1
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Rappeneau V, Castillo Díaz F. Convergence of oxytocin and dopamine signalling in neuronal circuits: Insights into the neurobiology of social interactions across species. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 161:105675. [PMID: 38608828 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105675] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Social behaviour is essential for animal survival, and the hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) critically impacts bonding, parenting, and decision-making. Dopamine (DA), is released by ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopaminergic neurons, regulating social cues in the mesolimbic system. Despite extensive exploration of OXT and DA roles in social behaviour independently, limited studies investigate their interplay. This narrative review integrates insights from human and animal studies, particularly rodents, emphasising recent research on pharmacological manipulations of OXT or DA systems in social behaviour. Additionally, we review studies correlating social behaviour with blood/cerebral OXT and DA levels. Behavioural facets include sociability, cooperation, pair bonding and parental care. In addition, we provide insights into OXT-DA interplay in animal models of social stress, autism, and schizophrenia. Emphasis is placed on the complex relationship between the OXT and DA systems and their collective influence on social behaviour across physiological and pathological conditions. Understanding OXT and DA imbalance is fundamental for unravelling the neurobiological underpinnings of social interaction and reward processing deficits observed in psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Rappeneau
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Universitaetsstr. 31, Regensburg 93053, Germany.
| | - Fernando Castillo Díaz
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Universitaetsstr. 31, Regensburg 93053, Germany
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2
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Lefevre A, Meza J, Miller CT. Long-range projections of oxytocin neurons in the marmoset brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2024; 36:e13397. [PMID: 38659185 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The neurohormone oxytocin (OT) has become a major target for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to treat psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder because of its integral role in governing many facets of mammalian social behavior. Whereas extensive work in rodents has produced much of our knowledge of OT, we lack basic information about its neurobiology in primates making it difficult to interpret the limited effects that OT manipulations have had in human patients. In fact, previous studies have revealed only limited OT fibers in primate brains. Here, we investigated the OT connectome in marmoset using immunohistochemistry, and mapped OT fibers throughout the brains of adult male and female marmoset monkeys. We found extensive OT projections reaching limbic and cortical areas that are involved in the regulation of social behaviors, such as the amygdala, the medial prefrontal cortex, and the basal ganglia. The pattern of OT fibers observed in marmosets is notably similar to the OT connectomes described in rodents. Our findings here contrast with previous results by demonstrating a broad distribution of OT throughout the marmoset brain. Given the prevalence of this neurohormone in the primate brain, methods developed in rodents to manipulate endogenous OT are likely to be applicable in marmosets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Lefevre
- Cortical Systems and Behavior Laboratory, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences Marc Jeannerod, CNRS and University of Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Jazlynn Meza
- Cortical Systems and Behavior Laboratory, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Cory T Miller
- Cortical Systems and Behavior Laboratory, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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3
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Dautan D, Monai A, Maltese F, Chang X, Molent C, Mauro D, Galbusera A, Vecchia D, Antonelli F, Benedetti A, Drago F, Leggio GM, Pagani M, Fellin T, Gozzi A, Schumann G, Managò F, Papaleo F. Cortico-cortical transfer of socially derived information gates emotion recognition. Nat Neurosci 2024:10.1038/s41593-024-01647-x. [PMID: 38769153 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01647-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Emotion recognition and the resulting responses are important for survival and social functioning. However, how socially derived information is processed for reliable emotion recognition is incompletely understood. Here, we reveal an evolutionarily conserved long-range inhibitory/excitatory brain network mediating these socio-cognitive processes. Anatomical tracing in mice revealed the existence of a subpopulation of somatostatin (SOM) GABAergic neurons projecting from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to the retrosplenial cortex (RSC). Through optogenetic manipulations and Ca2+ imaging fiber photometry in mice and functional imaging in humans, we demonstrate the specific participation of these long-range SOM projections from the mPFC to the RSC, and an excitatory feedback loop from the RSC to the mPFC, in emotion recognition. Notably, we show that mPFC-to-RSC SOM projections are dysfunctional in mouse models relevant to psychiatric vulnerability and can be targeted to rescue emotion recognition deficits in these mice. Our findings demonstrate a cortico-cortical circuit underlying emotion recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Dautan
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
- Bioclinicum, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Monai
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Federica Maltese
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Xiao Chang
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine (PONS), Institute for Science and Technology of Brain-inspired Intelligence (ISTBI), Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Cinzia Molent
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniele Mauro
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Galbusera
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive systems, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Dania Vecchia
- Optical Approaches to Brain Function Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Federica Antonelli
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Arianna Benedetti
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Leggio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Pagani
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive systems, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Tommaso Fellin
- Optical Approaches to Brain Function Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gozzi
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive systems, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Gunter Schumann
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine (PONS), Institute for Science and Technology of Brain-inspired Intelligence (ISTBI), Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine (PONS), Charite Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, CCM, Charite Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Francesca Managò
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.
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4
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Atila C, Refardt J, Christ-Crain M. Arginine vasopressin deficiency: diagnosis, management and the relevance of oxytocin deficiency. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024:10.1038/s41574-024-00985-x. [PMID: 38693275 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-00985-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Polyuria-polydipsia syndrome can be caused by central diabetes insipidus, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus or primary polydipsia. To avoid confusion with diabetes mellitus, the name 'central diabetes insipidus' was changed in 2022 to arginine vasopressin (AVP) deficiency and 'nephrogenic diabetes insipidus' was renamed as AVP resistance. To differentiate the three entities, various osmotic and non-osmotic copeptin-based stimulation tests have been introduced in the past decade. The hypertonic saline test plus plasma copeptin measurement emerged as the test with highest diagnostic accuracy, replacing the water deprivation test as the gold standard in differential diagnosis of the polyuria-polydipsia syndrome. The mainstay of treatment for AVP deficiency is AVP replacement with desmopressin, a synthetic analogue of AVP specific for AVP receptor 2 (AVPR2), which usually leads to rapid improvements in polyuria and polydipsia. The main adverse effect of desmopressin is dilutional hyponatraemia, which can be reduced by regularly performing the so-called desmopressin escape method. Evidence from the past few years suggests an additional oxytocin deficiency in patients with AVP deficiency. This potential deficiency should be further evaluated in future studies, including feasible provocation tests for clinical practice and interventional trials with oxytocin substitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Atila
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julie Refardt
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Research University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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5
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Italia M, Salvadè M, La Greca F, Zianni E, Pelucchi S, Spinola A, Ferrari E, Archetti S, Alberici A, Benussi A, Solje E, Haapasalo A, Hoffmann D, Katisko K, Krüger J, Facchinetti R, Scuderi C, Padovani A, DiLuca M, Scheggia D, Borroni B, Gardoni F. Anti-GluA3 autoantibodies define a new sub-population of frontotemporal lobar degeneration patients with distinct neuropathological features. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 118:380-397. [PMID: 38485064 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.03.018] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoantibodies directed against the GluA3 subunit (anti-GluA3 hIgGs) of AMPA receptors have been identified in 20%-25% of patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Data from patients and in vitro/ex vivo pre-clinical studies indicate that anti-GluA3 hIgGs negatively affect glutamatergic neurotransmission. However, whether and how the chronic presence of anti-GluA3 hIgGs triggers synaptic dysfunctions and the appearance of FTLD-related neuropathological and behavioural signature has not been clarified yet. To address this question, we developed and characterized a pre-clinical mouse model of passive immunization with anti-GluA3 hIgGs purified from patients. In parallel, we clinically compared FTLD patients who were positive for anti-GluA3 hIgGs to negative ones. Clinical data showed that the presence of anti-GluA3 hIgGs defined a subgroup of patients with distinct clinical features. In the preclinical model, anti-GluA3 hIgGs administration led to accumulation of phospho-tau in the postsynaptic fraction and dendritic spine loss in the prefrontal cortex. Remarkably, the preclinical model exhibited behavioural disturbances that mostly reflected the deficits proper of patients positive for anti-GluA3 hIgGs. Of note, anti-GluA3 hIgGs-mediated alterations were rescued in the animal model by enhancing glutamatergic neurotransmission with a positive allosteric modulator of AMPA receptors. Overall, our study clarified the contribution of anti-GluA3 autoantibodies to central nervous system symptoms and pathology and identified a specific subgroup of FTLD patients. Our findings will be instrumental in the development of a therapeutic personalised medicine strategy for patients positive for anti-GluA3 hIgGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Italia
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Salvadè
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo La Greca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Zianni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Pelucchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Spinola
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Ferrari
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvana Archetti
- Department of Laboratories, Central Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry Analysis. ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonella Alberici
- Neurology Unit, Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Benussi
- Neurology Unit, Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Eino Solje
- Institute of Clinical Medicine - Neurology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Neuro Center, Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Annakaisa Haapasalo
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Dorit Hoffmann
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kasper Katisko
- Institute of Clinical Medicine - Neurology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Neuro Center, Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Johanna Krüger
- Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Neurology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Neurocenter, Neurology, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Roberta Facchinetti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Scuderi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Neurology Unit, Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Monica DiLuca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Scheggia
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Borroni
- Neurology Unit, Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gardoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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6
