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Ballaz SJ, Bourin M. Cholecystokinin-Mediated Neuromodulation of Anxiety and Schizophrenia: A "Dimmer-Switch" Hypothesis. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:925-938. [PMID: 33185164 PMCID: PMC8686311 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666201113145143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholecystokinin (CCK), the most abundant brain neuropeptide, is involved in relevant behavioral functions like memory, cognition, and reward through its interactions with the opioid and dopaminergic systems in the limbic system. CCK excites neurons by binding two receptors, CCK1 and CCK2, expressed at low and high levels in the brain, respectively. Historically, CCK2 receptors have been related to the induction of panic attacks in humans. Disturbances in brain CCK expression also underlie the physiopathology of schizophrenia, which is attributed to the modulation by CCK1 receptors of the dopamine flux in the basal striatum. Despite this evidence, neither CCK2 receptor antagonists ameliorate human anxiety nor CCK agonists have consistently shown neuroleptic effects in clinical trials. A neglected aspect of the function of brain CCK is its neuromodulatory role in mental disorders. Interestingly, CCK is expressed in pivotal inhibitory interneurons that sculpt cortical dynamics and the flux of nerve impulses across corticolimbic areas and the excitatory projections to mesolimbic pathways. At the basal striatum, CCK modulates the excitability of glutamate, the release of inhibitory GABA, and the discharge of dopamine. Here we focus on how CCK may reduce rather than trigger anxiety by regulating its cognitive component. Adequate levels of CCK release in the basal striatum may control the interplay between cognition and reward circuitry, which is critical in schizophrenia. Hence, it is proposed that disturbances in the excitatory/ inhibitory interplay modulated by CCK may contribute to the imbalanced interaction between corticolimbic and mesolimbic neural activity found in anxiety and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago J. Ballaz
- Address correspondence to this author at the School of Biological Sciences & Engineering, Yachay Tech University, Hacienda San José s/n, San Miguel de Urcuquí, Ecuador; Tel: 593 (06) 299 9100, ext. 2626; E-mail:
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Comeras LB, Herzog H, Tasan RO. Neuropeptides at the crossroad of fear and hunger: a special focus on neuropeptide Y. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2019; 1455:59-80. [PMID: 31271235 PMCID: PMC6899945 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Survival in a natural environment forces an individual into constantly adapting purposive behavior. Specified interoceptive neurons monitor metabolic and physiological balance and activate dedicated brain circuits to satisfy essential needs, such as hunger, thirst, thermoregulation, fear, or anxiety. Neuropeptides are multifaceted, central components within such life‐sustaining programs. For instance, nutritional depletion results in a drop in glucose levels, release of hormones, and activation of hypothalamic and brainstem neurons. These neurons, in turn, release several neuropeptides that increase food‐seeking behavior and promote food intake. Similarly, internal and external threats activate neuronal pathways of avoidance and defensive behavior. Interestingly, specific nuclei of the hypothalamus and extended amygdala are activated by both hunger and fear. Here, we introduce the relevant neuropeptides and describe their function in feeding and emotional‐affective behaviors. We further highlight specific pathways and microcircuits, where neuropeptides may interact to identify prevailing homeostatic needs and direct respective compensatory behaviors. A specific focus will be on neuropeptide Y, since it is known for its pivotal role in metabolic and emotional pathways. We hypothesize that the orexigenic and anorexigenic properties of specific neuropeptides are related to their ability to inhibit fear and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas B Comeras
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Herzog
- Neuroscience Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ramon O Tasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Liedl B, Goeschen K, Sutherland SE, Roovers JP, Yassouridis A. Can surgical reconstruction of vaginal and ligamentous laxity cure overactive bladder symptoms in women with pelvic organ prolapse? BJU Int 2018; 123:493-510. [DOI: 10.1111/bju.14453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Liedl
- Reconstructive Urogenital Surgery; Pelvic Floor Centre Planegg; Planegg Urology Clinic; München-Planegg Germany
| | | | | | - Jan-Paul Roovers
- Academic Medical Centre/University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Yassouridis
- Ethics Committee; Faculty of Medicine; Ludwig-Maximilian University of Munich; Munich Germany
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Kellner M, Muhtz C, Nowack S, Leichsenring I, Wiedemann K, Yassouridis A. Effects of 35% carbon dioxide (CO 2) inhalation in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. J Psychiatr Res 2018; 96:260-264. [PMID: 29128558 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) two open pilot studies about the effects of 35% carbon dioxide (CO2) exist. One shows an augmented panicogenic and anxiogenic response (Muhtz et al., 2011), the other does not (Talesnik et al. 2007). We further characterized the CO2 reactivity in PTSD using for the first time placebo-controlled and double-blind conditions. METHODS In 20 patients with PTSD we assessed panic, anxiety, dissociative and PTSD symptoms after a single vital capacity inhalation of 35% CO2 compared to a placebo gas condition in a within-participant cross-over, placebo-controlled, double-blind and randomized design. RESULTS Inhalation of 35% CO2 versus placebo provoked significantly increased panic, anxiety, dissociative and PTSD symptoms. The reaction to placebo gas was minimal. Order of inhalation, patients' sex or age did not influence the results. The panic and anxiety response under CO2 was considerably higher in the PTSD patients than in healthy controls from our previous open study. CONCLUSIONS The results corroborate that our preceding findings of an increased CO2 reactivity in patients with PTSD are not false positive due to the open design or the lack of placebo control. Replication in a larger number of PTSD patients and matched control subjects is needed. The potential role of childhood traumatisation, psychiatric comorbidity, psychotropic medication and trait dissociation in prior contradictory reports should be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kellner
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Dept. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; Hospital Herford, Dept. of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Schwarzenmoorstraße 70, 32049 Herford, Germany.
