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Bengtsson SKS, Sjöstedt J, Malinina E, Das R, Doverskog M, Johansson M, Haage D, Bäckström T. Extra-Synaptic GABA A Receptor Potentiation and Neurosteroid-Induced Learning Deficits Are Inhibited by GR3027, a GABA A Modulating Steroid Antagonist. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1496. [PMID: 37892178 PMCID: PMC10604444 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101496] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives In Vitro: To study the effects of GR3027 (golexanolone) on neurosteroid-induced GABA-mediated current responses under physiological GABAergic conditions with recombinant human α5β3γ2L and α1β2γ2L GABAA receptors expressed in human embryonic kidney cells, using the response patch clamp technique combined with the Dynaflow™ application system. With α5β3γ2L receptors, 0.01-3 μM GR3027, in a concentration-dependent manner, reduced the current response induced by 200 nM THDOC + 0.3 µM GABA, as well as the THDOC-induced direct gated effect. GR3027 (1 μM) alone had no effect on the GABA-mediated current response or current in the absence of GABA. With α1β2γ2L receptors, GR3027 alone had no effect on the GABA-mediated current response or did not affect the receptor by itself. Meanwhile, 1-3 µM GR3027 reduced the current response induced by 200 nM THDOC + 30 µM GABA and 3 µM GR3027 that induced by 200 nM THDOC when GABA was not present. Objectives In Vivo: GR3027 reduces allopregnanolone (AP)-induced decreased learning and anesthesia in male Wistar rats. Rats treated i.v. with AP (2.2 mg/kg) or vehicle were given GR3027 in ratios of 1:0.5 to 1:5 dissolved in 10% 2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin. A dose ratio of AP:GR3027 of at least 1:2.5 antagonized the AP-induced decreased learning in the Morris Water Mase (MWM) and 1:7.5 antagonized the loss of righting reflex (LoR). GR3027 treatment did not change other functions in the rat compared to the vehicle group. Conclusions: GR3027 functions in vitro as an inhibitor of GABAA receptors holding α5β3γ2L and α1β2γ2L, in vivo, in the rat, as a dose-dependent inhibitor toward AP's negative effects on LoR and learning in the MWM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara K. S. Bengtsson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jessica Sjöstedt
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Evgenya Malinina
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Roshni Das
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
- Umecrine Cognition AB, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | | | - Maja Johansson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
- Umecrine Cognition AB, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - David Haage
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Nursing Sciences, Mid Sweden University, AE-851 70 Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
- Umecrine Cognition AB, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
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Bäckström T, Turkmen S, Das R, Doverskog M, Blackburn TP. The GABA system, a new target for medications against cognitive impairment-Associated with neuroactive steroids. J Intern Med 2023; 294:281-294. [PMID: 37518841 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13705] [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] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of cognitive dysfunction, dementia, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing in parallel with an aging population. Distinct types of chronic stress are thought to be instrumental in the development of cognitive impairment in central nervous system (CNS) disorders where cognitive impairment is a major unmet medical need. Increased GABAergic tone is a mediator of stress effects but is also a result of other factors in CNS disorders. Positive GABA-A receptor modulating stress and sex steroids (steroid-PAMs) such as allopregnanolone (ALLO) and medroxyprogesterone acetate can provoke impaired cognition. As such, ALLO impairs memory and learning in both animals and humans. In transgenic AD animal studies, continuous exposure to ALLO at physiological levels impairs cognition and increases degenerative AD pathology, whereas intermittent ALLO injections enhance cognition, indicating pleiotropic functions of ALLO. We have shown that GABA-A receptor modulating steroid antagonists (GAMSAs) can block the acute negative cognitive impairment of ALLO on memory in animal studies and in patients with cognitive impairment due to hepatic encephalopathy. Here we describe disorders affected by steroid-PAMs and opportunities to treat these adverse effects of steroid-PAMs with novel GAMSAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sahruh Turkmen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Umeå, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Roshni Das
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Umeå, Umeå, Sweden
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Solna, Sweden
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3
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Acute stress impairs sensorimotor gating via the neurosteroid allopregnanolone in the prefrontal cortex. Neurobiol Stress 2022; 21:100489. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Hatipoglu E, Hacioglu Y, Polat Y, Arslan HF, Oner S, Ekmekci OB, Niyazoglu M. Do neurosteroids have impact on depression and cognitive functions in cases with acromegaly? Growth Horm IGF Res 2022; 66:101496. [PMID: 35952406 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2022.101496] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurosteroids (NSs) are a distinct hormone group and, they are known for their contribution into the status of mood and cognitive functions. Whether they are also involved in the mood disturbances and cognition in acromegaly is not known. Herein we aimed to evaluate the relation of mood status and cognitive functions with the NS levels in cases with acromegaly. DESIGN A total of 33 cases with acromegaly composed the acromegaly group (AG) and, 30 age and gender-matched cases without acromegaly composed the control group (CG). The levels of Allopregnanolone (AP), pregnenolone (PRG), 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24OHC), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androsterone (ADT), GH and IGF-1 were measured in each group. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to assess depressive symptoms, whereas an extensive neuropsychological assessment with several neurocognitive tests were carried out for each subject by an experienced psychologist. RESULTS Cases with acromegaly had lower 24OHC and DHEA levels (p = 0.002 and p = 0.007, respectively) in comparison to CG. Of the cognitive functions time to complete 1 s Series was significantly higher and, the scores on Switching Verbal Fluency Test, Boston Naming Test (BNT)-semantic and BNT-phonological, the highest learning point of Oktem Verbal Memory Processes Test (VMPT) were significantly lower in cases with acromegaly in comparison to those in controls (p = 0.004, p = 0.01, p < 0.001, p = 0.02 and p = 0.05, respectively). KAS-perseveration errors were higher in CG (p = 0.03). In AG the levels of AP were negatively correlated with the scores on Months backward Test (MBT), Animal Naming Test, Construction, BNT-spontaneous and positively correlated with BNT-incorrect answers; PRG was positively correlated with VMPT-retention scores, ADT was negatively correlated with MBT and 3 s Series scores, DHEAS was positively correlated with VMPT-the highest learning point whereas it was negatively correlated with MBT scores. Additionally, the scores on BDI were positively correlated with DHEA levels in AG. CONCLUSION Cognitive changes may be encountered in acromegaly and, neurosteroids may contribute to the changes in certain cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Hatipoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Yalcin Hacioglu
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Ministry of Health's Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yeliz Polat
- Department of Psychology, Ministry of Health's Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hilmi Furkan Arslan
- Department of Biochemistry, Ministry of Health's Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sena Oner
- Department of Biochemistry, Cerrahpasa University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Balci Ekmekci
- Department of Biochemistry, Cerrahpasa University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mutlu Niyazoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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5
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Boi L, Petralla S, Monti B, Talani G, Sanna E, Pisu MG, Calderisi G, Maciocco E, Serra M, Concas A, Porcu P. Chronic treatment with hormonal contraceptives alters hippocampal BDNF and histone H3 post-translational modifications but not learning and memory in female rats. Horm Behav 2022; 144:105218. [PMID: 35785712 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal contraceptives prevent ovulation with subsequent reduction in endogenous levels of estradiol, progesterone and its neuroactive metabolite allopregnanolone. These neurosteroids modulate several brain functions, including neuronal plasticity, cognition and memory. We hypothesized that hormonal contraceptives might affect synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, as a consequence of suppressed endogenous hormones levels. Female rats were orally treated with a combination of ethinyl estradiol (EE, 0.020 mg) and levonorgestrel (LNG, 0.060 mg) once daily for four weeks. Decreased hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and altered histone H3 post-translational modifications (PTMs) were observed 14 days after discontinuation from chronic EE-LNG treatment. These effects were not accompanied by alterations in long-term plasticity at glutamatergic synapses, recognition memory in the novel object and novel place location tests, or spatial learning, memory, and behavioral flexibility in the Morris water maze test. Thus, decreased BDNF content does not affect synaptic plasticity and cognitive performance; rather it might be relevant for the occurrence of certain psychiatric symptoms, reported by some women using hormonal contraceptives. These results provide the first evidence of hippocampal epigenetic changes induced by hormonal contraceptives and complement previous studies on the neurobiological actions of hormonal contraceptives; the finding that effects of chronic EE-LNG treatment on BDNF content and histone PTMs are observed 14 days after drug discontinuation warrants further investigation to better understand the implications of such long-term consequences for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Boi
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Petralla
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Monti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Talani
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enrico Sanna
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Calderisi
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Maciocco
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Serra
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Concas
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy.
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6
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Concas A, Serra M, Porcu P. How hormonal contraceptives shape brain and behavior: A review of preclinical studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101017. [PMID: 35843303 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Steroid hormones influence different aspects of brain function, including development, neurogenesis, neuronal excitability, and plasticity, thus affecting emotional states, cognition, sociality, and reward. In women, their levels fluctuate across the lifespan and through the reproductive stages but are also altered by exogenous administration of hormonal contraceptives (HC). HC are widely used by women throughout their fertile life both for contraceptive and therapeutic benefits. However, awareness of their effects on brain function and behavior is still poorly appreciated, despite the emerging evidence of their action at the level of the central nervous system. Here, we summarize results obtained in preclinical studies, mostly conducted in intact female rodents, aimed at investigating the neurobiological effects of HC. HC can alter neuroactive hormones, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, as well as emotional states, cognition, social and sexual behaviors. Animal studies provide insights into the neurobiological effects of HC with the aim to improve women's health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Concas
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Serra
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy.
