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Agnorelli C, Spriggs M, Godfrey K, Sawicka G, Bohl B, Douglass H, Fagiolini A, Parastoo H, Carhart-Harris R, Nutt D, Erritzoe D. Neuroplasticity and psychedelics: A comprehensive examination of classic and non-classic compounds in pre and clinical models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2025; 172:106132. [PMID: 40185376 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2025] [Accepted: 03/29/2025] [Indexed: 04/07/2025]
Abstract
Neuroplasticity, the ability of the nervous system to adapt throughout an organism's lifespan, offers potential as both a biomarker and treatment target for neuropsychiatric conditions. Psychedelics, a burgeoning category of drugs, are increasingly prominent in psychiatric research, prompting inquiries into their mechanisms of action. Distinguishing themselves from traditional medications, psychedelics demonstrate rapid and enduring therapeutic effects after a single or few administrations, believed to stem from their neuroplasticity-enhancing properties. This review examines how classic psychedelics (e.g., LSD, psilocybin, N,N-DMT) and non-classic psychedelics (e.g., ketamine, MDMA) influence neuroplasticity. Drawing from preclinical and clinical studies, we explore the molecular, structural, and functional changes triggered by these agents. Animal studies suggest psychedelics induce heightened sensitivity of the nervous system to environmental stimuli (meta-plasticity), re-opening developmental windows for long-term structural changes (hyper-plasticity), with implications for mood and behavior. Translating these findings to humans faces challenges due to limitations in current imaging techniques. Nonetheless, promising new directions for human research are emerging, including the employment of novel positron-emission tomography (PET) radioligands, non-invasive brain stimulation methods, and multimodal approaches. By elucidating the interplay between psychedelics and neuroplasticity, this review informs the development of targeted interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders and advances understanding of psychedelics' therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Agnorelli
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK; Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Meg Spriggs
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK
| | - Kate Godfrey
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK
| | - Gabriela Sawicka
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK
| | - Bettina Bohl
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College of London, UK
| | - Hannah Douglass
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK
| | - Andrea Fagiolini
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Italy
| | | | - Robin Carhart-Harris
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK; Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Carhart-Harris Lab, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David Nutt
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK
| | - David Erritzoe
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, UK
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Lima da Cruz RV, Leão RN, Moulin TC. Effects of psychedelics on neurogenesis and broader neuroplasticity: a systematic review. Mol Med 2024; 30:244. [PMID: 39701927 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-01013-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 11/26/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In the mammalian brain, new neurons continue to be generated throughout life in a process known as adult neurogenesis. The role of adult-generated neurons has been broadly studied across laboratories, and mounting evidence suggests a strong link to the HPA axis and concomitant dysregulations in patients diagnosed with mood disorders. Psychedelic compounds, such as phenethylamines, tryptamines, cannabinoids, and a variety of ever-growing chemical categories, have emerged as therapeutic options for neuropsychiatric disorders, while numerous reports link their effects to increased adult neurogenesis. In this systematic review, we examine studies assessing neurogenesis or other neurogenesis-associated brain plasticity after psychedelic interventions and aim to provide a comprehensive picture of how this vast category of compounds regulates the generation of new neurons. We conducted a literature search on PubMed and Science Direct databases, considering all articles published until January 31, 2023, and selected articles containing both the words "neurogenesis" and "psychedelics". We analyzed experimental studies using either in vivo or in vitro models, employing classical or atypical psychedelics at all ontogenetic windows, as well as human studies referring to neurogenesis-associated plasticity. Our findings were divided into five main categories of psychedelics: CB1 agonists, NMDA antagonists, harmala alkaloids, tryptamines, and entactogens. We described the outcomes of neurogenesis assessments and investigated related results on the effects of psychedelics on brain plasticity and behavior within our sample. In summary, this review presents an extensive study into how different psychedelics may affect the birth of new neurons and other brain-related processes. Such knowledge may be valuable for future research on novel therapeutic strategies for neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael V Lima da Cruz
- Neurodynamics Lab, Brain Institute (ICe), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
| | - Richardson N Leão
- Neurodynamics Lab, Brain Institute (ICe), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Thiago C Moulin
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Ribeiro O, Félix L, Ribeiro C, Torres-Ruiz M, Tiritan ME, Gonçalves VMF, Langa I, Carrola JS. Unveil the toxicity induced on early life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and its enantiomers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 955:176906. [PMID: 39423890 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/21/2024]
Abstract