| | - Christoph Muhtz
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Dept. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; Schön Hospital Hamburg Eilbek, Department of Psychosomatics, Dehnhaide 120, 22081 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sven Nowack
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Dept. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Irina Leichsenring
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Dept. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Wiedemann
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Dept. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Auricular Acupuncture Versus Progressive Muscle Relaxation in Patients with Anxiety Disorders or Major Depressive Disorder: A Prospective Parallel Group Clinical Trial. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2016; 9:191-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Yen YC, Gassen NC, Zellner A, Rein T, Landgraf R, Wotjak CT, Anderzhanova E. Glycogen synthase kinase-3β inhibition in the medial prefrontal cortex mediates paradoxical amphetamine action in a mouse model of ADHD. Front Behav Neurosci 2015; 9:67. [PMID: 25852508 PMCID: PMC4367184 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychostimulants show therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is generally assumed that they ameliorate ADHD symptoms via interfering with monoaminergic signaling. We combined behavioral pharmacology, neurochemistry and molecular analyses to identify mechanisms underlying the paradoxical calming effect of amphetamine in low trait anxiety behavior (LAB) mice, a novel multigenetic animal model of ADHD. Amphetamine (1 mg/kg) and methylphenidate (10 mg/kg) elicited similar dopamine and norepinephrine release in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and in the striatum of LAB mice. In contrast, amphetamine decreased, while methylphenidate increased locomotor activity. This argues against changes in dopamine and/or norepinephrine release as mediators of amphetamine paradoxical effects. Instead, the calming activity of amphetamine corresponded to the inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) activity, specifically in the mPFC. Accordingly, not only systemic administration of the GSK3β inhibitor TDZD-8 (20 mg/kg), but also local microinjections of TDZD-8 and amphetamine into the mPFC, but not into the striatum, decreased locomotor activity in LAB mice. Amphetamine effects seem to depend on NMDA receptor signaling, since pre- or co-treatment with MK-801 (0.3 mg/kg) abolished the effects of amphetamine (1 mg/kg) on the locomotion and on the phosphorylation of GSK3β at the level of the mPFC. Taken together, the paradoxical calming effect of amphetamine in hyperactive LAB mice concurs with a decreased GSK3β activity in the mPFC. This effect appears to be independent of dopamine or norepinephrine release, but contingent on NMDA receptor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chun Yen
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Theo Rein
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry Munich, Germany
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Kao CY, Stalla G, Stalla J, Wotjak CT, Anderzhanova E. Norepinephrine and corticosterone in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus predict PTSD-like symptoms in mice. Eur J Neurosci 2015; 41:1139-48. [PMID: 25720329 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study measured changes in brain extracellular norepinephrine (NE) and free corticosterone (CORT) levels in a mouse model of post-traumatic stress disorder and related them to hyperarousal and fear memory retention. To this end, microdialysis in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the hippocampus (HPC) of male C57BL/6NCrl mice was performed during an acoustic startle response (ASR) and following an electric foot shock (FS), as well as during an ASR and recall of contextual fear (CF) 1 day later. Changes in ASR-stimulated NE levels in the mPFC corresponded to ASR 34 days after FS. Changes in basal and ASR-stimulated extracellular NE levels in the HPC, in contrast, were related to expression of early (day 2) and late (day 34) CF after FS. The increase in extracellular NE levels correlated in a U-shape manner with arousal levels and CF, thus suggesting a non-direct relationship. Stress of different modalities/strength (ASR, FS and CF) caused a similar relative increase in free CORT levels both in the mPFC and the HPC. One day after FS, ASR-induced increases in the CORT content in the mPFC tended to correlate with the FS-potentiated ASR in a U-shape manner. Taken together, these data show that the intracerebral increase in free CORT was likely related to an immediate response to stress, whereas NE neurotransmission in the forebrain predicted arousal and CF 1 month after trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-Y Kao
