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Alboni S, Tascedda F, Uezato A, Sugama S, Chen Z, Marcondes MCG, Conti B. Interleukin 18 and the brain: neuronal functions, neuronal survival and psycho-neuro-immunology during stress. Mol Psychiatry 2025:10.1038/s41380-025-02951-z. [PMID: 40121365 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-025-02951-z] [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: 08/26/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2025] [Accepted: 03/10/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025]
Abstract
Interleukin 18 (IL-18) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates peripheral innate and adaptive immune response and is also expressed in the brain. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the biology of IL-18 in the brain and the efforts to determine its significance concerning neurological and psychiatric conditions. The picture that emerges is that of a heavily regulated molecule that can contribute to neuroinflammatory-mediated neuronal survival but can also serve as a neuromodulator that affects behaviour. We also summarize evidence showing how the brain can control the synthesis of peripheral IL-18 during stress by hormonal and neuronal signalling, regulating tissue-specific promoter usage. We discuss how this may represent one of the mechanisms by which the brain affects immune functions and what its implications are when considering IL-18 as a biomarker of psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Alboni
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Life Sciences via Campi 287, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Fabio Tascedda
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Life Sciences via Campi 287, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Akihito Uezato
- Center for Basic Medical Research, International University of Health and Welfare, 2600-1 Kitakanemaru, Otawara, Tochigi, 324-8501, Japan
| | - Shuei Sugama
- Center for Basic Medical Research, International University of Health and Welfare, 2600-1 Kitakanemaru, Otawara, Tochigi, 324-8501, Japan
| | - Zuxin Chen
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen University Town, Shenzhen, P. R. China
| | | | - Bruno Conti
- San Diego Biomedical Research Institute, 3525 John Hopkins Ct, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
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Sun W, Cao H, Liu D, Baranova A, Zhang F, Zhang X. Genetic association and drug target exploration of inflammation-related proteins with risk of major depressive disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2025; 136:111165. [PMID: 39383931 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111165] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 09/24/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In numerous observational studies, circulating inflammation-related proteins have been linked with major depressive disorder (MDD), yet the precise causal direction of this relationship remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential causal link between inflammation-related proteins and the risk of developing MDD. METHODS We utilized summary data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 91 circulating inflammation-associated proteins in 14,824 individuals of European descent. Additionally, we incorporated findings from a substantial GWAS on MDD, which included 294,322 cases and 741,438 controls. Our analysis employed a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) approach, with inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the primary method. We augmented this with two supplementary techniques (MR-Egger and weighted median approaches) to detect and address potential pleiotropy. Furthermore, to identify and evaluate possible drug targets, we conducted a thorough search within the Drug-Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb). RESULTS Analysis using MR unveiled significant and causative associations between genetically determined CASP-8 (odds ratio (OR): 0.97), CD40 (OR: 0.96), IL-18 (OR: 0.98), SLAMF1 (OR: 0.97), and uPA (OR: 0.98) with MDD. Conversely, reverse MR analysis indicated causal associations between MDD and CCL19 (OR: 1.15), HGF (OR: 1.15), IL-8 (OR: 1.10), IL-18 (OR: 1.11), IL20RA (OR: 1.12), TGFA (OR: 1.12) and TNFSF14 (OR: 1.16). Notably, a significant bidirectional causal link was observed between IL-18 and MDD. Gene-drug analysis identified CD40, HGF, IL-8, IL-18, SLAMF1, and TGFA as potential therapeutic targets. CONCLUSIONS We've pinpointed causal links between inflammation-related proteins and MDD, offering compelling and innovative evidence to enhance our understanding of the inflammatory mechanisms involved in MDD and to investigate potential targets for anti-MDD medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxi Sun
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215031, Jiangsu, China; Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongbao Cao
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Dongming Liu
- Department of Radiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; Medical Imaging Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Ancha Baranova
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA; Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Xiaobin Zhang
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215137, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Takahashi A. Associations of the immune system in aggression traits and the role of microglia as mediators. Neuropharmacology 2024; 256:110021. [PMID: 38825308 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110021] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
There is an important relationship between the immune system and aggressive behavior. Aggressive encounters acutely increase the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and there are positive correlations between aggressive traits and peripheral proinflammatory cytokines. Endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment, which results in peripheral immune activation, decreases aggressive behavior as one of the sickness behavioral symptoms. In contrast, certain brain infections and chronic interferon treatment are associated with increased aggression. Indeed, the effects of proinflammatory cytokines on the brain in aggressive behavior are bidirectional, depending on the type and dose of cytokine, target brain region, and type of aggression. Some studies have suggested that microglial activation and neuroinflammation influence intermale aggression in rodent models. In addition, pathological conditions as well as physiological levels of cytokines produced by microglia play an important role in social and aggressive behavior in adult animals. Furthermore, microglial function in early development is necessary for the establishment of the social brain and the expression of juvenile social behaviors, including play fighting. Overall, this review discusses the important link between the immune system and aggressive traits and the role of microglia as mediators of this link.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology, Institute of Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan.
