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Fišar Z. Biological hypotheses, risk factors, and biomarkers of schizophrenia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 120:110626. [PMID: 36055561 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Both the discovery of biomarkers of schizophrenia and the verification of biological hypotheses of schizophrenia are an essential part of the process of understanding the etiology of this mental disorder. Schizophrenia has long been considered a neurodevelopmental disease whose symptoms are caused by impaired synaptic signal transduction and brain neuroplasticity. Both the onset and chronic course of schizophrenia are associated with risk factors-induced disruption of brain function and the establishment of a new homeostatic setpoint characterized by biomarkers. Different risk factors and biomarkers can converge to the same symptoms of schizophrenia, suggesting that the primary cause of the disease can be highly individual. Schizophrenia-related biomarkers include measurable biochemical changes induced by stress (elevated allostatic load), mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, oxidative and nitrosative stress, and circadian rhythm disturbances. Here is a summary of selected valid biological hypotheses of schizophrenia formulated based on risk factors and biomarkers, neurodevelopment, neuroplasticity, brain chemistry, and antipsychotic medication. The integrative neurodevelopmental-vulnerability-neurochemical model is based on current knowledge of the neurobiology of the onset and progression of the disease and the effects of antipsychotics and psychotomimetics and reflects the complex and multifactorial nature of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdeněk Fišar
- Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, First Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Czech Republic.
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Hemby SE, McIntosh S. Chronic haloperidol administration downregulates select BDNF transcript and protein levels in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of rhesus monkeys. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1054506. [PMID: 36816400 PMCID: PMC9932326 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1054506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-mortem studies in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampal formation from schizophrenia patients have revealed significant disruptions in the expression molecules associated with cytoarchitecture, synaptic structure, function, and plasticity, known to be regulated in part by brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Interestingly, several studies using postmortem brain tissue from individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia have revealed a significant reduction in BDNF mRNA and protein levels in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), hippocampus and related areas; however, differentiating the effects of illness from antipsychotic history has remained difficult. We hypothesized that chronic antipsychotic treatment may contribute to the altered BDNF mRNA and protein expression observed in post-mortem brains of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. To address the influence of antipsychotic administration on BDNF expression in the primate brain, rhesus monkeys orally administered haloperidol, clozapine, or vehicle twice daily for 180 days. We found BDNF splice variants 4 and 5 in the DLPFC and variant 2 in the EC were significantly down-regulated following chronic administration of haloperidol. In addition, proBDNF and mature BDNF expression in the DLPFC, but not the EC, were significantly reduced. Based on the known regulation of BDNF expression by BDNF-AS, we assessed the expression of this lncRNA and found expression was significantly upregulated in the DLPFC, but not EC. The results of the present study provide evidence of haloperidol-induced regulation of BDNF mRNA and protein expression in the DLFPC and suggest an important role for BDNF-AS in this regulation. Given the role of BDNF in synaptic plasticity, neuronal survival and maintenance, aberrant expression induced by haloperidol likely has significant ramifications for neuronal populations and circuits in primate cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott E Hemby
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy, High Point University, High Point, NC, United States
| | - Scot McIntosh
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy, High Point University, High Point, NC, United States
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Keshri N, Nandeesha H. Dysregulation of Synaptic Plasticity Markers in Schizophrenia. Indian J Clin Biochem 2023; 38:4-12. [PMID: 36684500 PMCID: PMC9852406 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-022-01068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by cognitive impairment resulting in compromised quality of life. Since the regulation of synaptic plasticity has functional implications in various aspects of cognition such as learning, memory, and neural circuit maturation, the dysregulation of synaptic plasticity is considered as a pathobiological feature of schizophrenia. The findings from our recently concluded studies indicate that there is an alteration in levels of synaptic plasticity markers such as neural cell adhesion molecule-1 (NCAM-1), Neurotropin-3 (NT-3) and Matrix-mettaloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in schizophrenia patients. The objective of the present article is to review the role of markers of synaptic plasticity in schizophrenia. PubMed database (http;//www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) was used to perform an extensive literature search using the keywords schizophrenia and synaptic plasticity. We conclude that markers of synaptic plasticity are altered in schizophrenia and may lead to complications of schizophrenia including cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Keshri
- Department of Biochemistry, JIPMER, Puducherry, 605006 India
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Khan MM, Parikh V. Prospects for Neurotrophic Factor-Based Early Intervention in Schizophrenia: Lessons Learned from the Effects of Antipsychotic Drugs on Cognition, Neurogenesis, and Neurotrophic Factors. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2023; 22:289-303. [PMID: 35366786 DOI: 10.2174/1871527321666220401124151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Although reducing psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia has been a major focus of therapeutic interventions for decades, improving cognition is considered a better predictor of functional outcomes. However, the most commonly prescribed antipsychotic drugs (APDs) show only marginal beneficial effects on cognition in patients with schizophrenia. The neural mechanisms underlying cognitive disturbances in schizophrenia remain unknown that making drug development efforts very challenging. Since neurotrophic factors are the primary architects of neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory, the findings from preclinical and clinical studies that assess changes in neurogenesis and neurotrophic factors and their relationship to cognitive performance in schizophrenia, and how these mechanisms might be impacted by APD treatment, may provide valuable clues in developing therapies to combat cognitive deficit in schizophrenia. Numerous evidence produced over the years suggests a deficit in a wide spectrum of neurotrophic factors in schizophrenia. Since schizophrenia is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder, early intervention with neurotrophic factors may be more effective in ameliorating the cognitive deficits and psychopathological symptoms associated with this pathology. In this context, results from initial clinical trials with neurotrophic factors and their future potential to improve cognition and psychosocial functioning in schizophrenia are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M Khan
- Laboratory of Translational Neurology and Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Biotechnology, Era\'s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, and Faculty of Science, Era University, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Vinay Parikh
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Psychiatric Disorders. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122436. [PMID: 36557689 PMCID: PMC9786082 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the gut microbiome in mental health has been of great interest in the past years, with several breakthroughs happening in the last decade. Its implications in several psychiatric disorders, namely anxiety, depression, autism and schizophrenia, are highlighted. In this review were included relevant studies on rodents, as well as human studies. There seems to be a connection between the gut microbiome and these pathologies, the link being emphasized both in rodents and humans. The results obtained in murine models align with the results acquired from patients; however, fewer studies regarding anxiety were conducted on humans. The process of sequencing and analyzing the microbiome has been conducted in humans for several other pathologies mentioned above. Additionally, the possible beneficial role of probiotics and postbiotics administered as an aid to the psychiatric medication was analyzed.
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Asadi MR, Gharesouran J, Sabaie H, Moslehian MS, Dehghani H, Arsang-Jang S, Taheri M, Mortazavi D, Hussen BM, Sayad A, Rezazadeh M. Assessing the expression of two post-transcriptional BDNF regulators, TTP and miR-16 in the peripheral blood of patients with Schizophrenia. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:771. [PMID: 36476595 PMCID: PMC9730652 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04442-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe mental disorder with an unknown pathophysiology. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that has been associated with synapse plasticity, learning, and memory, as well as neurodevelopment and neuroprotection. The importance of neurodevelopmental and neurotoxicity-related components in the pathophysiology of SCZ has been highlighted in research on the neurobiology of this disease. The purpose of this research is to investigate the significant expression of two variables, tristetraprolin (TTP) and miR-16, which are known to be regulators of BDNF expression. Fifty Iranian Azeri SCZ patients were enrolled, and fifty healthy volunteers were age- and gender-matched as controls. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction measured the expression levels of the TTP and miR-16 in the peripheral blood (PB) of SCZ patients and healthy people. TTP expression levels in patients were higher than in controls, regardless of gender or age (posterior beta = 1.532, adjusted P-value = 0.012). TTP and miR-16 expression levels were found to be significantly correlated in both SCZ patients and healthy controls (r = 0.701, P < 0.001 and r = 0.777, P < 0.001, respectively). Due to the increased expression of TTP in SCZ and the existence of a significant correlation between TTP and miR-16, which helps to act on target mRNAs with AU-rich elements, this mechanism can be considered an influencing factor in SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Asadi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Gharesouran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hani Sabaie
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Dehghani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Shahram Arsang-Jang
- Cancer Gene therapy Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Science, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Deniz Mortazavi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan university of medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Arezou Sayad
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Rezazadeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Shi XJ, Du Y, Lei-Chen, Li XS, Yao CQ, Cheng Y. Effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on the Schizophrenia model of animals. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 156:538-546. [PMID: 36368243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia(SCZ)is a common clinically chronic psychiatric disease, and there have no effective specific therapeutic drugs in clinical practice currently. Studies have shown that the expression level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in schizophrenics has decreased, so the expression level of BDNF has always been one of the evaluation indicators of SCZ. The neurotrophic factor hypothesis believes that increase or decrease of the expression level of BDNF may be one of the pathophysiological basis of SCZ. METHODS In this study, schizophrenic mice model with MK-801-induced glutamate dysfunction was established, and two doses of BDNF were administered to schizophrenic mice by intranasal administration. The four groups of mice: Control group, Model group, BDNF-20, BDNF-100 performed a series of behavioral tests to explore the effects of BDNF on sensory motor gating, anxiety, depression, social interaction, spontaneous activity, and memory in schizophrenic mice. Transcriptome sequencing of the BDNF high group and Model group in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, using Metascape for gene function annotation and enrichment pathway analysis, to obtain BDNF transcription regulation information, understand the molecular mechanism of BDNF in SCZ further. Subsequently,immunofluorescence detected the effects of BDNF on neurons and glial cells in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. CONCLUSION The results show that BDNF can improve the behavior of SCZ by regulating the construction of the nervous system, affecting the growth and distribution of neurons and glial cells, and changing inflammation and apoptosis in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jie Shi
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Du
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Lei-Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Song Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The Third People's Hospital of Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Ci-Qin Yao
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China; Institute of National Security, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China.