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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Agorastos A, Kellner M, Stiedl O, Muhtz C, Wiedemann K, Demiralay C. Blunted autonomic reactivity to pharmacological panic challenge under long-term escitalopram treatment in healthy men. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 18:pyu053. [PMID: 25522396 PMCID: PMC4376541 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyu053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Central serotonergic pathways influence brain areas involved in vagal cardiovascular regulation and, thereby, influence sympathetic efferent activity. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) affect multiple serotonergic pathways, including central autonomic pathways. However, only a few studies have assessed SSRI-mediated effects on autonomic reactivity in healthy individuals using heart rate variability (HRV). METHODS The present study assessed the influence of long-term treatment with escitalopram (ESC) on autonomic reactivity to an intravenous application of 50 µg cholecystokinin tetrapeptide (CCK-4) in 30 healthy young men using a double-blind, placebo (PLA)-controlled, randomized, within-subject cross-over design. Main outcome measures were time- and frequency-domain HRV parameters, assessed at both baseline and immediately after CCK-4 application. RESULTS Results showed substantial effects for the treatment × CCK-4 challenge interaction with respect to heart rate (p < 0.001; pη(2) = 0.499), SDNN (p < 0.001; pη(2) = 576), RMSSD (p = 0.015; pη(2) = 194), NN50% (p = 0.008; pη(2) = 0.224), and LF% (p = 0.014; pη(2) = 0.196), and moderate effects with respect HF% (p = 0.099; pη(2) = 0.094), with PLA subjects showing a higher increase in HR and SDNN and a higher decrease in RMSSD, NN50, LF and HF than subjects in the ESC condition. Thus, ESC treatment significantly blunted the autonomic reactivity to CCK-4. Secondary analysis indicated no effect of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on CCK-4-induced autonomic response. CONCLUSIONS Our results support findings suggesting an effect of SSRI treatment on autonomic regulation and provide evidence that ESC treatment is associated with blunted autonomic reactivity in healthy men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agorastos Agorastos
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Drs Agorastos, Kellner, Muhtz, Wiedemann, and Demiralay); Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Dr Muhtz).
| | - Michael Kellner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Drs Agorastos, Kellner, Muhtz, Wiedemann, and Demiralay); Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Dr Muhtz)
| | - Oliver Stiedl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Drs Agorastos, Kellner, Muhtz, Wiedemann, and Demiralay); Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Dr Muhtz)
| | - Christoph Muhtz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Drs Agorastos, Kellner, Muhtz, Wiedemann, and Demiralay); Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Dr Muhtz)
| | - Klaus Wiedemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Drs Agorastos, Kellner, Muhtz, Wiedemann, and Demiralay); Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Dr Muhtz)
| | - Cüneyt Demiralay
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Drs Agorastos, Kellner, Muhtz, Wiedemann, and Demiralay); Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Dr Stiedl); Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany (Dr Muhtz)
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Desai SJ, Borkar CD, Nakhate KT, Subhedar NK, Kokare DM. Neuropeptide Y attenuates anxiety- and depression-like effects of cholecystokinin-4 in mice. Neuroscience 2014; 277:818-30. [PMID: 25106129 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.07.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Revised: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the involvement of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the modulation of cholecystokinin-4 (CCK-4)-evoked anxiety and depression. Adult male mice were injected with vehicle, CCK-4, NPY, NPY Y1 receptor agonist [Leu(31), Pro(34)]-NPY or antagonist BIBP3226, via intracerebroventricular route, and subjected to social interaction or forced swim test (FST) for the evaluation of anxiety- and depression-like phenotypes, respectively. To assess the interactions between the two systems, if any, NPYergic agents were administered prior to CCK-4 and the animals were subjected to these behavioral tests. Treatment with CCK-4 or BIBP3226 dose-dependently reduced social interaction time, while NPY or [Leu(31), Pro(34)]-NPY produced opposite effect. CCK-4 treatment increased immobility time in FST. This effect was reversed by NPY and [Leu(31), Pro(34)]-NPY, although BIBP3226 per se did not alter the immobility time. In a combination study, the anxiogenic or depressive effects of CCK-4 were attenuated by NPY or [Leu(31), Pro(34)]-NPY and potentiated by BIBP3226. The brains of CCK-4 treated rats were processed for NPY immunohistochemistry. Following CCK-4 treatment, the nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh), ventral part of lateral division of the bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BSTLV), hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and locus coeruleus showed a reduction in NPY-immunoreactive fibers. Population of NPY-immunopositive cells was also decreased in the AcbSh, BSTLV, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC). However, NPY-immunoreaction in the fibers of the ARC and cells of the central nucleus of amygdala was unchanged. We conclude that, inhibition of NPY signaling in the brain by CCK-4 might be causal to anxiety- and depression-like behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Desai
