1
|
Abolghasemi H, Shahani P, Mozafari R, Barikrow N, Yekta BG, Haghparast A. The dopaminergic and opioidergic interactions in the nucleus accumbens in the suppression of pain affect: Exploring their impact on formalin-induced pain in rats. Physiol Behav 2025; 295:114894. [PMID: 40157441 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2025.114894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2025] [Accepted: 03/26/2025] [Indexed: 04/01/2025]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that the nucleus accumbens (NAc) may influence the brain's response to pain signals, indicating a role beyond motivation and reward. The study delved into how the D1-like dopamine receptors (D1Rs) and μ-opioid receptors (MOR) interact in the NAc region in the context of formalin-induced pain. Rats received intra-accumbal various doses of morphine as an MOR agonist (5, 10, 25, and 50 mmol/0.5μl) and different doses of SKF38393 as a selective D1Rs agonist (1.5, 3, 6, and 12 mmol/0.5μl) in separate experimental groups, respectively. In the second stage, animals received different doses of SCH23390 as a selective D1Rs antagonist (1.5, 3, 6, and 12 mmol) before an effective dose of SKF38393 (6 mmol) and morphine (10 mmol). The rats were then given naloxone as an MOR antagonist (1.5, 5, and 15 mmol) before being given an effective dose of SKF38393 (6 mmol). In the formalin test, 50 µl formalin (2.5 %) was subcutaneously injected into the rat's hind paw to induce pain behavioral responses. The main findings indicated that the opioidergic and dopaminergic systems in the NAc region interact to create analgesic effects. The injection of morphine and SKF38393 into the NAc resulted in pain-relieving impacts. However, SCH23390 decreased the antinociceptive impacts of SKF38393 and morphine. Similarly, naloxone reduced the analgesic effects of SKF38393. The interactions between D1Rs and MOR can lead to synergistic effects. Therefore, using D1Rs agonists along with morphine can enhance the antinociceptive effect of morphine while reducing its side effects.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Nucleus Accumbens/drug effects
- Nucleus Accumbens/metabolism
- Male
- Morphine/pharmacology
- Formaldehyde/toxicity
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/metabolism
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/agonists
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Benzazepines/pharmacology
- 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine/pharmacology
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/antagonists & inhibitors
- Dopamine Antagonists/pharmacology
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Pain/drug therapy
- Pain/chemically induced
- Pain/metabolism
- Narcotic Antagonists/pharmacology
- Rats
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Naloxone/pharmacology
- Dopamine Agonists/pharmacology
- Pain Measurement
- Rats, Wistar
- Disease Models, Animal
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hedie Abolghasemi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Shahani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Mozafari
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nooshin Barikrow
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Batool Ghorbani Yekta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Basic Sciences, Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Luan D, Li Y, Zhang A, Bai Q, Zhao T, Chen X, Dang X, Wang J, Jiang S, Sun Y, Zhu Y, Kong Y, Luo XJ, Zhang Z. The regulatory variant rs1950834 confers the risk of depressive disorder by reducing LRFN5 expression. BMC Med 2025; 23:316. [PMID: 40442660 PMCID: PMC12123872 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-025-04141-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2025] [Accepted: 05/15/2025] [Indexed: 06/02/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome-wide association studies have identified 14q21.1 as a robust risk locus for major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we aim to explore the regulatory function of rs1950834 on leucine-rich repeat and fibronectin type III domain containing 5 (LRFN5) expression in MDD. METHODS Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated genome knockout and single-base editing were used to determine the effects of rs1950834 on the binding of transcriptional factors and the expression of the target gene LRFN5. Meta-analysis of multiple transcriptomic datasets was performed to clarify the brain region responsible for LRFN5 downregulation in MDD patients. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Lrfn5 overexpression or knockdown in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) was used to test their effects on depression-like behaviors and sensitivity to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in male mice. Synaptic structure and functions were monitored by synaptic protein expression assay, Golgi staining, and electrophysiological analysis. RESULTS The risk allele (A) of rs1950834 reduced the binding affinity to RNA polymerase II subunit A (POLR2A) and the transcription factor RAD21 cohesin complex component (RAD21), leading to decreased expression of LRFN5. LRFN5 expression was downregulated specifically in the NAc of MDD patients as compared to healthy controls. Knockdown of Lrfn5 in NAc neurons induced depression-like behaviors and further exacerbated CUMS-induced phenotypes via synaptic damage, but overexpression of Lrfn5 in mouse NAc induced resilience to CUMS. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal that the functional risk single nucleotide polymorphism rs1950834 at 14q21.1 regulates LRNN5 expression and function in NAc, providing a novel perspective for molecular diagnosis and targeted interventions of MDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Luan
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Depression, Department of Mental Health and Public Health in Faculty of Life and Health Sciences of Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute of Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Aini Zhang
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Qingqing Bai
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Te Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Depression, Department of Mental Health and Public Health in Faculty of Life and Health Sciences of Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute of Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xi Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Xinglun Dang
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Junyang Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Shaolei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Optical Technology and Instrument for Medicine, Ministry of Education; School of Optical-Electrical Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Yingjie Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction, Shenzhen Neher Neural Plasticity Laboratory, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yan Kong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, China.
| | - Xiong-Jian Luo
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China.