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Sun W, Mei Y, Li X, Yang Y, An L. Maternal immune activation-induced proBDNF-mediated neural information processing dysfunction at hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses associated with memory deficits in offspring. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1018586. [PMID: 36438556 PMCID: PMC9691851 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1018586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to maternal infection increases the risk of offspring developing schizophrenia in adulthood. Current theories suggest that the consequences of MIA on mBDNF secretion may underlie the increased risk of cognitive disorder. There is little evidence for whether the expression of its precursor, proBDNF, is changed and how proBDNF-mediated signaling may involve in learning and memory. In this study, proBDNF levels were detected in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions of male adult rats following MIA by prenatal polyI:C exposure. Behaviorally, learning and memory were assessed in contextual fear conditioning tasks. Local field potentials were recorded in the hippocampal CA3-CA1 pathway. The General Partial Directed Coherence approach was utilized to identify the directional alternation of neural information flow between CA3 and CA1 regions. EPSCs were recorded in CA1 pyramidal neurons to explore a possible mechanism involving the proBDNF-p75NTR signaling pathway. Results showed that the expression of proBDNF in the polyI:C-treated offspring was abnormally enhanced in both CA3 and CA1 regions. Meanwhile, the mBDNF expression was reduced in both hippocampal regions. Intra-hippocampal CA1 but not CA3 injection with anti-proBDNF antibody and p75NTR inhibitor TAT-Pep5 effectively mitigated the contextual memory deficits. Meanwhile, reductions in the phase synchronization between CA3 and CA1 and the coupling directional indexes from CA3 to CA1 were enhanced by the intra-CA1 infusions. Moreover, blocking proBDNF/p75NTR signaling could reverse the declined amplitude of EPSCs in CA1 pyramidal neurons, indicating the changes in postsynaptic information processing in the polyI:C-treated offspring. Therefore, the changes in hippocampal proBDNF activity in prenatal polyI:C exposure represent a potential mechanism involved in NIF disruption leading to contextual memory impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sun
- Department of Pediatric, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yazi Mei
- Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoliang Li
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Geriatric/Rehabilitation Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Pediatric, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Lei An
- Department of Pediatric, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Geriatric/Rehabilitation Hospital, Jinan, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
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Dai Y, Ding H, Lu X, Wu X, Xu C, Jiang T, Ming L, Xia Z, Song C, Shen H, Hao W, Huang S. CCRT and aerobic exercise: a randomised controlled study of processing speed, cognitive flexibility, and serum BDNF expression in schizophrenia. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 8:84. [PMID: 36261468 PMCID: PMC9581987 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-022-00297-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Computerised cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT) and aerobic exercise are often used to rehabilitate social functioning in patients with schizophrenia. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the effects of CCRT combined with aerobic exercise on cognitive function and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in patients with schizophrenia and cognitive impairment. Ninety-six patients with schizophrenia and cognitive impairment were included in this study and randomly divided into control, aerobic exercise (AE), and CCRT combined with aerobic exercise (CAE) groups. Changes in processing speed and cognitive flexibility at week 8 were evaluated as primary and secondary cognitive outcomes using the Trail Making Test: Part A, the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia: Symbol Coding Test, and the Stroop Colour-Word Test. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores and serum BDNF expression were determined as other secondary outcomes. The CAE group showed significantly better performance in terms of changes in processing speed and cognitive flexibility than the control and AE groups at week 8 (p < 0.05); however, no significant improvements in processing speed and cognitive flexibility were found between the control and AE groups. The CAE group showed significant improvements in the PANSS negative symptoms than the control group at week 8 (p < 0.05), but the AE group showed no significant difference in the changes of PANSS negative symptoms when compared with the other two groups. The CAE group and AE group showed a greater increase in serum BDNF levels than the control group (p < 0.01), but there was no significant difference in serum BDNF expression between the CAE group and AE group. In conclusion, 8-week CCRT combined with aerobic exercise may improve some cognitive performance and negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Aerobic exercise may have an immediate effect on serum BDNF levels rather than cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Dai
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Hongyan Ding
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Xiaozi Lu
- grid.452792.fQingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao, 266034 China
| | - Xiumei Wu
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Chunhua Xu
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Liang Ming
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Zhong Xia
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Chuanfu Song
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
| | - Hongxian Shen
- grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China
| | - Wei Hao
- grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China
| | - Shucai Huang
- The Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000 China
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Zhang Y, Gao X, Bai X, Yao S, Chang YZ, Gao G. The emerging role of furin in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:39. [PMID: 35996194 PMCID: PMC9395820 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00313-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Furin is an important mammalian proprotein convertase that catalyzes the proteolytic maturation of a variety of prohormones and proproteins in the secretory pathway. In the brain, the substrates of furin include the proproteins of growth factors, receptors and enzymes. Emerging evidence, such as reduced FURIN mRNA expression in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients or schizophrenia patients, has implicated a crucial role of furin in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Currently, compared to cancer and infectious diseases, the aberrant expression of furin and its pharmaceutical potentials in neurological diseases remain poorly understood. In this article, we provide an overview on the physiological roles of furin and its substrates in the brain, summarize the deregulation of furin expression and its effects in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, and discuss the implications and current approaches that target furin for therapeutic interventions. This review may expedite future studies to clarify the molecular mechanisms of furin deregulation and involvement in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases, and to develop new diagnosis and treatment strategies for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Xiaoqin Gao
- Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050027, China
| | - Xue Bai
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Shanshan Yao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Yan-Zhong Chang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
| | - Guofen Gao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
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de Bartolomeis A, Vellucci L, Barone A, Manchia M, De Luca V, Iasevoli F, Correll CU. Clozapine's multiple cellular mechanisms: What do we know after more than fifty years? A systematic review and critical assessment of translational mechanisms relevant for innovative strategies in treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 236:108236. [PMID: 35764175 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Almost fifty years after its first introduction into clinical care, clozapine remains the only evidence-based pharmacological option for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), which affects approximately 30% of patients with schizophrenia. Despite the long-time experience with clozapine, the specific mechanism of action (MOA) responsible for its superior efficacy among antipsychotics is still elusive, both at the receptor and intracellular signaling level. This systematic review is aimed at critically assessing the role and specific relevance of clozapine's multimodal actions, dissecting those mechanisms that under a translational perspective could shed light on molecular targets worth to be considered for further innovative antipsychotic development. In vivo and in vitro preclinical findings, supported by innovative techniques and methods, together with pharmacogenomic and in vivo functional studies, point to multiple and possibly overlapping MOAs. To better explore this crucial issue, the specific affinity for 5-HT2R, D1R, α2c, and muscarinic receptors, the relatively low occupancy at dopamine D2R, the interaction with receptor dimers, as well as the potential confounder effects resulting in biased ligand action, and lastly, the role of the moiety responsible for lipophilic and alkaline features of clozapine are highlighted. Finally, the role of transcription and protein changes at the synaptic level, and the possibility that clozapine can directly impact synaptic architecture are addressed. Although clozapine's exact MOAs that contribute to its unique efficacy and some of its severe adverse effects have not been fully understood, relevant information can be gleaned from recent mechanistic understandings that may help design much needed additional therapeutic strategies for TRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Licia Vellucci
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Barone
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Mirko Manchia
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Felice Iasevoli
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Christoph U Correll
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA; Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Berlin, Germany
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12
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Yue W, Huang H, Duan J. Potential diagnostic biomarkers for schizophrenia. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:385-416. [PMID: 37724326 PMCID: PMC10388817 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCH) is a complex and severe mental disorder with high prevalence, disability, mortality and carries a heavy disease burden, the lifetime prevalence of SCH is around 0.7%-1.0%, which has a profound impact on the individual and society. In the clinical practice of SCH, key problems such as subjective diagnosis, experiential treatment, and poor overall prognosis are still challenging. In recent years, some exciting discoveries have been made in the research on objective biomarkers of SCH, mainly focusing on genetic susceptibility genes, metabolic indicators, immune indices, brain imaging, electrophysiological characteristics. This review aims to summarize the biomarkers that may be used for the prediction and diagnosis of SCH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Yue
- Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit, Beijing, China
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Hailiang Huang
- Analytic and Translational Genetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jubao Duan
- Center for Psychiatric Genetics, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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13
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Li J, Zhang X, Jiang J, Zhang B, Tang Y, Zhang T, Jia Y, Li Q, Xia M, Sheng J, Li C, Wang J. Comparison of electroconvulsive therapy and magnetic seizure therapy in schizophrenia: Structural changes/neuroplasticity. Psychiatry Res 2022; 312:114523. [PMID: 35378453 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can effectively reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia, but may also impair cognitive function. A potential alternative is magnetic seizure therapy (MST), which has shown comparable efficacy with less severe cognitive disruption. This study compared ECT to MST for clinical efficacy and cognitive side effects. In addition, we examined the possible contributions of hippocampal volume changes and enhanced brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling to the therapeutic responses. Thirty-four confirmed schizophrenia patients were allocated to receive ECT (n = 16) or MST (n = 18) over a 4-week period. Schizophrenia symptoms were measured by PANSS, cognition by the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), and serum BDNF and its precursor proBDNF by ELISA at baseline and following ECT or MST. Both treatments reduced PANSS scores with comparable efficacy, while MST was superior for preservation of RBANS language score. ECT significantly increased the volumes of the bilateral hippocampus and multiple subfields, while MST had no effect on hippocampal volume. The change in right hippocampal volume was correlated with proBDNF change among ECT and MST non-responders (< 25% decrease in PANSS score). MST reduced schizophrenia symptoms as effectively as ECT with slightly better preservation of cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- Institute of Mental Health, Suzhou Psychiatric Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, 11 Guangqian Road, Suzhou 215137, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xiaobin Zhang
- Institute of Mental Health, Suzhou Psychiatric Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, 11 Guangqian Road, Suzhou 215137, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jiangling Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yingying Tang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Tianhong Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yuping Jia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Qingwei Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Mengqing Xia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Jianhua Sheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Chunbo Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Jijun Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Department of EEG and Imaging, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai 200030, China.