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Yamanishi K, Hata M, Gamachi N, Watanabe Y, Yamanishi C, Okamura H, Matsunaga H. Molecular Mechanisms of IL18 in Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17170. [PMID: 38139000 PMCID: PMC10743479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417170] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 18 (IL18) was originally identified as an inflammation-induced cytokine that is secreted by immune cells. An increasing number of studies have focused on its non-immunological functions, with demonstrated functions for IL18 in energy homeostasis and neural stability. IL18 is reportedly required for lipid metabolism in the liver and brown adipose tissue. Furthermore, IL18 (Il18) deficiency in mice leads to mitochondrial dysfunction in hippocampal cells, resulting in depressive-like symptoms and cognitive impairment. Microarray analyses of Il18-/- mice have revealed a set of genes with differential expression in liver, brown adipose tissue, and brain; however, the impact of IL18 deficiency in these tissues remains uncertain. In this review article, we discuss these genes, with a focus on their relationships with the phenotypic disease traits of Il18-/- mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyosuke Yamanishi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
- Department of Psychoimmunology, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Masaki Hata
- Department of Psychoimmunology, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Naomi Gamachi
- Department of Psychoimmunology, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yuko Watanabe
- Hirakata General Hospital for Developmental Disorders, Hirakata 573-0122, Osaka, Japan; (Y.W.); (C.Y.)
| | - Chiaki Yamanishi
- Hirakata General Hospital for Developmental Disorders, Hirakata 573-0122, Osaka, Japan; (Y.W.); (C.Y.)
| | - Haruki Okamura
- Department of Psychoimmunology, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Hisato Matsunaga
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
- Department of Psychoimmunology, Hyogo Medical University, 1-1 Mukogawa, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Hyogo, Japan
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Borgonetti V, Cruz B, Vozella V, Khom S, Steinman MQ, Bullard R, D’Ambrosio S, Oleata CS, Vlkolinsky R, Bajo M, Zorrilla EP, Kirson D, Roberto M. IL-18 Signaling in the Rat Central Amygdala Is Disrupted in a Comorbid Model of Post-Traumatic Stress and Alcohol Use Disorder. Cells 2023; 12:1943. [PMID: 37566022 PMCID: PMC10416956 DOI: 10.3390/cells12151943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and anxiety disorders are frequently comorbid and share dysregulated neuroimmune-related pathways. Here, we used our established rat model of comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)/AUD to characterize the interleukin 18 (IL-18) system in the central amygdala (CeA). Male and female rats underwent novel (NOV) and familiar (FAM) shock stress, or no stress (unstressed controls; CTL) followed by voluntary alcohol drinking and PTSD-related behaviors, then all received renewed alcohol access prior to the experiments. In situ hybridization revealed that the number of CeA positive cells for Il18 mRNA increased, while for Il18bp decreased in both male and female FAM stressed rats versus CTL. No changes were observed in Il18r1 expression across groups. Ex vivo electrophysiology showed that IL-18 reduced GABAA-mediated miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) frequencies in CTL, suggesting reduced CeA GABA release, regardless of sex. Notably, this presynaptic effect of IL-18 was lost in both NOV and FAM males, while it persisted in NOV and FAM females. IL-18 decreased mIPSC amplitude in CTL female rats, suggesting postsynaptic effects. Overall, our results suggest that stress in rats with alcohol access impacts CeA IL-18-system expression and, in sex-related fashion, IL-18's modulatory function at GABA synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Bryan Cruz
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Valentina Vozella
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Sophia Khom
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Q. Steinman
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Ryan Bullard
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Shannon D’Ambrosio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Christopher S. Oleata
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Roman Vlkolinsky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Michal Bajo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Eric P. Zorrilla
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
| | - Dean Kirson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92073, USA; (V.B.); (B.C.); (V.V.); (S.K.); (M.Q.S.); (R.B.); (S.D.); (C.S.O.); (R.V.); (M.B.); (E.P.Z.); (D.K.)
