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Shi X, Zhou XZ, Chen G, Luo WF, Zhou C, He TJ, Naik MT, Jiang Q, Marshall J, Cao C. Targeting the postsynaptic scaffolding protein PSD-95 enhances BDNF signaling to mitigate depression-like behaviors in mice. Sci Signal 2024; 17:eadn4556. [PMID: 38687826 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.adn4556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Signaling mediated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is supported by the postsynaptic scaffolding protein PSD-95, has antidepressant effects. Conversely, clinical depression is associated with reduced BDNF signaling. We found that peptidomimetic compounds that bind to PSD-95 promoted signaling by the BDNF receptor TrkB in the hippocampus and reduced depression-like behaviors in mice. The compounds CN2097 and Syn3 both bind to the PDZ3 domain of PSD-95, and Syn3 also binds to an α-helical region of the protein. Syn3 reduced depression-like behaviors in two mouse models of stress-induced depression; CN2097 had similar but less potent effects. In hippocampal neurons, application of Syn3 enhanced the formation of TrkB-Gαi1/3-PSD-95 complexes and potentiated downstream PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling. In mice subjected to chronic mild stress (CMS), systemic administration of Syn3 reversed the CMS-induced, depression-associated changes in PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling, dendrite complexity, spine density, and autophagy in the hippocampus and reduced depression-like behaviors. Knocking out Gαi1/3 in hippocampal neurons prevented the therapeutic effects of Syn3, indicating dependence of these effects on the TrkB pathway. The findings suggest that compounds that induce the formation of PSD-95-TrkB complexes have therapeutic potential to alleviate depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Shi
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xiao-Zhong Zhou
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei-Feng Luo
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Chengyu Zhou
- Department of Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Tian-Ju He
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Mandar T Naik
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Qin Jiang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - John Marshall
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Cong Cao
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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2
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Kim HJ, Ko EA, Kwon OB, Jung SC. Prenatal treatment with corticosterone via maternal injection induces learning and memory impairments via delaying postsynaptic development in hippocampal CA1 neurons of rats. J Neurosci Res 2024; 102:e25323. [PMID: 38553948 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25323] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Previously, we reported that prenatal exposure to high corticosterone induced attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-like behaviors with cognitive deficits after weaning. In the present study, cellular mechanisms underlying cortisol-induced cognitive dysfunction were investigated using rat pups (Corti.Pups) born from rat mothers that were repetitively injected with corticosterone during pregnancy. In results, Corti.Pups exhibited the failure of behavioral memory formation in the Morris water maze (MWM) test and the incomplete long-term potentiation (LTP) of hippocampal CA1 neurons. Additionally, glutamatergic excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) were remarkably suppressed in Corti.Pups compared to normal rat pups. Incomplete LTP and weaker EPSCs in Corti.Pups were attributed to the delayed postsynaptic development of CA1 neurons, showing a higher expression of NR2B subunits and lower expression of PSD-95 and BDNF. These results indicated that the prenatal treatment with corticosterone to elevate cortisol level might potently downregulate the BDNF-mediated signaling critical for the synaptic development of hippocampal CA1 neurons during brain development, and subsequently, induce learning and memory impairment. Our findings suggest a possibility that the prenatal dysregulation of cortisol triggers the epigenetic pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders, such as ADHD and autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Ji Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-A Ko
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Oh-Bin Kwon
- New Drug Development Center, Kmedihub, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Cherl Jung
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Medical Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
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3
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Kong H, Xu T, Wang S, Zhang Z, Li M, Qu S, Li Q, Gao P, Cong Z. The molecular mechanism of polysaccharides in combating major depressive disorder: A comprehensive review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 259:129067. [PMID: 38163510 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.129067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex psychiatric condition with diverse etiological factors. Typical pathological features include decreased cerebral cortex, subcortical structures, and grey matter volumes, as well as monoamine transmitter dysregulation. Although medications exist to treat MDD, unmet needs persist due to limited efficacy, induced side effects, and relapse upon drug withdrawal. Polysaccharides offer promising new therapies for MDD, demonstrating antidepressant effects with minimal side effects and multiple targets. These include neurotransmitter, neurotrophin, neuroinflammation, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and intestinal flora regulation. This review explores the latest advancements in understanding the pharmacological actions and mechanisms of polysaccharides in treating major depression. We discuss the impact of polysaccharides' diverse structures and properties on their pharmacological actions, aiming to inspire new research directions and facilitate the discovery of novel anti-depressive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Kong
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Tianren Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Shengguang Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Min Li
- Institute of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Suyan Qu
- Tai 'an Taishan District People's Hospital, China
| | - Qinqing Li
- Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Institute of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China.
| | - Zhufeng Cong
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China; Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, China.