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7
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Das R, Ragagnin G, Sjöstedt J, Johansson M, Haage D, Druzin M, Johansson S, Bäckström T. Medroxyprogesterone acetate positively modulates specific GABA A-receptor subtypes - affecting memory and cognition. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 141:105754. [PMID: 35395561 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a progestin widely used in humans as hormone replacement therapy and at other indications. Many progestin metabolites, as the progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone, have GABAA-receptor modulatory effects and are known to affect memory, learning, appetite, and mood. In women, 4 years chronic treatment with MPA doubles the frequency of dementia and in rats, MPA causes cognitive impairment related to the GABAergic system. Activation of the membrane bound GABAA receptor results in a chloride ion flux that can be studied by whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings. The purpose of this study was to clarify the modulatory effects of MPA and specific MPA metabolites, with structures like known GABAA-receptor modulators, on different GABAA-receptor subtypes. An additional aim was to verify the results as steroid effects on GABA response in single cells taken from rat hypothalamus. HEK-293 cell-lines permanently expressing the recombinant human GABAA-receptor subtype α1β2γ2L or α5β3γ2L or α2β3γ2S were created. The MPA metabolites 3α5α-MPA,3β5α-MPA and 3β5β-MPA were synthesised and purified for electrophysiological patch-clamp measurements with a Dynaflow system. The effects of MPA and tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone were also studied. None of the studied MPA metabolites affected the responses mediated by α1β2γ2L or α5β3γ2L GABAA receptors. Contrary, MPA clearly acted both as a positive modulator and as a direct activator of the α5β3γ2L and α2β3γ2S GABAA receptors. However, in concentrations up to 10 μM, MPA was inactive at the α1β2γ2L GABAA receptor. In the patch-clamp recordings from dissociated cells of the preoptic area in rats, MPA increased the amplitude of responses to GABA. In addition, MPA alone without added GABA, evoked a current response. In conclusion, MPA acts as a positive modulator of specific GABAA receptor subtypes expressed in HEK cells and at native GABA receptors in single cells from the hypothalamic preoptic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshni Das
- Department of Integrative medical biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden
| | - Gianna Ragagnin
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jessica Sjöstedt
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Maja Johansson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden
| | - David Haage
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Department of Nursing Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden
| | - Michael Druzin
- Department of Integrative medical biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Staffan Johansson
- Department of Integrative medical biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden.
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8
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Lacasse JM, Patel S, Bailey A, Peronace V, Brake WG. Progesterone rapidly alters the use of place and response memory during spatial navigation in female rats. Horm Behav 2022; 140:105137. [PMID: 35158200 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
17β-Estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) influence place and response memory in female rats in spatial navigation tasks. Use of these memory systems is associated with the hippocampus and the dorsal striatum, respectively. Injections of E2 result in a well-established bias to use place memory, while much less is understood about the role of P. A total of 120 ovariectomized female rats were tested within a dual-solution T-maze task and treated with either low E2 (n = 24), high E2 (10 μg/kg; n = 24), or high E2 in combination with P (500 μg/kg) at three time points before testing: 15 min (n = 24), 1 h (n = 24), and 4 h (n = 24). Given alone, high E2 biases rats to the use of place memory, but this effect is reversed when P is given 1 h or 4 h before testing. This indicates that P may be playing an inhibitory role in the hippocampus during spatial tasks, which is consistent with past findings. Our findings show that P acts rapidly (within an hour) to affect performance during spatial tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse M Lacasse
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Smita Patel
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Alexander Bailey
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Vanessa Peronace
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Wayne G Brake
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada.
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9
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Vitku J, Hill M, Kolatorova L, Kubala Havrdova E, Kancheva R. Steroid Sulfation in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:839887. [PMID: 35281259 PMCID: PMC8904904 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.839887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid sulfation and desulfation participates in the regulation of steroid bioactivity, metabolism and transport. The authors focused on sulfation and desulfation balance in three neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer´s disease (AD), Parkinson´s disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Circulating steroid conjugates dominate their unconjugated counterparts, but unconjugated steroids outweigh their conjugated counterparts in the brain. Apart from the neurosteroid synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS), most brain steroids cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) from the periphery and then may be further metabolized. Therefore, steroid levels in the periphery partly reflect the situation in the brain. The CNS steroids subsequently influence the neuronal excitability and have neuroprotective, neuroexcitatory, antidepressant and memory enhancing effects. They also exert anti-inflammatory and immunoprotective actions. Like the unconjugated steroids, the sulfated ones modulate various ligand-gated ion channels. Conjugation by sulfotransferases increases steroid water solubility and facilitates steroid transport. Steroid sulfates, having greater half-lives than their unconjugated counterparts, also serve as a steroid stock pool. Sulfotransferases are ubiquitous enzymes providing massive steroid sulfation in adrenal zona reticularis and zona fasciculata.. Steroid sulfatase hydrolyzing the steroid conjugates is exceedingly expressed in placenta but is ubiquitous in low amounts including brain capillaries of BBB which can rapidly hydrolyze the steroid sulfates coming across the BBB from the periphery. Lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) plasma levels and reduced sulfotransferase activity are considered as risk factors in AD patients. The shifted balance towards unconjugated steroids can participate in the pathophysiology of PD and anti-inflammatory effects of DHEAS may counteract the MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Vitku
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Jana Vitku,
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
| | - Lucie Kolatorova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
| | - Eva Kubala Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Radmila Kancheva
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
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10
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Bäckström T, Das R, Bixo M. Positive GABA A receptor modulating steroids and their antagonists: Implications for clinical treatments. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13013. [PMID: 34337790 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and GABAergic transmission has been shown to be of importance for regulation of mood, memory and food intake. The progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone (Allo) is a positive GABAA receptor modulating steroid with potent effects. In humans, disorders such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), hepatic encephalopathy and polycystic ovarian syndrome are associated with elevated Allo levels and increased negative mood, disturbed memory and increased food intake in some individuals. This is surprising because Allo shares many properties with benzodiazepines and is mainly considered to be anxiolytic and anti-depressant. However, it is well established that, in certain individuals, GABAA receptor activating compounds could have paradoxical effects and thus be anxiogenic in low physiological plasma concentrations but anxiolytic at high levels. We have demonstrated that isoallopregnanolone (Isoallo), the 3β-OH sibling of Allo, functions as a GABAA receptor modulating steroid antagonist (GAMSA) but without any effects of its own on GABAA receptors. The antagonistic effect is noted in most GABAA subtypes investigated in vitro to date. In vivo, Isoallo can inhibit Allo-induced anaesthesia in rats, as well as sedation or saccadic eye velocity in humans. Isoallo treatment has been studied in women with PMDD. In a first phase II study, Isoallo (Sepranolone; Asarina Pharma) injections significantly ameliorated negative mood in women with PMDD compared with placebo. Several GAMSAs for oral administration have also been developed. The GAMSA, UC1011, can inhibit Allo induced memory disturbances in rats and an oral GAMSA, GR3027, has been shown to restore learning and motor coordination in rats with hepatic encephalopathy. In humans, vigilance, cognition and pathological electroencephalogram were improved in patients with hepatic encephalopathy on treatment with GR3027. In conclusion GAMSAs are a new possible treatment for disorders and symptoms caused by hyperactivity in the GABAA system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn Bäckström
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Roshni Das
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Marie Bixo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
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Rasmusson AM, Pineles SL, Brown KD, Pinna G. A role for deficits in GABAergic neurosteroids and their metabolites with NMDA receptor antagonist activity in the pathophysiology of posttraumatic stress disorder. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13062. [PMID: 34962690 PMCID: PMC9233411 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Trauma-focused psychotherapies show general efficacy in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), although outcomes vary substantially among individuals with PTSD and many patients do not achieve clinically meaningful symptom improvement. Several factors may contribute to poor treatment response, including genetic or environmental (e.g., stress) effects on neurobiological factors involved in learning and memory processes critical to PTSD recovery. In this review, we discuss the relationship between deficient GABAergic neurosteroid metabolites of progesterone, allopregnanolone (Allo) and pregnanolone (PA), and PTSD symptoms in men and women or PTSD-like behavioral abnormalities observed in male rodent models of PTSD. We also review the role and molecular underpinnings of learning and memory processes relevant to PTSD recovery, including extinction, extinction retention, reconsolidation of reactivated aversive memories and episodic non-aversive memory. We then discuss preclinical and clinical research that supports a role in these learning and memory processes for GABAergic neurosteroids and sulfated metabolites of Allo and PA that allosterically antagonize NMDA receptor function. Studies supporting the possible therapeutic impact of appropriately timed, acutely administered Allo or Allo analogs to facilitate extinction retention and/or block reconsolidation of aversive memories are also reviewed. Finally, we discuss important future directions for research in this area. Examining the varied and composite effects in PTSD of these metabolites of progesterone, as well as neuroactive derivatives of other parent steroids produced in the brain and the periphery, will likely enable a broadening of targets for treatment development. Defining contributions of these neuroactive steroids to common PTSD-comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions, as well as subpopulation-specific underlying dysfunctional physiological processes such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and immune system dysregulation, may also enable development of more effective multisystem precision medicines to prevent and treat the broader, polymorbid sequelae of extreme and chronic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M. Rasmusson
- VA National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Science Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Boston, MA 02130, U.S.A
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118
| | - Suzanne L. Pineles
- VA National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Science Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Boston, MA 02130, U.S.A
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118
| | - Kayla D. Brown
- Behavioral Neurosciences PhD Program, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, 02118, U.S.A
| | - Graziano Pinna
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, 60612, U.S.A
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12
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Neurosteroid Activation of GABA-A Receptors: A Potential Treatment Target for Symptoms in Primary Biliary Cholangitis? Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 2022:3618090. [PMID: 36523650 PMCID: PMC9747297 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3618090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims A third of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) experience poorly understood cognitive symptoms, with a significant impact on quality of life (QOL), and no effective medical treatment. Allopregnanolone, a neurosteroid, is a positive allosteric modulator of gamma-aminobutyricacid-A (GABA-A) receptors, associated with disordered mood, cognition, and memory. This study explored associations between allopregnanolone and a disease-specific QOL scoring system (PBC-40) in PBC patients. Method Serum allopregnanolone levels were measured in 120 phenotyped PBC patients and 40 age and gender-matched healthy controls. PBC subjects completed the PBC-40 at recruitment. Serum allopregnanolone levels were compared across PBC-40 domains for those with none/mild symptoms versus severe symptoms. Results There were no overall differences in allopregnanolone levels between healthy controls (median = 0.03 ng/ml (IQR = 0.025)) and PBC patients (0.031 (0.42), p = 0.42). Within the PBC cohort, higher allopregnanolone levels were observed in younger patients (r (120) = -0.53, p < 0.001) but not healthy controls (r (39) = -0.21, p = 0.21). Allopregnanolone levels were elevated in the PBC-40 domains, cognition (u = 1034, p = 0.02), emotional (u = 1374, p = 0.004), and itch (u = 795, p = 0.03). Severe cognitive symptoms associated with a younger age: severe (50 (12)) vs. none (60 (13); u = 423 p = 0.001). Conclusion Elevated serum allopregnanolone is associated with severe cognitive, emotional, and itch symptoms in PBC, in keeping with its known action on GABA-A receptors. Existing novel compounds targeting allopregnanolone could offer new therapies in severely symptomatic PBC, satisfying a significant unmet need.