| | - Zhijun Zhang
- Department of Neurology in Affiliated Zhongda Hospital and Jiangsu Provincial Medical Key Discipline, School of Medicine, Research Institute of Neuropsychiatry, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease of the Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Depression, Department of Mental Health and Public Health in Faculty of Life and Health Sciences of Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute of Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Vieitas-Gaspar N, Soares-Cunha C, Rodrigues AJ. From valence encoding to motivated behavior: A focus on the nucleus accumbens circuitry. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2025; 172:106125. [PMID: 40154653 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2025] [Revised: 03/21/2025] [Accepted: 03/23/2025] [Indexed: 04/01/2025]
Abstract
How do our brains determine whether something is good or bad? The brain's ability to evaluate stimuli as positive or negative - by attributing valence - is fundamental to survival and decision-making. Different brain regions have been associated with valence encoding, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc). The NAc is predominantly composed of GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs), which segregate into two distinct populations based on their dopamine receptor expression: D1-receptor-expressing (D1-MSNs) and D2-receptor-expressing neurons (D2-MSNs). Classical models propose a binary functional role, where D1-MSNs exclusively mediated reward and positive valence, while D2-MSNs processed aversion and negative valence. However, we now recognize that NAc MSN subpopulations operate in a more complex manner than previously thought, often working cooperatively rather than antagonistically in valence-related behaviors. This review synthesizes our current knowledge of valence-encoding neurocircuitry, with emphasis on the NAc. We examine electrophysiological, calcium imaging, optogenetic, chemogenetic and pharmacological studies detailing the contribution of NAc medium spiny neurons for rewarding and aversive responses. Finally, we explore emerging technical innovations that promise to advance our understanding of how the mammalian brain encodes valence and translates it into behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Vieitas-Gaspar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carina Soares-Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana João Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Iyer ES, Vitaro P, Wu S, Muir J, Tse YC, Cvetkovska V, Bagot RC. Reward integration in prefrontal-cortical and ventral-hippocampal nucleus accumbens inputs cooperatively modulates engagement. Nat Commun 2025; 16:3573. [PMID: 40234437 PMCID: PMC12000462 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58858-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2025] [Indexed: 04/17/2025] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens, a highly integrative brain region controlling motivated behavior, receives various glutamatergic inputs, yet the relative functional specialization of these inputs is unclear. While circuit neuroscience commonly seeks specificity, redundancy can be highly adaptive and is a critical motif in circuit organization. Using dual-site fiber photometry in an operant reward task in mice, we simultaneously recorded from two accumbal glutamatergic afferents to assess circuit specialization. We identify a common neural motif integrating reward history in medial prefrontal cortex and ventral hippocampus inputs. By systematically degrading task complexity, dissociating reward from choice and action, we identify circuit-specificity in the behavioral conditions that recruit encoding. While input from the prefrontal cortex invariantly encodes reward, encoding in ventral hippocampal input is uniquely anchored to unrewarded outcomes. Optogenetic stimulation demonstrates that both inputs co-operatively modulate task engagement. We illustrate how similar encoding, differentially gated by behavioral state, supports state-sensitive tuning of reward-motivated behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eshaan S Iyer
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Peter Vitaro
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Serena Wu
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jessie Muir
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Omenn-Darling Bioengineering Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Yiu Chung Tse
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Rosemary C Bagot
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen S, Lopez-Quintero C, Elton A. Perceived Racism, Brain Development, and Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms: Findings From the ABCD Study. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2025:S0890-8567(25)00206-0. [PMID: 40222403 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2025.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2025] [Accepted: 04/04/2025] [Indexed: 04/15/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Racial discrimination drives health disparities among racial/ethnic minority youth, creating chronic stress that affects brain development and contributes to mental and behavioral health issues. This study analyzed data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study to examine the neurobiological mechanisms linking discrimination to mental and behavioral health outcomes. METHOD A sample of 3,321 racial/ethnic minority youth was split into training (80%, n = 2,674) and testing (20%, n = 647) groups. Propensity score-weighted machine learning was used to assess the effects of perceived discrimination on 2-year changes in resting-state functional connectivity between 3 subcortical regions (nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and hippocampus) and large-scale brain networks. Mediation analyses evaluated whether brain changes mediated sex-specific effects on internalizing or externalizing symptoms. RESULTS Perceived discrimination was significantly associated with 2-year changes in connectivity of the nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and hippocampus in both cross-validation and independent testing. Key findings included decreases in nucleus accumbens connectivity with retrosplenial-temporal and sensorimotor (hand) networks, decreases in amygdala connectivity with the sensorimotor (mouth) network, and increases in hippocampal connectivity with the auditory network. These changes suggest accelerated maturation in these connections among youth reporting higher discrimination levels. Moderated mediation analyses revealed sex differences, with discrimination-related changes in nucleus accumbens connectivity linked to poorer internalizing outcomes in female participants. CONCLUSION The results indicate that perceived racial discrimination experienced in adolescence have an impact on subcortical-cortical brain development, which affects mental and behavioral health outcomes in a sex-specific manner. DIVERSITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT We worked to ensure race, ethnic, and/or other types of diversity in the recruitment of human participants. One or more of the authors of this paper self-identifies as a member of one or more historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science.