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Numakawa T, Kajihara R. An Interaction between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Stress-Related Glucocorticoids in the Pathophysiology of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1596. [PMID: 38338875 PMCID: PMC10855648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031596] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Both the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glucocorticoids (GCs) play multiple roles in various aspects of neurons, including cell survival and synaptic function. BDNF and its receptor TrkB are extensively expressed in neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), and the contribution of the BDNF/TrkB system to neuronal function is evident; thus, its downregulation has been considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). GCs, stress-related molecules, and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) are also considered to be associated with AD in addition to mental disorders such as depression. Importantly, a growing body of evidence suggests a close relationship between BDNF/TrkB-mediated signaling and the GCs/GR system in the CNS. Here, we introduce the current studies on the interaction between the neurotrophic system and stress in CNS neurons and discuss their involvement in the pathophysiology of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadahiro Numakawa
- Department of Cell Modulation, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Kajihara
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Life Science, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0976, Japan
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Jeanneteau F. Stress and the risk of Alzheimer dementia: Can deconstructed engrams be rebuilt? J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13235. [PMID: 36775895 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13235] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The exact neuropathological mechanism by which the dementia process unfolds is under intense scrutiny. The disease affects about 38 million people worldwide, 70% of which are clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD). If the destruction of synapses essential for learning, planning and decision-making is part of the problem, must the restoration of previously lost synapses be part of the solution? It is plausible that neuronal capacity to restitute information corresponds with the adaptive capacity of its connectivity reserve. A challenge will be to promote the functional connectivity that can compensate for the lost one. This will require better clarification of the remodeling of functional connectivity during the progression of AD dementia and its reversal upon experimental treatment. A major difficulty is to promote the neural pathways that are atrophied in AD dementia while suppressing others that are bolstered. Therapeutic strategies should aim at scaling functional connectivity to a just balance between the atrophic and hypertrophic systems. However, the exact factors that can help reach this objective are still unclear. Similarities between the effects of chronic stress and some neuropathological mechanisms underlying AD dementia support the idea that common components deserve prime attention as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy Jeanneteau
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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Farmer AL, Lewis MH. Reduction of restricted repetitive behavior by environmental enrichment: Potential neurobiological mechanisms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105291. [PMID: 37353046 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Restricted repetitive behaviors (RRB) are one of two diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder and common in other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. The term restricted repetitive behavior refers to a wide variety of inflexible patterns of behavior including stereotypy, self-injury, restricted interests, insistence on sameness, and ritualistic and compulsive behavior. However, despite their prevalence in clinical populations, their underlying causes remain poorly understood hampering the development of effective treatments. Intriguingly, numerous animal studies have demonstrated that these behaviors are reduced by rearing in enriched environments (EE). Understanding the processes responsible for the attenuation of repetitive behaviors by EE should offer insights into potential therapeutic approaches, as well as shed light on the underlying neurobiology of repetitive behaviors. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the relationship between EE and RRB and discusses potential mechanisms for EE's attenuation of RRB based on the broader EE literature. Existing gaps in the literature and future directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Farmer
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Mark H Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Correia AS, Cardoso A, Vale N. BDNF Unveiled: Exploring Its Role in Major Depression Disorder Serotonergic Imbalance and Associated Stress Conditions. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2081. [PMID: 37631295 PMCID: PMC10457827 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082081] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that plays a significant role in the survival and development of neurons, being involved in several diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and major depression disorder. The association between BDNF and major depressive disorder is the subject of extensive research. Indeed, numerous studies indicate that decreased levels of BDNF are linked to an increased occurrence of depressive symptoms, neuronal loss, and cortical atrophy. Moreover, it has been observed that antidepressive therapy can help restore BDNF levels. In this review, we will focus on the role of BDNF in major depression disorder serotonergic imbalance and associated stress conditions, particularly hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation and oxidative stress. All of these features are highly connected to BDNF signaling pathways in the context of this disease, and exploring this topic will aim to advance our understanding of the disorder, improve diagnostic and treatment approaches, and potentially identify new therapeutic targets to alleviate the heavy burden of depression on society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Salomé Correia
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Armando Cardoso
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal;
- NeuroGen Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Anatomy, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Community Medicine, Information and Health Decision Sciences (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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Arvin P, Ghafouri S, Bavarsad K, Hajipour S, Khoshnam SE, Sarkaki A, Farbood Y. Administration of growth hormone ameliorates adverse effects of total sleep deprivation. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:1671-1681. [PMID: 36862276 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01192-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Total sleep deprivation (TSD) causes several harmful changes including anxiety, inflammation, and increased expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) genes in the hippocampus. The current study was conducted to explain the possible effects of exogenous GH against the above parameters caused by TSD and the possible mechanisms involved. Male Wistar rats were divided into 1) control, 2) TSD and 3) TSD + GH groups. To induce TSD, the rats received a mild repetitive electric shock (2 mA, 3 s) to their paws every 10 min for 21 days. Rats in the third group received GH (1 ml/kg, sc) for 21 days as treatment for TSD. The motor coordination, locomotion, the level of IL-6, and expression of ERK and TrkB genes in hippocampal tissue were measured after TSD. The motor coordination (p < 0.001) and locomotion indices (p < 0.001) were impaired significantly by TSD. The concentrations of serum corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) (p < 0.001) and hippocampal interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p < 0.001) increased. However, there was a significant decrease in the interleukin-4 (IL-4) concentration and expression of ERK (p < 0.001) and TrkB (p < 0.001) genes in the hippocampus of rats with TSD. Treatment of TSD rats with GH improved motor balance (p < 0.001) and locomotion (p < 0.001), decreased serum CRH (p < 0.001), IL-6 (p < 0.01) but increased the IL-4 and expression of ERK (p < 0.001) and TrkB (p < 0.001) genes in the hippocampus. Results show that GH plays a key role in modulating the stress hormone, inflammation, and the expression of ERK and TrkB genes in the hippocampus following stress during TSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Arvin
- Department of Physiology, Medicine Faculty, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Samireh Ghafouri
- Department of Physiology, Medicine Faculty, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Kowsar Bavarsad
- Department of Physiology, Medicine Faculty, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Somayeh Hajipour
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Seyed Esmaeil Khoshnam
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Alireza Sarkaki
- Department of Physiology, Medicine Faculty, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Yaghoub Farbood
- Department of Physiology, Medicine Faculty, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Basic Medical Sciences Research Institute, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Fries GR, Saldana VA, Finnstein J, Rein T. Molecular pathways of major depressive disorder converge on the synapse. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:284-297. [PMID: 36203007 PMCID: PMC9540059 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01806-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a psychiatric disease of still poorly understood molecular etiology. Extensive studies at different molecular levels point to a high complexity of numerous interrelated pathways as the underpinnings of depression. Major systems under consideration include monoamines, stress, neurotrophins and neurogenesis, excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, mitochondrial dysfunction, (epi)genetics, inflammation, the opioid system, myelination, and the gut-brain axis, among others. This review aims at illustrating how these multiple signaling pathways and systems may interact to provide a more comprehensive view of MDD's neurobiology. In particular, considering the pattern of synaptic activity as the closest physical representation of mood, emotion, and conscience we can conceptualize, each pathway or molecular system will be scrutinized for links to synaptic neurotransmission. Models of the neurobiology of MDD will be discussed as well as future actions to improve the understanding of the disease and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel R. Fries
- grid.267308.80000 0000 9206 2401Translational Psychiatry Program, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX 77054 USA ,grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 6767 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Valeria A. Saldana
- grid.262285.90000 0000 8800 2297Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, CT 06473 USA
| | - Johannes Finnstein
- grid.419548.50000 0000 9497 5095Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Project Group Molecular Pathways of Depression, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 10, 80804 Munich, Germany
| | - Theo Rein
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Project Group Molecular Pathways of Depression, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 10, 80804, Munich, Germany.