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Eraslan E, Castelhano-Carlos MJ, Amorim L, Soares-Cunha C, Rodrigues AJ, Sousa N. Physiological and behavioral contagion/buffering effects of chronic unpredictable stress in a socially enriched environment: A preliminary study. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 30:100635. [PMID: 38645599 PMCID: PMC11031999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100635] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Rodents are sensitive to the emotional state of conspecifics. While the presence of affiliative social partners mitigates the physiological response to stressors (buffering), the partners of stressed individuals show behavioral and endocrine changes indicating that stress parameters can be transmitted across the group members (contagion). In this study, we investigated the social contagion/buffering phenomena in behavior and neuroendocrine mechanisms after exposure to chronic stress, in groups of rats living in the PhenoWorld (PhW). Three groups were tested (8 stressed rats, 8 unstressed rats, and a mixed group with 4 and 4) and these were analyzed under 4 conditions: stressed (pure stress group, n = 8), unstressed (naive control group, n = 8), stressed from mixed group (stressed companion group, n = 8), unstressed from mixed group (unstressed companion group, n = 8. While naive control animals remained undisturbed, pure stress group animals were all exposed to stress. Half of the animals under the mixed-treatment condition were exposed to stress (stressed companion group) and cohabitated with their unstressed partners (unstressed companion group). We confirmed the well-established chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) effects in physiological, behavioral, and neuroendocrine endpoints; body weight gain, open arm entries and time in EPM, and oxytocin receptor expression levels in the amygdala decreased by stress exposure, whereas adrenal weight was increased by stress. Furthermore, we found that playing, rearing and solitary resting behaviors decreased, whereas huddling behavior increased by CUS. In addition, we detected significant increases (stress-buffering) in body weight gain and huddling behaviors between pure stress and stress companion animals, and significant stress contagion effects in emotional behavior and oxytocin receptor expression levels between naive control and control companion groups. Hence, we demonstrate buffering and contagion effects were evident in physiological parameters, emotional behaviors, and social home-cage behaviors of rats and we suggest a possible mediation of these effects by oxytocin neurotransmission. In conclusion, the results herein suggest that the stress status of animals living in the same housing environment influences the behavior of the group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evren Eraslan
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Magda J. Castelhano-Carlos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Liliana Amorim
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
- P5 Clinical Digital Center, Braga, 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, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana J. Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, 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, Guimarães, Portugal
- P5 Clinical Digital Center, Braga, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center (2CA), Braga, Portugal
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7
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Fang S, Luo Z, Wei Z, Qin Y, Zheng J, Zhang H, Jin J, Li J, Miao C, Yang S, Li Y, Liang Z, Yu XD, Zhang XM, Xiong W, Zhu H, Gan WB, Huang L, Li B. Sexually dimorphic control of affective state processing and empathic behaviors. Neuron 2024; 112:1498-1517.e8. [PMID: 38430912 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.02.001] [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: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Recognizing the affective states of social counterparts and responding appropriately fosters successful social interactions. However, little is known about how the affective states are expressed and perceived and how they influence social decisions. Here, we show that male and female mice emit distinct olfactory cues after experiencing distress. These cues activate distinct neural circuits in the piriform cortex (PiC) and evoke sexually dimorphic empathic behaviors in observers. Specifically, the PiC → PrL pathway is activated in female observers, inducing a social preference for the distressed counterpart. Conversely, the PiC → MeA pathway is activated in male observers, evoking excessive self-grooming behaviors. These pathways originate from non-overlapping PiC neuron populations with distinct gene expression signatures regulated by transcription factors and sex hormones. Our study unveils how internal states of social counterparts are processed through sexually dimorphic mechanisms at the molecular, cellular, and circuit levels and offers insights into the neural mechanisms underpinning sex differences in higher brain functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunchang Fang
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zhengyi Luo
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zicheng Wei
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yuxin Qin
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jieyan Zheng
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongyang Zhang
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jianhua Jin
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jiali Li
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Chenjian Miao
- Institute on Aging, Hefei, China and Brain Disorders, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Shana Yang
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yonglin Li
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zirui Liang
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiao-Dan Yu
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiao Min Zhang
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Institute on Aging, Hefei, China and Brain Disorders, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Hongying Zhu
- Institute on Aging, Hefei, China and Brain Disorders, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | | | - Lianyan Huang
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Key Laboratory of Human Microbiome and Chronic Diseases (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510655, China.
| | - Boxing Li
- Neuroscience Program, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Advanced Medical Technology Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Key Laboratory of Human Microbiome and Chronic Diseases (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510655, China.
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8
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Arakawa H, Tokashiki M, Higuchi Y, Konno T. Adolescent social isolation disrupts developmental tuning of neuropeptide circuits in the hypothalamus to amygdala regulating social and defensive behavior. Peptides 2024; 175:171178. [PMID: 38368908 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2024.171178] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Engaging in positive social (i.e., prosocial) interactions during adolescence acts to modulate neural circuits that determine adult adaptive behavior. While accumulating evidence indicates that a strong craving for prosocial behavior contributes to sustaining neural development, the consequences of social deprivation during adolescence on social neural circuits, including those involving oxytocin (OXT) and vasopressin (AVP), are poorly characterized. We evaluated adaptive behaviors in socially isolated mice, including anxiety-like, social, and defensive behaviors, along with OXT and AVP neural profiles in relevant brain regions. Social isolation from postnatal day (P-)22 to P-48 induced enhanced defensive and exploratory behaviors, in nonsocial and social contexts. Unlike OXT neurons, AVP+ cell density in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus increases with age in males. Social isolation also modulated gene expression in the medial amygdala (MeA), including the upregulation of OXT receptors in males and the downregulation of AVP1a receptors in both sexes. Socially isolated mice showed an enhanced defensive, anogenital approach toward a novel adult female during direct social interactions. Subsequent c-Fos mapping revealed diminished neural activity in restricted brain areas, including the MeA, lateral septum, and posterior intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus, in socially isolated mice. These data indicate that neural signals arising from daily social interactions invoke region-specific modification of neuropeptide expression that coordinates with altered defensiveness and neural responsivities, including OXT- and AVP-projecting regions. The present findings indicate an involvement of OXT and AVP circuits in adolescent neural and behavioral plasticity that is tuned by daily social interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Arakawa
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, MI, USA.
| | - Mana Tokashiki
- Faculty of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Yuki Higuchi
- Department of Systems Physiology, University of the Ryukyus Graduate School of Medicine, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Konno
- Department of Subtropical Agro-Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan; The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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9
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Liu X, Liu R, Sun YX, Wang HL, Wang H, Wang T, Ma YN, Li XX, Wang Q, Su YA, Li JT, Si TM. Dorsal CA3 overactivation mediates witnessing stress-induced recognition memory deficits in adolescent male mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01848-9. [PMID: 38504012 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01848-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Witnessing violent or traumatic events is common during childhood and adolescence and could cause detrimental effects such as increased risks of psychiatric disorders. This stressor could be modeled in adolescent laboratory animals using the chronic witnessing social defeat (CWSD) paradigm, but the behavioral consequences of CWSD in adolescent animals remain to be validated for cognitive, anxiety-like, and depression-like behaviors and, more importantly, the underlying neural mechanisms remain to be uncovered. In this study, we first established the CWSD model in adolescent male mice and found that CWSD impaired cognitive function and increased anxiety levels and that these behavioral deficits persisted into adulthood. Based on the dorsal-ventral functional division in hippocampus, we employed immediate early gene c-fos immunostaining after behavioral tasks and found that CWSD-induced cognition deficits were associated with dorsal CA3 overactivation and anxiety-like behaviors were associated with ventral CA3 activity reduction. Indeed, chemogenetic activation and inhibition of dorsal CA3 neurons mimicked and reversed CWSD-induced recognition memory deficits (not anxiety-like behaviors), respectively, whereas both inhibition and activation of ventral CA3 neurons increased anxiety-like behaviors in adolescent mice. Finally, chronic administration of vortioxetine (a novel multimodal antidepressant) successfully restored the overactivation of dorsal CA3 neurons and the cognitive deficits in CWSD mice. Together, our findings suggest that dorsal CA3 overactivation mediates CWSD-induced recognition memory deficits in adolescent male mice, shedding light on the pathophysiology of adolescent CWSD-induced adverse effects and providing preclinical evidence for early treatment of stress-induced cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ya-Xin Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hong-Li Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Han Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yu-Nu Ma
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xue-Xin Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yun-Ai Su
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ji-Tao Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Tian-Mei Si
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, 100191, China.
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10
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Hegoburu C, Tang Y, Niu R, Ghosh S, Triana Del Rio R, de Araujo Salgado I, Abatis M, Alexandre Mota Caseiro D, van den Burg EH, Grundschober C, Stoop R. Social buffering in rats reduces fear by oxytocin triggering sustained changes in central amygdala neuronal activity. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2081. [PMID: 38453902 PMCID: PMC10920863 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45626-z] [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: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The presence of a companion can reduce fear, but the neural mechanisms underlying this social buffering of fear are incompletely known. We studied social buffering of fear in male and female, and its encoding in the amygdala of male, auditory fear-conditioned rats. Pharmacological, opto,- and/or chemogenetic interventions showed that oxytocin signaling from hypothalamus-to-central amygdala projections underlied fear reduction acutely with a companion and social buffering retention 24 h later without a companion. Single-unit recordings with optetrodes in the central amygdala revealed fear-encoding neurons (showing increased conditioned stimulus-responses after fear conditioning) inhibited by social buffering and blue light-stimulated oxytocinergic hypothalamic projections. Other central amygdala neurons showed baseline activity enhanced by blue light and companion exposure, with increased conditioned stimulus responses that persisted without the companion. Social buffering of fear thus switches the conditioned stimulus from encoding "fear" to "safety" by oxytocin-mediated recruitment of a distinct group of central amygdala "buffer neurons".
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Hegoburu
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yan Tang
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ruifang Niu
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Supriya Ghosh
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Marios Abatis
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Christophe Grundschober
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience Discovery, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ron Stoop
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland.