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Yu Q, Liu M, Dai W, Xiong Y, Mu X, Xia M, Li Y, Ma S, Su Y, Wu J, Liu C, Xie Y, Zhao T, Lu A, Weng N, Zheng F, Sun P. The NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in resident intruder paradigm-induced aggressive behaviors in mice. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:974905. [PMID: 36778007 PMCID: PMC9912938 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.974905] [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: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Aggressive behaviors are one of the most important negative behaviors that seriously endangers human health. Also, the central para-inflammation of microglia triggered by stress can affect neurological function, plasticity, and behavior. NLRP3 integrates stress-related signals and is a key driver of this neural para-inflammation. However, it is unclear whether the NLRP3 inflammasome is implicated in the development of aggressive behaviors. Methods: First, aggressive behavior model mice were established using the resident intruder paradigm. Then, aggressive behaviors were determined with open-field tests (OFT), elevated plus-maze (EPM), and aggressive behavior tests (AT). Moreover, the expression of P2X7R and NLRP3 inflammasome complexes were assessed by immunofluorescence and Western blot. The levels of NLRP3 and inflammatory cytokines were evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Finally, nerve plasticity damage was observed by immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscope, and BrdU staining. Results: Overall, the resident intruder paradigm induced aggressive behaviors, activated the hippocampal P2X7R and NLRP3 inflammasome, and promoted the release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β in mice. Moreover, NLRP3 knockdown, administration of P2X7R antagonist (A804598), and IL-1β blocker (IL-1Ra) prevented NLRP3 inflammasome-driven inflammatory responses and ameliorated resident intruder paradigm-induced aggressive behaviors. Also, the resident intruder paradigm promoted the activation of mouse microglia, damaging synapses in the hippocampus, and suppressing hippocampal regeneration in mice. Besides, NLRP3 knockdown, administration of A804598, and IL-1Ra inhibited the activation of microglia, improved synaptic damage, and restored hippocampal regeneration. Conclusion: The NLRP3 inflammasome-driven inflammatory response contributed to resident intruder paradigm-induced aggressive behavior, which might be related to neuroplasticity. Therefore, the NLRP3 inflammasome can be a potential target to treat aggressive behavior-related mental illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingying Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Molin Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Weibo Dai
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhong Shan, China
| | - Yu Xiong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Xiangyu Mu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Mengyao Xia
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Yanling Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Shan Ma
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Yongtao Su
- Innovation Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Jibiao Wu
- Innovation Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Chuanguo Liu
- Experimental center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China
| | - Yicheng Xie
- The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Zhao
- College of Foreign Languages, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China,*Correspondence: Tingting Zhao, ; Aimei Lu, ; Ning Weng, ; Feng Zheng, ; Peng Sun,
| | - Aimei Lu
- Shandong Public Health Clinical Center, Ji’nan, China,*Correspondence: Tingting Zhao, ; Aimei Lu, ; Ning Weng, ; Feng Zheng, ; Peng Sun,
| | - Ning Weng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Mental Health Center, Shandong University, Ji’nan, China,*Correspondence: Tingting Zhao, ; Aimei Lu, ; Ning Weng, ; Feng Zheng, ; Peng Sun,
| | - Feng Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China,*Correspondence: Tingting Zhao, ; Aimei Lu, ; Ning Weng, ; Feng Zheng, ; Peng Sun,
| | - Peng Sun
- Innovation Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, China,*Correspondence: Tingting Zhao, ; Aimei Lu, ; Ning Weng, ; Feng Zheng, ; Peng Sun,
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Hjell G, Szabo A, Mørch-Johnsen L, Holst R, Tesli N, Bell C, Fischer-Vieler T, Werner MCF, Lunding SH, Ormerod MBEG, Johansen IT, Dieset I, Djurovic S, Melle I, Ueland T, Andreassen OA, Steen NE, Haukvik UK. Interleukin-18 signaling system links to agitation in severe mental disorders. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 140:105721. [PMID: 35301151 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Agitation is a challenging clinical feature in severe mental disorders, but its biological correlates are largely unknown. Inflammasome-related abnormalities have been linked to severe mental disorders and implicated in animal models of agitation. We investigated if levels of circulating inflammasome-related immune markers were associated with agitation in severe mental disorders. METHODS Individuals with a psychotic or affective disorder (N = 660) underwent blood sampling and clinical characterization. Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-18, IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP), IL-18 receptor 1 (IL-18R1), IL-18 receptor accessory protein (IL-18RAP), and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) were measured. Agitation levels were estimated with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale Excited Component. Multiple linear- and logistic regression were used to investigate the associations between agitation and the immune markers, while controlling for confounders. The influence of psychotic and affective symptoms was assessed in follow-up analyses. RESULTS Agitation was positively associated with IL-18BP (β = 0.13, t = 3.41, p = 0.0007) after controlling for multiple confounders, including BMI, smoking, medication, and substance use. Adjustment for psychotic, manic, and depressive symptoms did not affect the results. There were no significant associations between agitation and the other investigated immune markers (IL-1RA (β = 0.06, t = 1.27, p = 0.20), IL-18 (β = 0.05, t = 1.25, p = 0.21), IL-18R1 (β = 0.04, t = 1.01, p = 0.31), IL-18RAP (odds ratio = 0.96, p = 0.30)). In a subsample (N = 463), we also adjusted for cortisol levels, which yielded unaltered results. CONCLUSION Our findings add to the accumulating evidence of immune system disturbances in severe mental disorders and suggest the IL-18 system as a part of the biological correlate of agitation independent of affective and psychotic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hjell
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry & Department of Clinical Research, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway.