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14
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Neurotrophin Signaling Impairment by Viral Infections in the Central Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105817. [PMID: 35628626 PMCID: PMC9146244 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins, such as nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin 3 (NT-3), NT-4, and NT-5, are proteins involved in several important functions of the central nervous system. The activation of the signaling pathways of these neurotrophins, or even by their immature form, pro-neurotrophins, starts with their recognition by cellular receptors, such as tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) and 75 kD NT receptors (p75NTR). The Trk receptor is considered to have a high affinity for attachment to specific neurotrophins, while the p75NTR receptor has less affinity for attachment with neurotrophins. The correct functioning of these signaling pathways contributes to proper brain development, neuronal survival, and synaptic plasticity. Unbalanced levels of neurotrophins and pro-neurotrophins have been associated with neurological disorders, illustrating the importance of these molecules in the central nervous system. Furthermore, reports have indicated that viruses can alter the normal levels of neurotrophins by interfering with their signaling pathways. This work discusses the importance of neurotrophins in the central nervous system, their signaling pathways, and how viruses can affect them.
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15
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Motamed M, Karimi H, Sanjari Moghaddam H, Taherzadeh Boroujeni S, Sanatian Z, Hasanzadeh A, Khodaei Ardakani MR, Akhondzadeh S. Risperidone combination therapy with adalimumab for treatment of chronic schizophrenia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2022; 37:92-101. [PMID: 35258035 DOI: 10.1097/yic.0000000000000399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of antitumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) therapy using adalimumab in patients with chronic schizophrenia. This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial carried out at Roozbeh Hospital (Tehran, Iran) from June 2020 to October 2021. The patients were randomly divided into two parallel adalimumab + risperidone and placebo + risperidone groups. Participants in the intervention group received adalimumab subcutaneous injection (40 mg) by pen-injector at weeks 0 and 4. Using the Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS), patients' positive and negative symptoms were assessed at weeks 0, 4, and 8. Forty patients (20 in each group) were included. PANSS total (t = 4.43, df = 38, P < 0.001), negative (t = 2.88, df = 38, P = 0.006), and general psychopathology (t = 4.06, df = 38, P < 0.001) scores demonstrated a significantly greater decline in adalimumab compared with the placebo group from baseline study endpoint. However, improvement of PANSS positive subscale scores showed no significant difference from the baseline study endpoint. There was no significant between-group difference regarding levels of C-reactive protein, interleukin (IL)-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 at baseline and also at the week 8 visit (P > 0.05 for all). The current study found adalimumab adjunctive therapy effective in treating schizophrenia, particularly its negative and general psychopathology symptoms, with no side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Motamed
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
| | - Hanieh Karimi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
| | | | | | - Zahra Sanatian
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
| | - Alireza Hasanzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
| | | | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
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16
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Peripheral Blood Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients with First Episode Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040414. [PMID: 35447946 PMCID: PMC9027267 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Peripheral blood level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be used as a diagnostic and/or prognostic marker for schizophrenia. Previous studies were inconsistent. A systematic review was conducted to examine whether BDNF level is different in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP) compared to health controls (HC) and whether it changes after treatment. Methods: Literature search was done in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar following standard procedures. Hedges’ g was used as the measure of effect size (ES), which was pooled with random effects model. Publication bias and moderator effects were examined. Results: Search yielded 29 studies with a total sample size of 2912. First meta-analysis included 27 studies with FEP vs. HC comparison. Pooled ES was −0.63, p < 0.001, indicating that BDNF level was lower in FEP than in HC. Studies were heterogeneous, and moderator analysis showed that studies of younger patient, higher symptom severity, and more drug naïve had larger ES. Second meta-analysis examined change in BDNF levels before and after antipsychotic treatment in eight studies. A pooled ES of −0.003 (p = 0.96) showed no change in peripheral BDNF level after treatment. Conclusion: Peripheral BDNF level was decreased in FEP compared to HC, but it did not change after treatment.
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17
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Tessarollo L, Yanpallewar S. TrkB Truncated Isoform Receptors as Transducers and Determinants of BDNF Functions. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:847572. [PMID: 35321093 PMCID: PMC8934854 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.847572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) belongs to the neurotrophin family of secreted growth factors and binds with high affinity to the TrkB tyrosine kinase receptors. BDNF is a critical player in the development of the central (CNS) and peripheral (PNS) nervous system of vertebrates and its strong pro-survival function on neurons has attracted great interest as a potential therapeutic target for the management of neurodegenerative disorders such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Huntington, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. The TrkB gene, in addition to the full-length receptor, encodes a number of isoforms, including some lacking the catalytic tyrosine kinase domain. Importantly, one of these truncated isoforms, namely TrkB.T1, is the most widely expressed TrkB receptor in the adult suggesting an important role in the regulation of BDNF signaling. Although some progress has been made, the mechanism of TrkB.T1 function is still largely unknown. Here we critically review the current knowledge on TrkB.T1 distribution and functions that may be helpful to our understanding of how it regulates and participates in BDNF signaling in normal physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lino Tessarollo
- Neural Development Section, Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
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18
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Notaras M, Lodhi A, Dündar F, Collier P, Sayles NM, Tilgner H, Greening D, Colak D. Schizophrenia is defined by cell-specific neuropathology and multiple neurodevelopmental mechanisms in patient-derived cerebral organoids. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:1416-1434. [PMID: 34789849 PMCID: PMC9095467 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01316-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Due to an inability to ethically access developing human brain tissue as well as identify prospective cases, early-arising neurodevelopmental and cell-specific signatures of Schizophrenia (Scz) have remained unknown and thus undefined. To overcome these challenges, we utilized patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate 3D cerebral organoids to model neuropathology of Scz during this critical period. We discovered that Scz organoids exhibited ventricular neuropathology resulting in altered progenitor survival and disrupted neurogenesis. This ultimately yielded fewer neurons within developing cortical fields of Scz organoids. Single-cell sequencing revealed that Scz progenitors were specifically depleted of neuronal programming factors leading to a remodeling of cell-lineages, altered differentiation trajectories, and distorted cortical cell-type diversity. While Scz organoids were similar in their macromolecular diversity to organoids generated from healthy controls (Ctrls), four GWAS factors (PTN, COMT, PLCL1, and PODXL) and peptide fragments belonging to the POU-domain transcription factor family (e.g., POU3F2/BRN2) were altered. This revealed that Scz organoids principally differed not in their proteomic diversity, but specifically in their total quantity of disease and neurodevelopmental factors at the molecular level. Single-cell sequencing subsequently identified cell-type specific alterations in neuronal programming factors as well as a developmental switch in neurotrophic growth factor expression, indicating that Scz neuropathology can be encoded on a cell-type-by-cell-type basis. Furthermore, single-cell sequencing also specifically replicated the depletion of BRN2 (POU3F2) and PTN in both Scz progenitors and neurons. Subsequently, in two mechanistic rescue experiments we identified that the transcription factor BRN2 and growth factor PTN operate as mechanistic substrates of neurogenesis and cellular survival, respectively, in Scz organoids. Collectively, our work suggests that multiple mechanisms of Scz exist in patient-derived organoids, and that these disparate mechanisms converge upon primordial brain developmental pathways such as neuronal differentiation, survival, and growth factor support, which may amalgamate to elevate intrinsic risk of Scz.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Notaras
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aiman Lodhi
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Friederike Dündar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Collier
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicole M Sayles
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hagen Tilgner
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Greening
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Baker Institute & Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Dilek Colak
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
- Gale and Ira Drukier Institute for Children's Health, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
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19
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Bayassi-Jakowicka M, Lietzau G, Czuba E, Patrone C, Kowiański P. More than Addiction—The Nucleus Accumbens Contribution to Development of Mental Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052618. [PMID: 35269761 PMCID: PMC8910774 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress and negative emotions evoked by social relationships and working conditions, frequently accompanied by the consumption of addictive substances, and metabolic and/or genetic predispositions, negatively affect brain function. One of the affected structures is nucleus accumbens (NAc). Although its function is commonly known to be associated with brain reword responses and addiction, a growing body of evidence also suggests its role in some mental disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, as well as neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s. This may result from disintegration of the extensive connections based on numerous neurotransmitter systems, as well as impairment of some neuroplasticity mechanisms in the NAc. The consequences of NAc lesions are both morphological and functional. They include changes in the NAc’s volume, cell number, modifications of the neuronal dendritic tree and dendritic spines, and changes in the number of synapses. Alterations in the synaptic plasticity affect the efficiency of synaptic transmission. Modification of the number and structure of the receptors affects signaling pathways, the content of neuromodulators (e.g., BDNF) and transcription factors (e.g., pCREB, DeltaFosB, NFκB), and gene expression. Interestingly, changes in the NAc often have a different character and intensity compared to the changes observed in the other parts of the basal ganglia, in particular the dorsal striatum. In this review, we highlight the role of the NAc in various pathological processes in the context of its structural and functional damage, impaired connections with the other brain areas cooperating within functional systems, and progression of the pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Bayassi-Jakowicka
- Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (M.B.-J.); (E.C.)
| | - Grazyna Lietzau
- Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (M.B.-J.); (E.C.)