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11
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Keysers C, Gazzola V. Vicarious Emotions of Fear and Pain in Rodents. AFFECTIVE SCIENCE 2023; 4:662-671. [PMID: 38156261 PMCID: PMC10751282 DOI: 10.1007/s42761-023-00198-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Affective empathy, the ability to share the emotions of others, is an important contributor to the richness of our emotional experiences. Here, we review evidence that rodents show signs of fear and pain when they witness the fear and pain of others. This emotional contagion creates a vicarious emotion in the witness that mirrors some level of detail of the emotion of the demonstrator, including its valence and the vicinity of threats, and depends on brain regions such as the cingulate, amygdala, and insula that are also at the core of human empathy. Although it remains impossible to directly know how witnessing the distress of others feels for rodents, and whether this feeling is similar to the empathy humans experience, the similarity in neural structures suggests some analogies in emotional experience across rodents and humans. These neural homologies also reveal that feeling distress while others are distressed must serve an evolutionary purpose strong enough to warrant its stability across ~ 100 millions of years. We propose that it does so by allowing observers to set in motion the very emotions that have evolved to prepare them to deal with threats - with the benefit of triggering them socially, by harnessing conspecifics as sentinels, before the witness personally faces that threat. Finally, we discuss evidence that rodents can engage in prosocial behaviors that may be motivated by vicarious distress or reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Keysers
- Social Brain Lab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Valeria Gazzola
- Social Brain Lab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Menon R, Neumann ID. Detection, processing and reinforcement of social cues: regulation by the oxytocin system. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:761-777. [PMID: 37891399 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00759-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Many social behaviours are evolutionarily conserved and are essential for the healthy development of an individual. The neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) is crucial for the fine-tuned regulation of social interactions in mammals. The advent and application of state-of-the-art methodological approaches that allow the activity of neuronal circuits involving OXT to be monitored and functionally manipulated in laboratory mammals have deepened our understanding of the roles of OXT in these behaviours. In this Review, we discuss how OXT promotes the sensory detection and evaluation of social cues, the subsequent approach and display of social behaviour, and the rewarding consequences of social interactions in selected reproductive and non-reproductive social behaviours. Social stressors - such as social isolation, exposure to social defeat or social trauma, and partner loss - are often paralleled by maladaptations of the OXT system, and restoring OXT system functioning can reinstate socio-emotional allostasis. Thus, the OXT system acts as a dynamic mediator of appropriate behavioural adaptations to environmental challenges by enhancing and reinforcing social salience and buffering social stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Menon
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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13
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Madeira N, Márquez C. Independent neural circuits encode the dynamics of social interaction in rats. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002396. [PMID: 38033154 PMCID: PMC10688874 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A study in PLOS Biology by Rojek-Sito and colleagues demonstrates a key role of the central amygdala and specific circuits projecting to and from this brain area in the initiation versus maintenance of positive social interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Madeira
- CNC-UC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cristina Márquez
- CNC-UC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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14
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Rojek-Sito K, Meyza K, Ziegart-Sadowska K, Nazaruk K, Puścian A, Hamed A, Kiełbiński M, Solecki W, Knapska E. Optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches reveal differences in neuronal circuits that mediate initiation and maintenance of social interaction. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002343. [PMID: 38029342 PMCID: PMC10686636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
For social interaction to be successful, two conditions must be met: the motivation to initiate it and the ability to maintain it. This study uses both optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches to reveal the specific neural pathways that selectively influence those two social interaction components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Rojek-Sito
- Laboratory of Emotions Neurobiology, BRAINCITY—Centre of Excellence for Neural Plasticity and Brain Disorders, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ksenia Meyza
- Laboratory of Emotions Neurobiology, BRAINCITY—Centre of Excellence for Neural Plasticity and Brain Disorders, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Ziegart-Sadowska
- Laboratory of Emotions Neurobiology, BRAINCITY—Centre of Excellence for Neural Plasticity and Brain Disorders, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kinga Nazaruk
- Laboratory of Emotions Neurobiology, BRAINCITY—Centre of Excellence for Neural Plasticity and Brain Disorders, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alicja Puścian
- Laboratory of Emotions Neurobiology, BRAINCITY—Centre of Excellence for Neural Plasticity and Brain Disorders, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adam Hamed
- Laboratory of Spatial Memory, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Kiełbiński
- Department of Neurobiology and Neuropsychology, Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Wojciech Solecki
- Department of Neurobiology and Neuropsychology, Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewelina Knapska
- Laboratory of Emotions Neurobiology, BRAINCITY—Centre of Excellence for Neural Plasticity and Brain Disorders, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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15
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Li Y, Du W, Liu R, Zan G, Ye B, Li Q, Sheng Z, Yuan Y, Song Y, Liu J, Liu Z. Paraventricular nucleus-central amygdala oxytocinergic projection modulates pain-related anxiety-like behaviors in mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:3493-3506. [PMID: 37248645 PMCID: PMC10580334 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14282] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Anxiety disorders associated with pain are a common health problem. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. We aimed to investigate the role of paraventricular nucleus (PVN)-central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) oxytocinergic projections in anxiety-like behaviors induced by inflammatory pain. METHODS After inflammatory pain induction by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), mice underwent elevated plus maze, light-dark transition test, and marble burying test to examine the anxiety-like behaviors. Chemogenetic, optogenetic, and fiber photometry recordings were used to modulate and record the activity of the oxytocinergic projections of the PVN-CeA. RESULTS The key results are as follows: inflammatory pain-induced anxiety-like behaviors in mice accompanied by decreased activity of PVN oxytocin neurons. Chemogenetic activation of PVN oxytocin neurons prevented pain-related anxiety-like behaviors, whereas inhibition of PVN oxytocin neurons induced anxiety-like behaviors in naïve mice. PVN oxytocin neurons projected directly to the CeA, and microinjection of oxytocin into the CeA blocked anxiety-like behaviors. Inflammatory pain also decreased the activity of CeA neurons, and optogenetic activation of PVNoxytocin -CeA circuit prevented anxiety-like behavior in response to inflammatory pain. CONCLUSION The results of our study suggest that oxytocin has anti-anxiety effects and provide novel insights into the role of PVNoxytocin -CeA projections in the regulation of anxiety-like behaviors induced by inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Jie Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wei‐Jia Du
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Rui Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Gui‐Ying Zan
- Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Bing‐Lu Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Qian Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhi‐Hao Sheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Ya‐Wei Yuan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yu‐Jie Song
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jing‐Gen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Zhi‐Qiang Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
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16
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Bai X, Wang W, Zhang X, Hu Z, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Tang H, Zhang Y, Yu X, Yuan Z, Zhang P, Li Z, Pei X, Wang Y, Sui B. Hyperperfusion of bilateral amygdala in patients with chronic migraine: an arterial spin-labeled magnetic resonance imaging study. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:138. [PMID: 37848831 PMCID: PMC10583377 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01668-0] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amygdala, an essential element of the limbic system, has served as an important structure in pain modulation. There is still a lack of clarity about altered cerebral perfusion of amygdala in migraine. This study aimed to investigate the perfusion variances of bilateral amygdala in episodic migraine (EM) and chronic migraine (CM) using multi-delay pseudo-continuous arterial spin-labeled magnetic resonance imaging (pCASL-MRI). METHODS Twenty-six patients with EM, 55 patients with CM (33 CM with medication overuse headache (MOH)), and 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were included. All participants underwent 3D multi-delay pCASL MR imaging to obtain cerebral perfusion data, including arrival-time-corrected cerebral blood flow (CBF) and arterial cerebral blood volume (aCBV). The CBF and aCBV values in the bilateral amygdala were compared among the three groups. Correlation analyses between cerebral perfusion parameters and clinical variables were performed. RESULTS Compared with HC participants, patients with CM were found to have increased CBF and aCBV values in the left amygdala, as well as increased CBF values in the right amygdala (all P < 0.05). There were no significant differences of CBF and aCBV values in the bilateral amygdala between the HC and EM groups, the EM and CM groups, as well as the CM without and with MOH groups (all P > 0.05). In patients with CM, the increased perfusion parameters of bilateral amygdala were positively correlated with MIDAS score after adjustments for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). CONCLUSION Hyperperfusion of bilateral amygdala might provide potential hemodynamics evidence in the neurolimbic pain network of CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Bai
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital and Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Xueyan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | | | - Xue Zhang
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital and Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingkui Zhang
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital and Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Hefei Tang
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Yaqing Zhang
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Xueying Yu
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Ziyu Yuan
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Zhiye Li
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital and Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xun Pei
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital and Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yonggang Wang
- Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China.
| | - Binbin Sui
- Tiantan Neuroimaging Center for Excellence, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital and Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, No.119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China.
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17
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Managò F, Scheggia D, Pontillo M, Mereu M, Mastrogiacomo R, Udayan G, Valentini P, Tata MC, Weinberger DR, Weickert CS, Pompa PP, De Luca MA, Vicari S, Papaleo F. Dopaminergic signalling and behavioural alterations by Comt-Dtnbp1 genetic interaction and their clinical relevance. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2514-2531. [PMID: 37218669 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16147] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cognitive and motor functions are modulated by dopaminergic signalling, which is shaped by several genetic factors. The biological effects of single genetic variants might differ depending on epistatic interactions that can be functionally multi-directional and non-linear. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We performed behavioural and neurochemical assessments in genetically modified mice and behavioural assessments and genetic screening in human patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS). KEY RESULTS Here, we confirm a genetic interaction between the Comt (catechol-O-methyltransferase, human orthologue: COMT) and Dtnbp1 (dystrobrevin binding protein 1, alias dysbindin, human orthologue: DTNBP1) genes that modulate cortical and striatal dopaminergic signalling in a manner not predictable by the effects of each single gene. In mice, Comt-by-Dtnbp1 concomitant reduction leads to a hypoactive mesocortical and a hyperactive mesostriatal dopamine pathway, associated with specific cognitive abnormalities. Like mice, in subjects with the 22q11.2DS (characterized by COMT hemideletion and dopamine alterations), COMT-by-DTNBP1 concomitant reduction was associated with analogous cognitive disturbances. We then developed an easy and inexpensive colourimetric kit for the genetic screening of common COMT and DTNBP1 functional genetic variants for clinical application. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These findings illustrate an epistatic interaction of two dopamine-related genes and their functional effects, supporting the need to address genetic interaction mechanisms at the base of complex behavioural traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Managò
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Diego Scheggia
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pontillo
- Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Maddalena Mereu
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rosa Mastrogiacomo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gayatri Udayan
- Nanobiointeractions and Nanodiagnostics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Paola Valentini
- Nanobiointeractions and Nanodiagnostics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Daniel R Weinberger
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University Medical Campus, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Cynthia S Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pier Paolo Pompa
- Nanobiointeractions and Nanodiagnostics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria A De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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18
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Ng AJ, Vincelette LK, Li J, Brady BH, Christianson JP. Serotonin modulates social responses to stressed conspecifics via insular 5-HT 2C receptors in rat. Neuropharmacology 2023; 236:109598. [PMID: 37230216 PMCID: PMC10330840 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109598] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Behaviors associated with distress can affect the anxiety-like states in observers and this social transfer of affect shapes social interactions among stressed individuals. We hypothesized that social reactions to stressed individuals engage the serotonergic dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) which promotes anxiety-like behavior via postsynaptic action of serotonin at serotonin 2C (5-HT2C) receptors in the forebrain. First, we inhibited the DRN by administering an agonist (8-OH-DPAT, 1 μg in 0.5 μL) for the inhibitory 5-HT1A autoreceptors which silences 5-HT neuronal activity. 8-OH-DPAT prevented the approach and avoidance, respectively, of stressed juvenile (PN30) or stressed adult (PN60) conspecifics in the social affective preference (SAP) test in rats. Similarly, systemic administration of a 5-HT2C receptor antagonist (SB242084, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) prevented approach and avoidance of stressed juvenile or adult conspecifics, respectively. Seeking a locus of 5-HT2C action, we considered the posterior insular cortex which is critical for social affective behaviors and rich with 5-HT2C receptors. SB242084 administered directly into the insular cortex (5 μM in 0.5 μL bilaterally) interfered with the typical approach and avoidance behaviors observed in the SAP test. Finally, using fluorescent in situ hybridization, we found that 5-HT2C receptor mRNA (htr2c) is primarily colocalized with mRNA associated with excitatory glutamatergic neurons (vglut1) in the posterior insula. Importantly, the results of these treatments were the same in male and female rats. These data suggest that interactions with stressed others require the serotonergic DRN and that serotonin modulates social affective decision-making via action at insular 5-HT2C receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra J Ng
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA.