| | - Attila Szabo
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lynn Mørch-Johnsen
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychiatry & Department of Clinical Research, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway
| | - René Holst
- Department of Psychiatry & Department of Clinical Research, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway; Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Natalia Tesli
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christina Bell
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thomas Fischer-Vieler
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maren Caroline Frogner Werner
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Synve Hoffart Lunding
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Ingrid Torp Johansen
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingrid Dieset
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Acute Psychiatric Department, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Srdjan Djurovic
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; NORMENT, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingrid Melle
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thor Ueland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; K.G. Jebsen Thrombosis Research and Expertise Center, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ole Andreas Andreassen
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils Eiel Steen
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Unn Kristin Haukvik
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital & Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Adult Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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8
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Mengelkoch S, Gassen J, Corrigan EK, Hill SE. Exploring the Links between Personality and Immune Function. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2022; 184:111179. [PMID: 34737485 PMCID: PMC8562652 DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2021.111179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Decades of research finds associations between personality traits and health. In recent years, it has become clear that the activities of the immune system play a key role in linking these variables. In the current work, we add to this research by exploring the relationship between Big Five personality traits and (Study 1) polymorphisms known to impact cytokine release and (Study 2) immunological parameters measured in vivo (differential white blood cell counts, plasma proinflammatory cytokine levels) and in vitro (proinflammatory cytokine release by peripheral blood mononuclear cells, Staphylococcus aureus growth in plasma). Results provide insights into potential mechanistic drivers of the link between personality and immune function and the possibility that, in some cases, relationships between personality and immune function may be sex differentiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer Mengelkoch
- Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Jeff Gassen
- Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Emily K. Corrigan
- Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Sarah E. Hill
- Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, United States
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Chen MX, Liu Q, Cheng S, Lei L, Lin AJ, Wei R, K Hui TC, Li Q, Ao LJ, Sham PC. Interleukin-18 levels in the hippocampus and behavior of adult rat offspring exposed to prenatal restraint stress during early and late pregnancy. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:1748-1756. [PMID: 32209782 PMCID: PMC7437598 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.276358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to maternal stress during prenatal life is associated with an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, in offspring. It has also been increasingly observed that prenatal stress alters the phenotype of offspring via immunological mechanisms and that immunological dysfunction, such as elevated interleukin-18 levels, has been reported in cultures of microglia. Prenatal restraint stress (PRS) in rats permits direct experimental investigation of the link between prenatal stress and adverse outcomes. However, the majority of studies have focused on the consequences of PRS delivered in the second half of pregnancy, while the effects of early prenatal stress have rarely been examined. Therefore, pregnant rats were subjected to PRS during early/middle and late gestation (days 8-14 and 15-21, respectively). PRS comprised restraint in a round plastic transparent cylinder under bright light (6500 lx) three times per day for 45 minutes. Differences in interleukin-18 expression in the hippocampus and in behavior were compared between offspring rats and control rats on postnatal day 75. We found