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Dashti S, Nahavandi A. Neuroprotective effects of aripiprazole in stress-induced depressive-like behavior: Possible role of CACNA1C. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 126:102170. [PMID: 36270562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder. Recently, aripiprazole, a novel antipsychotic drug, has been approved as the adjunctive therapy for the Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). However, the mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of aripiprazole are not fully known. Besides the involvement of calcium signaling dysregulations in the pathophysiology of depression, there is some evidence of overexpressed CACNA1C (the gene encoding the Cav1.2 channels) following chronic stress in the brain regions, which involved in emotional and stress responses. Based on the data indicating the aripiprazole's effects on intracellular calcium levels, this study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of therapeutic effects of aripiprazole, by a focus on the modulation of CACNA1C expression, in the rat stress-induced model of depression. METHODS Using Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS) model of depression, we examined the effects of aripiprazole on depressive and anxiety-like behaviors (by forced swimming test and elevated plus maze), serum IL-6 (Elisa), and cell survival (Nissl staining). In addition, CACNA1C, BDNF, and TrkB expression in the PFC and hippocampus (RT-qPCR), as well as BDNF and GAP-43 protein levels in the hippocampus (Immunohistofluorescence), have been assayed. RESULTS Our data indicated that aripiprazole could improve anxiety and depressive-like behaviors, decrease the serum levels of IL-6 and hippocampal cell death following CUMS. In addition, we showed the significant modulation on overexpressed CACNA1C, as well as downregulated BDNF and GAP-43 expression DISCUSSION: These results demonstrate that aripiprazole may promote synaptic plasticity by improving the expression of BDNF and gap-43. In addition, inflammation reduction and CACNA1C expression downregulation may be some of mechanisms by which aripiprazole alleviates chronic stress-induced hippocampal cell death and play its pivotal antidepressant role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Dashti
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arezo Nahavandi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Woon EP, Butkovich LM, Peluso AA, Elbasheir A, Taylor K, Gourley SL. Medial orbitofrontal neurotrophin systems integrate hippocampal input into outcome-specific value representations. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111334. [PMID: 36103822 PMCID: PMC9799221 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In everyday life, we mentally represent possible consequences of our behaviors and integrate specific outcome values into existing knowledge to inform decisions. The medial orbitofrontal cortex (MO) is necessary to adapt behaviors when outcomes are not immediately available-when they and their values need to be envisioned. Nevertheless, neurobiological mechanisms remain unclear. We find that the neuroplasticity-associated neurotrophin receptor tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) is necessary for mice to integrate outcome-specific value information into choice behavior. This function appears attributable to memory updating (and not retrieval) and the stabilization of dendritic spines on excitatory MO neurons, which led us to investigate inputs to the MO. Ventral hippocampal (vHC)-to-MO projections appear conditionally necessary for value updating, involved in long-term aversion-based value memory updating. Furthermore, vHC-MO-mediated control of choice is TrkB dependent. Altogether, we reveal a vHC-MO connection by which specific value memories are updated, and we position TrkB within this functional circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen P Woon
- Graduate Training Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Laura M Butkovich
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Arianna A Peluso
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Aziz Elbasheir
- Graduate Training Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Kian Taylor
- Graduate Training Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shannon L Gourley
- Graduate Training Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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12
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Hu YQ, Niu TT, Xu JM, Peng L, Sun QH, Huang Y, Zhou J, Ding YQ. Negative air ion exposure ameliorates depression-like behaviors induced by chronic mild stress in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:62626-62636. [PMID: 35411516 PMCID: PMC9464145 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20144-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The presence of negative air ions (NAI) is suggested to be a beneficial factor in improving psychological status and used in treating depression as an alternative approach. However, more biological evidence from animal models is needed to ensure the effects of NAI on the mood regulation, through which can facilitate identification of possible underlying mechanisms. In this study, the chronic mild stress (CMS) protocol was used to induce depressive-like behaviors in mice, and the effects of NAI exposure on CMS-induced depression-like behaviors were examined. Thirty-day NAI exposure prevented the CMS-induced depression-like behaviors as shown by the restoration of sucrose preference and reduced immobility time in the tail suspension test. In addition, the elevation of serous corticosterone was present in CMS-treated mice but not existed in those with the NAI exposure. Furthermore, we observed altered ratios of some cytokines secreted by type 1 T helper (Th1) cells and Th2 cells in CMS-treated mice, but it could be restored after NAI exposure. In conclusion, NAI intervention is able to ameliorate CMS-induced depression-like behaviors in mice, and this effect is associated with the alteration of corticosterone and functional rebalance between Th1 and Th2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Qing Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, No. 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-Ting Niu
- Institute of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, No. 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ming Xu
- Shanghai Typhoon Institute, CMA, No. 166 Puxi Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Bureau, No. 166 Puxi Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Peng
- Shanghai Typhoon Institute, CMA, No. 166 Puxi Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Bureau, No. 166 Puxi Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Hua Sun
- School of Public Health, Joint China-US Research Center for Environment and Pulmonary Diseases, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Fudan University, No. 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji Zhou