| | - Lindsay K Vincelette
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - Jiayi Li
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - Bridget H Brady
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - John P Christianson
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
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19
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Michon F, Packheiser J, Gazzola V, Keysers C. Sharing Positive Affective States Amongst Rodents. AFFECTIVE SCIENCE 2023; 4:475-479. [PMID: 37744971 PMCID: PMC10513973 DOI: 10.1007/s42761-023-00201-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Group living is thought to benefit from the ability to empathize with others. Much attention has been paid to empathy for the pain of others as an inhibitor of aggression. Empathizing with the positive affect of others has received less attention although it could promote helping by making it vicariously rewarding. Here, we review this latter, nascent literature to show that three components of the ability to empathize with positive emotions are already present in rodents, namely, the ability to perceive, share, and prefer actions that promote positive emotional states of conspecifics. While it has often been argued that empathy evolved as a motivation to care for others, we argue that these tendencies may have selfish benefits that could have stabilized their evolution: approaching others in a positive state can provide information about the source of valuable resources; becoming calmer and optimistic around animals in a calm or positive mood can help adapt to the socially sensed safety level in the environment; and preferring actions also benefiting others can optimize foraging, reduce aggression, and trigger reciprocity. Together, these findings illustrate an emerging field shedding light on the emotional world of rodents and on the biology and evolution of our ability to cooperate in groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Michon
- Social Brain Lab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Julian Packheiser
- Social Brain Lab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Valeria Gazzola
- Social Brain Lab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Keysers
- Social Brain Lab, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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20
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Kareklas K, Teles MC, Nunes AR, Oliveira RF. Social zebrafish: Danio rerio as an emerging model in social neuroendocrinology. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13280. [PMID: 37165563 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13280] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The fitness benefits of social life depend on the ability of animals to affiliate with others and form groups, on dominance hierarchies within groups that determine resource distribution, and on cognitive capacities for recognition, learning and information transfer. The evolution of these phenotypes is coupled with that of neuroendocrine mechanisms, but the causal link between the two remains underexplored. Growing evidence from our research group and others demonstrates that the tools available in zebrafish, Danio rerio, can markedly facilitate progress in this field. Here, we review this evidence and provide a synthesis of the state-of-the-art in this model system. We discuss the involvement of generalized motivation and cognitive components, neuroplasticity and functional connectivity across social decision-making brain areas, and how these are modulated chiefly by the oxytocin-vasopressin neuroendocrine system, but also by reward-pathway monoamine signaling and the effects of sex-hormones and stress physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magda C Teles
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
- ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Rui F Oliveira
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
- ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
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21
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Sheng ZF, Zhang H, Phaup JG, Zheng P, Kang X, Liu Z, Chang HM, Yeh ETH, Johnson AK, Pan HL, Li DP. Corticotropin-releasing hormone neurons in the central nucleus of amygdala are required for chronic stress-induced hypertension. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:1751-1762. [PMID: 37041718 PMCID: PMC10325697 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Chronic stress is a well-known risk factor for the development of hypertension. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) are involved in the autonomic responses to chronic stress. Here, we determined the role of CeA-CRH neurons in chronic stress-induced hypertension. METHODS AND RESULTS Borderline hypertensive rats (BHRs) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were subjected to chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). Firing activity and M-currents of CeA-CRH neurons were assessed, and a CRH-Cre-directed chemogenetic approach was used to suppress CeA-CRH neurons. CUS induced a sustained elevation of arterial blood pressure (ABP) and heart rate (HR) in BHRs, while in WKY rats, CUS-induced increases in ABP and HR quickly returned to baseline levels after CUS ended. CeA-CRH neurons displayed significantly higher firing activities in CUS-treated BHRs than unstressed BHRs. Selectively suppressing CeA-CRH neurons by chemogenetic approach attenuated CUS-induced hypertension and decreased elevated sympathetic outflow in CUS-treated BHRs. Also, CUS significantly decreased protein and mRNA levels of Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 channels in the CeA of BHRs. M-currents in CeA-CRH neurons were significantly decreased in CUS-treated BHRs compared with unstressed BHRs. Blocking Kv7 channel with its blocker XE-991 increased the excitability of CeA-CRH neurons in unstressed BHRs but not in CUS-treated BHRs. Microinjection of XE-991 into the CeA increased sympathetic outflow and ABP in unstressed BHRs but not in CUS-treated BHRs. CONCLUSIONS CeA-CRH neurons are required for chronic stress-induced sustained hypertension. The hyperactivity of CeA-CRH neurons may be due to impaired Kv7 channel activity, which represents a new mechanism involved in chronic stress-induced hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Fu Sheng
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Hua Zhang
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Jeffery G Phaup
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - PeiRu Zheng
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - XunLei Kang
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Hui-Ming Chang
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
- Department of Toxicology, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Edward T H Yeh
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
- Department of Toxicology, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Alan Kim Johnson
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The University of Iowa, G60 Psychological and Brain Sciences Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - De-Pei Li
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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22
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Lim KY, Hong W. Neural mechanisms of comforting: Prosocial touch and stress buffering. Horm Behav 2023; 153:105391. [PMID: 37301130 PMCID: PMC10853048 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Comforting is a crucial form of prosocial behavior that is important for maintaining social unity and improving the physical and emotional well-being of social species. It is often expressed through affiliative social touch toward someone in distress, providing relief for their distressed state. In the face of increasing global distress, these actions are paramount to the continued improvement of individual welfare and the collective good. Understanding the neural mechanisms responsible for promoting actions focused on benefitting others is particularly important and timely. Here, we review prosocial comforting behavior, emphasizing synthesizing recent studies carried out using rodent models. We discuss its underlying behavioral expression and motivations, and then explore both the neurobiology of prosocial comforting in a helper animal and the neurobiology of stress relief following social touch in a recipient as part of a feedback loop interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Y Lim
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Weizhe Hong
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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23
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Kareklas K, Teles MC, Dreosti E, Oliveira RF. Autism-associated gene shank3 is necessary for social contagion in zebrafish. Mol Autism 2023; 14:23. [PMID: 37391856 PMCID: PMC10311831 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00555-4] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal models enable targeting autism-associated genes, such as the shank3 gene, to assess their impact on behavioural phenotypes. However, this is often limited to simple behaviours relevant for social interaction. Social contagion is a complex phenotype forming the basis of human empathic behaviour and involves attention to the behaviour of others for recognizing and sharing their emotional or affective state. Thus, it is a form of social communication, which constitutes the most common developmental impairment across autism spectrum disorders (ASD). METHODS Here we describe the development of a zebrafish model that identifies the neurocognitive mechanisms by which shank3 mutation drives deficits in social contagion. We used a CRISPR-Cas9 technique to generate mutations to the shank3a gene, a zebrafish paralogue found to present greater orthology and functional conservation relative to the human gene. Mutants were first compared to wild types during a two-phase protocol that involves the observation of two conflicting states, distress and neutral, and the later recall and discrimination of others when no longer presenting such differences. Then, the whole-brain expression of different neuroplasticity markers was compared between genotypes and their contribution to cluster-specific phenotypic variation was assessed. RESULTS The shank3 mutation markedly reduced social contagion via deficits in attention contributing to difficulties in recognising affective states. Also, the mutation changed the expression of neuronal plasticity genes. However, only downregulated neuroligins clustered with shank3a expression under a combined synaptogenesis component that contributed specifically to variation in attention. LIMITATIONS While zebrafish are extremely useful in identifying the role of shank3 mutations to composite social behaviour, they are unlikely to represent the full complexity of socio-cognitive and communication deficits presented by human ASD pathology. Moreover, zebrafish cannot represent the scaling up of these deficits to higher-order empathic and prosocial phenotypes seen in humans. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate a causal link between the zebrafish orthologue of an ASD-associated gene and the attentional control of affect recognition and consequent social contagion. This models autistic affect-communication pathology in zebrafish and reveals a genetic attention-deficit mechanism, addressing the ongoing debate for such mechanisms accounting for emotion recognition difficulties in autistic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriacos Kareklas
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, R. Q.ta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Magda C Teles
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, R. Q.ta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
- ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elena Dreosti
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rui F Oliveira
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, R. Q.ta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal.
- ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal.