The increased detection of the recreational drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in aquatic ecosystems, has raised concern worldwide about its possible negative impacts on wildlife. MDMA is produced as racemate but its enantioselective effects on non-target organisms are poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive study of the toxicity of MDMA and its enantiomers in the early life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Zebrafish embryos (≈3 h post fertilization) were exposed to different concentrations (0.02, 0.2, 2, 20, and 200 μg/L) of (R,S)-MDMA and both pure enantiomers. Both enantiomers induced effects on embryonic development, DNA integrity, and behaviour and enantioselective effects were noted. (S)-MDMA exhibits higher toxic effects on embryonic development level with increased mortality and severity of teratogenic effects, and behavioural abnormalities in acoustic startle-habituation response. (R)-MDMA affected general activity and avoidance behaviour, showing greater inhibitory effects on behavioural activity. Additionally, (R,S)-MDMA induced higher genotoxic effects than the two isolated enantiomers. These results are of concern at populational levels since effects on mortality, development, and behaviour were observed even at environmentally relevant concentrations, which can cause a reduction of larval viability and in the number of individuals in each generation, and an increase in the risk of predation of the organisms. Yet, the bioaccumulation studies showed that MDMA is not accumulated in zebrafish. Therefore, this work demonstrated for the first time the occurrence of MDMA enantiotoxicity in the early life stages of zebrafish, which should be considered in further environmental risk assessments involving fish species or other non-target aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondina Ribeiro
- Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal; Inov4Agro, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-food Production, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Luís Félix
- Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Inov4Agro, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-food Production, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Ribeiro
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences - CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Monica Torres-Ruiz
- Toxicology Department, National Centre for Environmental Health (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Maria Elizabeth Tiritan
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences - CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), University of Porto, Matosinhos, Portugal; Laboratory of Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Virgínia M F Gonçalves
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences - CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Ivan Langa
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences - CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - João Soares Carrola
- Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Inov4Agro, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-food Production, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
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Barenys M, Álvarez S, Santamaria A, Teixidó E, Gómez-Catalán J. Developmental exposure to MDMA (ecstasy) in zebrafish embryos reproduces the neurotoxicity adverse outcome 'lower motor activity' described in humans. Neurotoxicology 2021; 88:116-123. [PMID: 34763029 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2021.11.001] [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: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The recreational use of MDMA (ecstasy) by pregnant women is associated with impaired neuromotor function in infants, but the Adverse Outcome Pathway behind this effect is not clear yet. We present for the first time the evaluation of developmental neurotoxic (DNT) effects of MDMA in zebrafish embryos. The aim of the study was to determine whether the zebrafish model reproduces the adverse outcome occurring in humans. We have studied the DNT effects of MDMA in zebrafish within a range of 5-250 μM performing different behavioural tests: spontaneous tail-coiling and light-dark locomotor response; after exposing the embryos to 4 different scenarios combining changes in pH, in starting exposure time and exposure duration. In these scenarios we evaluated the effects of MDMA in general embryonic development and compared the concentrations producing them with those inducing specific DNT effects. As a result, we have established the experimental conditions leading to the adverse outcome "lower motor activity" in zebrafish without producing general developmental delay or general toxicity. The experimental condition chosen opens the door to use this model in future mechanistic investigations to better characterize the Adverse Outcome Pathway associated with the adverse effects caused by MDMA prenatal exposure in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Barenys
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Shami Álvarez
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ariadna Santamaria
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisabet Teixidó
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jesús Gómez-Catalán
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Wang J, Li P, Qin T, Sun D, Zhao X, Zhang B. Protective effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate against neuroinflammation and anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of myocardial infarction. Brain Behav 2020; 10:e01633. [PMID: 32304289 PMCID: PMC7303397 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Individuals who experience myocardial infarction (MI) often experience anxiety. Green tea has potent antioxidative properties and, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is a primary component of tea polyphenols, has advantageous effects on anxiety and depression. However, its mechanism of action regarding the inhibition of anxiety-like symptoms after MI remains unclear. This study examined whether EGCG alleviated anxiety-like behavior in MI rats and its possible mechanism. MATERIAL AND METHODS Rats were administered a daily gavage of EGCG (50 mg/kg) 7 days before and 14 consecutive days after the MI procedure. The open-field test and light/dark shuttle box were