Collapse
|
6
|
Fermani F, Chang S, Mastrodicasa Y, Peters C, Gaitanos L, Alcala Morales PL, Ramakrishnan C, Deisseroth K, Klein R. Food and water intake are regulated by distinct central amygdala circuits revealed using intersectional genetics. Nat Commun 2025; 16:3072. [PMID: 40157920 PMCID: PMC11954953 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58144-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2025] [Indexed: 04/01/2025] Open
Abstract
The central amygdala (CeA) plays a crucial role in defensive and appetitive behaviours. It contains genetically defined GABAergic neuron subpopulations distributed over three anatomical subregions, capsular (CeC), lateral (CeL), and medial (CeM). The roles that these molecularly- and anatomically-defined CeA neurons play in appetitive behavior remain unclear. Using intersectional genetics in mice, we found that neurons driving food or water consumption are confined to the CeM. Separate CeM subpopulations exist for water only versus water or food consumption. In vivo calcium imaging revealed that CeMHtr2a neurons promoting feeding are responsive towards appetitive cues with little regard for their physical attributes. CeMSst neurons involved in drinking are sensitive to the physical properties of salient stimuli. Both CeM subtypes receive inhibitory input from CeL and send projections to the parabrachial nucleus to promote appetitive behavior. These results suggest that distinct CeM microcircuits evaluate liquid and solid appetitive stimuli to drive the appropriate behavioral responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Fermani
- Department of Molecules - Signaling - Development, Max-Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Simon Chang
- Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ylenia Mastrodicasa
- Department of Molecules - Signaling - Development, Max-Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Christian Peters
- Department of Molecules - Signaling - Development, Max-Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Louise Gaitanos
- Department of Molecules - Signaling - Development, Max-Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Pilar L Alcala Morales
- Department of Molecules - Signaling - Development, Max-Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rüdiger Klein
- Department of Molecules - Signaling - Development, Max-Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Martinsried, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Serra I, Martín-Monteagudo C, Sánchez Romero J, Quintanilla JP, Ganchala D, Arevalo MA, García-Marqués J, Navarrete M. Astrocyte ensembles manipulated with AstroLight tune cue-motivated behavior. Nat Neurosci 2025; 28:616-626. [PMID: 39901002 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-025-01870-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2025]
Abstract
Astrocytes, dynamic cells crucial to brain function, have traditionally been overshadowed by the emphasis on neuronal activity in regulating behavior. Unlike neurons, which are organized into ensembles that encode different brain representations, astrocytes have long been considered a homogeneous population. This is partly because of the lack of tools available to map and manipulate specific subsets of astrocytes based on their functional activity, obscuring the extent of their specialization in circuits. Here, using AstroLight, a tool that translates astrocytic activity-mediated calcium signals into gene expression in a light-dependent manner, we have identified an astrocytic ensemble, a functionally specified subset of astrocytes that emerges upon activity during cue-motivated behaviors in the nucleus accumbens, an integrator hub in the reward system. Furthermore, through gain-of-function and loss-of-function manipulations, we demonstrate that this ensemble is essential for modulating cue-reward associations. These findings highlight the specialization of astrocytes into ensembles and their fine-tuning role in shaping salient behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristina Martín-Monteagudo
- Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, Autonoma de Madrid University-Cajal Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Sánchez Romero
- Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, Autonoma de Madrid University-Cajal Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Danny Ganchala
- Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria-Angeles Arevalo
- Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cheng CN, Kozłowska A, Li WL, Wu CW, Wang YC, Huang ACW. NMDA-induced lesions of the nucleus accumbens core increase the innately rewarding saccharin solution intake and methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference but not conditioned taste aversion in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2025; 248:173957. [PMID: 39814213 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2025.173957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 01/07/2025] [Accepted: 01/09/2025] [Indexed: 01/18/2025]
Abstract
The role of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core in determining the valence of innately rewarding saccharin solution intake, methamphetamine (MAMPH)-induced conditioned taste aversion (CTA), and conditioned place preference (CPP) reward remains unclear. The present study utilized the "pre- and post-association" experimental paradigm (2010) to test whether the rewarding and aversive properties of MAMPH can be modulated by an N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) lesion in the NAc core. Moreover, it tested how an NAc core NMDA lesion affected the innate reward of saccharin solution intake. The results demonstrate that MAMPH could simultaneously induce an aversive CTA and a rewarding CPP effect, supporting the paradoxical effect hypothesis of abused drugs, in particular amphetamine. Meanwhile, the NMDA-lesioned NAc core increased the reward effect of CPP but did not alter the aversive CTA effect. The NAc core NMDA lesion also enhanced the innate reward of saccharin solution intake. The NAc core therefore seemingly plays an inhibitory role in the innate reward of saccharin solution intake and in the CPP effect. The paradoxical effect hypothesis of abused drugs provides some explanations for the present data in the case of MAMPH administrations. The NAc core may play an essential role in modulating the rewarding but not the aversive properties of MAMPH. The present findings could contribute to the understanding and eventual advancement of clinical interventions for drug addiction and the development of novel pharmacological treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cai-N Cheng
- Department of Psychology, Fo Guang University, Yilan County 26247, Taiwan
| | - Anna Kozłowska
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Warszawska Av, 30, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Wei-Lun Li
- Department of Psychology, Fo Guang University, Yilan County 26247, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Wen Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Keelung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Keelung City, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chou Wang