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24
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Barretto-de-Souza L, Joseph SA, Lynch FM, Ng AJ, Crestani CC, Christianson JP. Melanin-concentrating hormone and orexin shape social affective behavior via action in the insular cortex of rat. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023:10.1007/s00213-023-06408-5. [PMID: 37369782 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06408-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE In a social context, individuals are able to detect external information from others and coordinate behavioral responses according to the situation, a phenomenon called social decision-making. Social decision-making is multifaceted, influenced by emotional and motivational factors like stress, sickness, and hunger. However, the neurobiological basis for motivational state competition and interaction is not well known. OBJECTIVE We investigated possible neural mechanisms through which internal states could shape social behavior in a social affective preference (SAP) test. In the SAP test, experimental rats given a choice to interact with naïve or stressed conspecifics exhibit an age-dependent preference to interact with stressed juvenile conspecifics, but avoid stressed adult conspecifics. First, we assessed the effect of food and water deprivation on SAP behavior. Behavior in the SAP test requires the insular cortex, which receives input from the ingestion-related peptides melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) and orexin neurons of the lateral hypothalamus (LH). This study aimed to evaluate the role of LH and insular MCH and orexin in SAP test. METHODS SAP tests were conducted in rats that were sated, food and water deprived or allowed 1 h of access to food and water after 14 h of deprivation (relieved condition). Separate cohorts of sated rats received cannula implants for microinjection of drugs to inhibit the LH or to block or stimulate MCH or orexin receptors in the insula prior to SAP tests or social interaction tests. RESULTS Food and water deprivation prior to SAP tests with juvenile rats caused a shift in preference away from the stressed rat toward the naïve juveniles. Pharmacological inhibition of LH with muscimol (100 ng/side) abolished the preference for the juvenile-stressed conspecific, as well as the preference for the adult naïve conspecific. The blockade of MCH receptor 1or orexin receptors in the insular cortex with SNAP94847 (50 μM) or TCS1102 (1 μM), respectively, also abolished the preference for the stressed juvenile conspecific, but only the antagonism of orexin receptors was able to abolish the preference for the adult naïve conspecific. Microinjection of increasing doses (50 or 500 nM) of MCH or orexin-A in the insular cortex increased the interaction time in the one-on-one social interaction test with juvenile conspecifics; however, only the microinjection of orexin-A increased the interaction time with adult naïve conspecifics. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results suggest that lateral hypothalamus peptides shape the direction of social approach or avoidance via actions MCH and orexin neurotransmission in the insular cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Barretto-de-Souza
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - Shemar A Joseph
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - Francesca M Lynch
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - Alexandra J Ng
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA
| | - Carlos C Crestani
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - John P Christianson
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467, USA.
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25
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Jin Y, Song D, Yan Y, Quan Z, Qing H. The Role of Oxytocin in Early-Life-Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10430. [PMID: 37445607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-life stress during critical periods of brain development can have long-term effects on physical and mental health. Oxytocin is a critical social regulator and anti-inflammatory hormone that modulates stress-related functions and social behaviors and alleviates diseases. Oxytocin-related neural systems show high plasticity in early postpartum and adolescent periods. Early-life stress can influence the oxytocin system long term by altering the expression and signaling of oxytocin receptors. Deficits in social behavior, emotional control, and stress responses may result, thus increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and other stress-related neuropsychiatric diseases. Oxytocin is regarded as an important target for the treatment of stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, we describe the history of oxytocin and its role in neural circuits and related behaviors. We then review abnormalities in the oxytocin system in early-life stress and the functions of oxytocin in treating stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Jin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Da Song
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zhenzhen Quan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hong Qing
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
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26
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Boender AJ, Boon M, Albers HE, Eck SR, Fricker BA, Kelly AM, LeDoux JE, Motta SC, Shrestha P, Taylor JH, Trainor BC, Triana-Del Rio R, Young LJ. An AAV-CRISPR/Cas9 strategy for gene editing across divergent rodent species: Targeting neural oxytocin receptors as a proof of concept. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadf4950. [PMID: 37256960 PMCID: PMC10413677 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adf4950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A major issue in neuroscience is the poor translatability of research results from preclinical studies in animals to clinical outcomes. Comparative neuroscience can overcome this barrier by studying multiple species to differentiate between species-specific and general mechanisms of neural circuit functioning. Targeted manipulation of neural circuits often depends on genetic dissection, and use of this technique has been restricted to only a few model species, limiting its application in comparative research. However, ongoing advances in genomics make genetic dissection attainable in a growing number of species. To demonstrate the potential of comparative gene editing approaches, we developed a viral-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 strategy that is predicted to target the oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) gene in >80 rodent species. This strategy specifically reduced OXTR levels in all evaluated species (n = 6) without causing gross neuronal toxicity. Thus, we show that CRISPR/Cas9-based tools can function in multiple species simultaneously. Thereby, we hope to encourage comparative gene editing and improve the translatability of neuroscientific research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjen J. Boender
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marina Boon
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - H. Elliott Albers
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Samantha R. Eck
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Aubrey M. Kelly
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joseph E. LeDoux
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical School, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simone C. Motta
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Anatomy, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Prerana Shrestha
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Jack H. Taylor
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brian C. Trainor
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Larry J. Young
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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27
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Akinrinade I, Kareklas K, Teles MC, Reis TK, Gliksberg M, Petri G, Levkowitz G, Oliveira RF. Evolutionarily conserved role of oxytocin in social fear contagion in zebrafish. Science 2023; 379:1232-1237. [PMID: 36952426 DOI: 10.1126/science.abq5158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Emotional contagion is the most ancestral form of empathy. We tested to what extent the proximate mechanisms of emotional contagion are evolutionarily conserved by assessing the role of oxytocin, known to regulate empathic behaviors in mammals, in social fear contagion in zebrafish. Using oxytocin and oxytocin receptor mutants, we show that oxytocin is both necessary and sufficient for observer zebrafish to imitate the distressed behavior of conspecific demonstrators. The brain regions associated with emotional contagion in zebrafish are homologous to those involved in the same process in rodents (e.g., striatum, lateral septum), receiving direct projections from oxytocinergic neurons located in the pre-optic area. Together, our results support an evolutionary conserved role for oxytocin as a key regulator of basic empathic behaviors across vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibukun Akinrinade
- Integrative Behavioral Biology Lab, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras 2780-156, Portugal
| | - Kyriacos Kareklas
- Integrative Behavioral Biology Lab, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras 2780-156, Portugal
| | - Magda C Teles
- Integrative Behavioral Biology Lab, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras 2780-156, Portugal
| | - Thais K Reis
- Integrative Behavioral Biology Lab, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras 2780-156, Portugal
| | - Michael Gliksberg
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Giovanni Petri
- ISI Foundation and ISI Global Science Foundation, Torino 10126, Italy
- CENTAI Institute, Torino 10138, Italy
| | - Gil Levkowitz
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Rui F Oliveira
- Integrative Behavioral Biology Lab, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras 2780-156, Portugal
- ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Lisboa 1149-041, Portugal
- Champalimaud Neuroscience Program, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon 1400-038, Portugal
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28
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Fritz M, Soravia SM, Dudeck M, Malli L, Fakhoury M. Neurobiology of Aggression-Review of Recent Findings and Relationship with Alcohol and Trauma. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12030469. [PMID: 36979161 PMCID: PMC10044835 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Aggression can be conceptualized as any behavior, physical or verbal, that involves attacking another person or animal with the intent of causing harm, pain or injury. Because of its high prevalence worldwide, aggression has remained a central clinical and public safety issue. Aggression can be caused by several risk factors, including biological and psychological, such as genetics and mental health disorders, and socioeconomic such as education, employment, financial status, and neighborhood. Research over the past few decades has also proposed a link between alcohol consumption and aggressive behaviors. Alcohol consumption can escalate aggressive behavior in humans, often leading to domestic violence or serious crimes. Converging lines of evidence have also shown that trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could have a tremendous impact on behavior associated with both alcohol use problems and violence. However, although the link between trauma, alcohol, and aggression is well documented, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms and their impact on behavior have not been properly discussed. This article provides an overview of recent advances in understanding the translational neurobiological basis of aggression and its intricate links to alcoholism and trauma, focusing on behavior. It does so by shedding light from several perspectives, including in vivo imaging, genes, receptors, and neurotransmitters and their influence on human and animal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fritz
- School of Health and Social Sciences, AKAD University of Applied Sciences, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Sarah-Maria Soravia
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Manuela Dudeck
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Layal Malli
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
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Gigliucci V, Busnelli M, Santini F, Paolini C, Bertoni A, Schaller F, Muscatelli F, Chini B. Oxytocin receptors in the Magel2 mouse model of autism: Specific region, age, sex and oxytocin treatment effects. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1026939. [PMID: 36998737 PMCID: PMC10043208 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1026939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurohormone oxytocin (OXT) has been implicated in the regulation of social behavior and is intensively investigated as a potential therapeutic treatment in neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social deficits. In the Magel2-knockout (KO) mouse, a model of Schaaf-Yang Syndrome, an early postnatal administration of OXT rescued autistic-like behavior and cognition at adulthood, making this model relevant for understanding the actions of OXT in (re)programming postnatal brain development. The oxytocin receptor (OXTR), the main brain target of OXT, was dysregulated in the hippocampus of Magel2-KO adult males, and normalized upon OXT treatment at birth. Here we have analyzed male and female Magel2-KO brains at postnatal day 8 (P8) and at postnatal day 90 (P90), investigating age, genotype and OXT treatment effects on OXTR levels in several regions of the brain. We found that, at P8, male and female Magel2-KOs displayed a widespread, substantial, down-regulation of OXTR levels compared to wild type (WT) animals. Most intriguingly, the postnatal OXT treatment did not affect Magel2-KO OXTR levels at P8 and, consistently, did not rescue the ultrasonic vocalization deficits observed at this age. On the contrary, the postnatal OXT treatment reduced OXTR levels at P90 in male Magel2-KO in a region-specific way, restoring normal OXTR levels in regions where the Magel2-KO OXTR was upregulated (central amygdala, hippocampus and piriform cortex). Interestingly, Magel2-KO females, previously shown to lack the social deficits observed in Magel2-KO males, were characterized by a different trend in receptor expression compared to males; as a result, the dimorphic expression of OXTR observed in WT animals, with higher OXTR expression observed in females, was abolished in Magel2-KO mice. In conclusion, our data indicate that in Magel2-KO mice, OXTRs undergo region-specific modifications related to age, sex and postnatal OXT treatment. These results are instrumental to design precisely-timed OXT-based therapeutic strategies that, by acting at specific brain regions, could modify the outcome of social deficits in Schaaf-Yang Syndrome patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Gigliucci
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Vedano al Lambro, Italy
- NeuroMI Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Busnelli
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Vedano al Lambro, Italy
- NeuroMI Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Santini
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Vedano al Lambro, Italy
- NeuroMI Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Camilla Paolini
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Vedano al Lambro, Italy
- NeuroMI Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Bice Chini
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Vedano al Lambro, Italy
- NeuroMI Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Bice Chini,
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Skyberg AM, Newman BT, Graves AJ, Goldstein AM, Brindley SR, Kim M, Druzgal TJ, Connelly JJ, Morris JP. An epigenetic mechanism for differential maturation of amygdala-prefrontal connectivity in childhood socio-emotional development. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:91. [PMID: 36914631 PMCID: PMC10009823 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02380-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional connectivity between the amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been identified as a neural substrate of emotion regulation that undergoes changes throughout development, with a mature profile typically emerging at 10 years of age. Maternal bonding in childhood has been shown to buffer amygdala reactivity and to influence the trajectory of amygdala-mPFC coupling. The oxytocinergic system is critical in the development of social behavior and maternal bonding. Early-life parental care influences the methylation status of the oxytocin receptor (OXTRm) in animal models and humans, and higher OXTRm is associated with lower amygdala-PFC functional connectivity in adults. Using a neuroimaging-epigenetic approach, we investigated saliva-derived OXTRm as a biological marker of structural and functional connectivity maturation in 57 typically developing children (P < 0.05). We utilized seed-based connectivity analysis during a novel abstract movie paradigm and find that higher levels of OXTRm are associated with a more adult-like functional connectivity profile. Concurrently, more adult-like functional connectivity was associated with higher reported self-control and more diffusion streamlines between the amygdala and mPFC. OXTRm mediates the association between structural and functional connectivity with higher levels of OXTRm being associated with more streamlines. Lastly, we also find that lower OXTRm blunts the association between amygdala-mPFC connectivity and future internalizing behaviors in early adolescence. These findings implicate OXTRm as a biological marker at the interface of the social environment and amygdala-mPFC connectivity in emotional and behavioral regulation. Ultimately, identification of neurobiological markers may lead to earlier detection of children at risk for socio-emotional dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia M Skyberg
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Benjamin T Newman
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, 1215 Lee St, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Andrew J Graves
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Alison M Goldstein
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Samantha R Brindley
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Minah Kim
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - T Jason Druzgal
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, 1215 Lee St, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Jessica J Connelly
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - James P Morris
- University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, P.O. Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA.
