetamine derivative and a popular drug of abuse that exhibits mild hallucinogenic and rewarding properties and engenders feelings of connectedness and openness. The unique psychopharmacological profile of this drug of abuse most likely is derived from the property of MDMA to promote the release of dopamine and serotonin (5-HT) in multiple brain regions. The present review highlights primarily data from studies employing in vivo microdialysis that detail the actions of MDMA on the release of these neurotransmitters. Data from in vivo microdialysis experiments indicate that MDMA, like most amphetamine derivatives, increases the release of dopamine in the striatum, n. accumbens and prefrontal cortex. However, the release of dopamine evoked by MDMA in each of these brain regions appears to be modulated by concomitantly released 5-HT and the subsequent activation of 5-HT2A/C or 5-HT2B/C receptors. In addition to its stimulatory effect on the release of monoamines, MDMA also enhances the release of acetylcholine in the striatum, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, and this cholinergic response appears to be secondary to the activation of histaminergic, dopaminergic and/or serotonergic receptors. Beyond the acute stimulatory effect of MDMA on neurotransmitter release, MDMA also increases the extracellular concentration of energy substrates, e.g., glucose and lactate in the brain. In contrast to the acute stimulatory actions of MDMA on the release of monoamines and acetylcholine, the repeated administration of high doses of MDMA is thought to result in a selective neurotoxicity to 5-HT axon terminals in the rat. Additional studies are reviewed that focus on the alterations in neurotransmitter responses to pharmacological and physiological stimuli that accompany MDMA-induced 5-HT neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary A Gudelsky
- University of Cincinnati, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, 3225 Eden Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States.
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Howell LL, Kimmel HL. Monoamine transporters and psychostimulant addiction. Biochem Pharmacol 2007; 75:196-217. [PMID: 17825265 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2007.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2007] [Revised: 07/25/2007] [Accepted: 08/02/2007] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Psychostimulants are a broadly defined class of drugs that stimulate the central and peripheral nervous systems as their primary pharmacological effect. The abuse liability of psychostimulants is well established and represents a significant public health concern. An extensive literature documents the critical importance of monoamines (dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine) in the behavioral pharmacology and addictive properties of psychostimulants. In particular, the dopamine transporter plays a primary role in the reinforcing and behavioral-stimulant effects of psychostimulants in animals and humans. Moreover, both serotonin and norepinephrine systems can reliably modulate the neurochemical and behavioral effects of psychostimulants. However, there is a growing body of evidence that highlights complex interactions among additional neurotransmitter systems. Cortical glutamatergic systems provide important regulation of dopamine function, and inhibitory amino acid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) systems can modulate basal dopamine and glutamate release. Repeated exposure to psychostimulants can lead to robust and enduring changes in neurobiological substrates, including monoamines, and corresponding changes in sensitivity to acute drug effects on neurochemistry and behavior. Significant advances in the understanding of neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychostimulant abuse and dependence have guided pharmacological treatment strategies to improve clinical outcome. In particular, functional agonist treatments may be used effectively to stabilize monoamine neurochemistry, influence behavior and lead to long-term abstinence. However, additional clinical studies are required in order to identify safe and efficacious pharmacotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard L Howell
- Division of Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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23
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Gramsbergen JB, Cumming P. Serotonin mediates rapid changes of striatal glucose and lactate metabolism after systemic 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “Ecstasy”) administration in awake rats. Neurochem Int 2007; 51:8-15. [PMID: 17475367 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2007.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2006] [Revised: 03/07/2007] [Accepted: 03/09/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The pathway for selective serotonergic toxicity of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "Ecstasy") is poorly understood, but has been linked to hyperthermia and disturbed energy metabolism. We investigated the dose-dependency and time-course of MDMA-induced perturbations of cerebral glucose metabolism in freely moving rats using rapid sampling microdialysis (every minute) coupled to flow-injection analysis (FIA) with biosensors for glucose and lactate. Blood samples for analysis of glucose and lactate were taken at 30-45 min intervals before and after drug dosing and body temperature was monitored by telemetry. A single dose of MDMA (2-10-20 mg/kg i.v.) evoked a transient increase of interstitial glucose concentrations in striatum (139-223%) with rapid onset and of less than 2h duration, a concomitant but more prolonged lactate increase (>187%) at the highest MDMA dose and no significant depletions of striatal serotonin. Blood glucose and lactate levels were also transiently elevated (163 and 135%) at the highest MDMA doses. The blood glucose rises were significantly related to brain glucose and brain lactate changes. The metabolic perturbations in striatum and the hyperthermic response (+1.1 degrees C) following systemic MDMA treatment were entirely blocked in p-chlorophenylalanine pre-treated rats, indicating that these effects are mediated by endogenous serotonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Bert Gramsbergen
- Anatomy & Neurobiology, Institute of Medical Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløwparken 21, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark.