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13
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Schwartzer JJ, Garcia-Arocena D, Jamal A, Izadi A, Willemsen R, Berman RF. Allopregnanolone Improves Locomotor Activity and Arousal in the Aged CGG Knock-in Mouse Model of Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:752973. [PMID: 34924931 PMCID: PMC8678485 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.752973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Carriers of the fragile X premutation (PM) can develop a variety of early neurological symptoms, including depression, anxiety and cognitive impairment as well as being at risk for developing the late-onset fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). The absence of effective treatments for FXTAS underscores the importance of developing efficacious therapies to reduce the neurological symptoms in elderly PM carriers and FXTAS patients. A recent preliminary study reported that weekly infusions of Allopregnanolone (Allop) may improve deficits in executive function, learning and memory in FXTAS patients. Based on this study we examined whether Allop would improve neurological function in the aged CGG knock-in (CGG KI) dutch mouse, B6.129P2(Cg)-Fmr1tm2Cgr/Cgr, that models much of the symptomatology in PM carriers and FXTAS patients. Wild type and CGG KI mice received 10 weekly injections of Allop (10 mg/kg, s.c.), followed by a battery of behavioral tests of motor function, anxiety, and repetitive behavior, and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling to examine adult neurogenesis. The results provided evidence that Allop in CGG KI mice normalized motor performance and reduced thigmotaxis in the open field, normalized repetitive digging behavior in the marble burying test, but did not appear to increase adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Considered together, these results support further examination of Allop as a therapeutic strategy in patients with FXTAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared J Schwartzer
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Psychology and Education, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, United States
| | | | - Amanda Jamal
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Ali Izadi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Rob Willemsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Robert F Berman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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14
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Abstract
Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstrual cycles following the loss of ovarian follicular activity. Quality of life of postmenopausal woman is the result of a series of psychobiological transformations, that see in the reduction of sex hormones and steroids the etiopathogenetic determinant moment. Symptoms of menopause range from somatic side such as metabolic changes, increased cardiovascular disease, irregular vaginal bleeding, urogenital symptoms, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis and risk of bones fractures to changes of central nervous system as vasomotor symptoms, sleep disruption, mood changes, migraine, sexual dysfunctions. It is fundamental to know the mechanisms underlying changes in the central nervous system during menopause, related to hypoestrogenism, to be able to create appropriate target therapy for patients, improving their quality of life. In fact, the central nervous system is now one of the major targets of sex steroids that cannot be achieved disregard when dealing with the problem of choice of a particular type of MHT.
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15
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Ethinyl Estadiol/Progestin Oral Contraceptives Depress Spatial Learning and Dysregulate Hippocampal CA3 Microstructure: Implications for Behavioral-Cognitive Effects of Chronic Contraceptive Use? ACTA MEDICA BULGARICA 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/amb-2021-0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Combined oral contraceptive pill contains ethinyl estradiol and a synthetic progestin, which prevent ovulation by suppressing the release of the gonadotropins resulting in the inhibition of ovarian follicles’ development. Although advantageous in birth control, the impact on learning and memory is limited necessitating this study on its effect on spatial learning, and hippocampal CA3 microstructure. Thirty two female Wistar rats of average body weight 200 g were equally divided (n = 8) into four groups; 0.002 mg/kg levonorgestrel plus 0.00043 mg/kg ethinyl estradiol (COCP) were administered orally for 21, 42 and 63 days. 24 hours after the last administration the rats underwent Morris water maze test and were sacrificed by transcardial perfusion-fixation. Their hippocampal regions were processed for histological study, and immunolabelled with anti-neuron specific enolase (NSE) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Results showed that the COCP test groups had shorter escape latencies (p ≤ 0.05) in the visible and hidden platform trials. The COCP test groups showed no difference in neuronal population, although some of the hippocampal CA3 pyramidal neurons were either atrophic and/or karyorrhectic, with shrunken and dense nuclei. NSE expression was lower (p ≤ 0.05) in the 21, 42 and 63 days COCP groups, while GFAP expression was lower in the 21 days COCP group, but not different in the 42 and 63 days COCP groups compared with the control. These preliminary results show that COCP influence spatial learning, and may also reduce neuronal metabolic activity, while increasing astrocytic activity in the hippocampal CA3.
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16
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Shiono S, Sun H, Batabyal T, Labuz A, Williamson J, Kapur J, Joshi S. Limbic progesterone receptor activity enhances neuronal excitability and seizures. Epilepsia 2021; 62:1946-1959. [PMID: 34164810 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Emerging evidence raises the possibility that progesterone receptor (PR) signaling may contribute to the reproductive hormone fluctuation-linked seizure precipitation, called catamenial epilepsy. Therefore, we studied PR isoform expression in limbic regions involved in temporal lobe epilepsy and the effect of PR activation on neuronal activity and seizures. METHODS We evaluated PR expression in the limbic regions, entorhinal cortex (EC), hippocampus, and amygdala in female rats using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). A selective agonist, Nestorone (16-methylene-17 alpha-acetoxy-19-nor-pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione) activated PRs, and the effect on excitability and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR)-mediated synaptic transmission of EC neurons was studied using electrophysiology. Finally, we assessed PR regulation of epileptic seizures and status epilepticus (SE) induced by lithium-pilocarpine in female rats with the global deletion of PRs (PR knockout; PRKO) using video electroencephalography (-EEG). RESULTS Limbic regions EC, hippocampus, and amygdala robustly expressed PR messenger RNA (mRNA). Nestorone (16-methylene-17 alpha-acetoxy-19-nor-pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione) treatment reduced the action potential threshold of layer II/III EC neurons and increased the frequency of AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic currents of ovariectomized and estrogen-primed female rats. Female rats lacking PRs (PRKO) experienced a shorter duration, less intense, and less fatal SE than wild-type (WT) animals. Furthermore, Nestorone treatment caused seizure exacerbation in the WT epileptic animals, but not in the PRKO epileptic animals. SIGNIFICANCE Activation of PRs expressed in the EC and hippocampus increased neuronal excitability and worsened seizures. These receptors may play a role in catamenial epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnosuke Shiono
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Huayu Sun
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Tamal Batabyal
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Aleksandra Labuz
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - John Williamson
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jaideep Kapur
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA.,UVA Brain Institute, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Suchitra Joshi
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia-HSC, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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17
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Cao T, Tang M, Jiang P, Zhang B, Wu X, Chen Q, Zeng C, Li N, Zhang S, Cai H. A Potential Mechanism Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Progesterone and Allopregnanolone on Ketamine-Induced Cognitive Deficits. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:612083. [PMID: 33767621 PMCID: PMC7985688 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.612083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ketamine exposure can model cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia. Progesterone (PROG) and its active metabolite allopregnanolone (ALLO) have neuroprotective effects and the pathway involving progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K), and protein kinase B (Akt) appears to play a key role in their neuroprotection. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of PROG (8,16 mg kg−1) and ALLO (8,16 mg kg−1) on the reversal of cognitive deficits induced by ketamine (30 mg kg−1) via the PGRMC1 pathway in rat brains, including hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Cognitive performance was evaluated by Morris water maze (MWM) test. Western blot and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction were utilized to assess the expression changes of protein and mRNA. Additionally, concentrations of PROG and ALLO in plasma, hippocampus and PFC were measured by a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. We demonstrated that PROG or ALLO could reverse the impaired spatial learning and memory abilities induced by ketamine, accompanied with the upregulation of PGRMC1/EGFR/GLP-1R/PI3K/Akt pathway. Additionally, the coadministration of AG205 abolished their neuroprotective effects and induced cognitive deficits similar with ketamine. More importantly, PROG concentrations were markedly elevated in PROG-treated groups in hippocampus, PFC and plasma, so as for ALLO concentrations in ALLO-treated groups. Interestingly, ALLO (16 mg kg−1) significantly increased the levels of PROG. These findings suggest that PROG can exert its neuroprotective effects via activating the PGRMC1/EGFR/GLP-1R/PI3K/Akt pathway in the brain, whereas ALLO also restores cognitive deficits partially via increasing the level of PROG in the brain to activate the PGRMC1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Cao
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - MiMi Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Hospital Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pei Jiang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Jining First People's Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - BiKui Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - XiangXin Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - CuiRong Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - NaNa Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - ShuangYang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - HuaLin Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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18
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Yalin N, Kempton MJ, Mazibuko N, Mehta MA, Young AH, Stokes PR. Mifepristone enhances the neural efficiency of human visuospatial memory encoding and recall. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 125:105116. [PMID: 33418240 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.105116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonism is a promising new treatment for cognitive dysfunction in psychiatric disorders but the effects of GR antagonism on cognition related brain activity is poorly understood. This study examines the effects of the GR and progesterone receptor antagonist mifepristone on the neural correlates of visuospatial learning and working memory in healthy male participants. The study used a pharmacological functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) design to determine mifepristone effects on visuospatial paired associates learning (vPAL) and n-back working memory (WM) fMRI task related brain activations. 20 right-handed healthy male participants received 600 mg mifepristone or placebo on two separate imaging days and each participant performed fMRI tasks four hours later. The effect of mifepristone on task related brain activations was determined using Region of Interest (ROI) fMRI analyses and an exploratory whole brain voxel-wise fMRI task analyses was also conducted. The vPAL task ROI analysis found that mifepristone administration was significantly associated with decreased fusiform cortex activations in first and second encoding blocks (p = 0.007, p = 0.04) and decreased angular and precuneal cortices activations in the first recall block (p = 0.01, p = 0.02). There were no significant differences in fMRI brain activations associated with mifepristone administration in the n-back task ROI's (all p > 0.05). Mifepristone administration did not significantly affect fMRI brain activations in the whole brain voxel-wise analyses for both tasks. N-back and vPAL task reaction times and accuracy were similar in both mifepristone and placebo conditions (all p > 0.05). Our finding of decreased fusiform, angular and precuneal vPAL task related brain activity associated with mifepristone administration for the same behavioural performance as found in the placebo condition may represent improved efficiency of visuospatial memory encoding and recall. These findings provide evidence that mifepristone may enhance the efficiency of human visuospatial memory and calls for further studies in patient populations using an fMRI approach to provide proof of concept for new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nefize Yalin
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry & Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College of London, London, UK.