- Correspondence: (G.L.); (P.K.); Tel.: +48-58-349-14-01 (G.L. & P.K.)
| | - Ewelina Czuba
- Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (M.B.-J.); (E.C.)
| | - Cesare Patrone
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Sjukhusbacken 17, 11883 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Przemysław Kowiański
- Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (M.B.-J.); (E.C.)
- Correspondence: (G.L.); (P.K.); Tel.: +48-58-349-14-01 (G.L. & P.K.)
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20
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Rogóż Z, Kamińska K, Lech MA, Lorenc-Koci E. N-Acetylcysteine and Aripiprazole Improve Social Behavior and Cognition and Modulate Brain BDNF Levels in a Rat Model of Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042125. [PMID: 35216241 PMCID: PMC8877560 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of negative symptoms and cognitive disorders in patients with schizophrenia is still a serious clinical problem. The aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of chronic administration of the atypical antipsychotic drug aripiprazole (7-{4-[4-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl] butoxy}-3,4-dihydro-2(1H)-quinolinone; ARI) and the well-known antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) both in alleviating schizophrenia-like social and cognitive deficits and in reducing the decreases in the levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HIP) of adult Sprague-Dawley rats, that have been induced by chronic administration of the model compound L-buthionine-(S, R)-sulfoximine (BSO) during the early postnatal development (p5–p16). ARI was administered at doses of 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg while NAC at doses of 10 and 30 mg/kg, alone or in combination. Administration of higher doses of ARI or NAC alone, or co-treatment with lower, ineffective doses of these drugs significantly improved social and cognitive performance as assessed in behavioral tests. Both doses of NAC and 0.3 mg/kg of ARI increased the expression of BDNF mRNA in the PFC, while all doses of these drugs and their combinations enhanced the levels of BDNF protein in this brain structure. In the HIP, only 0,3 mg/kg ARI increased the levels of both BDNF mRNA and its protein. These data show that in the rat BSO-induced neurodevelopmental model of schizophrenia, ARI and NAC differently modulated BDNF levels in the PFC and HIP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zofia Rogóż
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (Z.R.); (K.K.); (M.A.L.)
| | - Kinga Kamińska
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (Z.R.); (K.K.); (M.A.L.)
| | - Marta Anna Lech
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (Z.R.); (K.K.); (M.A.L.)
| | - Elżbieta Lorenc-Koci
- Department of Neuro-Psychopharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-126-623-272
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21
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Schmidt M, Rossetti AC, Brandwein C, Riva MA, Gass P, Elsner P, Hesse-Macabata J, Hipler UC, Smesny S, Milleit B. Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Deficiency is Associated with Cognitive Impairment and Elevated Phospholipase A2 Activity in Plasma of Mice. Neuroscience 2022; 480:167-177. [PMID: 34801657 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Decreased levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) are a common finding in schizophrenia. Another well-documented protein linked to schizophrenia is intracellular Ca2+-independent Phospholipase (PLA2). However, the potential association between PLA2 and BDNF with regard to schizophrenia has yet to be examined. In the present study, male and female BDNF knockout mice, a possible genetic model of schizophrenia, were exposed to prenatal stress and tested in the nest test, open field test and T-maze. Following behavioral tests, whole brain and plasma samples were harvested to measure the activity of PLA2. BDNF knockout mice showed cognitive deficits in the T-maze. Furthermore, there was a quadratic association of PLA2 with performance in the open field test. Moreover, BDNF deficiency and female sex were associated with elevated plasma PLA2 levels. The cognitive impairment of BDNF heterozygous mice as well as their increased PLA2 activity in plasma is consistent with findings in schizophrenia patients. The particular elevation of PLA2 activity in females may partly explain sex differences of clinical symptoms in schizophrenia (e.g. age of onset, severity of symptoms). Additionally, PLA2 was significantly correlated with body and adrenal weight after weaning, whereby the latter emphasizes the possible connection of PLA2 with steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Schmidt
- RG Animal Models in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim (ZI), Medical Faculty of Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Andrea Carlo Rossetti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, I-20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Christiane Brandwein
- RG Animal Models in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim (ZI), Medical Faculty of Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marco Andrea Riva
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, I-20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Peter Gass
- RG Animal Models in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim (ZI), Medical Faculty of Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter Elsner
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Jena, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Jana Hesse-Macabata
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Jena, Erfurter Straße 35, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Uta-Christina Hipler
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Jena, Erfurter Straße 35, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Smesny
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Jena, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Berko Milleit
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Jena, D-07743 Jena, Germany; Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Jena, Erfurter Straße 35, D-07743 Jena, Germany
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22
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Badrlou E, Ghafouri-Fard S, Omrani MD, Neishabouri SM, Arsang-Jang S, Taheri M, Pouresmaeili F. Expression of BDNF-Associated lncRNAs in Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia Patients. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 71:2249-2259. [PMID: 33403596 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01772-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a decisive role in the development of the central nervous system and modulation, differentiation, and function of neurons. Thus, any abnormal pattern of expression of these transcripts might alter normal development leading to neuropsychiatric disorders. In this regard, transcripts of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and four BDNF-associated lncRNAs (BDNF-AS, MIR137HG, MIAT, and PNKY) were evaluated in the peripheral blood of schizophrenia (SCZ) patients as well as normal subjects. The results indicated that the relative expression (RE) of PNKY was higher in SCZ patients as compared with controls (posterior beta of RE = 2.605, P value = 0.006) and in female patients compared with female controls (posterior beta of RE = 2.831, P value < 0.0001). BDNF expression was also higher in SCZ patients when compared with controls (posterior beta of RE = 0.64, P value < 0.036). Finally, a correlation was detected between the disease status and gender in terms of BDNF-AS expression (P value = 0.026). An inverse correlation was also found between levels of PNKY and age in the control group (r = - 0.30, P value < 0.0001). Expressions of BDNF and all lncRNAs were correlated with each other in both patients and controls. PNKY had the best diagnostic power among all assessed genes in the identification of disease status (area under curve = 0.78). BDNF, BDNF-AS, MIR137HG, and MIAT genes could discriminate SCZ patients from normal subjects with diagnostic power of 71%, 72%, 67%, and 68%, respectively. The current investigation suggests the possibility of the application of transcript levels of lncRNAs as an SCZ diagnostic marker. However, it warrants further studies in larger sample sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Badrlou
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mir Davood Omrani
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahram Arsang-Jang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farkhondeh Pouresmaeili
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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23
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Shoshina II, Hovis JK, Felisberti FM, Santos NA, Adreeva A, Butler PD, Fernandes TP. Visual processing and BDNF levels in first-episode schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2021; 305:114200. [PMID: 34653830 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (SCZ) have deficits in early visual processing, namely contrast processing. The brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) is an important measure to investigate neuroplasticity in some visual functions like visual perception. In this study, we investigated the relationship between visual processing and BDNF levels in first-episode SCZ patients. Thirty-nine healthy controls and 43 first-episode SCZ patients were enrolled. Contrast sensitivity measurements were conducted using low, mid- and high spatial frequencies. First-episode SCZ patients had higher contrast sensitivity than healthy controls for all frequencies, except for the middle spatial frequency. Negative correlations were found between BDNF, contrast sensitivity and clinical variables, mostly for middle and high spatial frequencies among females. Our results provide support for (i) the association of SCZ with alterations of magno- and parvocellular pathway functioning and (ii) decreased BDNF levels in first-episode SCZ patients. This study highlights the importance of using biomarkers along with other measures to investigate visual processing in SCZ and other disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina I Shoshina
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Science, Department of Visual Physiology, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation; St. Petersburg State University, Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Jeffery K Hovis
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Fatima M Felisberti
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Anna Adreeva
- St. Petersburg State University, Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Pamela D Butler
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, United States; Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, NY, USA
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil.