that adult male offspring exposed to PRS during their late prenatal periods had higher levels of anxiety-related behavior and depression than control rats, and both male and female offspring exhibited higher levels of depression-related behavior, impaired recognition memory and diminished exploration of novel objects. Moreover, an elevated level of interleukin-18 was observed in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus of male and female early- and late-PRS offspring rats. The results indicate that PRS can cause anxiety and depression-related behaviors in adult offspring and affect the expression of interleukin-18 in the hippocampus. Thus, behavior and the molecular biology of the brain are affected by the timing of PRS exposure and the sex of the offspring. All experiments were approved by the Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee at Kunming Medical University, China (approval No. KMMU2019074) in January 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Xian Chen
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Shu Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation, China Resources & WISCO General Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ai-Jin Lin
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Ran Wei
- Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Tomy C K Hui
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Psychiatry; State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Li-Juan Ao
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Pak C Sham
- Department of Psychiatry; State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences; Centre for Genomic Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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Li W, Jin D, Takai S, Hayakawa T, Ogata J, Yamanishi K, Yamanishi H, Okamura H. Impaired function of aorta and perivascular adipose tissue in IL-18-deficient mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2019; 317:H1142-H1156. [PMID: 31518161 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00813.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
IL-18 is ubiquitously produced by both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells. The present study examined the thoracic aorta, including the surrounding perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), of IL-18KO mice from functional and histological perspectives. IL-18KO mice exhibited raised blood pressure compared with wild-type mice. Echocardiographic examination showed a thickened vascular wall and narrowed vascular diameter of the aorta. Examination by the Magnus test demonstrated dysfunction of endothelial cells (ECs) in the IL-18KO thoracic aorta and impairment of the anticontractile function of IL-18KO PVAT. Histological examination showed no inflammatory lesions in the aorta but indicated progressive fibrosis in the vessel and conversion of PVAT from brown adipose tissue-like features to white adipose tissue-like features. Electron microscopic observation suggested several deformed mitochondria in the aorta and vacuole-like structures in ECs from IL-18KO mice. In addition, activity of complex IV was lower and production of reactive oxygen species was augmented in the mitochondria of IL-18KO aorta. Although expression of LC3 B was higher, rapamycin-induced autophagy flux was impaired in the IL-18KO PVAT. Moreover, Western blot analysis revealed that LAMP 1/2 was increased in IL-18KO PVAT, and measurement of cathepsin-D activity indicated decreased levels in IL-18KO PVAT. The IL-18KO thoracic aorta thus showed defects in physiological functions related to histological alterations, and the inflammasome/IL-18 system was suggested to play a protective role in cardiovascular cells, probably through quality control of mitochondria via promotion of autophagosome/autophagolysosome formation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY IL-18 deficiency caused aortic abnormalities in terms of morphology and functions in parallel with an accumulation of damaged mitochondria and anomalous turnover of protein complexes, such as PGC-1 and LAMP1 and -2 in PVAT. These findings suggested that IL-18 plays roles in maintaining the homeostasis of vessels and PVAT around the aorta, possibly by promoting autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Li
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Cell Therapy, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan.,Department of Innovative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Denan Jin
- Department of Innovative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinji Takai
- Department of Innovative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tetsu Hayakawa
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Cell Therapy, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Jun Ogata
- Hirakata General Hospital for Developmental Disorders, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Kyosuke Yamanishi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