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Ontario, Canada
| | - C D Borkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, Maharashtra, India
| | - K T Nakhate
- Rungta College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Rungta Educational Campus, Kohka-Kurud Road, Bhilai 490 024, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - N K Subhedar
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Central Tower, Sai Trinity Building, Garware Circle, Sutarwadi, Pashan, Pune 411 021, Maharashtra, India
| | - D M Kokare
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, Maharashtra, India.
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Tõru I, Maron E, Raag M, Vasar V, Nutt DJ, Shlik J. The effect of 6-week treatment with escitalopram on CCK-4 challenge: a placebo-controlled study in CCK-4-sensitive healthy volunteers. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2013; 23:645-52. [PMID: 22939006 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2012.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2012] [Revised: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Cholecystokinin-tetrapeptide (CCK-4)-induced panic attacks are reportedly attenuated by effective treatment with antipanic antidepressants in patients with panic disorder, but in healthy volunteers such effects are not well studied. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of 6-week treatment with an SSRI escitalopram on CCK-4-induced symptoms in healthy volunteers, who previously responded with a panic attack to CCK-4 challenge. A total of 18 healthy subjects (10 males and eight females, mean age 22.5 ± 5.8) received a 6-week treatment with escitalopram (10 mg/day) and placebo followed by CCK-4 challenge (50 μg) in a double-blind crossover design. The panic rate was 67% after treatment with escitalopram and 56% after treatment with placebo (p = 0.7). Thus, the results showed a significant reduction in CCK-4-induced panic rates without significant differences between escitalopram and placebo conditions. There were no significant effects of either treatment on any other variable of anxiety or cardiovascular indices. Secondary analysis showed no effect of gender or 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on response to CCK-4 challenge. This study demonstrated that in contrast to the findings in patients with panic disorder, in CCK-4-sensitive healthy volunteers the treatment with an antipanic SSRI did not cause a reduction of CCK-4-induced panic attacks beyond the effect of placebo. The mechanisms behind this discrepancy and the reasons of the decrease in sensitivity to CCK-4 challenge on repeated administration remain to be clarified in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Innar Tõru
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.
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Kellner M, Wiedemann K, Yassouridis A, Muhtz C. Non-response of cortisol during stressful exposure therapy in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder--preliminary results. Psychiatry Res 2012; 199:111-4. [PMID: 22578822 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2012.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2011] [Revised: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Exposure with response prevention (ERP) is an established treatment for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and also an interesting model to characterize neuroendocrine response to psychological stress. However, so far few studies have assessed hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) function during ERP and results are inconsistent. In 15 patients with OCD we repeatedly measured salivary cortisol and subjective units of distress (SUD) on two consecutive afternoons. The first day served as a comparison condition; on the second day the very first session of ERP took place. While SUD were significantly increased during ERP versus the comparison day, salivary cortisol was statistically indistinguishable between ERP and comparison conditions before, during and after ERP. Thus, despite considerable psychological stress no increase of cortisol was observed. This response pattern to ERP in OCD patients needs further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kellner
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany.