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Ahmed AO, Kramer S, Hofman N, Flynn J, Hansen M, Martin V, Pillai A, Buckley PF. A Meta-Analysis of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Effects on Brain Volume in Schizophrenia: Genotype and Serum Levels. Neuropsychobiology 2021; 80:411-424. [PMID: 33706323 PMCID: PMC8619762 DOI: 10.1159/000514126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM The Val66Met single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) on the BDNF gene has established pleiotropic effects on schizophrenia incidence and morphologic alterations in the illness. The effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on brain volume measurements are however mixed seeming to be less established for most brain regions. The current meta-analytic review examined (1) the association of the Val66Met SNP and brain volume alterations in schizophrenia by comparing Met allele carriers to Val/Val homozygotes and (2) the association of serum BDNF with brain volume measurements. METHOD Studies included in the meta-analyses were identified through an electronic search of PubMed and PsycInfo (via EBSCO) for English language publications from January 2000 through December 2017. Included studies had conducted a genotyping procedure of Val66Met or obtained assays of serum BDNF and obtained brain volume data in patients with psychotic disorders. Nonhuman studies were excluded. RESULTS Study 1 which included 52 comparisons of Met carriers and Val/Val homozygotes found evidence of lower right and left hippocampal volumes among Met allele carriers with schizophrenia. Frontal measurements, while also lower among Met carriers, did not achieve statistical significance. Study 2 which included 7 examinations of the correlation between serum BDNF and brain volume found significant associations between serum BDNF levels and right and left hippocampal volume with lower BDNF corresponding to lower volumes. DISCUSSION The meta-analyses provided evidence of associations between brain volume alterations in schizophrenia and variations on the Val66Met SNP and serum BDNF. Given the limited number of studies, it remains unclear if BDNF effects are global or regionally specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony O. Ahmed
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, White Plains, New York, USA,*Anthony O. Ahmed, Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY 10605 (USA),
| | - Samantha Kramer
- Department of Psychology, Long Island University Post, New York, New York, USA
| | - Naama Hofman
- Department of Psychology, St. John's University, New York, New York, USA
| | - John Flynn
- Department of Psychology, Long Island University Brooklyn, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marie Hansen
- Department of Psychology, Long Island University Brooklyn, New York, New York, USA
| | - Victoria Martin
- Department of Psychology, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Anilkumar Pillai
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Peter F. Buckley
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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25
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Fernández-Teruel A, Oliveras I, Cañete T, Rio-Álamos C, Tapias-Espinosa C, Sampedro-Viana D, Sánchez-González A, Sanna F, Torrubia R, González-Maeso J, Driscoll P, Morón I, Torres C, Aznar S, Tobeña A, Corda MG, Giorgi O. Neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental profiles of a heuristic genetic model of differential schizophrenia- and addiction-relevant features: The RHA vs. RLA rats. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:597-617. [PMID: 34571119 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The Roman High- (RHA) and Low-(RLA) avoidance rat lines/strains were generated through bidirectional selective breeding for rapid (RHA) vs. extremely poor (RLA) two-way active avoidance acquisition. Compared with RLAs and other rat strains/stocks, RHAs are characterized by increased impulsivity, deficits in social behavior, novelty-induced hyper-locomotion, impaired attentional/cognitive abilities, vulnerability to psychostimulant sensitization and drug addiction. RHA rats also exhibit decreased function of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus, increased functional activity of the mesolimbic dopamine system and a dramatic deficit of central metabotropic glutamate-2 (mGlu2) receptors (due to a stop codon mutation at cysteine 407 in Grm2 -cys407*-), along with increased density of 5-HT2A receptors in the PFC, alterations of several synaptic markers and increased density of pyramidal "thin" (immature) dendrític spines in the PFC. These characteristics suggest an immature brain of RHA rats, and are reminiscent of schizophrenia features like hypofrontality and disruption of the excitation/inhibition cortical balance. RHA rats represent a promising heuristic model of neurodevelopmental schizophrenia-relevant features and comorbidity with drug addiction vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Fernández-Teruel
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ignasi Oliveras
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Toni Cañete
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Carles Tapias-Espinosa
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Sampedro-Viana
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Sánchez-González
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesco Sanna
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rafael Torrubia
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Ignacio Morón
- Department of Psychobiology and Centre of Investigation of Mind, Brain, and Behaviour (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Spain
| | - Carmen Torres
- Department of Psychology, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain.
| | - Susana Aznar
- Research Laboratory for Stereology and Neuroscience, Bispebjerg Copenhagen University Hospital, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Adolf Tobeña
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Forensic Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Maria G Corda
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Osvaldo Giorgi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Italy.
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26
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Rodrigues RS, Paulo SL, Moreira JB, Tanqueiro SR, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ, Xapelli S. Adult Neural Stem Cells as Promising Targets in Psychiatric Disorders. Stem Cells Dev 2021; 29:1099-1117. [PMID: 32723008 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2020.0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new therapies for psychiatric disorders is of utmost importance, given the enormous toll these disorders pose to society nowadays. This should be based on the identification of neural substrates and mechanisms that underlie disease etiopathophysiology. Adult neural stem cells (NSCs) have been emerging as a promising platform to counteract brain damage. In this perspective article, we put forth a detailed view of how NSCs operate in the adult brain and influence brain homeostasis, having profound implications at both behavioral and functional levels. We appraise evidence suggesting that adult NSCs play important roles in regulating several forms of brain plasticity, particularly emotional and cognitive flexibility, and that NSC dynamics are altered upon brain pathology. Furthermore, we discuss the potential therapeutic value of utilizing adult endogenous NSCs as vessels for regeneration, highlighting their importance as targets for the treatment of multiple mental illnesses, such as affective disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction. Finally, we speculate on strategies to surpass current challenges in neuropsychiatric disease modeling and brain repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui S Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara L Paulo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João B Moreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara R Tanqueiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria J Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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27
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Rodrigues-Amorim D, Iglesias-Martínez-Almeida M, Rivera-Baltanás T, Fernández-Palleiro P, Freiría-Martínez L, Rodríguez-Jamardo C, Comís-Tuche M, Vallejo-Curto MDC, Álvarez-Ariza M, López-García M, de las Heras E, García-Caballero A, Olivares JM, Spuch C. The Role of the Second Extracellular Loop of Norepinephrine Transporter, Neurotrophin-3 and Tropomyosin Receptor Kinase C in T Cells: A Peripheral Biomarker in the Etiology of Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168499. [PMID: 34445205 PMCID: PMC8395201 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurobiology of schizophrenia is multifactorial, comprising the dysregulation of several biochemical pathways and molecules. This research proposes a peripheral biomarker for schizophrenia that involves the second extracellular loop of norepinephrine transporter (NEText), the tropomyosin receptor kinase C (TrkC), and the neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in T cells. The study of NEText, NT-3, and TrkC was performed in T cells and plasma extracted from peripheral blood of 54 patients with schizophrenia and 54 healthy controls. Levels of NT-3, TrkC, and NET were significantly lower in plasma and T cells of patients compared to healthy controls. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IPs) showed protein interactions with Co-IP NEText–NT-3 and Co-IP NEText–TrkC. Computational modelling of protein–peptide docking by CABS-dock provided a medium–high accuracy model for NT-3–NEText (4.6935 Å) and TrkC–NEText (2.1365 Å). In summary, immunocomplexes reached statistical relevance in the T cells of the control group contrary to the results obtained with schizophrenia. The reduced expression of NT-3, TrkC, and NET, and the lack of molecular complexes in T cells of patients with schizophrenia may lead to a peripheral dysregulation of intracellular signaling pathways and an abnormal reuptake of norepinephrine (NE) by NET. This peripheral molecular biomarker underlying schizophrenia reinforces the role of neurotrophins, and noradrenergic and immune systems in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Rodrigues-Amorim
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - Marta Iglesias-Martínez-Almeida
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
- Translational Neuroscience Group, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Tania Rivera-Baltanás
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - Patricia Fernández-Palleiro
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
- Translational Neuroscience Group, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Luis Freiría-Martínez
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
- Translational Neuroscience Group, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Cynthia Rodríguez-Jamardo
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
- Translational Neuroscience Group, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - María Comís-Tuche
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - María del Carmen Vallejo-Curto
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - María Álvarez-Ariza
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - Marta López-García
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - Elena de las Heras
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - Alejandro García-Caballero
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
| | - Jose Manuel Olivares
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, 36213 Vigo, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.M.O.); (C.S.)
| | - Carlos Spuch
- Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, CIBERSAM, Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro, Bloque Técnico, Planta 2, Sala de Investigación, Estrada Clara Campoamor, 341, 36212 Vigo, Spain; (D.R.-A.); (M.I.-M.-A.); (T.R.-B.); (P.F.-P.); (L.F.-M.); (C.R.-J.); (M.C.-T.); (M.d.C.V.-C.); (M.Á.-A.); (M.L.-G.); (E.d.l.H.); (A.G.-C.)
- Correspondence: (J.M.O.); (C.S.)