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Goñi-Allo B, Puerta E, Hervias I, Di Palma R, Ramos M, Lasheras B, Aguirre N. Studies on the mechanisms underlying amiloride enhancement of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced serotonin depletion in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2007; 562:198-207. [PMID: 17320075 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2007.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2006] [Revised: 12/13/2006] [Accepted: 01/11/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Amiloride and several of its congeners known to block the Na(+)/Ca(2+) and/or Na(+)/H(+) antiporters potentiate methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity without altering methamphetamine-induced hyperthermia. We now examine whether amiloride also exacerbates 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-induced long-term serotonin (5-HT) loss in rats. Amiloride (2.5 mg/kg, every 2 h x 3, i.p.) given at ambient temperature 30 min before MDMA (5 mg/kg, every 2 h x 3, i.p.), markedly exacerbated long-term 5-HT loss. However, in contrast to methamphetamine, amiloride also potentiated MDMA-induced hyperthermia. Fluoxetine (10 mg/kg i.p.) completely protected against 5-HT depletion caused by the MDMA/amiloride combination without significantly altering the hyperthermic response. By contrast, the calcium channel antagonists flunarizine or diltiazem did not afford any protection. Findings with MDMA and amiloride were extended to the highly selective Na(+)/H(+) exchange inhibitor dimethylamiloride, suggesting that the potentiating effects of amiloride are probably mediated by the blockade of Na(+)/H(+) exchange. When the MDMA/amiloride combination was administered at 15 degrees C hyperthermia did not develop and brain 5-HT concentrations remained unchanged 7 days later. Intrastriatal perfusion of MDMA (100 microM for 8 h) in combination with systemic amiloride caused a small depletion of striatal 5-HT content in animals made hyperthermic but not in the striatum of normothermic rats. These data suggest that enhancement of MDMA-induced 5-HT loss caused by amiloride or dimethylamiloride depends on their ability to enhance MDMA-induced hyperthermia. We hypothesise that blockade of Na(+)/H(+) exchange could synergize with hyperthermia to render 5-HT terminals more vulnerable to the toxic effects of MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Goñi-Allo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, C/ Irunlarrea, 1, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
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Parrott AC. The psychotherapeutic potential of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine): an evidence-based review. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 191:181-93. [PMID: 17297639 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0703-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2006] [Accepted: 01/08/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED AIMS AND RATIONALE: The purpose of this study was to review whether methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) has the appropriate pharmacodynamic profile to be a therapeutic agent. MATERIALS AND METHODS Empirical descriptions of MDMA's subjective effects in humans will be reviewed to evaluate the proposal that MDMA has psychotherapeutic properties. The focus will be published evidence on its functional effects in therapeutic, medical, and other situations. RESULTS MDMA is a powerful central nervous system (CNS) stimulant which affects several neurotransmitter systems and intensifies a range of psychobiological functions. Its acute mood effects can be very positive and life enhancing, and the affirmative cognitions engendered during MDMA therapy may well endure afterwards. However, MDMA also has a number of potential anti-therapeutic characteristics. Acutely, it can also intensify negative cognitions, and these may similarly endure over time. Psychotherapists have found that setting, intention, and expectancy are crucial for a positive outcome, but these factors cannot be guaranteed. Post-MDMA, there is a period of neurotransmitter recovery when low moods predominate, and these may exacerbate psychiatric distress. The explanations proposed for MDMA-assisted therapy are all psychodynamic, and a neurochemical model needs to be outlined. It has been suggested that enduring therapeutic gains can follow a single session, but again, this lacks a clear psychopharmacological rationale. Finally, diathesis-stress models suggest that psychiatric individuals are more prone to acute and chronic abreactions to CNS stimulants such as MDMA. CONCLUSIONS There are a number of issues which need to be addressed before it can be argued that MDMA might be clinically useful for psychotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Parrott
- Department of Psychology, University of Wales Swansea, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK.