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 24205, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Requejo-Mendoza N, Arias-Montaño JA, Gutierrez R. Nucleus accumbens D2-expressing neurons: Balancing reward and licking disruption through rhythmic optogenetic stimulation. PLoS One 2025; 20:e0317605. [PMID: 39919051 PMCID: PMC11805367 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0317605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2024] [Accepted: 12/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2025] Open
Abstract
Nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine D1 receptor-expressing neurons are known to be critical for processing reward and regulating food intake. However, the role of D2-expressing neurons in this nucleus remains less understood. This study employed optogenetic manipulations to investigate the role of NAc D2-expressing neurons in reward processing and sucrose consumption. Optogenetic activation of these neurons decreased sucrose preference (at 20 Hz), disrupted licking patterns (particularly at 8 and 20 Hz), and increased self-stimulation. Conversely, synchronizing stimulation with the animal licking rhythm mitigated licking disruption and even increased sucrose intake, suggesting a rewarding effect. Furthermore, 20 Hz stimulation (but not 8 Hz) induced place preference in a real-time place preference (RTPP) test. In contrast, inhibiting D2 neurons produced a negative hedonic state, although not reaching complete aversion, influencing food choices in specific contexts. For instance, while the RTPP test per se was not sensitive enough to observe place aversion when mice could choose between consuming a high-fat diet (HFD) pellet in a context associated with or without inhibition of D2 neurons, they preferred to consume HFD on the non-inhibited side. This suggests that the palatability of HFD can unmask (but also overshadow) the negative hedonic state associated with D2 neuron inhibition. A negative reinforcement paradigm further confirmed the active avoidance behavior induced by D2 neuron inhibition. In conclusion, NAc D2 neuron inhibition induces a negative hedonic state, while activation has a dual effect-it is rewarding yet disrupts licking behavior-highlighting its complex role in reward and consummatory behavior. Importantly, self-paced stimulation, where the animal controls the timing of the stimulation through its licking behavior, offers a more efficient and natural approach for stimulating NAc activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikte Requejo-Mendoza
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Ciudad de México, México
- Laboratory Neurobiology of Appetite; Departamento Farmacología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Ciudad de México, México
| | - José-Antonio Arias-Montaño
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Ranier Gutierrez
- Laboratory Neurobiology of Appetite; Departamento Farmacología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Ciudad de México, México
- Laboratory Neurobiology of Appetite; Centro de Investigación sobre el Envejecimiento, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CIE, Cinvestav Sede sur), Ciudad de México, México
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Domingues AV, Carvalho TTA, Martins GJ, Correia R, Coimbra B, Bastos-Gonçalves R, Wezik M, Gaspar R, Pinto L, Sousa N, Costa RM, Soares-Cunha C, Rodrigues AJ. Dynamic representation of appetitive and aversive stimuli in nucleus accumbens shell D1- and D2-medium spiny neurons. Nat Commun 2025; 16:59. [PMID: 39746997 PMCID: PMC11696804 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55269-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 12/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a key brain region for motivated behaviors, yet how distinct neuronal populations encode appetitive or aversive stimuli remains undetermined. Using microendoscopic calcium imaging in mice, we tracked NAc shell D1- or D2-medium spiny neurons' (MSNs) activity during exposure to stimuli of opposing valence and associative learning. Despite drift in individual neurons' coding, both D1- and D2-population activity was sufficient to discriminate opposing valence unconditioned stimuli, but not predictive cues. Notably, D1- and D2-MSNs were similarly co-recruited during appetitive and aversive conditioning, supporting a concurrent role in associative learning. Conversely, when contingencies changed, there was an asymmetric response in the NAc, with more pronounced changes in the activity of D2-MSNs. Optogenetic manipulation of D2-MSNs provided causal evidence of the necessity of this population in the extinction of aversive associations. Our results reveal how NAc shell neurons encode valence, Pavlovian associations and their extinction, and unveil mechanisms underlying motivated behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Verónica Domingues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Tawan T A Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Gabriela J Martins
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Raquel Correia
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Coimbra
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Bastos-Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Marcelina Wezik
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rita Gaspar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Luísa Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center-Braga (2CA), Braga, Portugal
| | - Rui M Costa
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Allen Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Carina Soares-Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - Ana João Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Schall TA, Li KL, Qi X, Lee BT, Wright WJ, Alpaugh EE, Zhao RJ, Liu J, Li Q, Zeng B, Wang L, Huang YH, Schlüter OM, Nestler EJ, Nieh EH, Dong Y. Temporal dynamics of nucleus accumbens neurons in male mice during reward seeking. Nat Commun 2024; 15:9285. [PMID: 39468146 PMCID: PMC11519475 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53690-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) regulates reward-motivated behavior, but the temporal dynamics of NAc neurons that enable "free-willed" animals to obtain rewards remain elusive. Here, we recorded Ca2+ activity from individual NAc neurons when mice performed self-paced lever-presses for sucrose. NAc neurons exhibited three temporally-sequenced clusters, defined by times at which they exhibited increased Ca2+ activity: approximately 0, -2.5 or -5 sec relative to the lever-pressing. Dopamine D1 receptor (D1)-expressing neurons and D2-neurons formed the majority of the -5-sec versus -2.5-sec clusters, respectively, while both neuronal subtypes were represented in the 0-sec cluster. We found that pre-press activity patterns of D1- or D2-neurons could predict subsequent lever-presses. Inhibiting D1-neurons at -5 sec or D2-neurons at -2.5 sec, but not at other timepoints, reduced sucrose-motivated lever-pressing. We propose that the time-specific activity of D1- and D2-neurons mediate key temporal features of the NAc through which reward motivation initiates reward-seeking behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terra A Schall
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - King-Lun Li