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Chenniappan R, Nandeesha H, Kattimani S, Goud AC, Thiagarajan D. Risperidone Reduces Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Increases Neurotrophin-3 in Schizophrenia Spectrum of Disorder. Indian J Clin Biochem 2021; 37:342-348. [DOI: 10.1007/s12291-021-00985-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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29
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Early-life stress effects on BDNF DNA methylation in first-episode psychosis and in rats reared in isolation. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 108:110188. [PMID: 33259836 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Stressful events during early-life are risk factors for psychiatric disorders. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is implicated in psychosis pathophysiology and deficits in BDNF mRNA in animal models of psychiatric disease are reported. DNA methylation can control gene expression and may be influenced by environmental factors such as early-life stress. We investigated BDNF methylation in first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients (n = 58), their unaffected siblings (n = 29) and community-based controls (n = 59), each of whom completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ); BDNF methylation was also tested in male Wistar rats housed isolated or grouped from weaning. DNA was extracted from human blood and rat brain (prefrontal cortex and hippocampus), bisulphite-converted and the methylation of equivalent sequences within BDNF exon IV determined by pyrosequencing. BDNF methylation did not differ significantly between diagnostic groups; however, individuals who had experienced trauma presented higher levels of methylation. We found association between the mean BDNF methylation and total CTQ score in FEP, as well as between individual CpG sites and subtypes of trauma. No significant correlations were found for controls or siblings with child trauma. These results were independent of age, gender, body mass index, BDNF genotype or LINE-1, a measure of global methylation, which showed no significant association with trauma. Isolation rearing resulted in increased BDNF methylation in both brain regions compared to group-housed animals, a correlate of previously reported changes in gene expression. Our results suggest that childhood maltreatment may result in increased BDNF methylation, providing a mechanism underlying the association between early-life stress and psychosis.
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30
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Dong R, Zhao NO, Wu HE, Yu L, Zhang XY. Sex differences in the association between serum BDNF and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia patients using various antipsychotics. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 138:492-499. [PMID: 33971483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is one of the core symptoms of schizophrenia patients. There are often various differences in the efficacy of different antipsychotics in the treatment of cognitive impairment by sex. The purpose of this study was to explore whether there are gender differences in the association between serum BDNF levels and cognitive performance in patients with schizophrenia taking different antipsychotics. METHODS We used Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) to assess the cognitive function of three groups of schizophrenia patients (420 on clozapine, 183 on risperidone, 215 on typical antipsychotic drugs) and 467 healthy controls. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess schizophrenia symptoms of patients. Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay was used to measure serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. RESULTS Among the patients taking clozapine and typical antipsychotic drugs, the RBANS total score, immediate memory, attention, and delayed memory subscores in females were higher than those in males (all p < 0.05). The RBANS total score and the delayed memory subscores in female patients taking risperidone were higher than those in male patients (all p < 0.05). Significant correlation between BDNF and cognition only existed in male patients taking clozapine, male patients taking risperidone, and male and female patients taking typical antipsychotic drugs (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Regardless of antipsychotic effect, the cognitive function of female patients is better compared to that of male patients. For male patients, the association between BDNF and cognitive performance exists in each medication group. For female patients, this significant association was only shown in the typical antipsychotic group, but not in the clozapine and risperidone groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Dong
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Medical Humanities, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Olivia Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hanjing Emily Wu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Liling Yu
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Medical Humanities, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiang Yang Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Tanqueiro SR, Mouro FM, Ferreira CB, Freitas CF, Fonseca-Gomes J, Simões do Couto F, Sebastião AM, Dawson N, Diógenes MJ. Sustained NMDA receptor hypofunction impairs brain-derived neurotropic factor signalling in the PFC, but not in the hippocampus, and disturbs PFC-dependent cognition in mice. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:730-743. [PMID: 34008450 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211008560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive deficits profoundly impact on the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia. Alterations in brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling, which regulates synaptic function through the activation of full-length tropomyosin-related kinase B receptors (TrkB-FL), are implicated in the aetiology of schizophrenia, as is N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R) hypofunction. However, whether NMDA-R hypofunction contributes to the disrupted BDNF signalling seen in patients remains unknown. AIMS The purpose of this study was to characterise BDNF signalling and function in a preclinical rodent model relevant to schizophrenia induced by prolonged NMDA-R hypofunction. METHODS Using the subchronic phencyclidine (PCP) model, we performed electrophysiology approaches, molecular characterisation and behavioural analysis. RESULTS The data showed that prolonged NMDA-R antagonism, induced by subchronic PCP treatment, impairs long-term potentiation (LTP) and the facilitatory effect of BDNF upon LTP in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) of adult mice. Additionally, TrkB-FL receptor expression is decreased in the PFC of these animals. By contrast, these changes were not present in the hippocampus of PCP-treated mice. Moreover, BDNF levels were not altered in the hippocampus or PFC of PCP-treated mice. Interestingly, these observations are paralleled by impaired performance in PFC-dependent cognitive tests in mice treated with PCP. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these data suggest that NMDA-R hypofunction induces dysfunctional BDNF signalling in the PFC, but not in the hippocampus, which may contribute to the PFC-dependent cognitive deficits seen in the subchronic PCP model. Additionally, these data suggest that targeting BDNF signalling may be a mechanism to improve PFC-dependent cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R Tanqueiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina B Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Céline F Freitas
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Fonseca-Gomes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Frederico Simões do Couto
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Serviço de Psiquiatria e Saúde Mental, Hospital de Santa Maria - Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Neil Dawson
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Maria J Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Genotype-expression interactions for BDNF across human brain regions. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:207. [PMID: 33757426 PMCID: PMC7989003 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07525-1] [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: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic variations in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are associated with various psychiatric disorders including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use disorders, and schizophrenia; altered gene expression triggered by these genetic variants may serve to create these phenotypes. But genotype-expression interactions for this gene have not been well-studied across brain regions relevant for psychiatric disorders. Results At false discovery rate (FDR) of 10% (q < 0.1), a total of 61 SNPs were associated with BDNF expression in cerebellum (n = 209), 55 SNPs in cortex (n = 205), 48 SNPs in nucleus accumbens (n = 202), 47 SNPs in caudate (n = 194), and 58 SNPs in cerebellar hemisphere (n = 175). We identified a set of 30 SNPs in 2 haplotype blocks that were associated with alterations in expression for each of these 5 regions. The first haplotype block included variants associated in the literature with panic disorders (rs16917204), addiction (rs11030104), bipolar disorder (rs16917237/rs2049045), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (rs6265). Likewise, variants in the second haplotype block have been previously associated with disorders such as nicotine addiction, major depressive disorder (rs988748), and epilepsy (rs6484320/rs7103411). Conclusions This work supports the association of variants within BDNF for expression changes in these key brain regions that may contribute to common behavioral phenotypes for disorders of compulsion, impulsivity, and addiction. These SNPs should be further investigated as possible therapeutic and diagnostic targets to aid in management of these and other psychiatric disorders. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07525-1.