| | - Matthew J Kempton
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology &Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Ndaba Mazibuko
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Mitul A Mehta
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Allan H Young
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry & Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College of London, London, UK.
| | - Paul Ra Stokes
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry & Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College of London, London, UK.
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19
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Maiti P, Bowers Z, Bourcier-Schultz A, Morse J, Dunbar GL. Preservation of dendritic spine morphology and postsynaptic signaling markers after treatment with solid lipid curcumin particles in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer's amyloidosis. Alzheimers Res Ther 2021; 13:37. [PMID: 33557949 PMCID: PMC7871397 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-021-00769-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synaptic failure is one of the principal events associated with cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Preservation of existing synapses and prevention of synaptic loss are promising strategies to preserve cognitive function in AD patients. As a potent natural anti-oxidant, anti-amyloid, and anti-inflammatory polyphenol, curcumin (Cur) shows great promise as a therapy for AD. However, hydrophobicity of natural Cur limits its solubility, stability, bioavailability, and clinical utility for AD therapy. We have demonstrated that solid lipid curcumin particles (SLCP) have greater therapeutic potential than natural Cur in vitro and in vivo models of AD. In the present study, we have investigated whether SLCP has any preservative role on affected dendritic spines and synaptic markers in 5xFAD mice. METHODS Six- and 12-month-old 5xFAD and age-matched wild-type mice received oral administration of SLCP (100 mg/kg body weight) or equivalent amounts of vehicle for 2 months. Neuronal morphology, neurodegeneration, and amyloid plaque load were investigated from prefrontal cortex (PFC), entorhinal cortex (EC), CA1, CA3, and the subicular complex (SC). In addition, the dendritic spine density from apical and basal branches was studied by Golgi-Cox stain. Further, synaptic markers, such as synaptophysin, PSD95, Shank, Homer, Drebrin, Kalirin-7, CREB, and phosphorylated CREB (pCREB) were studied using Western blots. Finally, cognitive and motor functions were assessed using open-field, novel object recognition (NOR) and Morris water maze (MWM) tasks after treatment with SLCP. RESULTS We observed an increased number of pyknotic and degenerated cells in all these brain areas in 5xFAD mice and SLCP treatment partially protected against those losses. Decrease in dendritic arborization and dendritic spine density from primary, secondary, and tertiary apical and basal branches were observed in PFC, EC, CA1, and CA3 in both 6- and 12-month-old 5xFAD mice, and SLCP treatments partially preserved the normal morphology of these dendritic spines. In addition, pre- and postsynaptic protein markers were also restored by SLCP treatment. Furthermore, SLCP treatment improved NOR and cognitive function in 5xFAD mice. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these findings indicate that use of SLCP exerts neuroprotective properties by decreasing amyloid plaque burden, preventing neuronal death, and preserving dendritic spine density and synaptic markers in the 5xFAD mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panchanan Maiti
- Field Neurosciences Institute Laboratory for Restorative Neurology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Department of Psychology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Field Neurosciences Institute, Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital, Saginaw, MI 48604 USA
- College of Health and Human Services, Saginaw Valley State University, Saginaw, MI 48710 USA
| | - Zackary Bowers
- Field Neurosciences Institute Laboratory for Restorative Neurology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
| | - Ali Bourcier-Schultz
- College of Health and Human Services, Saginaw Valley State University, Saginaw, MI 48710 USA
| | - Jarod Morse
- College of Health and Human Services, Saginaw Valley State University, Saginaw, MI 48710 USA
| | - Gary L. Dunbar
- Field Neurosciences Institute Laboratory for Restorative Neurology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Department of Psychology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA
- Field Neurosciences Institute, Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital, Saginaw, MI 48604 USA
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20
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Alsaab HO, Altowairqi E, Alzahrani N, Alzahrani R, Alshehri FS, Almalki AH, Alsanie WF, Gaber A, Alkhalifa T, Almalki A, Shah ZA, Althobaiti YS. Sex differences in pregabalin-seeking like behavior in a conditioned place preference paradigm. Saudi Pharm J 2020; 28:1749-1755. [PMID: 33424265 PMCID: PMC7783229 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance abuse is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug use regardless of negative consequences. Incremental increases in pregabalin abuse have been observed in Saudi Arabia and throughout the world. In previous studies, the potential for pregabalin abuse with escalating doses of the drug (30, 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg) were investigated in male mice. Notably, researchers have argued that women may exhibit a greater tendency to consume drugs without a prescription to alleviate stress and depression. Moreover, female subjects are more prone to impulsivity in drug intake or abuse than their male counterparts. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the potential for pregabalin abuse between male and female mice using a conditioned place preference paradigm. Male and female BALB/c mice were divided into four groups based on the pregabalin dose administered (30, 60, 90, or 120 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). Preference scores were then calculated and compared between male and female mice in each dosage group. Interestingly, preference scores were significantly higher in female mice than in male mice at dosages of 30 and 120 mg/kg. These findings indicate that female mice may be more prone to pregabalin abuse and tolerance than male mice. These results might be helpful to the healthcare providers and policymakers to consider these sex differences in choosing therapeutic plans and consider alternatives to the misused prescription medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashem O. Alsaab
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ebtehal Altowairqi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada Alzahrani
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Alzahrani
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad S. Alshehri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Atiah H. Almalki
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Walaa F. Alsanie
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Laboratories, Taif University, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Gaber
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Taif University, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Alkhalifa
- General Administration for Precursors and Laboratories, General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almalki
- General Administration for Precursors and Laboratories, General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zahoor A. Shah
- Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Yusuf S. Althobaiti
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Health Science Campus, Al Haweiah, Taif 21974, Saudi Arabia
- General Administration for Precursors and Laboratories, General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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21
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Littlejohn EL, Fedorchak S, Boychuk CR. Sex-steroid-dependent plasticity of brain-stem autonomic circuits. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 319:R60-R68. [PMID: 32493037 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00357.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
In the central nervous system (CNS), nuclei of the brain stem play a critical role in the integration of peripheral sensory information and the regulation of autonomic output in mammalian physiology. The nucleus tractus solitarius of the brain stem acts as a relay center that receives peripheral sensory input from vagal afferents of the nodose ganglia, integrates information from within the brain stem and higher central centers, and then transmits autonomic efferent output through downstream premotor nuclei, such as the nucleus ambiguus, the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, and the rostral ventral lateral medulla. Although there is mounting evidence that sex and sex hormones modulate autonomic physiology at the level of the CNS, the mechanisms and neurocircuitry involved in producing these functional consequences are poorly understood. Of particular interest in this review is the role of estrogen, progesterone, and 5α-reductase-dependent neurosteroid metabolites of progesterone (e.g., allopregnanolone) in the modulation of neurotransmission within brain-stem autonomic neurocircuits. This review will discuss our understanding of the actions and mechanisms of estrogen, progesterone, and neurosteroids at the cellular level of brain-stem nuclei. Understanding the complex interaction between sex hormones and neural signaling plasticity of the autonomic nervous system is essential to elucidating the role of sex in overall physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Littlejohn
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Stephanie Fedorchak
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Carie R Boychuk
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
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Belelli D, Hogenkamp D, Gee KW, Lambert JJ. Realising the therapeutic potential of neuroactive steroid modulators of the GABA A receptor. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 12:100207. [PMID: 32435660 PMCID: PMC7231973 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In the 1980s particular endogenous metabolites of progesterone and of deoxycorticosterone were revealed to be potent, efficacious, positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of the GABAA receptor (GABAAR). These reports were followed by the discovery that such steroids may be synthesised not only in peripheral endocrine glands, but locally in the central nervous system (CNS), to potentially act as paracrine, or autocrine "neurosteroid" messengers, thereby fine tuning neuronal inhibition. These discoveries triggered enthusiasm to elucidate the physiological role of such neurosteroids and explore whether their levels may be perturbed in particular psychiatric and neurological disorders. In preclinical studies the GABAAR-active steroids were shown to exhibit anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, analgesic and sedative properties and at relatively high doses to induce a state of general anaesthesia. Collectively, these findings encouraged efforts to investigate the therapeutic potential of neurosteroids and related synthetic analogues. However, following over 30 years of investigation, realising their possible medical potential has proved challenging. The recent FDA approval for the natural neurosteroid allopregnanolone (brexanolone) to treat postpartum depression (PPD) should trigger renewed enthusiasm for neurosteroid research. Here we focus on the influence of neuroactive steroids on GABA-ergic signalling and on the challenges faced in developing such steroids as anaesthetics, sedatives, analgesics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants and as treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delia Belelli
- Systems Medicine, Neuroscience, Mail Box 6, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, DD1 9SY, United Kingdom
| | - Derk Hogenkamp
- Department of Pharmacology, 110C Med Surge1, Mail Code 4625, University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Kelvin W Gee
- Department of Pharmacology, 110C Med Surge1, Mail Code 4625, University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Jeremy J Lambert
- Systems Medicine, Neuroscience, Mail Box 6, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, DD1 9SY, United Kingdom
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GABA-A receptor modulating steroids in acute and chronic stress; relevance for cognition and dementia? Neurobiol Stress 2019; 12:100206. [PMID: 31921942 PMCID: PMC6948369 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive dysfunction, dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are increasing as the population worldwide ages. Therapeutics for these conditions is an unmet need. This review focuses on the role of the positive GABA-A receptor modulating steroid allopregnanolone (APα), it's role in underlying mechanisms for impaired cognition and of AD, and to determine options for therapy of AD. On one hand, APα given intermittently promotes neurogenesis, decreases AD-related pathology and improves cognition. On the other, continuous exposure of APα impairs cognition and deteriorates AD pathology. The disparity between these two outcomes led our groups to analyze the mechanisms underlying the difference. We conclude that the effects of APα depend on administration pattern and that chronic slightly increased APα exposure is harmful to cognitive function and worsens AD pathology whereas single administrations with longer intervals improve cognition and decrease AD pathology. These collaborative assessments provide insights for the therapeutic development of APα and APα antagonists for AD and provide a model for cross laboratory collaborations aimed at generating translatable data for human clinical trials.