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Ng AJ, Vincelette LK, Li J, Brady BH, Christianson JP. Serotonin modulates social responses to stressed conspecifics via insular 5-HT 2C receptors in rat. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.18.529065. [PMID: 36824837 PMCID: PMC9949146 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.18.529065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Social interaction allows for the transfer of affective states among individuals, and the behaviors and expressions associated with pain and fear can evoke anxiety-like states in observers which shape subsequent social interactions. We hypothesized that social reactions to stressed individuals engage the serotonergic dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) which promotes anxiety-like behavior via postsynaptic action of serotonin at serotonin 2C (5-HT 2C ) receptors in the forebrain. First, we inhibited the DRN by administering an agonist (8-OH-DPAT, 1µg in 0.5µL) for the inhibitory 5-HT 1A autoreceptors which silences 5-HT neuronal activity via G-protein coupled inward rectifying potassium channels. 8-OH-DPAT prevented the approach and avoidance, respectively, of stressed juvenile (PN30) or stressed adult (PN50) conspecifics in the social affective preference (SAP) test in rats. Similarly, systemic administration of a 5-HT 2C receptor antagonist (SB242084, 1mg/kg, i.p.) prevented approach and avoidance of stressed juvenile or adult conspecifics, respectively. Seeking a locus of 5-HT 2C action, we considered the posterior insular cortex which is critical for social affective behaviors and rich with 5-HT 2C receptors. SB242084 administered directly into the insular cortex (5µM bilaterally in 0.5µL ) interfered with the typical approach and avoidance behaviors observed in the SAP test. Finally, using fluorescent in situ hybridization, we found that 5-HT 2C receptor mRNA ( htr2c) is primarily colocalized with mRNA associated with excitatory glutamatergic neurons ( vglut1 ) in the posterior insula. Importantly, the results of these treatments were the same in male and female rats. These data suggest that interactions with stressed others require the serotonergic DRN and that serotonin modulates social affective decision-making via action at insular 5-HT 2C receptors.
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Walsh JJ, Christoffel DJ, Malenka RC. Neural circuits regulating prosocial behaviors. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:79-89. [PMID: 35701550 PMCID: PMC9700801 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01348-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Positive, prosocial interactions are essential for survival, development, and well-being. These intricate and complex behaviors are mediated by an amalgamation of neural circuit mechanisms working in concert. Impairments in prosocial behaviors, which occur in a large number of neuropsychiatric disorders, result from disruption of the coordinated activity of these neural circuits. In this review, we focus our discussion on recent findings that utilize modern approaches in rodents to map, monitor, and manipulate neural circuits implicated in a variety of prosocial behaviors. We highlight how modulation by oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in specific brain regions is critical for regulation of adaptive prosocial interactions. We then describe how recent findings have helped elucidate pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the social deficits that accompany neuropsychiatric disorders. We conclude by discussing approaches for the development of more efficacious and targeted therapeutic interventions to ameliorate aberrant prosocial behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Walsh
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
| | - Daniel J Christoffel
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Robert C Malenka
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305-5453, USA.
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Coccia G, La Greca F, Di Luca M, Scheggia D. Dissecting social decision-making: A spotlight on oxytocinergic transmission. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1061934. [PMID: 36618824 PMCID: PMC9813388 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1061934] [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: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Social decision-making requires the ability to balance both the interests of the self and the interests of others to survive in social environments. Empathy is essential to the regulation of this type of interaction, and it often sustains relevant prosocial behaviors such as altruism and helping behavior. In the last decade, our capacity to assess affective and empathy-like behaviors in rodents has expanded our understanding of the neurobiological substrates that underly social decision-making processes such as prosocial behaviors. Within this context, oxytocinergic transmission is profoundly implicated in modulating some of the major components of social decision-making. Thus, this review will present evidence of the association between oxytocin and empathy-like and prosocial behaviors in nonhuman animals. Then, we will dissect the involvement of oxytocinergic transmission-across different brain regions and pathways-in some of the key elements of social decision-making such as emotional discrimination, social recognition, emotional contagion, social dominance, and social memory. Evidence of the modulatory role of oxytocin on social decision-making has raised considerable interest in its clinical relevance, therefore we will also discuss the controversial findings on intranasal oxytocin administration.
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Triana-Del Rio R, Ranade S, Guardado J, LeDoux J, Klann E, Shrestha P. The modulation of emotional and social behaviors by oxytocin signaling in limbic network. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1002846. [PMID: 36466805 PMCID: PMC9714608 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1002846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides can exert volume modulation in neuronal networks, which account for a well-calibrated and fine-tuned regulation that depends on the sensory and behavioral contexts. For example, oxytocin (OT) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) trigger a signaling pattern encompassing intracellular cascades, synaptic plasticity, gene expression, and network regulation, that together function to increase the signal-to-noise ratio for sensory-dependent stress/threat and social responses. Activation of OTRs in emotional circuits within the limbic forebrain is necessary to acquire stress/threat responses. When emotional memories are retrieved, OTR-expressing cells act as gatekeepers of the threat response choice/discrimination. OT signaling has also been implicated in modulating social-exposure elicited responses in the neural circuits within the limbic forebrain. In this review, we describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie the neuromodulation by OT, and how OT signaling in specific neural circuits and cell populations mediate stress/threat and social behaviors. OT and downstream signaling cascades are heavily implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by emotional and social dysregulation. Thus, a mechanistic understanding of downstream cellular effects of OT in relevant cell types and neural circuits can help design effective intervention techniques for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayali Ranade
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Jahel Guardado
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Joseph LeDoux
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Eric Klann
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Prerana Shrestha
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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35
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Emmerson MG. Losing a parent in early-life impairs flock size discrimination and lowers oxytocin receptor abundance in a medial amygdala homologue of adult zebra finches. Dev Psychobiol 2022; 64:e22307. [PMID: 36282756 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Experiencing inadequate parental care during early-life diminishes adult social competencies. For example, low parental care impairs adult socio-cognitive abilities (e.g., recognizing familiar conspecifics) and affiliation (e.g., close social proximity); outcomes attributed to diminished medial amygdala nonapeptide functioning in rodents. Whether parental care has effects beyond familiarity, and if siblings have similar effects to parents, is unclear. Here, zebra finches were used to explore if parent and/or sibling number shape adult recognition and preference of small versus large flocks and nonapeptide (oxytocin, vasotocin) receptor expression in an avian homologue of the mammalian medial amygdala. Chicks were raised by single mothers or fathers in small broods or paired parents in small or large broods matched to single parents for chicks per nest or per parent, respectively. Pair-raised birds had preferred flock sizes as adults, but birds raised by single parents had equal preference for either size. Oxytocin receptor expression was lower in birds raised by single parents versus paired parents, but vasotocin receptor levels were unaffected. Such results highlight parents as formative antecedents of their offspring's social competencies related to group size preference and their nonapeptide mechanisms, outcomes that influence an animal's ability to live in social groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Emmerson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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Inoue K, Ford CL, Horie K, Young LJ. Oxytocin receptors are widely distributed in the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) brain: Relation to social behavior, genetic polymorphisms, and the dopamine system. J Comp Neurol 2022; 530:2881-2900. [PMID: 35763609 PMCID: PMC9474670 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin regulates social behavior via direct modulation of neurons, regulation of neural network activity, and interaction with other neurotransmitter systems. The behavioral effects of oxytocin signaling are determined by the species-specific distribution of brain oxytocin receptors. The socially monogamous prairie vole has been a useful model organism for elucidating the role of oxytocin in social behaviors, including pair bonding, response to social loss, and consoling. However, there has been no comprehensive mapping of oxytocin receptor-expressing cells throughout the prairie vole brain. Here, we employed a highly sensitive in situ hybridization, RNAscope, to construct an exhaustive, brain-wide map of oxytocin receptor mRNA-expressing cells. We found that oxytocin receptor mRNA expression was widespread and diffused throughout the brain, with specific areas displaying a particularly robust expression. Comparing receptor binding with mRNA revealed that regions of the hippocampus and substantia nigra contained oxytocin receptor protein but lacked mRNA, indicating that oxytocin receptors can be transported to distal neuronal processes, consistent with presynaptic oxytocin receptor functions. In the nucleus accumbens, a region involved in oxytocin-dependent social bonding, oxytocin receptor mRNA expression was detected in both the D1 and D2 dopamine receptor-expressing subtypes of cells. Furthermore, natural genetic polymorphisms robustly influenced oxytocin receptor expression in both D1 and D2 receptor cell types in the nucleus accumbens. Collectively, our findings further elucidate the extent to which oxytocin signaling is capable of influencing brain-wide neural activity, responses to social stimuli, and social behavior. KEY POINTS: Oxytocin receptor mRNA is diffusely expressed throughout the brain, with strong expression concentrated in certain areas involved in social behavior. Oxytocin receptor mRNA expression and protein localization are misaligned in some areas, indicating that the receptor protein may be transported to distal processes. In the nucleus accumbens, oxytocin receptors are expressed on cells expressing both D1 and D2 dopamine receptor subtypes, and the majority of variation in oxytocin receptor expression between animals is attributable to polymorphisms in the oxytocin receptor gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoshi Inoue
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Charles L Ford
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kengo Horie
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Larry J Young
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Jabarin R, Netser S, Wagner S. Beyond the three-chamber test: toward a multimodal and objective assessment of social behavior in rodents. Mol Autism 2022; 13:41. [PMID: 36284353 PMCID: PMC9598038 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-022-00521-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