- Shanghai Typhoon Institute, CMA, No. 166 Puxi Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Meteorology and Health, Shanghai Meteorological Bureau, No. 166 Puxi Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences & Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, No. 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Qiang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, No. 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Fudan University, No. 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Effects of fast-acting antidepressant drugs on a postpartum depression mice model. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113598. [PMID: 36029538 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a severe psychiatric disorder with devastating consequences on child development and mother's health. Dysregulation of glutamatergic and GABAergic signalling has been described in the corticolimbic system of PPD patients, who also show a downregulation of allopregnanolone levels in serum. Consequently, a synthetic allopregnanolone-based treatment is the current eligible drug to treat PPD patients. Alternatively, ketamine appears to be a promising medication for preventing PPD, nevertheless the differences in efficacy between both treatments remains unknown due to the lack of comparative studies. On this basis, the present study aims to compare the effectiveness of allopregnanolone and ketamine on a PPD-like mouse model. Our results show that postpartum females undergoing a maternal separation with early weaning (MSEW) protocol show increased despair-like behaviour, anhedonia and disrupted maternal care. Such symptoms are accompanied by lower allopregnanolone serum levels, reduction of vesicular transporters of GABA (VGAT) and glutamate (VGLUT1) in the infralimbic cortex (IL), as well as decreased hippocampal cellular proliferation. Furthermore, both drugs prevent despair-like behaviour while only ketamine reverts anhedonia. Both treatments increase hippocampal neurogenesis, while only allopregnanolone raises VGAT and VGLUT1 markers in IL. These findings suggest that ketamine might be even more effective than allopregnanolone, which points out the necessity of including ketamine in clinical studies for PPD patients. Altogether, we propose a new mice model that recapitulates the core symptomatology and molecular alterations shown in PPD patients, which allows us to further investigate both the neurobiology of PPD and the therapeutic potential of antidepressant drugs.
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The Role of Neurotrophin Signaling in Age-Related Cognitive Decline and Cognitive Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147726. [PMID: 35887075 PMCID: PMC9320180 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins are a family of secreted proteins expressed in the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system that support neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its high affinity receptor TrkB are highly expressed in the cortical and hippocampal areas and play an essential role in learning and memory. The decline of cognitive function with aging is a major risk factor for cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, an alteration of BDNF/TrkB signaling with aging and/or pathological conditions has been indicated as a potential mechanism of cognitive decline. In this review, we summarize the cellular function of neurotrophin signaling and review the current evidence indicating a pathological role of neurotrophin signaling, especially of BDNF/TrkB signaling, in the cognitive decline in aging and age-related cognitive diseases. We also review the therapeutic approach for cognitive decline by the upregulation of the endogenous BDNF/TrkB-system.
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15
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Czarzasta K, Bogacki-Rychlik W, Segiet-Swiecicka A, Kruszewska J, Malik J, Skital V, Kasarello K, Wrzesien R, Bialy M, Sajdel-Sulkowska EM. Gender differences in short- vs. long-term impact of maternal depression following pre-gestational chronic mild stress. Exp Neurol 2022; 353:114059. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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16
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de Mendonça Filho EJ, Barth B, Bandeira DR, de Lima RMS, Arcego DM, Dalmaz C, Pokhvisneva I, Sassi RB, Hall GBC, Meaney MJ, Silveira PP. Cognitive Development and Brain Gray Matter Susceptibility to Prenatal Adversities: Moderation by the Prefrontal Cortex Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Gene Co-expression Network. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:744743. [PMID: 34899157 PMCID: PMC8652300 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.744743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Previous studies focused on the relationship between prenatal conditions and neurodevelopmental outcomes later in life, but few have explored the interplay between gene co-expression networks and prenatal adversity conditions on cognitive development trajectories and gray matter density. Methods: We analyzed the moderation effects of an expression polygenic score (ePRS) for the Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor gene network (BDNF ePRS) on the association between prenatal adversity and child cognitive development. A score based on genes co-expressed with the prefrontal cortex (PFC) BDNF was created, using the effect size of the association between the individual single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and the BDNF expression in the PFC. Cognitive development trajectories of 157 young children from the Maternal Adversity, Vulnerability and Neurodevelopment (MAVAN) cohort were assessed longitudinally in 4-time points (6, 12, 18, and 36 months) using the Bayley-II mental scales. Results: Linear mixed-effects modeling indicated that BDNF ePRS moderates the effects of prenatal adversity on cognitive growth. In children with high BDNF ePRS, higher prenatal adversity was associated with slower cognitive development in comparison with those exposed to lower prenatal adversity. Parallel-Independent Component Analysis (pICA) suggested that associations of expression-based SNPs and gray matter density significantly differed between low and high prenatal adversity groups. The brain IC included areas involved in visual association processes (Brodmann area 19 and 18), reallocation of attention, and integration of information across the supramodal cortex (Brodmann area 10). Conclusion: Cognitive development trajectories and brain gray matter seem to be influenced by the interplay of prenatal environmental conditions and the expression of an important BDNF gene network that guides the growth and plasticity of neurons and synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euclides José de Mendonça Filho
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Barbara Barth
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Denise Ruschel Bandeira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psicologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Randriely Merscher Sobreira de Lima
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Danusa Mar Arcego
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Carla Dalmaz
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Irina Pokhvisneva
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Geoffrey B. C. Hall