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The brain as a target of hormonal contraceptives: Evidence from animal studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100799. [PMID: 31614151 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal contraceptives are frequently prescribed drugs among women, mainly for their reversible contraceptive purposes but also for beneficial effects in some gynecological pathologies. Despite extensive studies aimed at elucidating the physical effects of hormonal contraceptives and ameliorating some unwanted outcomes, little is known yet about the effects of these drugs on brain function and related behavior, which are known to be modulated by endogenous steroid hormones. We describe the current literature on preclinical studies in animals undertaken to investigate effects of hormonal contraceptives on brain function and behavior. These studies suggest that hormonal contraceptives influence neurohormones, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and emotional, cognitive, social and sexual behaviors. Animals allow examination of the basic biological mechanisms of these drugs, devoid of the psychological aspect often associated to hormonal contraceptives' use in women. Understanding the neurobiological effects of these drugs may improve women's health and may help women making informed choices on hormonal contraception.
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Mouro FM, Miranda-Lourenço C, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ. From Cannabinoids and Neurosteroids to Statins and the Ketogenic Diet: New Therapeutic Avenues in Rett Syndrome? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:680. [PMID: 31333401 PMCID: PMC6614559 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused mainly by mutations in the MECP2 gene, being one of the leading causes of mental disability in females. Mutations in the MECP2 gene are responsible for 95% of the diagnosed RTT cases and the mechanisms through which these mutations relate with symptomatology are still elusive. Children with RTT present a period of apparent normal development followed by a rapid regression in speech and behavior and a progressive deterioration of motor abilities. Epilepsy is one of the most common symptoms in RTT, occurring in 60 to 80% of RTT cases, being associated with worsening of other symptoms. At this point, no cure for RTT is available and there is a pressing need for the discovery of new drug candidates to treat its severe symptoms. However, despite being a rare disease, in the last decade research in RTT has grown exponentially. New and exciting evidence has been gathered and the etiopathogenesis of this complex, severe and untreatable disease is slowly being unfolded. Advances in gene editing techniques have prompted cure-oriented research in RTT. Nonetheless, at this point, finding a cure is a distant reality, highlighting the importance of further investigating the basic pathological mechanisms of this disease. In this review, we focus our attention in some of the newest evidence on RTT clinical and preclinical research, evaluating their impact in RTT symptomatology control, and pinpointing possible directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Melo Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Miranda-Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Maria Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria José Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Fleiss B, Wong F, Brownfoot F, Shearer IK, Baud O, Walker DW, Gressens P, Tolcos M. Knowledge Gaps and Emerging Research Areas in Intrauterine Growth Restriction-Associated Brain Injury. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:188. [PMID: 30984110 PMCID: PMC6449431 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a complex global healthcare issue. Concerted research and clinical efforts have improved our knowledge of the neurodevelopmental sequelae of IUGR which has raised the profile of this complex problem. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of therapies to prevent the substantial rates of fetal demise or the constellation of permanent neurological deficits that arise from IUGR. The purpose of this article is to highlight the clinical and translational gaps in our knowledge that hamper our collective efforts to improve the neurological sequelae of IUGR. Also, we draw attention to cutting-edge tools and techniques that can provide novel insights into this disorder, and technologies that offer the potential for better drug design and delivery. We cover topics including: how we can improve our use of crib-side monitoring options, what we still need to know about inflammation in IUGR, the necessity for more human post-mortem studies, lessons from improved integrated histology-imaging analyses regarding the cell-specific nature of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals, options to improve risk stratification with genomic analysis, and treatments mediated by nanoparticle delivery which are designed to modify specific cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi Fleiss
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bobbi Fleiss
| | - Flora Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Newborn, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Fiona Brownfoot
- Translational Obstetrics Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabelle K. Shearer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Olivier Baud
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Division of Neonatal Intensive Care, University Hospitals of Geneva, Children's Hospital, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David W. Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Pierre Gressens
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- PremUP, Paris, France
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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Ratner MH, Kumaresan V, Farb DH. Neurosteroid Actions in Memory and Neurologic/Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:169. [PMID: 31024441 PMCID: PMC6465949 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory dysfunction is a symptomatic feature of many neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders; however, the basic underlying mechanisms of memory and altered states of circuitry function associated with disorders of memory remain a vast unexplored territory. The initial discovery of endogenous neurosteroids triggered a quest to elucidate their role as neuromodulators in normal and diseased brain function. In this review, based on the perspective of our own research, the advances leading to the discovery of positive and negative neurosteroid allosteric modulators of GABA type-A (GABAA), NMDA, and non-NMDA type glutamate receptors are brought together in a historical and conceptual framework. We extend the analysis toward a state-of-the art view of how neurosteroid modulation of neural circuitry function may affect memory and memory deficits. By aggregating the results from multiple laboratories using both animal models for disease and human clinical research on neuropsychiatric and age-related neurodegenerative disorders, elements of a circuitry level view begins to emerge. Lastly, the effects of both endogenously active and exogenously administered neurosteroids on neural networks across the life span of women and men point to a possible underlying pharmacological connectome by which these neuromodulators might act to modulate memory across diverse altered states of mind.
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29
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Calvo-Flores Guzmán B, Vinnakota C, Govindpani K, Waldvogel HJ, Faull RL, Kwakowsky A. The GABAergic system as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2018; 146:649-669. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Calvo-Flores Guzmán
- Centre for Brain Research; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences; Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Chitra Vinnakota
- Centre for Brain Research; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences; Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Karan Govindpani
- Centre for Brain Research; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences; Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Henry J. Waldvogel
- Centre for Brain Research; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences; Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Richard L.M. Faull
- Centre for Brain Research; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences; Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Andrea Kwakowsky
- Centre for Brain Research; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences; Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
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30
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Rossetti MF, Varayoud J, Andreoli MF, Stoker C, Luque EH, Ramos JG. Sex- and age-associated differences in episodic-like memory and transcriptional regulation of hippocampal steroidogenic enzymes in rats. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 470:208-218. [PMID: 29113830 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the episodic-like memory (ELM) and the transcriptional regulation of the enzymes involved in hippocampal allopregnanolone synthesis in young adult and middle-aged male and female rats. Young adult males, but not middle-aged ones, showed a good performance in the ELM task. In contrast, neither young nor middle-aged females were able to discriminate the spatial order in which the objects were presented. In females, aging decreased the transcription of steroidogenic-related genes. In addition, the mRNA levels of 5α-reductase-1 were higher and the methylation of its promoter was lower in young adult females than in males, suggesting an epigenetic control. Further studies are needed to establish correlations between ELM and the transcriptional regulation of hippocampal steroidogenic enzymes. Our results contribute to the knowledge of sex differences in gene expression, methylation and memory during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- María F Rossetti
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral-CONICET, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral-CONICET, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - María F Andreoli
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral-CONICET, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Cora Stoker
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral-CONICET, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral-CONICET, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Jorge G Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral-CONICET, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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Joshi S, Sun H, Rajasekaran K, Williamson J, Perez-Reyes E, Kapur J. A novel therapeutic approach for treatment of catamenial epilepsy. Neurobiol Dis 2018; 111:127-137. [PMID: 29274741 PMCID: PMC5803337 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many women with epilepsy experience perimenstrual seizure exacerbation, referred to as catamenial epilepsy. There is no effective treatment for this condition, proposed to result from withdrawal of neurosteroid-mediated effects of progesterone. A double-blind, multicenter, phase III, clinical trial of catamenial epilepsy has failed to find a beneficial effect of progesterone. The neurosteroid-mediated effects of progesterone have been extensively studied in relation to catamenial epilepsy; however, the effects mediated by progesterone receptor activation have been overlooked. We determined whether progesterone increased excitatory transmission in the hippocampus via activation of progesterone receptors, which may play a role in regulating catamenial seizure exacerbation. In a double-blind study using a rat model of catamenial epilepsy, we found that treatment with RU-486, which blocks progesterone and glucocorticoid receptors, significantly attenuated neurosteroid withdrawal-induced seizures. Furthermore, progesterone treatment as well as endogenous rise in progesterone during estrous cycle increased the expression of GluA1 and GluA2 subunits of AMPA receptors in the hippocampi, and enhanced the AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission of CA1 pyramidal neurons. The progesterone-induced plasticity of AMPA receptors was blocked by RU-486 treatment and progesterone also failed to increase AMPA receptor expression in progesterone receptor knockout mice. These studies demonstrate that progesterone receptor activation regulates AMPA receptor expression and may play a role in catamenial seizure exacerbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchitra Joshi
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Huayu Sun
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Karthik Rajasekaran
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - John Williamson
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Edward Perez-Reyes
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Jaideep Kapur
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States; Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States.