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Xiguang Qi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Brian T Lee
- School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - William J Wright
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Erin E Alpaugh
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Rachel J Zhao
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Jianwei Liu
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Qize Li
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Bo Zeng
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Lirong Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Yanhua H Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Oliver M Schlüter
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Edward H Nieh
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA
| | - Yan Dong
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zou Y, Yu T, Zhu L, Xu Q, Li Y, Chen J, Luo Q, Peng H. Altered dynamic functional connectivity of nucleus accumbens subregions in major depressive disorder: the interactive effect of childhood trauma and diagnosis. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2024; 19:nsae053. [PMID: 39167467 PMCID: PMC11389612 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsae053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) with childhood trauma represents a heterogeneous clinical subtype of depression. Previous research has observed alterations in the reward circuitry centered around the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in MDD patients. However, limited investigations have focused on aberrant functional connectivity (FC) within NAc subregions among MDD with childhood trauma. Thus, this study adopts analyses of both static FC (sFC) and dynamic FC (dFC) to examine neurobiological changes in MDD with childhood trauma. The bilateral nucleus accumbens shell (NAc-shell) and nucleus accumbens core (NAc-core) were selected as the seeds. Four participant groups were included: MDD with childhood trauma (n = 48), MDD without childhood trauma (n = 30), healthy controls (HCs) with childhood trauma (n = 57), and HCs without childhood trauma (n = 46). Our findings revealed both abnormal sFC and dFC between NAc-shell and NAc-core and regions including the middle occipital gyrus (MOG), anterior cingulate cortex, and inferior frontal gyrus in MDD with childhood trauma. Furthermore, a significant correlation was identified between the dFC of the left NAc-shell and the right MOG in relation to childhood trauma. Additionally, abnormal dFC moderated the link between childhood abuse and depression severity. These outcomes shed light on the neurobiological underpinnings of MDD with childhood trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Zou
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
| | - Liwen Zhu
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
| | - Qing Xu
- Department of Clinical Psychiatry, The Third Hospital of Longyan, Longyan, Fujian 364000, China
| | - Yuhong Li
- Department of Publicity and Health Education, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Juran Chen
- General Outpatient Clinic, The Zhongshan Torch Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone Community Health Service, Zhongshan 528437, China
| | - Qianyi Luo
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
| | - Hongjun Peng
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510370, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kuiper LB, Dawes MH, West AM, DiMarco EK, Galante EV, Kishida KT, Jones SR. Comparison of dopamine release and uptake parameters across sex, species and striatal subregions. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:5113-5140. [PMID: 39161062 PMCID: PMC11632670 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
For over four decades, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) has been used to selectively measure neurotransmitters such as dopamine (DA) with high spatial and temporal resolution, providing detailed information about the regulation of DA in the extracellular space. FSCV is an optimal method for determining concentrations of stimulus-evoked DA in brain tissue. When modelling diseases involving disturbances in DA transmission, preclinical rodent models are especially useful because of the availability of specialized tools and techniques that serve as a foundation for translational research. There is known heterogeneity in DA dynamics between and within DA-innervated brain structures and between males and females. However, systematic evaluations of sex- and species-differences across multiple areas are lacking. Therefore, using FSCV, we captured a broad range of DA dynamics across five sub-regions of the dorsal and ventral striatum of males and females of both rats and mice that reflect the functional heterogeneity of DA kinetics and dynamics within these structures. While numerous differences were found, in particular, we documented a strong, consistent pattern of increased DA transporter activity in females in all of the regions surveyed. The data herein are intended to be used as a resource for further investigation of DA terminal function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey B. Kuiper
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Monica H. Dawes
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alyssa M. West
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Emily K. DiMarco
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Emma V. Galante
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kenneth T. Kishida
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara R. Jones
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Xu Y, Lin Y, Yu M, Zhou K. The nucleus accumbens in reward and aversion processing: insights and implications. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1420028. [PMID: 39184934 PMCID: PMC11341389 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1420028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc), a central component of the brain's reward circuitry, has been implicated in a wide range of behaviors and emotional states. Emerging evidence, primarily drawing from recent rodent studies, suggests that the function of the NAc in reward and aversion processing is multifaceted. Prolonged stress or drug use induces maladaptive neuronal function in the NAc circuitry, which results in pathological conditions. This review aims to provide comprehensive and up-to-date insights on the role of the NAc in motivated behavior regulation and highlights areas that demand further in-depth analysis. It synthesizes the latest findings on how distinct NAc neuronal populations and pathways contribute to the processing of opposite valences. The review examines how a range of neuromodulators, especially monoamines, influence the NAc's control over various motivational states. Furthermore, it delves into the complex underlying mechanisms of psychiatric disorders such as addiction and depression and evaluates prospective interventions to restore NAc functionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kuikui Zhou