MAIN: In recent years, substantial advances in social neuroscience have been realized, including the generation of numerous rodent models of autism spectrum disorder. Still, it can be argued that those methods currently being used to analyze animal social behavior create a bottleneck that significantly slows down progress in this field. Indeed, the bulk of research still relies on a small number of simple behavioral paradigms, the results of which are assessed without considering behavioral dynamics. Moreover, only few variables are examined in each paradigm, thus overlooking a significant portion of the complexity that characterizes social interaction between two conspecifics, subsequently hindering our understanding of the neural mechanisms governing different aspects of social behavior. We further demonstrate these constraints by discussing the most commonly used paradigm for assessing rodent social behavior, the three-chamber test. We also point to the fact that although emotions greatly influence human social behavior, we lack reliable means for assessing the emotional state of animals during social tasks. As such, we also discuss current evidence supporting the existence of pro-social emotions and emotional cognition in animal models. We further suggest that adequate social behavior analysis requires a novel multimodal approach that employs automated and simultaneous measurements of multiple behavioral and physiological variables at high temporal resolution in socially interacting animals. We accordingly describe several computerized systems and computational tools for acquiring and analyzing such measurements. Finally, we address several behavioral and physiological variables that can be used to assess socio-emotional states in animal models and thus elucidate intricacies of social behavior so as to attain deeper insight into the brain mechanisms that mediate such behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, we suggest that combining automated multimodal measurements with machine-learning algorithms will help define socio-emotional states and determine their dynamics during various types of social tasks, thus enabling a more thorough understanding of the complexity of social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renad Jabarin
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Shai Netser
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shlomo Wagner
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Michetti C, Falace A, Benfenati F, Fassio A. Synaptic genes and neurodevelopmental disorders: From molecular mechanisms to developmental strategies of behavioral testing. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 173:105856. [PMID: 36070836 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptopathies are a class of neurodevelopmental disorders caused by modification in genes coding for synaptic proteins. These proteins oversee the process of neurotransmission, mainly controlling the fusion and recycling of synaptic vesicles at the presynaptic terminal, the expression and localization of receptors at the postsynapse and the coupling between the pre- and the postsynaptic compartments. Murine models, with homozygous or heterozygous deletion for several synaptic genes or knock-in for specific pathogenic mutations, have been developed. They have proved to be extremely informative for understanding synaptic physiology, as well as for clarifying the patho-mechanisms leading to developmental delay, epilepsy and motor, cognitive and social impairments that are the most common clinical manifestations of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the onset of these disorders emerges during infancy and adolescence while the behavioral phenotyping is often conducted in adult mice, missing important information about the impact of synaptic development and maturation on the manifestation of the behavioral phenotype. Here, we review the main achievements obtained by behavioral testing in murine models of synaptopathies and propose a battery of behavioral tests to improve classification, diagnosis and efficacy of potential therapeutic treatments. Our aim is to underlie the importance of studying behavioral development and better focusing on disease onset and phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Michetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Center for Synaptic Neuroscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Antonio Falace
- Pediatric Neurology, Neurogenetics and Neurobiology Unit and Laboratories, Children's Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Fassio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
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Rein B, Jones E, Tuy S, Boustani C, Johnson JA, Malenka RC, Smith ML. Protocols for the social transfer of pain and analgesia in mice. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101756. [PMID: 36227742 PMCID: PMC9576629 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
We provide protocols for the social transfer of pain and analgesia in mice. We describe the steps to induce pain or analgesia (pain relief) in bystander mice with a 1-h social interaction with a partner injected with CFA (complete Freund's adjuvant) or CFA and morphine, respectively. We detail behavioral tests to assess pain or analgesia in the untreated bystander mice. This protocol has been validated in mice and rats and can be used for investigating mechanisms of empathy. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Smith et al. (2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Rein
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA
| | - Erin Jones
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | - Sabrena Tuy
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | - Cali Boustani
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | - Julia A. Johnson
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | - Robert C. Malenka
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA
| | - Monique L. Smith
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA,Corresponding author
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40
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Mastrogiacomo R, Trigilio G, Devroye C, Dautan D, Ferretti V, Losi G, Caffino L, Orso G, Marotta R, Maltese F, Vitali E, Piras G, Forgiarini A, Pacinelli G, Lia A, Rothmond DA, Waddington JL, Drago F, Fumagalli F, Luca MAD, Leggio GM, Carmignoto G, Weickert CS, Managò F, Papaleo F. Dysbindin-1A modulation of astrocytic dopamine and basal ganglia dependent behaviors relevant to schizophrenia. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:4201-4217. [PMID: 35821415 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01683-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the dichotomic cortical/basal ganglia dopaminergic abnormalities in schizophrenia are unclear. Astrocytes are important non-neuronal modulators of brain circuits, but their role in dopaminergic system remains poorly explored. Microarray analyses, immunohistochemistry, and two-photon laser scanning microscopy revealed that Dys1 hypofunction increases the reactivity of astrocytes, which express only the Dys1A isoform. Notably, behavioral and electrochemical assessments in mice selectively lacking the Dys1A isoform unraveled a more prominent impact of Dys1A in behavioral and dopaminergic/D2 alterations related to basal ganglia, but not cortical functioning. Ex vivo electron microscopy and protein expression analyses indicated that selective Dys1A disruption might alter intracellular trafficking in astrocytes, but not in neurons. In agreement, Dys1A disruption only in astrocytes resulted in decreased motivation and sensorimotor gating deficits, increased astrocytic dopamine D2 receptors and decreased dopaminergic tone within basal ganglia. These processes might have clinical relevance because the caudate, but not the cortex, of patients with schizophrenia shows a reduction of the Dys1A isoform. Therefore, we started to show a hitherto unknown role for the Dys1A isoform in astrocytic-related modulation of basal ganglia behavioral and dopaminergic phenotypes, with relevance to schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Mastrogiacomo
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Gabriella Trigilio
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Céline Devroye
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniel Dautan
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.,Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Ferretti
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR, Padova, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Genny Orso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Marotta
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Federica Maltese
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Enrica Vitali
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Gessica Piras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessia Forgiarini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giada Pacinelli
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Annamaria Lia
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR, Padova, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Debora A Rothmond
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John L Waddington
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gian Marco Leggio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carmignoto
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR, Padova, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Cynthia S Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Francesca Managò
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy. .,Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy.
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Wu YE, Hong W. Neural basis of prosocial behavior. Trends Neurosci 2022; 45:749-762. [PMID: 35853793 PMCID: PMC10039809 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The ability to behave in ways that benefit other individuals' well-being is among the most celebrated human characteristics crucial for social cohesiveness. Across mammalian species, animals display various forms of prosocial behaviors - comforting, helping, and resource sharing - to support others' emotions, goals, and/or material needs. In this review, we provide a cross-species view of the behavioral manifestations, proximate and ultimate drives, and neural mechanisms of prosocial behaviors. We summarize key findings from recent studies in humans and rodents that have shed light on the neural mechanisms underlying different processes essential for prosocial interactions, from perception and empathic sharing of others' states to prosocial decisions and actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Emily Wu
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Weizhe Hong
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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42
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Lenschow C, Mendes ARP, Lima SQ. Hearing, touching, and multisensory integration during mate choice. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:943888. [PMID: 36247731 PMCID: PMC9559228 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.943888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Mate choice is a potent generator of diversity and a fundamental pillar for sexual selection and evolution. Mate choice is a multistage affair, where complex sensory information and elaborate actions are used to identify, scrutinize, and evaluate potential mating partners. While widely accepted that communication during mate assessment relies on multimodal cues, most studies investigating the mechanisms controlling this fundamental behavior have restricted their focus to the dominant sensory modality used by the species under examination, such as vision in humans and smell in rodents. However, despite their undeniable importance for the initial recognition, attraction, and approach towards a potential mate, other modalities gain relevance as the interaction progresses, amongst which are touch and audition. In this review, we will: (1) focus on recent findings of how touch and audition can contribute to the evaluation and choice of mating partners, and (2) outline our current knowledge regarding the neuronal circuits processing touch and audition (amongst others) in the context of mate choice and ask (3) how these neural circuits are connected to areas that have been studied in the light of multisensory integration.
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43
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Toyoshima M, Okuda E, Hasegawa N, Kaseda K, Yamada K. Socially Transferred Stress Experience Modulates Social Affective Behaviors in Rats. Neuroscience 2022; 502:68-76. [PMID: 36064051 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Social communication of affective states between individuals, as well as actual experiences, influences their internal states and behaviors. Although prior stress experiences promote empathy-like behaviors, it remains unclear whether the social transmission of stress events modulates these behaviors. Here, we provide evidence that transferred stress experiences from cage mates modulate socioaffective approach-avoidance behaviors in rats. Male Wistar-Imamichi rats were assigned to one of five experimental groups (Control (n = 15); no shock with shocked cage mates (n = 15); low (0.1 mA, n = 15), middle (0.5 mA, n = 14), and high shock (1.0 mA, n = 14)). Except for the naïve and housed with stressed mate groups, rats received two foot-shocks (5 s for each). The next day, the subjects were allowed to explore two unfamiliar conspecifics; one was a naïve, while the other was a distressed conspecific that received two foot-shocks (1.0 mA, 5 s) immediately before the test. Rats that were housed with stressed mates, as well as those that experienced a higher intensity of foot-shocks, were more likely to approach, while naïve rats avoided, a distressed conspecific. These results suggest that socially transferred stress shifts socioaffective response styles from avoidance to approach toward a stressed conspecific in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michimasa Toyoshima
- Institute of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan; JSPS Research Fellow, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Chiyoda, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan.
| | - Eri Okuda
- Institute of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Natsu Hasegawa
- Institute of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Kodai Kaseda
- Institute of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Kazuo Yamada
- Institute of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan.