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Hernández-Rabaza V, Domínguez-Escribà L, Barcia JA, Rosel JF, Romero FJ, García-Verdugo JM, Canales JJ. Binge administration of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (“ecstasy”) impairs the survival of neural precursors in adult rat dentate gyrus. Neuropharmacology 2006; 51:967-73. [PMID: 16949621 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2006.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2006] [Revised: 06/06/2006] [Accepted: 06/12/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a potent stimulant and hallucinogenic drug whose ability to regulate neurogenesis in the adult has not been previously investigated. We used 5'-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) and Ki-67 as mitotic markers, and doublecortin (DCX) as a marker of immature neurons, to study proliferation, survival and maturation of adult-generated cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus following binge administration of MDMA (8 injections of 5 mg/kg at 6 h intervals). The results showed that MDMA treatment did not affect cytogenesis in the DG, but significantly decreased the survival rate of cells incorporated after 2 weeks to the granular layer of the DG by ca. 50%, and of those remaining in the subgranular layer by ca. 30%. Two weeks after exposure to MDMA the length of dendritic arbors and the number of dendritic branches of immature DCX+ neurons were nearly identical to those of control rats, as was the level of colocalization of BrdU with DCX. These results demonstrate that binge MDMA administration does not affect the proliferation rates of progenitor cells in the DG, but has deleterious effects on adult neurogenesis by impairing the short-term survival of vulnerable neural precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Hernández-Rabaza
- Laboratory of Biopsychology and Comparative Neuroscience, Instituto Cavanilles, Universidad de Valencia, Poligono de la Coma s/n, Paterna, 46980 Valencia, Spain
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Ferrington L, Kirilly E, McBean DE, Olverman HJ, Bagdy G, Kelly PAT. Persistent cerebrovascular effects of MDMA and acute responses to the drug. Eur J Neurosci 2006; 24:509-19. [PMID: 16836637 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.04923.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Acutely, 3,4,-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) induces cerebrovascular dysfunction [Quate et al., (2004)Psychopharmacol., 173, 287-295]. In the longer term the same single dose results in depletion of 5-hydroxytrptamine (5-HT) nerve terminals. In this study we examined the cerebrovascular consequences of this persistent neurodegeneration, and the acute effects of subsequent MDMA exposure, upon the relationship that normally exists between local cerebral blood flow (LCBF) and local cerebral glucose utilization (LCMRglu). Dark agouti (DA) rats were pre-treated with 15 mg/kg i.p. MDMA or saline. Three weeks later, rats from each pre-treatment group were treated with an acute dose of MDMA (15 mg/kg i.p.) or saline. Quantitative autoradiographic imaging was used to measure LCBF or LCMRglu with [(14)C]-iodoantipyrine and [(14)C]-2-deoxyglucose, respectively. Serotonergic terminal depletion was assessed using radioligand binding with [(3)H]-paroxetine and immunohistochemistry. Three weeks after MDMA pre-treatment there were significant reductions in densities of 5-HT transporter (SERT)-positive fibres (-46%) and [(3)H]-paroxetine binding (-47%). In animals pre-treated with MDMA there were widespread significant decreases in LCMRglu, but no change in LCBF indicating a persistent loss of cerebrovascular constrictor tone. In both pre-treatment groups, acute MDMA produced significant increases in LCMRglu, while LCBF was significantly decreased. In 50% of MDMA-pre-treated rats, random areas of focal hyperaemia indicated a loss of autoregulatory capacity in response to MDMA-induced hypertension. These results suggest that cerebrovascular regulatory dysfunction resulting from acute exposure to MDMA is not diminished by previous exposure, despite a significant depletion in 5-HT terminals. However, there may be a sub-population, or individual circumstances, in which this dysfunction develops into a condition that might predispose to stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Ferrington
- Division of Neuroscience, University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK.
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Parrott AC. MDMA in humans: factors which affect the neuropsychobiological profiles of recreational ecstasy users, the integrative role of bioenergetic stress. J Psychopharmacol 2006; 20:147-63. [PMID: 16510474 DOI: 10.1177/0269881106063268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Many recreational ecstasy/MDMA users display neuropsychobiological deficits, whereas others remain problem free. This review will investigate some of the drug and non-drug factors which influence the occurrence of these deficits. Acute and chronic MDMA usage are both important. Intensive use within a session is often associated with more problems. In term of lifetime usage, novice users generally remain unimpaired, whereas most heavy users report memory or other psychobiological problems which they attribute to ecstasy. These complaints are confirmed by objective deficits in working memory, attention, frontal-executive, and episodic memory tasks. Psychobiological deficits include disturbed sleep, sexual dysfunction, reduced immuno-competence, and increased oxidative stress. Further MDMA-related factors which may contribute to these changes, include acute and chronic tolerance, and drug dependence. Around 90ñ95% of ecstasy/MDMA users also take cannabis, and this can independently contribute to the adverse neuropsychobiological pro.les; although in some situations the acute co-use of these two drugs may be interactive rather than additive, since cannabis has relaxant and hypothermic properties. Alcohol, nicotine, amphetamine, and other drugs, can also affect the psychobiological pro.les of ecstasy polydrug users in complex ways. Pure MDMA users are rare but they have been shown to display significant neurocognitive deficits. Psychiatric aspects are debated in the context of the diathesis-stress model. Here the stressor of ecstasy polydrug drug use, interacts with various predisposition factors (genetic, neurochemical, personality), to determine the psychiatric outcome. Recreational MDMA is typically taken in hot and crowded dances/raves. Prolonged dancing, feeling hot, and raised body temperature, can also be associated with more psychobiological problems. This is consistent with the animal literature, where high ambient temperature and other metabolic stimulants boost the acute effects of MDMA, and cause greater serotonergic neurotoxicity. In conclusion, the neuropsychobiological effects of MDMA are modulated by a wide range of drug and non-drug factors. These multiple influences are integrated within a bioenergetic stress model, where factors which heighten acute metabolic distress lead to more neuropsychobiological problems.
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