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sun C, Fan Q, Xie R, Luo C, Hu B, Wang Q. Tetherless Optical Neuromodulation: Wavelength from Orange-red to Mid-infrared. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:1173-1188. [PMID: 38372931 PMCID: PMC11306867 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01179-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics, a technique that employs light for neuromodulation, has revolutionized the study of neural mechanisms and the treatment of neurological disorders due to its high spatiotemporal resolution and cell-type specificity. However, visible light, particularly blue and green light, commonly used in conventional optogenetics, has limited penetration in biological tissue. This limitation necessitates the implantation of optical fibers for light delivery, especially in deep brain regions, leading to tissue damage and experimental constraints. To overcome these challenges, the use of orange-red and infrared light with greater tissue penetration has emerged as a promising approach for tetherless optical neuromodulation. In this review, we provide an overview of the development and applications of tetherless optical neuromodulation methods with long wavelengths. We first discuss the exploration of orange-red wavelength-responsive rhodopsins and their performance in tetherless optical neuromodulation. Then, we summarize two novel tetherless neuromodulation methods using near-infrared light: upconversion nanoparticle-mediated optogenetics and photothermal neuromodulation. In addition, we discuss recent advances in mid-infrared optical neuromodulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics (XIOPM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Spectroscopy of Xi'an, Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, XIOPM, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Qi Fan
- Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics (XIOPM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Spectroscopy of Xi'an, Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, XIOPM, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Rougang Xie
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ceng Luo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Bingliang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Spectroscopy of Xi'an, Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, XIOPM, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Quan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics (XIOPM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Spectroscopy of Xi'an, Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, XIOPM, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Marinescu AM, Labouesse MA. The nucleus accumbens shell: a neural hub at the interface of homeostatic and hedonic feeding. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1437210. [PMID: 39139500 PMCID: PMC11319282 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1437210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Feeding behavior is a complex physiological process regulated by the interplay between homeostatic and hedonic feeding circuits. Among the neural structures involved, the nucleus accumbens (NAc) has emerged as a pivotal region at the interface of these two circuits. The NAc comprises distinct subregions and in this review, we focus mainly on the NAc shell (NAcSh). Homeostatic feeding circuits, primarily found in the hypothalamus, ensure the organism's balance in energy and nutrient requirements. These circuits monitor peripheral signals, such as insulin, leptin, and ghrelin, and modulate satiety and hunger states. The NAcSh receives input from these homeostatic circuits, integrating information regarding the organism's metabolic needs. Conversely, so-called hedonic feeding circuits involve all other non-hunger and -satiety processes, i.e., the sensory information, associative learning, reward, motivation and pleasure associated with food consumption. The NAcSh is interconnected with hedonics-related structures like the ventral tegmental area and prefrontal cortex and plays a key role in encoding hedonic information related to palatable food seeking or consumption. In sum, the NAcSh acts as a crucial hub in feeding behavior, integrating signals from both homeostatic and hedonic circuits, to facilitate behavioral output via its downstream projections. Moreover, the NAcSh's involvement extends beyond simple integration, as it directly impacts actions related to food consumption. In this review, we first focus on delineating the inputs targeting the NAcSh; we then present NAcSh output projections to downstream structures. Finally we discuss how the NAcSh regulates feeding behavior and can be seen as a neural hub integrating homeostatic and hedonic feeding signals, via a functionally diverse set of projection neuron subpopulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Măriuca Marinescu
- Brain, Wire and Behavior Group, Translational Nutritional Biology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marie A. Labouesse
- Brain, Wire and Behavior Group, Translational Nutritional Biology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ashton SE, Sharalla P, Kang N, Brockett AT, McCarthy MM, Roesch MR. Distinct Action Signals by Subregions in the Nucleus Accumbens during STOP-Change Performance. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0020242024. [PMID: 38897724 PMCID: PMC11255435 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0020-24.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is thought to contribute to motivated behavior by signaling the value of reward-predicting cues and the delivery of anticipated reward. The NAc is subdivided into core and shell, with each region containing different populations of neurons that increase or decrease firing to rewarding events. While there are numerous theories of functions pertaining to these subregions and cell types, most are in the context of reward processing, with fewer considering that the NAc might serve functions related to action selection more generally. We recorded from single neurons in the NAc as rats of both sexes performed a STOP-change task that is commonly used to study motor control and impulsivity. In this task, rats respond quickly to a spatial cue on 80% of trials (GO) and must stop and redirect planned movement on 20% of trials (STOP). We found that the activity of reward-excited neurons signaled accurate response direction on GO, but not STOP, trials and that these neurons exhibited higher precue firing after correct trials. In contrast, reward-inhibited neurons significantly represented response direction on STOP trials at the time of the instrumental response. Finally, the proportion of reward-excited to reward-inhibited neurons and the strength of precue firing decreased as the electrode traversed the NAc. We conclude that reward-excited cells (more common in core) promote proactive action selection, while reward-inhibited cells (more common in shell) contribute to accurate responding on STOP trials that require reactive suppression and redirection of behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney E Ashton
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742
| | - Paul Sharalla
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742
| | - Naru Kang
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742
| | - Adam T Brockett
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742