| | | | - Haruki Okamura
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Cell Therapy, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
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Gassen J, Hill SE. Why inflammation and the activities of the immune system matter for social and personality psychology (and not only for those who study health). SOCIAL AND PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY COMPASS 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/spc3.12471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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12
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Karl F, Colaço MBN, Schulte A, Sommer C, Üçeyler N. Affective and cognitive behavior is not altered by chronic constriction injury in B7-H1 deficient and wildtype mice. BMC Neurosci 2019; 20:16. [PMID: 30975083 PMCID: PMC6458735 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-019-0498-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic neuropathic pain is often associated with anxiety, depressive symptoms, and cognitive impairment with relevant impact on patients` health related quality of life. To investigate the influence of a pro-inflammatory phenotype on affective and cognitive behavior under neuropathic pain conditions, we assessed mice deficient of the B7 homolog 1 (B7-H1), a major inhibitor of inflammatory response. Results Adult B7-H1 ko mice and wildtype littermates (WT) received a chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, and we assessed mechanical and thermal sensitivity at selected time points. Both genotypes developed mechanical (p < 0.001) and heat hypersensitivity (p < 0.01) 7, 14, and 20 days after surgery. We performed three tests for anxiety-like behavior: the light–dark box, the elevated plus maze, and the open field. As supported by the results of these tests for anxiety-like behavior, no relevant differences were found between genotypes after CCI. Depression-like behavior was assessed using the forced swim test. Also, CCI had no effect on depression like behavior. For cognitive behavior, we applied the Morris water maze for spatial learning and memory and the novel object recognition test for object recognition, long-, and short-term memory. Learning and memory did not differ in B7-H1 ko and WT mice after CCI. Conclusions Our study reveals that the impact of B7-H1 on affective-, depression-like- and learning-behavior, and memory performance might play a subordinate role in mice after nerve lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Karl
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Maria B Nandini Colaço
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Annemarie Schulte
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
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Interleukin-18-deficient mice develop hippocampal abnormalities related to possible depressive-like behaviors. Neuroscience 2019; 408:147-160. [PMID: 30981863 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is an inflammatory cytokine linked to major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD is closely related to metabolic disorders, such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity. Moreover, DM is associated with cognitive impairment and promotes apoptosis of hippocampal cells by activating pro-apoptotic and inhibiting anti-apoptotic factors. IL-18-deficient (Il18-/-) mice are obese and have DM. Therefore, we hypothesized a close relationship between IL-18 and death of hippocampal cells, affecting neurogenesis related to behavioral changes such as MDD. Il18-/- male mice were generated on the C57Bl/6 background and Il18+/+ mice were used as controls. Behavioral, histopathological, and molecular responses, as well as responses to intracerebral recombinant IL-18 administration, were examined. Compared with Il18+/+ mice, Il18-/- mice had impaired learning and memory and exhibited lower motivation. In the Il18-/- mice, degenerated mitochondria were detected in synaptic terminals in the molecular layer, the polymorphic layer, and in mossy fibers in the dentate gyrus, suggesting mitochondrial abnormalities. Because of the degeneration of mitochondria in the dentate gyrus, in which pro-apoptotic molecules were upregulated and anti-apoptotic factors were decreased, apoptosis inducers were not cleaved, indicating inhibition of apoptosis. In addition, neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and the maturity of neuronal cells were decreased in the Il18-/- mice, while intracerebral administration of recombinant IL-18 promoted significant recovery of neurogenesis. Our findings suggested that IL-18 was indispensable for mitochondrial homeostasis, sustaining clearance of degenerative neural cells, and supporting neurogenesis, normal neuronal maturation and hippocampal function.