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Sardar R, Hami J, Soleimani M, Joghataei MT, Shirazi R, Golab F, Namjoo Z, Zandieh Z. Maternal diabetes-induced alterations in the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the developing rat hippocampus. J Chem Neuroanat 2021; 114:101946. [PMID: 33745942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2021.101946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Maternal diabetes during pregnancy affects the development of hippocampus in the offspring. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has received increasing attention for its role in regulating the survival and differentiation of neuronal cells in developing and adult brain. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of maternal diabetes and insulin treatment on expression and distribution pattern of BDNF in the hippocampus of neonatal rats at the first two postnatal weeks. We found no differences in hippocampal expression of BDNF between diabetics with normal control or insulin treated neonatal rats at postnatal day (P0) (P > 0.05 each). Nevertheless, there was a marked BDNF downregulation in both sides' hippocampi of male/female diabetic group in two-week-old offspring (P ≤ 0.05 each). Furthermore, the numerical density of BDNF+ cells was significantly reduced in the right/left dentate gyrus (DG) of male and female newborns born to diabetic animals at all studied postnatal days (P ≤ 0.05 each). In addition, a lower number of reactive cells have shown in the all hippocampal subareas in the diabetic pups at P14 (P ≤ 0.05 each). Our results have demonstrated that the insulin-treatment improves some of the negative impacts of diabetes on the expression of hippocampal BDNF in the newborns. We conclude that diabetes in pregnancy bilaterally disrupts the expression of BDNF in the hippocampus of the both male and female newborns at early postnatal days. In addition, good glycemic control by insulin in the most cases is sufficient to prevent the alterations in expression of BDNF protein in developing hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Sardar
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Hami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran; Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Mansoureh Soleimani
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad-Taghi Joghataei
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Shirazi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Fereshteh Golab
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Namjoo
- Department of Anatomical Science, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
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Keshri N, Nandeesha H, Rajappa M, Menon V. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 increases the risk of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Nord J Psychiatry 2021; 75:130-134. [PMID: 32815771 DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2020.1808901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE Synaptic plasticity is known to play role in pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Cognitive impairment is one of the complications of schizophrenia, leading to poor quality of life. Matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) are markers of synaptic plasticity, widely investigated in neuropsychiatric disorders. The objective of the study was to investigate the levels of MMP-9 and NT-3 and their association with cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. MATERIAL AND METHODS 124 schizophrenia patients and 124 controls were enrolled in the study. MMP-9 and NT-3 were estimated in both the groups using ELISA. Cognition was assessed using Addenbrooke cognitive examination-III (ACE-III) and disease severity was assessed using PANSS. RESULTS MMP-9 (p = .003) and NT -3 (p < .001) were found to be elevated in schizophrenia cases compared to controls. There was significant association of MMP-9 with fluency (r = -0.195, p = .030), language (r = -0.196, p = .029) and total ACE-III scores (r = -0.197, p = .029). Also we observed that MMP-9 increases the risk of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia patients (OR = 2.509, CI= 1.215 - 5.18, p = .013). CONCLUSION MMP-9 and NT-3 are elevated in schizophrenia. MMP-9 was associated with fluency and language component of cognition and increases the risk of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Keshri
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Medha Rajappa
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
| | - Vikas Menon
- Department of Biochemistry and Psychiatry, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
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Peitl V, Silić A, Orlović I, Vidrih B, Crnković D, Karlović D. Vitamin D and Neurotrophin Levels and Their Impact on the Symptoms of Schizophrenia. Neuropsychobiology 2021; 79:179-185. [PMID: 31812959 DOI: 10.1159/000504577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vitamin D is involved in brain development and functioning, as well as in regulation of neurotrophic factors. Changes in the expression of those factors are possibly responsible for morphologic abnormalities and symptoms in patients suffering from schizophrenia. OBJECTIVE The main goal of this research was to investigate the interrelationship between vitamin D, nerve growth factors (NGF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF], and neuregulin-1 [NRG1]), and schizophrenia symptom domains. METHODS This research included 97 inpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Blood samples were taken in order to analyze concentrations of vitamin D, BDNF, NRG1, and NGF growth factors. The obtained results were used in a multiple regression analysis. RESULTS The vitamin D concentration positively affected the concentration of NRG1 (F = 8.583, p = 0.005) but not the concentration of other investigated growth factors (BDNF and NGF). The clinical characteristics and symptom domains of schizophrenia seemed to be unaffected by the concentrations of vitamin D, BDNF, and NGF, while the NRG1 concentration significantly affected positive symptom domains of schizophrenia (F = 4.927, p = 0.030). CONCLUSION The vitamin D concentration positively affected NRG1 levels but not schizophrenia symptomatology as measured by PANSS. The as-sociation between the two could be intermediated via NRG1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vjekoslav Peitl
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia.,Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ante Silić
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivona Orlović
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Branka Vidrih
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia.,Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Danijel Crnković
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dalibor Karlović
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia, .,Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia, .,School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia,
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Huo L, Zheng Z, Lu X, Wu F, Ning Y, Zhang XY. Decreased Peripheral BDNF Levels and Cognitive Impairment in Late-Life Schizophrenia. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:641278. [PMID: 34239458 PMCID: PMC8257950 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.641278] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: There are relatively few studies on mechanisms of cognitive deficits in late-life schizophrenia (LLS). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as an important neuroplastic molecule, has been reported to be involved in neurocognitive impairment in schizophrenia. This study aimed to examine whether peripheral BDNF levels were associated with cognitive deficits in LLS, which has not been explored yet. Methods: Forty-eight LLS patients and 45 age-matched elderly controls were recruited. We measured all participants on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) for cognition and serum BDNF levels. Psychopathological symptoms in patients were assessed by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Results: The levels of BDNF in LLS patients were significantly lower than those in healthy controls (8.80 ± 2.30 vs. 12.63 ± 5.08 ng/ml, p < 0.001). The cognitive performance of LLS patients was worse than that of the controls on RBANS total score and scores of immediate memory, attention, language, and delayed memory (all p ≤ 0.005). BDNF was positively associated with attention in LLS patients (r = 0.338, p = 0.019). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that older patients with schizophrenia exhibit lower BDNF levels and more cognitive deficits than older controls, supporting the accelerated aging hypothesis of schizophrenia. Moreover, decreased BDNF is related to attention deficits, indicating that BDNF might be a candidate biomarker of cognitive impairments in LLS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Huo
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Zheng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobing Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fengchun Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuping Ning
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Yang Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Xiu MH, Li Z, Chen DC, Chen S, Curbo ME, Wu HE, Tong YS, Tan SP, Zhang XY. Interrelationships Between BDNF, Superoxide Dismutase, and Cognitive Impairment in Drug-Naive First-Episode Patients With Schizophrenia. Schizophr Bull 2020; 46:1498-1510. [PMID: 32390043 PMCID: PMC7707068 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis and etiology of schizophrenia (SCZ) remains unclear. Accumulating studies showed that complex interrelationships between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and an imbalanced redox system has a crucial role in the psychopathology of SCZ. However, the influence of the interrelationships of BDNF and superoxide dismutase (SOD) on cognitive impairment and clinical symptomatology in drug-naive first-episode (DNFE) SCZ patients has not been studied thoroughly. Serum BDNF levels, plasma total SOD, manganese-SOD (Mn-SOD), copper/zinc-containing SOD (CuZn-SOD) activities, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in 327 DNFE patients with SCZ and 391 healthy controls. Cognitive functions were measured using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological status (RBANS) and clinical symptoms were evaluated by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Compared with the controls, the DNFE patients had increased activities of total SOD and CuZn-SOD, and reduced levels of BDNF and MDA. BDNF levels were positively correlated with CuZn-SOD activity in patients. In addition, we found that elevated Mn-SOD and CuZn-SOD activities were related to PANSS depression factor. Moreover, an interactive effect of BDNF levels and Mn-SOD activity was associated with attentional index score in the patients. Therefore, our findings suggested that interrelationships between BDNF and antioxidant mechanisms might underlie the pathological mechanisms of cognitive impairments and symptomatology in the DNFE patients with SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Hong Xiu
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Zezhi Li
- Department of Neurology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Da Chun Chen
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Song Chen
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Maile E Curbo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Hanjing Emily Wu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Yong Sheng Tong
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Shu Ping Tan
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Yang Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Rana T, Behl T, Sehgal A, Srivastava P, Bungau S. Unfolding the Role of BDNF as a Biomarker for Treatment of Depression. J Mol Neurosci 2020; 71:2008-2021. [PMID: 33230708 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01754-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Depression is a well-known disabling mental illness characterized by sadness, loss of interest in activities, and decreased energy. The symptoms of depression are usually recurrent in vulnerable individuals, and persistence of symptoms significantly impairs individuals' quality of life. The exact pathophysiology of depression remains ambiguous, though many hypotheses have been proposed. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has recently been reported to play a vital role in the pathophysiology of depression. BDNF is an important neurotrophic factor found in the human brain and is involved in neuronal growth and proliferation, synaptic neurotransmission, and neuroplasticity. The neurotrophic theory of depression proposes that depression results from reduced BDNF levels in the brain, which can be treated with antidepressants to alleviate depressive behavior and increase BDNF levels. The aim of this review is to provide broad insight into the role of BDNF in the pathogenesis of depression and in antidepressant therapy. The studies mentioned in this review article greatly support the role of BDNF in the pathogenesis of depression and treatment of this disorder with antidepressants. Since abnormalities in BDNF levels lead to the production of diverse insults that amplify the development or progression of depression, it is important to study and explore BDNF impairment in relation to depression, neuroplasticity, and neurogenesis, and increasing BDNF levels through antidepressant therapy, showing positive response in the management of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarapati Rana
- Government Pharmacy College, Seraj, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India.
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Government Pharmacy College, Seraj, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | | | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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Dai N, Jie H, Duan Y, Xiong P, Xu X, Chen P, Kang M, Li M, Li T, Huang Z, Chen H. Different serum protein factor levels in first-episode drug-naive patients with schizophrenia characterized by positive and negative symptoms. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 74:472-479. [PMID: 32478952 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM The clinical features of schizophrenia can be mainly divided into two symptom domains: positive and negative. Patients in each symptom domain respond differently to treatments, and their prognoses vary accordingly. Serum protein factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and the calcium-binding protein, S100β, have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. However, their roles in the positive and negative symptom domains have not been determined. In this study, we investigated whether the serum levels of these five protein factors differed among first-episode drug-naive schizophrenia patients in each symptom domain and in healthy controls. METHODS Double-antibody sandwich ELISA were used to quantify the amounts of the five protein factors in serum. RESULTS Compared with the levels in the controls (n = 60), increased serum levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and S100β and decreased serum levels of NGF and NT-3 were observed in first-episode drug-naive schizophrenia patients. Additionally, the serum levels of IL-6 and IL-1β were significantly higher in schizophrenia patients characterized by negative symptoms (negative group, n = 37) than in those characterized by positive symptoms (positive group, n = 46). Based on multivariate regression analyses, serum levels of IL-1β were positively associated with the Negative Symptom subscore of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale in the negative group and in all patients with schizophrenia. CONCLUSION The two subtypes of schizophrenia may have different pathological mechanisms. Patients characterized by negative symptoms probably have more serious disturbances in neuroimmunology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Dai
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Huijin Jie
- The Third People's Hospital of Huzhou, Huzhou, China
| | - Yong Duan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Peng Xiong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xiufeng Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Peng Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Minmin Kang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Ming Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Ting Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhengyuan Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hongxu Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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Spalletta G, Morris D, Angelucci F, Rubino I, Spoletini I, Bria P, Martinotti G, Siracusano A, Bonaviri G, Bernardini S, Caltagirone C, Bossù P, Donohoe G, Gill M, Corvin A. BDNF Val66Met polymorphism is associated with aggressive behavior in schizophrenia. Eur Psychiatry 2020; 25:311-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2009.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2009] [Revised: 10/20/2009] [Accepted: 10/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractBrain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene variants may potentially influence behaviour. In order to test this hypothesis, we investigated the relationship between BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and aggressive behaviour in a population of schizophrenic patients. Our results showed that increased number of BDNF Met alleles was associated with increased aggressive behaviour.