performed to evaluate anxiety-like behavior. Serum and hippocampus interleukin (IL)-6 levels were tested using ELISA. Caspase 3, caspase 8, caspase 9 and bcl-2 messenger RNA levels in the hippocampus were determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and STAT3 protein was detected by Western blot. RESULTS Results of the open field test and light/dark shuttle box task demonstrated that the MI procedure induced anxiety-like behavior in the animals, and this impairment was improved by EGCG. Daily EGCG administration significantly decreased the level of IL-6 both in serum and hippocampus after MI. The administration of EGCG also significantly moderated the expression of caspases 3, 8, and 9 mRNA, which was related to apoptosis in the hippocampus. Furthermore, EGCG also downregulated the expression of STAT3, which was related to the activity of IL-6. These results suggest that EGCG alleviated anxiety-like behavior by inhibiting increases in neuroinflammation and apoptosis in the rat hippocampus. In addition, EGCG reversed alterations of IL-6 and STAT3 in the brain to alleviate apoptosis in the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS Thus, EGCG reversed anxiety-like behavior through an anti-inflammation effect to alleviate apoptosis in neurons and may be a useful therapeutic material for anxiety-like behavior after MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinpeng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Paediatrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tian Qin
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dongjie Sun
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Beilin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Aguilar MA, García-Pardo MP, Parrott AC. Of mice and men on MDMA: A translational comparison of the neuropsychobiological effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine ('Ecstasy'). Brain Res 2020; 1727:146556. [PMID: 31734398 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
MDMA (3,4-methylendioxymethamphetamine), also known as Ecstasy, is a stimulant drug recreationally used by young adults usually in dance clubs and raves. Acute MDMA administration increases serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline by reversing the action of the monoamine transporters. In this work, we review the studies carried out over the last 30 years on the neuropsychobiological effects of MDMA in humans and mice and summarise the current knowledge. The two species differ with respect to the neurochemical consequences of chronic MDMA, since it preferentially induces serotonergic dysfunction in humans and dopaminergic neurotoxicity in mice. However, MDMA alters brain structure and function and induces hormonal, psychomotor, neurocognitive, psychosocial and psychiatric outcomes in both species, as well as physically damaging and teratogen effects. Pharmacological and genetic studies in mice have increased our knowledge of the neurochemical substrate of the multiple effects of MDMA. Future work in this area may contribute to developing pharmacological treatments for MDMA-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Aguilar
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.
| | | | - Andrew C Parrott
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom; Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
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Barenys M, Reverte I, Masjosthusmann S, Gómez-Catalán J, Fritsche E. Developmental neurotoxicity of MDMA. A systematic literature review summarized in a putative adverse outcome pathway. Neurotoxicology 2019; 78:209-241. [PMID: 31812710 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The increasing use of illegal drugs by pregnant women causes a public health concern because it is associated with health risks for mothers and their developing children. One of such drugs is MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) or ecstasy due to its high consumption in relevant age and sex groups and its adverse effects on human and rodent developing brains. To thoroughly review the current knowledge on the developmentally neurotoxic potential of MDMA we systematically collected and summarized articles investigating developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) of MDMA in humans and animals in vivo and in vitro. In addition, we summarized the findings in a putative adverse outcome pathway (AOP). From an initial 299 articles retrieved from the bibliographic databases Web of Science, PubMed and DART, we selected 39 articles according to inclusion/exclusion criteria for data collection after title/abstract and full text screening. Of these 3 where epidemiological studies, 34 where in vivo studies in mice and rats and 2 were in vitro studies. The three epidemiological studies reported from the same longitudinal study and suggested that MDMA exposure during pregnancy impairs neuromotor function in infants. In rat, postnatal exposure towards MDMA also caused locomotor deficits as well as impaired spatial learning that might be associated with decreased serotonin levels in the hippocampus. In vitro MDMA caused cytotoxicity at high concentrations and effects on the serotonergic and neuritogenic alterations at lower concentrations which are in line with some of the in vivo alterations observed. Considering the adverse outcomes of developmental MDMA described in humans and in rodents we summarized the first putative AOP on developmental compound exposure leading to impaired neuromotor function in children. For generation of this AOP, MDMA exposure was taken as a model compound. In addition, we hypothesized a second AOP involving developmental disturbance of the dopaminergic system. However, further in vitro mechanistic studies are needed to understand the molecular initiating event(s) (MIE) triggering the downstream cascades and obtain consistent evidences causally linking the adverse outcome to effects at the cellular, organ and organism level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Barenys
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ingrid Reverte
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Santa Lucia Foundation (IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefan Masjosthusmann