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Slopien R, Pluchino N, Warenik-Szymankiewicz A, Sajdak S, Luisi M, Drakopoulos P, Genazzani AR. Correlation between allopregnanolone levels and depressive symptoms during late menopausal transition and early postmenopause. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:144-147. [PMID: 28857628 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1371129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This observational, cross-sectional study included 140 women with climacteric symptoms. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the presence and severity of depressive symptoms and allopregnanolone levels in women during late menopausal transition and early postmenopause. METHODS The study group was divided into two groups: 45 women in late menopausal transition and 95 early postmenopausal women. We evaluated Kupperman index, Hamilton scale and serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, 17β-estradiol, prolactin, total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and allopregnanolone levels. RESULTS We found that serum allopregnanolone concentration was lower in early postmenopausal women compared to women in late menopausal transition; that there was a correlation between serum allopregnanolone levels in early postmenopausal women and time since last menstruation, intensity of climacteric symptoms, and intensity of depression symptoms and that there was a correlation between serum allopregnanolone levels and several depression symptoms presence (shallow sleep and symptoms of the digestive tract in women during late menopause transition; feelings of guilt, sleep disorders and general somatic symptoms in early postmenopausal women). CONCLUSION We concluded that reproductive aging is characterized by a reduction of allopregnanolone circulating levels that correlate to Hamilton depression index in early postmenopause and presence of specific depressive symptoms during late menopausal transition and early postmenopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Slopien
- a Department of Gynecological Endocrinology , University of Medical Sciences of Poznań , Poznań , Poland
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University Hospital of Geneva , Geneva , Switzerland
| | | | - Stefan Sajdak
- c Department of Operative Gynecology , University of Medical Sciences of Poznań , Poznań , Poland
| | - Michele Luisi
- d Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | | | - Andrea R Genazzani
- d Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
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Liang JJ, Rasmusson AM. Overview of the Molecular Steps in Steroidogenesis of the GABAergic Neurosteroids Allopregnanolone and Pregnanolone. CHRONIC STRESS (THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF.) 2018; 2:2470547018818555. [PMID: 32440589 PMCID: PMC7219929 DOI: 10.1177/2470547018818555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone and pregnanolone-neurosteroids synthesized from progesterone in the brain, adrenal gland, ovary and testis-have been implicated in a range of neuropsychiatric conditions including seizure disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, post-partum depression, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, chronic pain, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, neurotrauma, and stroke. Allopregnanolone and pregnanolone equipotently facilitate the effects of gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) at GABAA receptors, and when sulfated, antagonize N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. They play myriad roles in neurophysiological homeostasis and adaptation to stress while exerting anxiolytic, antidepressant, anti-nociceptive, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, sleep promoting, memory stabilizing, neuroprotective, pro-myelinating, and neurogenic effects. Given that these neurosteroids are synthesized de novo on demand, this review details the molecular steps involved in the biochemical conversion of cholesterol to allopregnanolone and pregnanolone within steroidogenic cells. Although much is known about the early steps in neurosteroidogenesis, less is known about transcriptional, translational, and post-translational processes in allopregnanolone- and pregnanolone-specific synthesis. Further research to elucidate these mechanisms as well as to optimize the timing and dose of interventions aimed at altering the synthesis or levels of these neurosteroids is much needed. This should include the development of novel therapeutics for the many neuropsychiatric conditions to which dysregulation of these neurosteroids contributes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann M. Rasmusson
- Boston
University School of Medicine, Boston, MA,
USA
- National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health
Science Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Boston, MA, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA,
USA
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Johansson M, Månsson M, Lins LE, Scharschmidt B, Doverskog M, Bäckström T. GR3027 reversal of neurosteroid-induced, GABA-A receptor-mediated inhibition of human brain function: an allopregnanolone challenge study. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:1533-1543. [PMID: 29492615 PMCID: PMC5919995 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4864-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE GR3027 is a novel small molecule GABA-A receptor-modulating steroid antagonist, which in non-clinical studies has shown promise for treatment of human disorders due to allosteric over-activation of GABA-A receptors by neurosteroids, such as allopregnanolone. We here studied its safety, pharmacokinetics, and ability to inhibit allopregnanolone effects in humans. METHODS Safety and pharmacokinetics were studied in healthy adult males receiving ascending single or multiple oral GR3027 vs. placebo. GR3027-mediated reversal of allopregnanolone effect on maximal saccadic eye velocity (SEV), and self-rated somnolence was studied in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-part cross-over study in which 3 or 30 mg oral GR3027 preceded 0.05 mg/kg of i.v. allopregnanolone. RESULTS GR3027 was well tolerated, adverse events were generally mild and transient, and no dose-limiting toxicity or grade 3 adverse events were observed up to the highest single (200 mg) or multiple (100 mg every 12 h for 5 days) doses. The maximum concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (area under the plasma concentration-time curve from dose extrapolated to infinity [AUC0-∞] and/or AUC during the dosing interval [AUCτ]) varied linearly with dose; with dose-dependent accumulation ratios of 1.3-1.6. Allopregnanolone decreased SEV and induced somnolence in most, but not all subjects. By predefined analyses, 30 mg GR3027 significantly inhibited allopregnanolone-induced decrease in SEV (p = 0.03); 3 and 30 mg GR3027 non-significantly inhibited allopregnanolone-induced sedation. By post hoc analyses restricted to subjects with allopregnanolone-induced changes and the time period over which they occurred, GR3027 dose dependently inhibited allopregnanolone-induced decrease in SEV (p = 0.04 at 30 mg, non-significant at 3 mg) and allopregnanolone-induced sedation (p = 0.01/0.05 at 3/30 mg doses). CONCLUSION Oral GR3027 mitigates inhibition of brain function induced by allopregnanolone at doses which are clinically well tolerated and associated with linear pharmacokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Johansson
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65, Solna, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, SE-901 87, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Maria Månsson
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Lars-Eric Lins
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Bruce Scharschmidt
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Magnus Doverskog
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umecrine Cognition AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden ,Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
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Yawno T, Miller SL, Bennet L, Wong F, Hirst JJ, Fahey M, Walker DW. Ganaxolone: A New Treatment for Neonatal Seizures. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:246. [PMID: 28878622 PMCID: PMC5572234 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal seizures are amongst the most common neurologic conditions managed by a neonatal care service. Seizures can exacerbate existing brain injury, induce “de novo” injury, and are associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities in post-neonatal life. In this mini-review, we present evidence in support of the use of ganaxolone, a GABAA agonist neurosteroid, as a novel neonatal therapy. We discuss evidence that ganaxolone can provide both seizure control and neuroprotection with a high safety profile when administered early following birth-related hypoxia, and show evidence that it is likely to prevent or reduce the incidence of the enduring disabilities associated with preterm birth, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. We suggest that ganaxolone is an ideal anti-seizure treatment because it can be safely used prospectively, with minimal or no adverse effects on the neonatal brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Yawno
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Suzie L Miller
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura Bennet
- Department of Physiology, The University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand
| | - Flora Wong
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jonathan J Hirst
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of NewcastleCallaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Fahey
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT UniversityBundoora, VIC, Australia
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Locci A, Porcu P, Talani G, Santoru F, Berretti R, Giunti E, Licheri V, Sanna E, Concas A. Neonatal estradiol exposure to female rats changes GABA A receptor expression and function, and spatial learning during adulthood. Horm Behav 2017; 87:35-46. [PMID: 27769760 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Exposure of female rats to estradiol during the perinatal period has profound effects on GABAergic neurotransmission that are crucial to establish sexually dimorphic brain characteristics. We previously showed that neonatal β-estradiol 3-benzoate (EB) treatment decreases brain concentrations of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone, a potent positive modulator of extrasynaptic GABAA receptors (GABAAR). We thus evaluated whether neonatal EB treatment affects GABAAR expression and function in the hippocampus of adult female rats. Neonatal EB administration increased the expression of extrasynaptic α4/δ subunit-containing GABAARs and the modulatory action of THIP on tonic currents mediated by these receptors. The same treatment decreased the expression of synaptic α1/α4/γ2 subunit-containing receptors, as well as phasic currents. These effects of neonatal EB treatment are not related to ambient allopregnanolone concentrations per se, given that vehicle-treated rats in diestrus, which have opposite neurosteroid levels than EB-treated rats, show similar changes in GABAARs. Rather, these changes may represent a compensatory mechanism to counteract the long-term reduction in allopregnanolone concentrations, induced by neonatal EB. Given that both α4/δ receptors and allopregnanolone are involved in memory consolidation, we evaluated whether neonatal EB treatment alters performance in the Morris water maze test during adulthood. Neonatal EB treatment decreased the latency and the cumulative search error to reach the platform, as well as thigmotaxis, suggesting improved learning, and also enhanced memory performance during the probe trial. These enduring changes in GABAAR plasticity may be relevant for the regulation of neuronal excitability in the hippocampus and for the etiology of psychiatric disorders that originate in development and show sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Locci
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Talani
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesca Santoru
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberta Berretti
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisa Giunti
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valentina Licheri
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enrico Sanna
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Concas
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
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Neurosteroids Involvement in the Epigenetic Control of Memory Formation and Storage. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:5985021. [PMID: 28090360 PMCID: PMC5206442 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5985021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory is our ability to store and remember past experiences; it is the result of changes in neuronal circuits of specific brain areas as the hippocampus. During memory formation, neurons integrate their functions and increase the strength of their connections, so that synaptic plasticity is improved and consolidated. All these processes recruit several proteins at the synapses, whose expression is highly regulated by DNA methylation and histone tails posttranslational modifications. Steroids are known to influence memory process, and, among them, neurosteroids are implicated in neurodegenerative disease related to memory loss and cognitive impairment. The epigenetic control of neurosteroids involvement in memory formation and maintenance could represent the basis for neuroregenerative therapies.