| | - Margaret M McCarthy
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- University of Maryland-Medicine Institute for Neuroscience Discovery (UM-MIND), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Matthew R Roesch
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bastos-Gonçalves R, Coimbra B, Rodrigues AJ. The mesopontine tegmentum in reward and aversion: From cellular heterogeneity to behaviour. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105702. [PMID: 38718986 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The mesopontine tegmentum, comprising the pedunculopontine tegmentum (PPN) and the laterodorsal tegmentum (LDT), is intricately connected to various regions of the basal ganglia, motor systems, and limbic systems. The PPN and LDT can regulate the activity of different brain regions of these target systems, and in this way are in a privileged position to modulate motivated behaviours. Despite recent findings, the PPN and LDT have been largely overlooked in discussions about the neural circuits associated with reward and aversion. This review aims to provide a timely and comprehensive resource on past and current research, highlighting the PPN and LDT's connectivity and influence on basal ganglia and limbic, and motor systems. Seminal studies, including lesion, pharmacological, and optogenetic/chemogenetic approaches, demonstrate their critical roles in modulating reward/aversive behaviours. The review emphasizes the need for further investigation into the associated cellular mechanisms, in order to clarify their role in behaviour and contribution for different neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Bastos-Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Coimbra
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - Ana João Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tian G, Bartas K, Hui M, Chen L, Vasquez JJ, Azouz G, Derdeyn P, Manville RW, Ho EL, Fang AS, Li Y, Tyler I, Setola V, Aoto J, Abbott GW, Beier KT. Molecular and circuit determinants in the globus pallidus mediating control of cocaine-induced behavioral plasticity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.29.596557. [PMID: 38853899 PMCID: PMC11160764 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.29.596557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The globus pallidus externus (GPe) is a central component of the basal ganglia circuit, receiving strong input from the indirect pathway and regulating a variety of functions, including locomotor output and habit formation. We recently showed that it also acts as a gatekeeper of cocaine-induced behavioral plasticity, as inhibition of parvalbumin-positive cells in the GPe (GPe PV ) prevents the development of cocaine-induced reward and sensitization. However, the molecular and circuit mechanisms underlying this function are unknown. Here we show that GPe PV cells control cocaine reward and sensitization by inhibiting GABAergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr GABA ), and ultimately, selectively modulating the activity of ventral tegmental area dopamine (VTA DA ) cells projecting to the lateral shell of the nucleus accumbens (NAcLat). A major input to GPe PV cells is the indirect pathway of the dorsomedial striatum (DMS D 2 ), which receives DAergic innervation from collaterals of VTA DA →NAcLat cells, making this a closed-loop circuit. Cocaine likely facilitates reward and sensitization not directly through actions in the GPe, but rather in the upstream DMS, where the cocaine-induced elevation of DA triggers a depression in DMS D 2 cell activity. This cocaine-induced elevation in DA levels can be blocked by inhibition of GPe PV cells, closing the loop. Interestingly, the level of GPe PV cell activity prior to cocaine administration is correlated with the extent of reward and sensitization that animals experience in response to future administration of cocaine, indicating that GPe PV cell activity is a key predictor of future behavioral responses to cocaine. Single nucleus RNA-sequencing of GPe cells indicated that genes encoding voltage-gated potassium channels KCNQ3 and KCNQ5 that control intrinsic cellular excitability are downregulated in GPe PV cells following a single cocaine exposure, contributing to the elevation in GPe PV cell excitability. Acutely activating channels containing KCNQ3 and/or KCNQ5 using the small molecule carnosic acid, a key psychoactive component of Salvia rosmarinus (rosemary) extract, reduced GPe PV cell excitability and also impaired cocaine reward, sensitization, and volitional cocaine intake, indicating its potential as a therapeutic to counteract psychostimulant use disorder. Our findings illuminate the molecular and circuit mechanisms by which the GPe orchestrates brain-wide changes in response to cocaine that are required for reward, sensitization, and self-administration behaviors.
Collapse
|
20
|
Martínez-Rivera FJ, Holt LM, Minier-Toribio A, Estill M, Yeh SY, Tofani S, Futamura R, Browne CJ, Mews P, Shen L, Nestler EJ. Transcriptional characterization of cocaine withdrawal versus extinction within nucleus accumbens. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.12.584637. [PMID: 38559084 PMCID: PMC10980003 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.12.584637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Substance use disorder is characterized by a maladaptive imbalance wherein drug seeking persists despite negative consequences or drug unavailability. This imbalance correlates with neurobiological alterations some of which are amplified during forced abstinence, thereby compromising the capacity of extinction-based approaches to prevent relapse. Cocaine use disorder (CUD) exemplifies this phenomenon in which neurobiological modifications hijack brain reward regions such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc) to manifest craving and withdrawal-like symptoms. While increasing evidence links transcriptional changes in the NAc to specific phases of addiction, genome-wide changes in gene expression during withdrawal vs. extinction (WD/Ext) have not been examined in a context- and NAc-subregion-specific manner. Here, we used cocaine self-administration (SA) in rats combined with RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) of NAc subregions (core and shell) to transcriptionally profile the impact of experiencing withdrawal in the home cage or in the previous drug context or experiencing extinction training. As expected, home-cage withdrawal maintained drug seeking in the previous drug context, whereas extinction training reduced it. By contrast, withdrawal involving repetitive exposure to the previous drug context increased drug-seeking behavior. Bioinformatic analyses of RNA-seq data revealed gene expression patterns, networks, motifs, and biological functions specific to these behavioral conditions and NAc subregions. Comparing transcriptomic analysis of the NAc of patients with CUD highlighted conserved gene signatures, especially with rats that were repetitively exposed to the previous drug context. Collectively, these behavioral and transcriptional correlates of several withdrawal-extinction settings reveal fundamental and translational information about potential molecular mechanisms to attenuate drug-associated memories.