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Michael J. Meaney
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Patricia Pelufo Silveira
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
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17
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Guyon N, Zacharias LR, van Lunteren JA, Immenschuh J, Fuzik J, Märtin A, Xuan Y, Zilberter M, Kim H, Meletis K, Lopes-Aguiar C, Carlén M. Adult trkB Signaling in Parvalbumin Interneurons is Essential to Prefrontal Network Dynamics. J Neurosci 2021; 41:3120-3141. [PMID: 33593856 PMCID: PMC8026352 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1848-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibitory interneurons expressing parvalbumin (PV) are central to cortical network dynamics, generation of γ oscillations, and cognition. Dysfunction of PV interneurons disrupts cortical information processing and cognitive behavior. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tyrosine receptor kinase B (trkB) signaling regulates the maturation of cortical PV interneurons but is also implicated in their adult multidimensional functions. Using a novel viral strategy for cell-type-specific and spatially restricted expression of a dominant-negative trkB (trkB.DN), we show that BDNF/trkB signaling is essential to the integrity and maintenance of prefrontal PV interneurons in adult male and female mice. Reduced BDNF/trkB signaling in PV interneurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) resulted in deficient PV inhibition and increased baseline local field potential (LFP) activity in a broad frequency band. The altered network activity was particularly pronounced during increased activation of the prefrontal network and was associated with changed dynamics of local excitatory neurons, as well as decreased modulation of the LFP, abnormalities that appeared to generalize across stimuli and brain states. In addition, our findings link reduced BDNF/trkB signaling in prefrontal PV interneurons to increased aggression. Together our investigations demonstrate that BDNF/trkB signaling in PV interneurons in the adult mPFC is essential to local network dynamics and cognitive behavior. Our data provide direct support for the suggested association between decreased trkB signaling, deficient PV inhibition, and altered prefrontal circuitry.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tyrosine receptor kinase B (trkB) signaling promotes the maturation of inhibitory parvalbumin (PV) interneurons, neurons central to local cortical dynamics, γ rhythms, and cognition. Here, we used a novel viral approach for reduced BDNF/trkB signaling in PV interneurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to establish the role of BDNF/trkB signaling in adult prefrontal network activities. Reduced BDNF/trkB signaling caused pronounced morphologic alterations, reduced PV inhibition, and deficient prefrontal network dynamics. The altered network activity appeared to manifest across stimuli and brain states and was associated with aberrant local field potential (LFP) activities and increased aggression. The results demonstrate that adult BDNF/trkB signaling is essential to PV inhibition and prefrontal circuit function and directly links BDNF/trkB signaling to network integrity in the adult brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Guyon
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Leonardo Rakauskas Zacharias
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil
| | | | - Jana Immenschuh
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Janos Fuzik
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Antje Märtin
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Yang Xuan
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Misha Zilberter
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Hoseok Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | | | - Cleiton Lopes-Aguiar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Marie Carlén
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge 14183, Sweden
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18
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Abstract
Stressor exposure causes dendritic remodeling on excitatory neurons in multiple regions of the brain, including the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Additionally, stressor and exogenous stress hormone exposure impair cognitive functions that are dependent on the OFC. For this Special Issue on the OFC, we summarize current literature regarding how stress-prenatal, postnatal, and even inter-generational-affects OFC neuron structure in rodents. We discuss dendrite structure, dendritic spines, and gene expression. We aim to provide a focused resource for those interested in how stressors impact this heterogeneous brain region. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle K. Sequeira
- Graduate Training Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 954 Gatewood Rd. NE, Atlanta GA 30329
| | - Shannon L. Gourley
- Graduate Training Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 954 Gatewood Rd. NE, Atlanta GA 30329
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19
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PTEN in prefrontal cortex is essential in regulating depression-like behaviors in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:185. [PMID: 33771972 PMCID: PMC7998021 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01312-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress is an environmental risk factor for depression and causes neuronal atrophy in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and other brain regions. It is still unclear about the molecular mechanism underlying the behavioral alterations and neuronal atrophy induced by chronic stress. We here report that phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) is a mediator for chronic stress-induced depression-like behaviors and neuronal atrophy in mice. One-month chronic restraint stress (CRS) up-regulated PTEN signaling pathway in the PFC of mice as indicated by increasing levels of PTEN, p-MEK, and p-ERK but decreasing levels of p-AKT. Over-expression of Pten in the PFC led to an increase of depression-like behaviors, whereas genetic inactivation or knockdown of Pten in the PFC prevented the CRS-induced depression-like behaviors. In addition, systemic administration of PTEN inhibitor was also able to prevent these behaviors. Cellular examination showed that Pten over-expression or the CRS treatment resulted in PFC neuron atrophy, and this atrophy was blocked by genetic inactivation of Pten or systemic administration of PTEN inhibitor. Furthermore, possible causal link between Pten and glucocorticoids was examined. In chronic dexamethasone (Dex, a glucocorticoid agonist) treatment-induced depression model, increased PTEN levels were observed, and depression-like behaviors and PFC neuron atrophy were attenuated by the administration of PTEN inhibitor. Our results indicate that PTEN serves as a key mediator in chronic stress-induced neuron atrophy as well as depression-like behaviors, providing molecular evidence supporting the synaptic plasticity theory of depression.