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jesús Gómez-Catalán
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Heinrich-Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Dutta RR, Taffe MA, Mandyam CD. Chronic administration of amphetamines disturbs development of neural progenitor cells in young adult nonhuman primates. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 85:46-53. [PMID: 29601895 PMCID: PMC5962428 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The detrimental effects of amphetamines on developmental stages of NPCs are limited to rodent brain and it is not known if these effects occur in nonhuman primates which are the focus of the current investigation. Young adult rhesus macaques either experienced MDMA only, a combination of amphetamines (MDMA, MDA and methamphetamine) or no amphetamines (controls) and hippocampal tissue was processed for immunohistochemical analysis.Quantitative stereological analysis showed that intermittent exposure to MDMA or the three amphetamines over 9.6 months causes >80% decrease in the number of Ki-67 cells (actively dividing NPCs) and >50% decrease in the number of NeuroD1 cells (NPCs that have attained a neuronal phenotype). Co-labeling analysis revealed distinct, actively dividing hippocampal NPCs in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus that were in transition from stem-like radial glia-like cells (type-1) to immature transiently amplifying neuroblasts (type-2a, type-2b, and type-3).MDMA-alone and the combination reduced the number of dividing type-1 and type-3 NPCs and cells that were not NPCs. These data indicate that amphetamines interfere with the division and migration of NPCs. Notably, the reduction in the number of NPCs and immature neurons were not associated with changes in cell death (via apoptosis) or granule cell neuron numbers, indicating that amphetamines selectively affected the generation and maturation of newly born granule cell neurons. In sum, our findings suggest that alterations in the cellular composition in the dentate gyrus during chronic exposure to amphetamines can effect neuroplasticity in the hippocampus and influence functional properties of hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul R Dutta
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute,USA
| | - Michael A Taffe
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute,USA
| | - Chitra D Mandyam
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute,USA; VA San Diego Healthcare System, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Kang E, Wen Z, Song H, Christian KM, Ming GL. Adult Neurogenesis and Psychiatric Disorders. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2016; 8:cshperspect.a019026. [PMID: 26801682 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a019026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders continue to be among the most challenging disorders to diagnose and treat because there is no single genetic or anatomical locus that is causative for the disease. Current treatments are often blunt tools used to ameliorate the most severe symptoms, at the risk of disrupting functional neural systems. There is a critical need to develop new therapeutic strategies that can target circumscribed functional or anatomical domains of pathology. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis may be one such domain. Here, we review the evidence suggesting that adult hippocampal neurogenesis plays a role in emotional regulation and forms of learning and memory that include temporal and spatial memory encoding and context discrimination, and that its dysregulation is associated with psychiatric disorders, such as affective disorders, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. Further, adult neurogenesis has proven to be an effective model to investigate basic processes of neuronal development and converging evidence suggests that aberrant neural development may be an etiological factor, even in late-onset diseases. Constitutive neurogenesis in the hippocampus of the mature brain reflects large-scale plasticity unique to this region and could be a potential hub for modulation of a subset of cognitive and affective behaviors that are affected by multiple psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunchai Kang
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Zhexing Wen
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Hongjun Song
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Kimberly M Christian
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
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Sources of variation in the design of preclinical studies assessing the effects of amphetamine-type stimulants in pregnancy and lactation. Behav Brain Res 2015; 279:87-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Gonçalves J, Baptista S, Silva AP. Psychostimulants and brain dysfunction: a review of the relevant neurotoxic effects. Neuropharmacology 2014; 87:135-49. [PMID: 24440369 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Psychostimulants abuse is a major public concern because is associated with serious health complications, including devastating consequences on the central nervous system (CNS). The neurotoxic effects of these drugs have been extensively studied. Nevertheless, numerous questions and uncertainties remain in our understanding of these toxic events. Thus, the purpose of the present manuscript is to review cellular and molecular mechanisms that might be responsible for brain dysfunction induced by psychostimulants. Topics reviewed include some classical aspects of neurotoxicity, such as monoaminergic system and mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity and hyperthermia. Moreover, recent literature has suggested new phenomena regarding the toxic effects of psychostimulants. Thus, we also reviewed the impact of these drugs on neuroinflammatory response, blood-brain barrier (BBB) function and neurogenesis. Assessing the relative importance of these mechanisms on psychostimulants-induced brain dysfunction presents an exciting challenge for future research efforts. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'CNS Stimulants'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Sofia Baptista
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal.