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Osmanovic-Barilar J, Salkovic-Petrisi M. Evaluating the Role of Hormone Therapy in Postmenopausal Women with Alzheimer’s Disease. Drugs Aging 2016; 33:787-808. [DOI: 10.1007/s40266-016-0407-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Agusti A, Llansola M, Hernández-Rabaza V, Cabrera-Pastor A, Montoliu C, Felipo V. Modulation of GABAA receptors by neurosteroids. A new concept to improve cognitive and motor alterations in hepatic encephalopathy. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 160:88-93. [PMID: 26307490 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome affecting patients with liver diseases, mainly those with liver cirrhosis. The mildest form of HE is minimal HE (MHE), with mild cognitive impairment, attention deficit, psychomotor slowing and impaired visuo-motor and bimanual coordination. MHE may progress to clinical HE with worsening of the neurological alterations which may lead to reduced consciousness and, in the worse cases, may progress to coma and death. HE affects several million people in the world and is a serious health, social and economic problem. There are no specific treatments for the neurological alterations in HE. The mechanisms underlying the cognitive and motor alterations in HE are beginning to be clarified in animal models. These studies have allowed to design and test in animal models of HE new therapeutic approaches which have successfully restored cognitive and motor function in rats with HE. In this article we review the evidences showing that.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Agusti
- Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico de Valencia. Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Llansola
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Andrea Cabrera-Pastor
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmina Montoliu
- Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico de Valencia. Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain.
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Johansson M, Strömberg J, Ragagnin G, Doverskog M, Bäckström T. GABAA receptor modulating steroid antagonists (GAMSA) are functional in vivo. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 160:98-105. [PMID: 26523675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
GABAA receptor modulating steroid antagonists (GAMSA) selectively inhibit neurosteroid-mediated enhancement of GABA-evoked currents at the GABAA receptor. 3α-hydroxy-neurosteroids, notably allopregnanolone and tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC), potentiate GABAA receptor-mediated currents. On the contrary, various 3β-hydroxy-steroids antagonize this positive neurosteroid-mediated modulation. Importantly, GAMSAs are specific antagonists of the positive neurosteroid-modulation of the receptor and do not inhibit GABA-evoked currents. Allopregnanolone and THDOC have both negative and positive actions. Allopregnanolone can impair encoding/consolidation and retrieval of memories. Chronic administration of a physiological allopregnanolone concentration reduces cognition in mice models of Alzheimer's disease. In humans an allopregnanolone challenge impairs episodic memory and in hepatic encephalopathy cognitive deficits are accompanied by increased brain ammonia and allopregnanolone. Hippocampal slices react in vitro to ammonia by allopregnanolone synthesis in CA1 neurons, which blocks long-term potentiation (LTP). Thus, allopregnanolone may impair learning and memory by interfering with hippocampal LTP. Contrary, pharmacological treatment with allopregnanolone can promote neurogenesis and positively influence learning and memory of trace eye-blink conditioning in mice. In rat the GAMSA UC1011 inhibits an allopregnanolone-induced learning impairment and the GAMSA GR3027 restores learning and motor coordination in rats with hepatic encephalopathy. In addition, the GAMSA isoallopregnanolone antagonizes allopregnanolone-induced anesthesia in rats, and in humans it antagonizes allopregnanolone-induced sedation and reductions in saccadic eye velocity. 17PA is also an effective GAMSA in vivo, as it antagonizes allopregnanolone-induced anesthesia and spinal analgesia in rats. In vitro the allopregnanolone/THDOC-increased GABA-mediated GABAA receptor activity is antagonized by isoallopregnanolone, UC1011, GR3027 and 17PA, while the effect of GABA itself is not affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Johansson
- Umeå Neurosteroid research center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences at Umeå University, Building 6M, 4th floor at NUS, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine Cognition AB, Sweden.
| | - Jessica Strömberg
- Umeå Neurosteroid research center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences at Umeå University, Building 6M, 4th floor at NUS, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Gianna Ragagnin
- Umeå Neurosteroid research center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences at Umeå University, Building 6M, 4th floor at NUS, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umeå Neurosteroid research center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences at Umeå University, Building 6M, 4th floor at NUS, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
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Ghazvini H, Khaksari M, Esmaeilpour K, Shabani M, Asadi-Shekaari M, Khodamoradi M, Sheibani V. Effects of treatment with estrogen and progesterone on the methamphetamine-induced cognitive impairment in ovariectomized rats. Neurosci Lett 2016; 619:60-7. [PMID: 26944454 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.02.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is one of the most powerful psychostimulant that leads to long lasting cognitive impairment. Earlier researches demonstrated that ovarian hormones including estrogen and progesterone ameliorate cognitive function against various central nervous system disorders. Moreover, recent studies demonstrate a neuroprotective role against methamphetamine toxicity. In current study the effects of estrogen and progesterone alone or in combination, on spatial learning and memory in METH-exposed ovariectomized (OVX) rats are investigated. Three weeks after ovariectomy, the animals were treated by estrogen (1mg/kg, i.p.) and progesterone (8mg/kg, i.p.) alone and in combination or vehicle during 14 consecutive days. On the 28th day, rats were exposed to a single-day METH regimens (four injections of 6mg/kg, s.c, at 2h intervals) 30min after the hormones treatment. Finally, spatial learning and memory were examined using the Morris water maze 2days after the last treatment. The findings showed that estrogen and progesterone did not have significant effect on spatial learning and memory in non METH-exposed OVX rats. The treatment with estrogen and progesterone alone in METH-exposed rats, significantly improved spatial learning and memory impairment. On the other hand, the cognitive performance of animals that received combination of estrogen plus progesterone in METH-exposed rats did not significantly differ from that of METH-exposed animals that received vehicle injections. Taken together, the present findings suggest that treatment with ovarian hormones can partially improve spatial learning and memory deficits induced by methamphetamine in OVX rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Ghazvini
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Esmaeilpour
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Majid Asadi-Shekaari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khodamoradi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Vahid Sheibani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Bengtsson SKS, Johansson M, Bäckström T. Long-term continuous allopregnanolone elevation causes memory decline and hippocampus shrinkage, in female wild-type B6 mice. Horm Behav 2016; 78:160-7. [PMID: 26497250 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Revised: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress in various forms increases the risk for cognitive dysfunction, dementia and Alzheimer's disease. While the pathogenesis behind these findings is unknown, growing evidence suggests that chronic increase in neurosteroid levels, such as allopregnanolone, is part of the mechanism. We treated wild-type C57BL/6J mice with allopregnanolone for 5months, using osmotic pumps. This treatment led to moderately increased levels of allopregnanolone, equivalent to that of mild chronic stress. After an interval of no treatment for 1month, female mice showed impaired learning and memory function in the Morris water maze (MWM) in combination with diminished hippocampus weight and increased cerebellum weight, both correlating to MWM performance. Male mice showed a minor reduction in memory function and no differences in brain structure. We conclude that chronic allopregnanolone elevation can lead to cognitive dysfunction and negative brain alterations. We suggest that allopregnanolone could play a key role in the pathogenesis of stress-induced cognitive disturbances and perhaps dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara K S Bengtsson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Umeå University, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Maja Johansson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Umeå University, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine Cognition AB, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Umeå University, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
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Porcu P, Barron AM, Frye CA, Walf AA, Yang SY, He XY, Morrow AL, Panzica GC, Melcangi RC. Neurosteroidogenesis Today: Novel Targets for Neuroactive Steroid Synthesis and Action and Their Relevance for Translational Research. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28:12351. [PMID: 26681259 PMCID: PMC4769676 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2015] [Revised: 12/12/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids are endogenous neuromodulators synthesised in the brain that rapidly alter neuronal excitability by binding to membrane receptors, in addition to the regulation of gene expression via intracellular steroid receptors. Neuroactive steroids induce potent anxiolytic, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, sedative, analgesic and amnesic effects, mainly through interaction with the GABAA receptor. They also exert neuroprotective, neurotrophic and antiapoptotic effects in several animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. Neuroactive steroids regulate many physiological functions, such as the stress response, puberty, the ovarian cycle, pregnancy and reward. Their levels are altered in several neuropsychiatric and neurological diseases and both preclinical and clinical studies emphasise a therapeutic potential of neuroactive steroids for these diseases, whereby symptomatology ameliorates upon restoration of neuroactive steroid concentrations. However, direct administration of neuroactive steroids has several challenges, including pharmacokinetics, low bioavailability, addiction potential, safety and tolerability, which limit its therapeutic use. Therefore, modulation of neurosteroidogenesis to restore the altered endogenous neuroactive steroid tone may represent a better therapeutic approach. This review summarises recent approaches that target the neuroactive steroid biosynthetic pathway at different levels aiming to promote neurosteroidogenesis. These include modulation of neurosteroidogenesis through ligands of the translocator protein 18 kDa and the pregnane xenobiotic receptor, as well as targeting of specific neurosteroidogenic enzymes such as 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 10 or P450 side chain cleavage. Enhanced neurosteroidogenesis through these targets may be beneficial not only for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and age-related dementia, but also for neuropsychiatric diseases, including alcohol use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Anna M. Barron
- Molecular Imaging Center, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan
| | - Cheryl Anne Frye
- Institute of Arctic Biology, The University of Alaska–Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, USA
- The University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Alicia A. Walf
- Institute of Arctic Biology, The University of Alaska–Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, USA
- The University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Cognitive Science, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Song-Yu Yang
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA
| | - Xue-Ying He
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA
| | - A. Leslie Morrow
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Gian Carlo Panzica