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20
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HUZARD D, RAPPENEAU V, MEIJER OC, TOUMA C, ARANGO-LIEVANO M, GARABEDIAN MJ, JEANNETEAU F. Experience and activity-dependent control of glucocorticoid receptors during the stress response in large-scale brain networks. Stress 2021; 24:130-153. [PMID: 32755268 PMCID: PMC7907260 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2020.1806226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of actions of the glucocorticoid stress hormones among individuals and within organs, tissues and cells is shaped by age, gender, genetics, metabolism, and the quantity of exposure. However, such factors cannot explain the heterogeneity of responses in the brain within cells of the same lineage, or similar tissue environment, or in the same individual. Here, we argue that the stress response is continuously updated by synchronized neural activity on large-scale brain networks. This occurs at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels by crosstalk communication between activity-dependent and glucocorticoid signaling pathways, which updates the diversity of responses based on prior experience. Such a Bayesian process determines adaptation to the demands of the body and external world. We propose a framework for understanding how the diversity of glucocorticoid actions throughout brain networks is essential for supporting optimal health, while its disruption may contribute to the pathophysiology of stress-related disorders, such as major depression, and resistance to therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien HUZARD
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Montpellier, France
| | - Virginie RAPPENEAU
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Onno C. MEIJER
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Chadi TOUMA
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Margarita ARANGO-LIEVANO
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Freddy JEANNETEAU
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Montpellier, France
- Corresponding author:
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21
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Aguilar-Hernández L, Vázquez-Hernández AJ, de-Lima-Mar DF, Vázquez-Roque RA, Tendilla-Beltrán H, Flores G. Memory and dendritic spines loss, and dynamic dendritic spines changes are age-dependent in the rat. J Chem Neuroanat 2020; 110:101858. [PMID: 32950615 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2020.101858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brain aging is a widely studied process, but due to its complexity, much of its progress is unknown. There are many studies linking memory loss and reduced interneuronal communication with brain aging. However, only a few studies compare young and old animals. In the present study, in male rats aged 3, 6, and 18 months, we analyzed the locomotor activity and also short and long-term memory using the novel object recognition test (NORT), in addition to evaluating the dendritic length and the number of dendritic spines in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and in the CA1, CA3 and DG regions of the dorsal hippocampus using Golgi-Cox staining. We also analyzed the types of dendritic spines in the aforementioned regions. 6- and 18-month old animals showed a reduction in locomotor activity, while long-term memory deficit was observed in 18-month old rats. At 18 months old, the dendritic length was reduced in all the studied regions. The dendritic spine number was also reduced in layer 5 of the PFC, and the CA1 and CA3 of the hippocampus. The dynamics of dendritic spines changed with age, with a reduction of the mushroom spines in all the studied regions, with an increase of the stubby spines in all the studied regions except from the CA3 region, that showed a reduction. Our data suggest that age causes changes in behavior, which may be the result of morphological changes at the dendrite level, both in their length and in the dynamics of their spines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Aguilar-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, 72570, Mexico; Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Conducta, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), CDMX, 07738, Mexico
| | - Andrea Judith Vázquez-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, 72570, Mexico; Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Conducta, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), CDMX, 07738, Mexico
| | - Diana Frida de-Lima-Mar
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, 72570, Mexico
| | - Rubén Antonio Vázquez-Roque
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, 72570, Mexico
| | - Hiram Tendilla-Beltrán
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, 72570, Mexico; Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Conducta, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), CDMX, 07738, Mexico
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, 72570, Mexico.
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22
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Barfield ET, Sequeira MK, Parsons RG, Gourley SL. Morphological Responses of Excitatory Prelimbic and Orbitofrontal Cortical Neurons to Excess Corticosterone in Adolescence and Acute Stress in Adulthood. Front Neuroanat 2020; 14:45. [PMID: 33013327 PMCID: PMC7506158 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2020.00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Considerable evidence indicates that chronic stress and excess glucocorticoids induce neuronal remodeling in prefrontal cortical (PFC) regions. Adolescence is also characterized by a structural reorganization of PFC neurons, yet interactions between stress- and age-related structural plasticity are still being determined. We quantified dendritic spine densities on apical dendrites of excitatory neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex, prelimbic subregion (PL). Densities decreased across adolescent development, as expected, and spine volume increased. Unexpectedly, exposure to excess corticosterone (CORT) throughout adolescence did not cause additional dendritic spine loss detectable in adulthood. As a positive control dendrite population expected to be sensitive to CORT, we imaged neurons in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), confirming CORT-induced dendritic spine attrition on basal arbors of layer V neurons. We next assessed the effects of acute, mild stress in adulthood: On PL neurons, an acute stressor increased the density of mature, mushroom-shaped spines. Meanwhile, on OFC neurons, dendritic spine volumes and lengths were lower in mice exposed to both CORT and an acute stressor (also referred to as a "double hit"). In sum, prolonged exposure to excess glucocorticoids during adolescence can have morphological and also metaplastic consequences, but they are not global. Anatomical considerations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth T. Barfield
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Michelle K. Sequeira
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Graduate Training Programs in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ryan G. Parsons
- Graduate Program in Integrative Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Shannon L. Gourley
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Graduate Training Programs in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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23
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Li YC, Zheng XX, Xia SZ, Li Y, Deng HH, Wang X, Chen YW, Yue YS, He J, Cao YJ. Paeoniflorin ameliorates depressive-like behavior in prenatally stressed offspring by restoring the HPA axis- and glucocorticoid receptor- associated dysfunction. J Affect Disord 2020; 274:471-481. [PMID: 32663978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.05.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal stress (PS) can increase the risk of nervous, endocrine and metabolic diseases and induce depression in offspring. Paeoniflorin (PA) is an amorphous glucoside isolated from the aqueous extract of roots of the peony plant (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) and exerts various pharmacological effects in the nervous system. METHODS Male prenatally stressed offspring were used to investigate the antidepression-like effects and possible mechanism of PA. We measured animal behavior, HPA axis, Nissil staining, and Ng expression. Additionally, we assessed the modulation of hippocampal glucocorticoid receptors (GR) nuclear translocation and SNARE complex expression by western blotting. RESULTS The results showed that administration of PA (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg/day, i.g.) for 28 days markedly increased sucrose intake and decreased the immobility time and the total number of crossings, center crossings, rearing, and grooming in male PS offspring. Moreover, PA significantly reduced the serum corticosterone (CORT), adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and hippocampal glutamate (Glu) levels in male PS offspring, which were stimulated by an increase of GR nuclear translocation. Furthermore, PA markedly increased neurogranin (Ng) protein expression in the hippocampus CA3 region in offspring. PA also markedly decreased hippocampal Glu by inhibiting SNAP25, VAMP2, Syntaxin1a and related protein expression; SNARE complex formation; and EAAT2/3, NR1, NR2A, and FKBP5 protein expression. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the results of this study show that PA has antidepression-like effects in male PS offspring, partially due to the HPA axis, GR dysfunction and Glu transport system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chun Li
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Xing Xing Zheng
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Si Zhe Xia
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Yang Li
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Huan Huan Deng
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Xing Wang
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Yi Wei Chen
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Yi Song Yue
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Jiao He
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Yan Jun Cao
- Biomedicine Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province, school of pharmacy, Northwest University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, P.R. China.