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Canales JJ, Ferrer-Donato A. Prenatal Exposure to Alcohol and 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) Alters Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Causes Enduring Memory Deficits. Dev Neurosci 2014; 36:10-7. [DOI: 10.1159/000356820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Karimi S, Jahanshahi M, Golalipour MJ. The effect of MDMA-induced anxiety on neuronal apoptosis in adult male rats' hippocampus. Folia Biol (Praha) 2014; 60:187-91. [PMID: 25152052 DOI: 10.14712/fb2014060040187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2024]
Abstract
Ecstasy or MDMA as a psychoactive drug and hallucinogen is considered one of the most commonly used drugs in the world. This psychotropic substance is discussed both as sexually stimulating and reducing fear and anxiety. Amphetamines also destroy neurons in some brain areas. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of MDMA on anxiety and apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. Forty-two male Wistar rats of mean weight 200-220 g were used and distributed into six groups [control, control-saline, and experimental groups (1.25, 2.5, 5, 10 mg/kg)]. Rats in experimental groups received MDMA at different doses for seven days by intraperitoneal injection and the control-saline group received saline (1 ml/kg); anxiety was then investigated by plus-maze test. Forty-eight hours after behavioural testing brains were taken from animals and fixed, and after tissue processing, slices were stained with TUNEL kit for apoptotic cells. The area densities of apoptotic neurons were measured throughout the hippocampus and compared in all groups (P < 0.05). Physiological studies showed that 1.25 mg/kg and 2.5 mg/kg doses caused anti-anxiety behaviour and 5 and 10 mg/kg doses of MDMA caused anxietylike behaviour. Moreover, our histological study showed that ecstasy increased apoptotic cell numbers and the highest increase was observed with the 10 mg/kg dose of MDMA. We concluded that MDMA can cause different responses of anxiety-like behaviour in different doses. This phenomenon causes a different ratio of apoptosis in hippocampal formation. Reduction of anxiety-like behaviour induced by the 2.5 mg/kg dose of MDMA can control apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Karimi
- Department of Anatomy, Neuroscience Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - M Jahanshahi
- Department of Anatomy, Neuroscience Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - M J Golalipour
- Department of Anatomy, Neuroscience Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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Abstract
New neurons are produced within the hippocampus of the mammalian brain throughout life. Evidence from animal studies has suggested that the function of these adult-born neurons is linked to cognition and emotion. Until we are able to detect and measure levels of adult neurogenesis in living human brains-a formidable challenge for now-we cannot establish its functional importance in human health, disease and new treatment development. Current non-invasive neuroimaging modalities can provide live snapshots of the brain's structure, chemistry, activity and connectivity. This review explores whether existing macroscopic imaging methods can be used to understand the microscopic dynamics of adult hippocampal neurogenesis in living individuals. We discuss recent studies that have found correlations between neuroimaging measures of human hippocampal biology and levels of pro- or anti-neurogenic stimuli, weigh whether these correlations reflect changes in adult neurogenesis, detail the conceptual and technical limitations of these studies and elaborate on what will be needed to validate in vivo neuroimaging measures of adult neurogenesis for future investigations.