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, and NICO - Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Roberto C. Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Mayeaux DJ, Tandle SM, Cilano SM, Fitzharris MJ. Progesterone After Estradiol Modulates Shuttle-Cage Escape by Facilitating Volition. J Exp Neurosci 2016; 9:19-26. [PMID: 26823653 PMCID: PMC4727490 DOI: 10.4137/jen.s32735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Revised: 11/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In animal models of depression, depression is defined as performance on a learning task. That task is typically escaping a mild electric shock in a shuttle cage by moving from one side of the cage to the other. Ovarian hormones influence learning in other kinds of tasks, and these hormones are associated with depressive symptoms in humans. The role of these hormones in shuttle-cage escape learning, however, is less clear. This study manipulated estradiol and progesterone in ovariectomized female rats to examine their performance in shuttle-cage escape learning without intentionally inducing a depressive-like state. Progesterone, not estradiol, within four hours of testing affected latencies to escape. The improvement produced by progesterone was in the decision to act, not in the speed of learning or speed of escaping. This parallels depression in humans in that depressed people are slower in volition, in their decisions to take action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darryl J. Mayeaux
- Department of Psychology, St. Bonaventure University, St. Bonaventure, NY, USA
| | - Sarah M. Tandle
- Department of Psychology, St. Bonaventure University, St. Bonaventure, NY, USA
| | - Sean M. Cilano
- Department of Psychology, St. Bonaventure University, St. Bonaventure, NY, USA
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Dhir A, Chopra K. On the anticonvulsant effect of allopregnanolone (a neurosteroid) in neonatal rats. Life Sci 2015; 143:202-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Johansson M, Agusti A, Llansola M, Montoliu C, Strömberg J, Malinina E, Ragagnin G, Doverskog M, Bäckström T, Felipo V. GR3027 antagonizes GABAA receptor-potentiating neurosteroids and restores spatial learning and motor coordination in rats with chronic hyperammonemia and hepatic encephalopathy. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2015; 309:G400-9. [PMID: 26138462 PMCID: PMC4556948 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00073.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the primary complications of liver cirrhosis. Current treatments for HE, mainly directed to reduction of ammonia levels, are not effective enough because they cannot completely eliminate hyperammonemia and inflammation, which induce the neurological alterations. Studies in animal models show that overactivation of GABAA receptors is involved in cognitive and motor impairment in HE and that reducing this activation restores these functions. We have developed a new compound, GR3027, that selectively antagonizes the enhanced activation of GABAA receptors by neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone and 3α,21-dihydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one (THDOC). This work aimed to assess whether GR3027 improves motor incoordination, spatial learning, and circadian rhythms of activity in rats with HE. GR3027 was administered subcutaneously to two main models of HE: rats with chronic hyperammonemia due to ammonia feeding and rats with portacaval shunts (PCS). Motor coordination was assessed in beam walking and spatial learning and memory in the Morris water maze and the radial maze. Circadian rhythms of ambulatory and vertical activity were also assessed. In both hyperammonemic and PCS rats, GR3027 restores motor coordination, spatial memory in the Morris water maze, and spatial learning in the radial maze. GR3027 also partially restores circadian rhythms of ambulatory and vertical activity in PCS rats. GR3027 is a novel approach to treatment of HE that would normalize neurological functions altered because of enhanced GABAergic tone, affording more complete normalization of cognitive and motor function than current treatments for HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Johansson
- 1Umecrine Cognition AB, Solna, Sweden; ,2Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden;
| | | | | | | | - Jessica Strömberg
- 2Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden;
| | - Evgenya Malinina
- 2Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden;
| | - Gianna Ragagnin
- 2Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden;
| | | | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- 2Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden;
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47
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Lin SF, Tsai YF, Tai MY, Yeh KY. Estradiol enhances the acquisition of lithium chloride-induced conditioned taste aversion in castrated male rats. Naturwissenschaften 2015; 102:52. [DOI: 10.1007/s00114-015-1303-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 08/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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48
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Braden BB, Kingston ML, Koenig EN, Lavery CN, Tsang CWS, Bimonte-Nelson HA. The GABAA antagonist bicuculline attenuates progesterone-induced memory impairments in middle-aged ovariectomized rats. Front Aging Neurosci 2015; 7:149. [PMID: 26321945 PMCID: PMC4536389 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2015.00149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In women, high levels of natural progesterone have been associated with detrimental cognitive effects via the “maternal amnesia” phenomenon as well as in controlled experiments. In aged ovariectomized (Ovx) rats, progesterone has been shown to impair cognition and impact the GABAergic system in cognitive brain regions. Here, we tested whether the GABAergic system is a mechanism of progesterone’s detrimental cognitive effects in the Ovx rat by attempting to reverse progesterone-induced impairments via concomitant treatment with the GABAA antagonist, bicuculline. Thirteen month old rats received Ovx plus daily vehicle, progesterone, bicuculline, or progesterone+bicuculline injections beginning 2 weeks prior to testing. The water radial-arm maze was used to evaluate spatial working and reference memory. During learning, rats administered progesterone made more working memory errors than those administered vehicle, and this impairment was reversed by the addition of bicuculline. The progesterone impairment was transient and all animals performed similarly by the end of regular testing. On the last day of testing, a 6 hour delay was administered to evaluate memory retention. Progesterone-treated rats were the only group to increase working memory errors with the delay relative to baseline performance; again, the addition of bicuculline prevented the progesterone-induced impairment. The vehicle, bicuculline, and progesterone+bicuculline groups were not impaired by the delay. The current rodent findings corroborate prior research reporting progesterone-induced detriments on cognition in women and in the aging Ovx rat. Moreover, the data suggest that the progesterone-induced cognitive impairment is, in part, related to the GABAergic system. Given that progesterone is included in numerous clinically-prescribed hormone therapies and contraceptives (e.g., micronized), and as synthetic analogs, further research is warranted to better understand the parameters and mechanism(s) of progesterone-induced cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Blair Braden
- Human Brain Mapping Laboratory, Neuroimaging, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center Phoenix, AZ, USA ; Memory and Aging Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA ; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Melissa L Kingston
- Memory and Aging Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Elizabeth N Koenig
- Memory and Aging Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Courtney N Lavery
- Memory and Aging Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Candy W S Tsang
- Memory and Aging Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Heather A Bimonte-Nelson
- Memory and Aging Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA ; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium Phoenix, AZ, USA
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49
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Koebele SV, Bimonte-Nelson HA. Trajectories and phenotypes with estrogen exposures across the lifespan: What does Goldilocks have to do with it? Horm Behav 2015; 74:86-104. [PMID: 26122297 PMCID: PMC4829405 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "Estradiol and cognition". Estrogens impact the organization and activation of the mammalian brain in both sexes, with sex-specific critical windows. Throughout the female lifespan estrogens activate brain substrates previously organized by estrogens, and estrogens can induce non-transient brain and behavior changes into adulthood. Therefore, from early life through the transition to reproductive senescence and beyond, estrogens are potent modulators of the brain and behavior. Organizational, reorganizational, and activational hormone events likely impact the trajectory of brain profiles during aging. A "brain profile," or quantitative brain measurement for research purposes, is typically a snapshot in time, but in life a brain profile is anything but static--it is in flux, variable, and dynamic. Akin to this, the only thing continuous and consistent about hormone exposures across a female's lifespan is that they are noncontinuous and inconsistent, building and rebuilding on past exposures to create a present brain and behavioral landscape. Thus, hormone variation is especially rich in females, and is likely the destiny for maximal responsiveness in the female brain. The magnitude and direction of estrogenic effects on the brain and its functions depend on a myriad of factors; a "Goldilocks" phenomenon exists for estrogens, whereby if the timing, dose, and regimen for an individual are just right, markedly efficacious effects present. Data indicate that exogenously-administered estrogens can bestow beneficial cognitive effects in some circumstances, especially when initiated in a window of opportunity such as the menopause transition. Could it be that the age-related reduction in efficacy of estrogens reflects the closure of a late-in-life critical window occurring around the menopause transition? Information from classic and contemporary works studying organizational/activational estrogen actions, in combination with acknowledging the tendency for maximal responsiveness to cyclicity, will elucidate ways to extend sensitivity and efficacy into post-menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie V Koebele
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA
| | - Heather A Bimonte-Nelson
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA; Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA.
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50
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Brunton PJ. Programming the brain and behaviour by early-life stress: a focus on neuroactive steroids. J Neuroendocrinol 2015; 27:468-80. [PMID: 25688636 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Animal studies have amply demonstrated that stress exposure during pregnancy or in early postnatal life can adversely influence brain development and have long-term 'programming' effects on future brain function and behaviour. Furthermore, a growing body of evidence from human studies supports the hypothesis that some psychiatric disorders may have developmental origins. Here, the focus is on three adverse consequences of early-life stress: dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, heightened anxiety behaviour and cognitive impairments, with review of what is known about the underlying central mechanisms. Neuroactive steroids modulate neuronal activity and play a key role in neurodevelopment. Moreover they can negatively modulate activity of the HPA axis, exert anxiolytic actions and influence cognitive performance. Thus, neuroactive steroids may provide a link between early-life stress and the resultant adverse effects on the brain and behaviour. Here, a role for neuroactive steroids, in particular the 5α-reduced/3α-hydroxylated metabolites of progesterone, testosterone and deoxycorticosterone, is discussed in the context of early-life stress. Furthermore, the impact of early-life stress on the brain's capacity to generate neurosteroids is considered and the evidence for an ability of neuroactive steroids to over-write the negative effects of early-life stress on the brain and behaviour is examined. An enhanced understanding of the influence of early-life stress on brain neurosteroid systems could aid the identification of new targets for developing treatments for stress-related conditions in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Brunton
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
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