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24
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Woon EP, Sequeira MK, Barbee BR, Gourley SL. Involvement of the rodent prelimbic and medial orbitofrontal cortices in goal-directed action: A brief review. J Neurosci Res 2020; 98:1020-1030. [PMID: 31820488 PMCID: PMC7392403 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Goal-directed action refers to selecting behaviors based on the expectation that they will be reinforced with desirable outcomes. It is typically conceptualized as opposing habit-based behaviors, which are instead supported by stimulus-response associations and insensitive to consequences. The prelimbic prefrontal cortex (PL) is positioned along the medial wall of the rodent prefrontal cortex. It is indispensable for action-outcome-driven (goal-directed) behavior, consolidating action-outcome relationships and linking contextual information with instrumental behavior. In this brief review, we will discuss the growing list of molecular factors involved in PL function. Ventral to the PL is the medial orbitofrontal cortex (mOFC). We will also summarize emerging evidence from rodents (complementing existing literature describing humans) that it too is involved in action-outcome conditioning. We describe experiments using procedures that quantify responding based on reward value, the likelihood of reinforcement, or effort requirements, touching also on experiments assessing food consumption more generally. We synthesize these findings with the argument that the mOFC is essential to goal-directed action when outcome value information is not immediately observable and must be recalled and inferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen P. Woon
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational and Social Neuroscience
| | - Michelle K. Sequeira
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational and Social Neuroscience
| | - Britton R. Barbee
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational and Social Neuroscience
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Shannon L. Gourley
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational and Social Neuroscience
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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25
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Morè L, Lauterborn JC, Papaleo F, Brambilla R. Enhancing cognition through pharmacological and environmental interventions: Examples from preclinical models of neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 110:28-45. [PMID: 30981451 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In this review we discuss the role of environmental and pharmacological treatments to enhance cognition with special regards to neurodevelopmental related disorders and aging. How the environment influences brain structure and function, and the interactions between rearing conditions and gene expression, are fundamental questions that are still poorly understood. We propose a model that can explain some of the discrepancies in findings for effects of environmental enrichment on outcome measures. Evidence of a direct causal correlation of nootropics and treatments that enhanced cognition also will be presented, and possible molecular mechanisms that include neurotrophin signaling and downstream pathways underlying these processes are discussed. Finally we review recent findings achieved with a wide set of behavioral and cognitive tasks that have translational validity to humans, and should be useful for future work on devising appropriate therapies. As will be discussed, the collective findings suggest that a combinational therapeutic approach of environmental enrichment and nootropics could be particularly successful for improving learning and memory in both developmental disorders and normal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Morè
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, PR1 2XT, Preston, UK.
| | - Julie C Lauterborn
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA.
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute (NMHRI), Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, CF24 4HQ, Cardiff, UK.
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26
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Abstract
Early life stress (ELS) is a risk factor in the development of psychiatric disorders. The underlying biological mechanisms governing this phenomenon are not fully understood, but dysregulation of stress responses is likely to play a key role. Males and females differ in their propensity to develop psychiatric disorders, with far higher rates of anxiety, major depressive disorder, affective disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder found in women. We hypothesized that sex differences in response to ELS may play a crucial role in differential vulnerability between the sexes. To test this, we evaluated the consequences of pre-pubertal stress (PPS) on the HPA axis in adult female and male Lister Hooded rats. PPS animals were exposed to swim, restraint and elevated platform stress on postnatal days 25-27, controls remained in their home cage. Once adult, animals were either a) sacrificed directly and brains collected or b) sacrificed 20 minutes or 1 week after a social test and trunk blood collected. In the female hippocampal formation, PPS increased expression of FKBP5 and AVPR1a. In the female prefrontal cortex, PPS resulted in increased glucocorticoid receptor expression, increased glucocorticoid:mineralocorticoid (GR:MR) receptor expression ratio and decreased AVPR1a expression. Females exposed to PPS did not show the normal rise in blood corticosterone levels following a social interaction test. In contrast, PPS did not alter the expression of oxytocin or oxytocin receptors, and no effects of PPS were seen in males. However, striking sex differences were found. Females had higher oxytocin receptor expression in the prefrontal cortex and AVPR1a and oxytocin expression in the hypothalamus, whereas males demonstrated higher expression of GR, MR, GR:MR, FKBP5 and oxytocin receptor in the hypothalamus. These results demonstrate heightened reactivity of the female HPA axis to PPS and may help explain why in humans females display an increased susceptibility to certain stress-related psychopathologies.LAY SUMMARYWomen are at greater risk of developing several psychiatric illnesses. Using a rodent model, we show that the female stress system is more reactive to the lasting effects of early life stress. This heightened reactivity of the female stress response may help explain why women are at a greater risk of developing psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichola M Brydges
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Caroline Best
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kerrie L Thomas
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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27
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Glucocorticoid and brain-derived neurotrophic factor relationship: a brief investigation into the model of depression by chronic administration of corticosterone. Behav Pharmacol 2020; 31:407-412. [PMID: 32040016 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Depression is considered a common mental disorder that affects more than 300 million people worldwide. Despite this high incidence, its etiology is not completely elucidated instigating further studies. For this purpose, different animal models are used to study routes and molecular changes involved in depression, among them the chronic administration of corticosterone. However, the knowledge about neurochemical changes after this protocol is still controversial. In this work, we evaluated serum corticosterone levels, adrenal/body weight ratio, as well as glucocorticoid receptor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein expression and its receptor, tropomyosin-receptor kinase B. These analyzes were performed on prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum samples taken of mice after 21 days of administration of corticosterone. Exposure to corticosterone reduced the serum corticosterone levels and the adrenal/body weight ratio. Moreover, the glucocorticoid receptor and tyrosine-receptor kinase B expression were increased in the hippocampus while the brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression was reduced in the prefrontal cortex. We also found a positive correlation between the expression of glucocorticoid receptor and tyrosine-receptor kinase B and our results suggest a possible relationship between the glucocorticoid/glucocorticoid receptor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin-receptor kinase B routes after chronic corticosterone administration. To our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluate these parameters concomitantly in important mood-related structures. In addition, these results may be useful to other research groups seeking to explore new pathways and substances with therapeutic potential to treat this silent epidemic.