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Lisboa SF, Niraula A, Resstel LB, Guimaraes FS, Godbout JP, Sheridan JF. Repeated social defeat-induced neuroinflammation, anxiety-like behavior and resistance to fear extinction were attenuated by the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN55,212-2. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:1924-1933. [PMID: 29786066 PMCID: PMC6046035 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-018-0064-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Psychosocial stress contributes to the development of psychiatric disorders. Repeated social defeat (RSD) is a murine stressor that causes a release of inflammatory monocytes into circulation. Moreover, RSD-induced anxiety-like behavior is dependent on the recruitment of these monocytes to the brain. Activation of the endocannabinoid (ECB) system may modulate both neuroendocrine and inflammatory responses mediated by stress. Therefore, we hypothesized that a cannabinoid receptor agonist would attenuate RSD-induced inflammation, anxiety, and stress sensitization. To test this hypothesis, mice received an injection of the synthetic cannabinoid1/2 receptor agonist, WIN55,212-2 (WIN; 1 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) daily for six consecutive days, 30 min before each exposure to RSD. Anxiety-like behavior, immune activation, neuroinflammation, and microglial reactivity were determined 14 h after RSD. RSD-induced anxiety-like behavior in the open field and in the EPM was reversed by WIN55,212-2. Moreover, WIN55,212-2 reduced the accumulation of inflammatory monocytes in circulation and brain after RSD and attenuated RSD-induced interleukin-1β (IL-1β) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in microglia/macrophages. Increased ex vivo reactivity of microglia/monocytes to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) after RSD was also attenuated by WIN55,212-2. Next, fear expression, extinction, and recall were evaluated 24 and 48 h, respectively, after contextual fear conditioning, which took place 7 days after RSD. Here, RSD caused prolonged fear expression and impaired fear extinction recall, which was associated with increased IL-1β mRNA in the brain. Moreover, these stress-induced effects were reversed by WIN55,212-2. In conclusion, activation of cannabinoid receptors limited the immune and neuroinflammatory responses to RSD and reversed the short-term and long-term behavioral deficits associated with RSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Francesca Lisboa
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049900, Brazil. .,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049900, Brazil.
| | - Anzela Niraula
- 0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Division of Biosciences, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Leonardo Barbosa Resstel
- 0000 0004 1937 0722grid.11899.38Department of Pharmacology, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049900 Brazil ,0000 0004 1937 0722grid.11899.38Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049900 Brazil
| | - Francisco Silveira Guimaraes
- 0000 0004 1937 0722grid.11899.38Department of Pharmacology, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049900 Brazil ,0000 0004 1937 0722grid.11899.38Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049900 Brazil
| | - Jonathan P. Godbout
- 0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Division of Biosciences, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA ,0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Department of Neuroscience, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA ,0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - John F. Sheridan
- 0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Division of Biosciences, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA ,0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Department of Neuroscience, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA ,0000 0001 2285 7943grid.261331.4Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
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