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Kubesova A, Bubenikova-Valesova V, Mertlova M, Palenicek T, Horacek J. Impact of psychotropic drugs on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Neurosci Res 2012; 73:93-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2012.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2011] [Revised: 02/10/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Canales JJ. Deficient plasticity in the hippocampus and the spiral of addiction: focus on adult neurogenesis. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2012; 15:293-312. [PMID: 22976276 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2012_230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Addiction is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder which causes disruption at multiple levels, including cognitive, emotional, and behavioral domains. Traditional biological theories of addiction have focused on the mesolimbic dopamine pathway and the nucleus accumbens as anatomical substrates mediating addictive-like behaviors. More recently, we have begun to recognize the engagement and dynamic influence of a much broader circuitry which encompasses the frontal cortex, the amygdala, and the hippocampus. In particular, neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus has become a major focus of attention due to its ability to influence memory, motivation, and affect, all of which are disrupted in addiction. First, I summarize toxicological data that reveal strongly suppressive effects of drug exposure on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Then, I discuss the impact of deficient neurogenesis on learning and memory function, stress responsiveness and affective behavior, as they relate to addiction. Finally, I examine recent behavioral observations that implicate neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus in the emergence and maintenance of addictive behavior. The evidence reviewed here suggests that deficient neurogenesis is associated with several components of the downward spiraling loop that characterizes addiction, including elevated sensitivity to drug-induced reward and reinforcement, enhanced neurohormonal responsiveness, emergence of a negative affective state, memory impairment, and inflexible behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Canales
- Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, The University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, 8140, Christchurch, New Zealand,
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Drug withdrawal-induced depression: Serotonergic and plasticity changes in animal models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2012; 36:696-726. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2011.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Revised: 10/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Ádori C, Andó RD, Szekeres M, Gutknecht L, Kovács GG, Hunyady L, Lesch KP, Bagdy G. Recovery and aging of serotonergic fibers after single and intermittent MDMA treatment in dark agouti rat. J Comp Neurol 2011; 519:2353-78. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.22631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Cho KO, Kim SY. Effects of brain insults and pharmacological manipulations on the adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Arch Pharm Res 2010; 33:1475-88. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-010-1002-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 08/27/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Effects of MDMA (“ecstasy”) during adolescence on place conditioning and hippocampal neurogenesis. Eur J Pharmacol 2010; 628:96-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2009] [Revised: 10/30/2009] [Accepted: 11/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Balu DT, Hodes GE, Hill TE, Ho N, Rahman Z, Bender CN, Ring RH, Dwyer JM, Rosenzweig-Lipson S, Hughes ZA, Schechter LE, Lucki I. Flow cytometric analysis of BrdU incorporation as a high-throughput method for measuring adult neurogenesis in the mouse. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2009; 59:100-7. [PMID: 19121403 PMCID: PMC2701659 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2008.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2008] [Accepted: 12/04/2008] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The generation of new neurons occurs throughout adulthood in discrete brain regions, and may be regulated by neuropsychiatric diseases and therapeutic drug treatments. Most current methods that study this process measure the labeling of newborn cells by 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) using immunohistochemical methods followed by the microscopic counting of BrdU positive cells. This method is time consuming and labor intensive, typically taking several weeks to analyze. METHODS Therefore, we characterized a method to measure BrdU incorporation in the adult mouse hippocampus in vivo by using flow cytometry, which normally allows analysis of data within a single day. RESULTS The present study compared multiple BrdU dosing and loading protocols to determine a dosing strategy that produced the best signal to noise ratio. BrdU incorporation was also compared across different brain regions. The method was sensitive to a number of experimental disease manipulations. Induction of type-1 diabetes and depletion of norepinephrine reduced hippocampal cell proliferation. In contrast, chronic administration of electroconvulsive shock, a somatic treatment for depression, as well as chronic treatment with the antidepressant fluoxetine elevated hippocampal cell proliferation. This increase in cell proliferation with fluoxetine was detected as early as 14 days into treatment. Moreover, comparing measures of cell proliferation obtained by immunohistochemical and flow cytometric methods within the same animals were convergent and significantly correlated to each other. Flow cytometry was also sufficiently sensitive to quantify the survival of newly born cells. DISCUSSION These experiments validate the utility of flow cytometry in analyzing hippocampal cell proliferation and survival in a reliable and high-throughput fashion. The speedy analysis afforded by flow cytometry lends itself to be utilized in novel drug discovery and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrick T. Balu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Georgia E. Hodes
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tiffany E. Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nancy Ho
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Irwin Lucki
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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