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28
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Prowse N, Dwyer Z, Thompson A, Fortin T, Elson K, Robeson H, Fenner B, Hayley S. Early life selective knockdown of the TrkB receptor and maternal separation modulates adult stress phenotype. Behav Brain Res 2020; 378:112260. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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29
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Barfield ET, Gourley SL. Glucocorticoid-sensitive ventral hippocampal-orbitofrontal cortical connections support goal-directed action - Curt Richter Award Paper 2019. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 110:104436. [PMID: 31526526 PMCID: PMC6859207 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In an ever-changing and often ambiguous environment, organisms must use previously learned associations between antecedents and outcomes to predict future associations and make optimal choices. Chronic stress can impair one's ability to flexibly adjust behaviors when environmental contingencies change, particularly in cases of early-life stress. In mice, exposure to elevated levels of the primary stress hormone, corticosterone (CORT), during early adolescence is sufficient to impair response-outcome decision making later in life, biasing response strategies towards inflexible habits. Nevertheless, neurobiological mechanisms are still being defined. Here, we report that exposure to excess CORT in adolescence causes a loss of dendritic spines on excitatory pyramidal neurons in the lateral, but not medial, orbital prefrontal cortex (loPFC) of mice, and spine loss correlates with the severity of habit biases in adulthood. Excess CORT also reduces the presence of ventral hippocampal (vHC) axon terminals in the loPFC. To identify functional consequences, we inactivated vHC→loPFC projections in typical healthy mice during a period when mice must update response-outcome expectations to optimally acquire food reinforcers. Inactivation impaired the animals' subsequent ability to sustainably choose actions based on likely outcomes, causing them to defer to habit-based response strategies. Thus, vHC→loPFC projections are necessary for response-outcome expectancy updating and a target of excess glucocorticoids during early-life development. Their degradation is likely involved in long-term biases towards habit-based behaviors following glucocorticoid excess in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth T Barfield
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Shannon L Gourley
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA; Graduate Training Programs in Neuroscience and Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, USA.
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30
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Persistence of learning-induced synapses depends on neurotrophic priming of glucocorticoid receptors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:13097-13106. [PMID: 31182610 PMCID: PMC6601006 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1903203116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transduction upon activation of receptor tyrosine kinases by neurotrophins and nuclear receptors by glucocorticoids is essential for homeostasis. Phosphorylation (PO4) is one way these receptors communicate with one another to support homeostatic reactions in learning and memory. Using a newly developed glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-PO4–deficient knock-in mouse, we show that consolidation of learning-induced neuroplasticity depends on both GR-PO4 and neurotrophic signaling. Cross-talk between these pathways affects experience-dependent neuroplasticity and behavior, extending previous implications of neurotrophic priming of glucocorticoid response for adaptive plasticity to chronic stress and antidepressant response. Therefore, a disruption of cross-talk between these pathways by, for example, the misalignment of circadian glucocorticoid release and experience-dependent neurotrophic signaling may contribute to the pathophysiology of stress-related disorders. Stress can either promote or impair learning and memory. Such opposing effects depend on whether synapses persist or decay after learning. Maintenance of new synapses formed at the time of learning upon neuronal network activation depends on the stress hormone-activated glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and neurotrophic factor release. Whether and how concurrent GR and neurotrophin signaling integrate to modulate synaptic plasticity and learning is not fully understood. Here, we show that deletion of the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)–dependent GR-phosphorylation (PO4) sites impairs long-term memory retention and maintenance of newly formed postsynaptic dendritic spines in the mouse cortex after motor skills training. Chronic stress and the BDNF polymorphism Val66Met disrupt the BDNF-dependent GR-PO4 pathway necessary for preserving training-induced spines and previously acquired memories. Conversely, enrichment living promotes spine formation but fails to salvage training-related spines in mice lacking BDNF-dependent GR-PO4 sites, suggesting it is essential for spine consolidation and memory retention. Mechanistically, spine maturation and persistence in the motor cortex depend on synaptic mobilization of the glutamate receptor subunit A1 (GluA1) mediated by GR-PO4. Together, these findings indicate that regulation of GR-PO4 via activity-dependent BDNF signaling is important for the formation and maintenance of learning-dependent synapses. They also define a signaling mechanism underlying these effects.
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