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Rigney N, de Vries GJ, Petrulis A, Young LJ. Oxytocin, Vasopressin, and Social Behavior: From Neural Circuits to Clinical Opportunities. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6648172. [PMID: 35863332 PMCID: PMC9337272 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin and vasopressin are peptide hormones secreted from the pituitary that are well known for their peripheral endocrine effects on childbirth/nursing and blood pressure/urine concentration, respectively. However, both peptides are also released in the brain, where they modulate several aspects of social behaviors. Oxytocin promotes maternal nurturing and bonding, enhances social reward, and increases the salience of social stimuli. Vasopressin modulates social communication, social investigation, territorial behavior, and aggression, predominantly in males. Both peptides facilitate social memory and pair bonding behaviors in monogamous species. Here we review the latest research delineating the neural circuitry of the brain oxytocin and vasopressin systems and summarize recent investigations into the circuit-based mechanisms modulating social behaviors. We highlight research using modern molecular genetic technologies to map, monitor activity of, or manipulate neuropeptide circuits. Species diversity in oxytocin and vasopressin effects on social behaviors are also discussed. We conclude with a discussion of the translational implications of oxytocin and vasopressin for improving social functioning in disorders with social impairments, such as autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Rigney
- Neuroscience Institute and Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30303, USA
| | - Geert J de Vries
- Neuroscience Institute and Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30303, USA
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30303, USA
| | - Aras Petrulis
- Neuroscience Institute and Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30303, USA
| | - Larry J Young
- Correspondence: Larry J. Young, PhD, Emory National Primate Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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45
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Paletta P, Bass N, Kavaliers M, Choleris E. The role of oxytocin in shaping complex social behaviours: possible interactions with other neuromodulators. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210058. [PMID: 35858107 PMCID: PMC9272141 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This review explores the role of oxytocin in the mediation of select social behaviours, with particular emphasis on female rodents. These behaviours include social recognition, social learning, pathogen detection and avoidance, and maternal care. Specific brain regions where oxytocin has been shown to directly mediate various aspects of these social behaviours, as well as other proposed regions, are discussed. Possible interactions between oxytocin and other regulatory systems, in particular that of oestrogens and dopamine, in the modulation of social behaviour are considered. Similarities and differences between males and females are highlighted. This article is part of the theme issue 'Interplays between oxytocin and other neuromodulators in shaping complex social behaviours'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Paletta
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, MacKinnon Building Room 4020, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Noah Bass
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, MacKinnon Building Room 4020, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Martin Kavaliers
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, MacKinnon Building Room 4020, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elena Choleris
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, MacKinnon Building Room 4020, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
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46
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Khazen T, Narattil NR, Ferreira G, Maroun M. Hippocampal oxytocin is involved in spatial memory and synaptic plasticity deficits following acute high-fat diet intake in juvenile rats. Cereb Cortex 2022; 33:3934-3943. [PMID: 35989314 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The hippocampus undergoes maturation during juvenility, a period of increased vulnerability to environmental challenges. We recently found that acute high-fat diet (HFD) impaired hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and hippocampal-dependent spatial memory. We also recently reported that similar HFD exposure affected prefrontal plasticity and social memory through decreased oxytocin levels in the prefrontal cortex. In the present study, we therefore evaluated whether hippocampal oxytocin levels are also affected by juvenile HFD and could mediate deficits of hippocampal LTP and spatial memory. We found that postweaning HFD decreased oxytocin levels in the CA1 of the dorsal hippocampus. Interestingly, systemic injection of high, but not low, dose of oxytocin rescued HFD-induced LTP impairment in CA1. Moreover, deficits in long-term object location memory (OLM) were prevented by systemic injection of both high and low dose of oxytocin as well as by intra-CA1 infusion of oxytocin receptor agonist. Finally, we found that blocking oxytocin receptors in CA1 impaired long-term OLM in control-fed juvenile rats. These results suggest that acute HFD intake lowers oxytocin levels in the CA1 that lead to CA1 plasticity impairment and spatial memory deficits in juveniles. Further, these results provide the first evidence for the regulatory role of oxytocin in spatial memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tala Khazen
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, and The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Nisha Rajan Narattil
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, and The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Guillaume Ferreira
- University of Bordeaux, INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, 33076, France
| | - Mouna Maroun
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, and The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
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Takayama K, Tobori S, Andoh C, Kakae M, Hagiwara M, Nagayasu K, Shirakawa H, Ago Y, Kaneko S. Autism Spectrum Disorder Model Mice Induced by Prenatal Exposure to Valproic Acid Exhibit Enhanced Empathy-Like Behavior <i>via</i> Oxytocinergic Signaling. Biol Pharm Bull 2022; 45:1124-1132. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b22-00200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kaito Takayama
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Shota Tobori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Chihiro Andoh
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Masashi Kakae
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Masako Hagiwara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Kazuki Nagayasu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Hisashi Shirakawa
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
| | - Yukio Ago
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University
| | - Shuji Kaneko
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University
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Kiyokawa Y, Kuroda N, Takeuchi Y. The strain of unfamiliar conspecifics affects stress identification in rats. Behav Processes 2022; 201:104714. [PMID: 35901937 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2022.104714] [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: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Humans show distinct social behaviours when we evaluate an individual as being a member of the same group and recognize social similarity to the individual. One example is more accurate identification of emotion in that individual. Our previous studies proposed that rats recognize social similarity to certain strains of unfamiliar rats. It is therefore possible that the strain of unfamiliar conspecifics affects stress identification in rats. Wistar subject rats were allowed to explore a pair of unfamiliar Wistar, Sprague-Dawley (SD), Long-Evans (LE), or Fischer344 (F344) stimulus rats. To induce differences in stress, one of the stimulus rats had received foot shocks immediately before the test. It was found that the subjects showed biased interaction towards the shocked Wistar and SD stimulus rats, but not toward the shocked LE or F344 stimulus rats. Subsequent experiments confirmed that the biased interaction towards the shocked Wistar and SD stimulus rats was driven by stress in these stimulus rats. In addition, the lack of biased interaction towards the shocked LE and F344 stimulus rats did not appear to be due to procedural reasons. The experiment using LE subject rats further confirmed that the shocked LE stimulus rats emitted distress signals. These results suggested that Wistar rats could identify stress in unfamiliar Wistar and SD rats, but not in unfamiliar LE or F344 rats. Therefore, rats appear to recognize social similarity to certain unfamiliar strains of rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Kiyokawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Naoko Kuroda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yukari Takeuchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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Tsai TC, Fang YS, Hung YC, Hung LC, Hsu KS. A dorsal CA2 to ventral CA1 circuit contributes to oxytocinergic modulation of long-term social recognition memory. J Biomed Sci 2022; 29:50. [PMID: 35811321 PMCID: PMC9272559 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-022-00834-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Social recognition memory (SRM) is the ability to distinguish familiar from novel conspecifics and is crucial for survival and reproductive success across social species. We previously reported that oxytocin (OXT) receptor (OXTR) signaling in the CA2/CA3a of dorsal hippocampus is essential to promote the persistence of long-term SRM, yet how the endogenous OXT system influences CA2 outputs to regulate long-term SRM formation remains unclear. Methods To achieve a selective deletion of CA2 OXTRs, we crossed Amigo2-Cre mice with Oxtr-floxed mice to generate CA2-specific Oxtr conditional knockout (Oxtr−/−) mice. A three-chamber paradigm test was used for studying SRM in mice. Chemogenetic and optogenetic targeting strategies were employed to manipulate neuronal activity. Results We show that selective ablation of Oxtr in the CA2 suffices to impair the persistence of long-term SRM but has no effect on sociability and social novelty preference in the three-chamber paradigm test. We find that cell-type specific activation of OXT neurons within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus enhances long-term SRM and this enhancement is blocked by local application of OXTR antagonist L-368,899 into dorsal hippocampal CA2 (dCA2) region. In addition, chemogenetic neuronal silencing in dCA2 demonstrated that neuronal activity is essential for forming long-term SRM. Moreover, chemogenetic terminal-specific inactivation reveals a crucial role for dCA2 outputs to ventral CA1 (vCA1), but not dorsal lateral septum, in long-term SRM. Finally, targeted activation of the dCA2-to-vCA1 circuit effectively ameliorates long-term SRM deficit observed in Oxtr−/− mice. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of hippocampal CA2 OXTR signaling in governing the persistence of long-term SRM and identify a hippocampal circuit linking dCA2 to vCA1 necessary for controlling long-term SRM formation. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12929-022-00834-x.
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50
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Establishment of a social conditioned place preference paradigm for the study of social reward in female mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11271. [PMID: 35789188 PMCID: PMC9253334 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15427-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Social interactions can be and often are rewarding. The effect of social contact strongly depends on circumstances, and the reward may be driven by varied motivational processes, ranging from parental or affiliative behaviors to investigation or aggression. Reward associated with nonreproductive interactions in rodents is measured using the social conditioned place preference (sCPP) paradigm, where a change in preference for an initially neutral context confirms reinforcing effects of social contact. Here, we revised the sCPP method and reexamined social reward in adult female mice. Contrary to earlier studies, we found that robust rewarding effects of social contact could be detected in adult (14-week-old) female C57BL/6 mice when the sCPP task was refined to remove confounding factors. Strikingly, the rewarding effects of social interaction were only observed among female siblings who remained together from birth. Contact with same-age nonsiblings was not rewarding even after 8 weeks of cohousing. Other factors critical for the social reward effect in the sCPP paradigm included the number of conditioning sessions and the inherent preference for contextual cues. Thus, we show that social interaction is rewarding in adult female mice, but this effect strictly depends on the familiarity of the interaction partners. Furthermore, by identifying confounding factors, we provide a behavioral model to study the mechanisms underlying the rewarding effects of nonreproductive social interaction in adult mice.
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