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Zwanzger P, Domschke K, Bradwejn J. Neuronal network of panic disorder: the role of the neuropeptide cholecystokinin. Depress Anxiety 2012; 29:762-74. [PMID: 22553078 DOI: 10.1002/da.21919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2011] [Revised: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Panic disorder (PD) is characterized by panic attacks, anticipatory anxiety and avoidance behavior. Its pathogenesis is complex and includes both neurobiological and psychological factors. With regard to neurobiological underpinnings, anxiety in humans seems to be mediated through a neuronal network, which involves several distinct brain regions, neuronal circuits and projections as well as neurotransmitters. A large body of evidence suggests that the neuropeptide cholecystokinin (CCK) might be an important modulator of this neuronal network. Key regions of the fear network, such as amygdala, hypothalamus, peraqueductal grey, or cortical regions seem to be connected by CCKergic pathways. CCK interacts with several anxiety-relevant neurotransmitters such as the serotonergic, GABA-ergic and noradrenergic system as well as with endocannabinoids, NPY and NPS. In humans, administration of CCK-4 reliably provokes panic attacks, which can be blocked by antipanic medication. Also, there is some support for a role of the CCK system in the genetic pathomechanism of PD with particularly strong evidence for the CCK gene itself and the CCK-2R (CCKBR) gene. Thus, it is hypothesized that genetic variants in the CCK system might contribute to the biological basis for the postulated CCK dysfunction in the fear network underlying PD. Taken together, a large body of evidence suggests a possible role for the neuropeptide CCK in PD with regard to neuroanatomical circuits, neurotransmitters and genetic factors. This review article proposes an extended hypothetical model for human PD, which integrates preclinical and clinical findings on CCK in addition to existing theories of the pathogenesis of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Zwanzger
- Mood and Anxiety Disorders Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany.
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Abstract
Biomarkers have been receiving increasing attention, especially in the field of psychiatry. In contrast to the availability of potent therapeutic tools including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and biological therapies, unmet needs remain in terms of onset of action, stability of response, and further improvement of the clinical course. Biomarkers are objectively measured characteristics which serve as indicators of the causes of illnesses, their clinical course, and modification by treatment. There exist a variety of markers: laboratory markers which comprise the determination of genetic and epigenetic markers, neurotransmitters, hormones, cytokines, neuropeptides, enzymes, and others as single measures; electrophysiological markers which usually comprise electroencephalography (EEG) measures, and in particular sleep EEG and evoked potentials, magnetic encephalography, electrocardiogram, facial electromyography, skin conductance, and others; brain imaging techniques such as cranial computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, functional MRl, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, positron emission tomography, and single photon emission computed tomography; and behavioral approaches such as cue exposure and challenge tests which can be used to induce especially emotional processes in anxiety and depression. Examples for each of these domains are provided in this review. With a view to developing more individually tailored therapeutic strategies, the characterization of patients and the courses of different types of treatment will become even more important in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Wiedemann
- University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Bi-directional effect of cholecystokinin receptor-2 overexpression on stress-triggered fear memory and anxiety in the mouse. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15999. [PMID: 21209861 PMCID: PMC3012733 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2010] [Accepted: 12/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fear, an emotional response of animals to environmental stress/threats, plays an important role in initiating and driving adaptive response, by which the homeostasis in the body is maintained. Overwhelming/uncontrollable fear, however, represents a core symptom of anxiety disorders, and may disturb the homeostasis. Because to recall or imagine certain cue(s) of stress/threats is a compulsory inducer for the expression of anxiety, it is generally believed that the pathogenesis of anxiety is associated with higher attention (acquisition) selectively to stress or mal-enhanced fear memory, despite that the actual relationship between fear memory and anxiety is not yet really established. In this study, inducible forebrain-specific cholecystokinin receptor-2 transgenic (IF-CCKR-2 tg) mice, different stress paradigms, batteries of behavioral tests, and biochemical assays were used to evaluate how different CCKergic activities drive fear behavior and hormonal reaction in response to stresses with different intensities. We found that in IF-CCKR-2 tg mice, contextual fear was impaired following 1 trial of footshock, while overall fear behavior was enhanced following 36 trials of footshock, compared to their littermate controls. In contrast to a standard Yerkes-Dodson (inverted-U shaped) stress-fear relationship in control mice, a linearized stress-fear curve was observed in CCKR-2 tg mice following gradient stresses. Moreover, compared to 1 trial, 36 trials of footshock in these transgenic mice enhanced anxiety-like behavior in other behavioral tests, impaired spatial and recognition memories, and prolonged the activation of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and glucocorticoids (CORT) following new acute stress. Taken together, these results indicate that stress may trigger two distinctive neurobehavioral systems, depending on both of the intensity of stress and the CCKergic tone in the brain. A “threshold theory” for this two-behavior system has been suggested.
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