Collapse
|
21
|
Deseyve C, Domingues AV, Carvalho TTA, Armada G, Correia R, Vieitas-Gaspar N, Wezik M, Pinto L, Sousa N, Coimbra B, Rodrigues AJ, Soares-Cunha C. Nucleus accumbens neurons dynamically respond to appetitive and aversive associative learning. J Neurochem 2024; 168:312-327. [PMID: 38317429 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
To survive, individuals must learn to associate cues in the environment with emotionally relevant outcomes. This association is partially mediated by the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key brain region of the reward circuit that is mainly composed by GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs), that express either dopamine receptor D1 or D2. Recent studies showed that both populations can drive reward and aversion, however, the activity of these neurons during appetitive and aversive Pavlovian conditioning remains to be determined. Here, we investigated the relevance of D1- and D2-neurons in associative learning, by measuring calcium transients with fiber photometry during appetitive and aversive Pavlovian tasks in mice. Sucrose was used as a positive valence unconditioned stimulus (US) and foot shock was used as a negative valence US. We show that during appetitive Pavlovian conditioning, D1- and D2-neurons exhibit a general increase in activity in response to the conditioned stimuli (CS). Interestingly, D1- and D2-neurons present distinct changes in activity after sucrose consumption that dynamically evolve throughout learning. During the aversive Pavlovian conditioning, D1- and D2-neurons present an increase in the activity in response to the CS and to the US (shock). Our data support a model in which D1- and D2-neurons are concurrently activated during appetitive and aversive conditioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Deseyve
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana Verónica Domingues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Tawan T A Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Gisela Armada
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Raquel Correia
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Natacha Vieitas-Gaspar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Marcelina Wezik
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Luísa Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center-Braga (2CA), Braga, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Coimbra
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana João Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carina Soares-Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Domingues AV, Rodrigues AJ, Soares-Cunha C. A novel perspective on the role of nucleus accumbens neurons in encoding associative learning. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2601-2610. [PMID: 37643893 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) has been considered a key brain region for encoding reward/aversion and cue-outcome associations. These processes are encoded by medium spiny neurons that express either dopamine receptor D1 (D1-MSNs) or D2 (D2-MSNs). Despite the well-established role of NAc neurons in encoding reward/aversion, the underlying processing by D1-/D2-MSNs remains largely unknown. Recent electrophysiological, optogenetic and calcium imaging studies provided insight on the complex role of D1- and D2-MSNs in these behaviours and helped to clarify their involvement in associative learning. Here, we critically discuss findings supporting an intricate and complementary role of NAc D1- and D2-MSNs in associative learning, emphasizing the need for additional studies in order to fully understand the role of these neurons in behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Verónica Domingues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana João Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carina Soares-Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cui X, Tong Q, Xu H, Xie C, Xiao L. A putative loop connection between VTA dopamine neurons and nucleus accumbens encodes positive valence to compensate for hunger. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 229:102503. [PMID: 37451329 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) signal play pivotal roles in regulating motivated behaviors, including feeding behavior, but the role of midbrain DA neurons in modulating food intake and neural circuitry mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we found that activating but not inhibiting ventral tegmental area (VTA) DA neurons reduces mouse food intake. Furthermore, DA neurons in ventral VTA, especially neurons projecting to the medial nucleus accumbens (NAc), are activated by refeeding in the 24 h fasted mice. Combing neural circuitry tracing, optogenetic, chemogenetic, and pharmacological manipulations, we established that the VTA→medial NAc→VTA loop circuit is critical for the VTA DA neurons activation-induced food intake reduction. Moreover, activating either VTA DA neurons or dopaminergic axons in medial NAc elevates positive valence, which will compensate for the hungry-induced food intake. Thus, our study identifies a subset of positive valence-encoded VTA DA neurons forming possible loop connections with medial NAc that are anorexigenic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Cui
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and the Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qiuping Tong
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and the Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and the Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chuantong Xie
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and the Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lei Xiao
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and the Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ma L, Liu H, Xu Z, Yang M, Zhang Y. Application of the wholebrain calculation interactive framework to map whole-brain neural connectivity networks. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 132:102304. [PMID: 37331669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to develop a simple and feasible method of mapping the neural network topology of the mouse brain. Wild-type C57BL/6 J mice (n = 10) aged 8-10 weeks were injected with the cholera toxin subunit B (CTB) tracer in the anterior (NAcCA) and posterior (NAcCP) parts of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core and in the medial (NAcSM) and lateral (NAcSL) parts of the NAc shell. The labeled neurons were reconstructed using the WholeBrain Calculation Interactive Framework. The NAcCA receives neuronal projections from the olfactory areas (OLF) and isocortex; the thalamus and isocortex project more fibers to the NAcSL, and the hypothalamus send more fiber projections to the NAcSM. Cell resolution can be automatically annotated, analyzed, and visualized using the WholeBrain Calculation Interactive Framework, making large-scale mapping of mouse brains at cellular and subcellular resolutions easier and more accurate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liping Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - He Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Ziyi Xu
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Mengli Yang
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Yinghua Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China.
| |
Collapse
|