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41
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Bobilev AM, Perez JM, Tamminga CA. Molecular alterations in the medial temporal lobe in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2020; 217:71-85. [PMID: 31227207 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The medial temporal lobe (MTL) and its individual structures have been extensively implicated in schizophrenia pathophysiology, with considerable efforts aimed at identifying structural and functional differences in this brain region. The major structures of the MTL for which prominent differences have been revealed include the hippocampus, the amygdala and the superior temporal gyrus (STG). The different functions of each of these regions have been comprehensively characterized, and likely contribute differently to schizophrenia. While neuroimaging studies provide an essential framework for understanding the role of these MTL structures in various aspects of the disease, ongoing efforts have sought to employ molecular measurements in order to elucidate the biology underlying these macroscopic differences. This review provides a summary of the molecular findings in three major MTL structures, and discusses convergent findings in cellular architecture and inter-and intra-cellular networks. The findings of this effort have uncovered cell-type, network and gene-level specificity largely unique to each brain region, indicating distinct molecular origins of disease etiology. Future studies should test the functional implications of these molecular changes at the circuit level, and leverage new advances in sequencing technology to further refine our understanding of the differential contribution of MTL structures to schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia M Bobilev
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, United States of America.
| | - Jessica M Perez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, United States of America.
| | - Carol A Tamminga
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, United States of America.
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42
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SNPs associated with Schizophrenia: Evidence from Iranian patients. Meta Gene 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2019.100633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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43
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Szeligowski T, Yun AL, Lennox BR, Burnet PWJ. The Gut Microbiome and Schizophrenia: The Current State of the Field and Clinical Applications. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:156. [PMID: 32226399 PMCID: PMC7080964 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating psychiatric disorder, leading to both physical and social morbidity. Despite its importance, the etiology of schizophrenia remains poorly understood. Furthermore, its mainstream treatments fail to address all aspects of the disorder and are associated with significant side-effects. Recently, there has been growing interest in the relationship between the gut microbiome and mental health, including in schizophrenia. In this article, we review the existing evidence implicating dysbiosis in schizophrenia and discuss how the presumed dysbiosis could fit within known hypotheses of its pathogenesis, focusing on inflammation, tryptophan metabolites, and BDNF levels. We also evaluate the clinical potential of manipulating the gut microbiome with probiotics and prebiotics as adjunctive treatments in schizophrenia, based on existing clinical and pre-clinical studies. Overall, the current data showing microbiome alterations in schizophrenia are highly discrepant and insufficient to conclude whether microbiome changes are associated with increased risk of the disorder, or are simply the result of external factors or treatment. Despite some encouraging results of pro/prebiotic supplementation, there is also inconclusive evidence for their efficacy in schizophrenia. Thus, further research and more clinical trials are needed to test the validity of manipulating the gut microbiome to improve the treatment of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandra Lim Yun
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Belinda R Lennox
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Philip W J Burnet
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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44
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Differential expression of synaptic markers regulated during neurodevelopment in a rat model of schizophrenia-like behavior. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 95:109669. [PMID: 31228641 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder. Recent reports relate synaptic alterations with disease etiology. The inbred Roman High- (RHA-I) and Low- (RLA-I) Avoidance rat strains are a congenital neurobehavioral model, with the RHA-I displaying schizophrenia-related behaviors and serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) and metabotropic glutamate 2 (mGlu2) receptor alterations in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). We performed a comprehensive characterization of the RHA-I/RLA-I rats by real-time qPCR and Western blotting for 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, mGlu2, dopamine 1 and dopamine 2 receptors (DRD1 and DRD2), AMPA receptor subunits Gria1, Gria2 and NMDA receptor subunits Grin1, Grin2a and Grin2b, as well as pre- and post-synaptic components in PFC and hippocampus (HIP). Besides corroborating decreased mGlu2 (Grm2) expression, we found increased mRNA levels for Snap25, Synaptophysin (Syp), Homer1 and Neuregulin-1 (Nrg1) in the PFC of the RHA-I and decreased expression of Vamp1, and Snapin in the HIP. We also showed alterations in Vamp1, Grin2b, Syp, Snap25 and Nrg1 at protein levels. mRNA levels of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) were increased in the PFC of the RHA-I rats, with no differences in the HIP, while BDNF protein levels were decreased in PFC and increased in HIP. To investigate the temporal dynamics of these synaptic markers during neurodevelopment, we made use of the open source BrainCloud™ dataset, and found that SYP, GRIN2B, NRG1, HOMER1, DRD1 and BDNF expression is upregulated in PFC during childhood and adolescence, suggesting a more immature neurobiological endophenotype in the RHA-I strain.
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45
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Murueta-Goyena A, Ortuzar N, Lafuente JV, Bengoetxea H. Enriched Environment Reverts Somatostatin Interneuron Loss in MK-801 Model of Schizophrenia. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 57:125-134. [PMID: 31506899 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-01762-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the inhibitory drive has been proposed to be a central mechanism to explain symptoms and pathophysiological hallmarks in schizophrenia. A number of recent neuroanatomical studies suggest that certain types of inhibitory cells are deficient in schizophrenia, including somatostatin-immunoreactive interneurons (SST+). The present study sought to use stereological methods to investigate whether the number of SST+ interneurons decreased after repeated injections of NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 (0.5 mg/kg) and to determine the effect of limited exposure to an enriched environment (EE) in adult life on this sub-population of inhibitory cells. Considering that somatostatin expression is highly dependent on neurotrophic support, we explored the changes in the relative expression of proteins related to brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tyrosine kinase B (BDNF-TrkB) signaling between the experimental groups. We observed that early-life MK-801 treatment significantly decreased the number of SST+ interneurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the hippocampus (HPC) of adult Long Evans rats. Contrarily, short-term exposure to EE increased the number of SST+ interneurons in MK-801-injected animals, except in the CA1 region of the hippocampus, whereas this increase was not observed in vehicle-injected rats. We also found upregulated BDNF-TrkB signaling after EE that triggered an increase in the pERK/ERK ratio in mPFC and HPC, and the pAkt/Akt ratio in HPC. Thus, the present results support the notion that SST+ interneurons are markedly affected after early-life NMDAR blockade and that EE promotes SST+ interneuron expression, which is partly mediated through the BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway. These results may have important implications for schizophrenia, as SST+ interneuron loss is also observed in the MK-801 pre-clinical model, and its expression can be rescued by non-pharmacological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Murueta-Goyena
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain. .,Neurodegenerative Diseases group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces 12, 48903, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - Naiara Ortuzar
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - José Vicente Lafuente
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.,Nanoneurosurgery Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces 12, 48903, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Harkaitz Bengoetxea
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
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46
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Aas M, Djurovic S, Ueland T, Mørch RH, Fjæra Laskemoen J, Reponen EJ, Cattaneo A, Eiel Steen N, Agartz I, Melle I, Andreassen OA. The relationship between physical activity, clinical and cognitive characteristics and BDNF mRNA levels in patients with severe mental disorders. World J Biol Psychiatry 2019; 20:567-576. [PMID: 30560709 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2018.1557345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Here we aimed to clarify the association of physical activity with cognitive function and current mood in severe mental disorders in the most extensive sample to date. Secondly, we aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity and BDNF mRNA levels.Methods: Three hundred and six patients with a DSM-IV schizophrenia (SZ) or bipolar disorder (BD) spectrum diagnosis were included. Clinical characteristics were assessed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV. Depressive symptomatology was measured using the Inventory of Depressive Symptoms (IDS-C) and the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS). All patients underwent neuropsychological assessment. Physical activity was measured as hours spent on any regular physical activity (≥ or ˂90 min) per week. BDNF mRNA was measured in plasma using standardised procedures.Results: Patients with ≥90 min of physical activity per week had fewer depressive symptoms (P ˂0.001, Cohen's d = 0.48) and performed significantly better on working memory (P ˂ 0.001, d = 0.44) and executive functioning tasks (P ˂ 0.001, d = 0.50) compared to the ˂90-min group. BDNF mRNA was positively associated with physical activity (P = 0.046) and cognitive functioning (P = 0.037).Conclusions: Our study suggests a positive association between self-reported physical activity, cognitive function, mood and BDNF mRNA levels in severe mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Aas
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Srdjan Djurovic
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,NORMENT, KG Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Torill Ueland
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragni H Mørch
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Elina J Reponen
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Annamaria Cattaneo
- Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Fatebenefratelli Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Nils Eiel Steen
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingrid Agartz
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Melle
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ole A Andreassen
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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47
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Heitz U, Papmeyer M, Studerus E, Egloff L, Ittig S, Andreou C, Vogel T, Borgwardt S, Graf M, Eckert A, Riecher-Rössler A. Plasma and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and their association with neurocognition in at-risk mental state, first episode psychosis and chronic schizophrenia patients. World J Biol Psychiatry 2019; 20:545-554. [PMID: 29938562 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2018.1462532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in numerous cognitive processes. Since cognitive deficits are a core feature of psychotic disorders, the investigation of BDNF levels in psychosis and their correlation with cognition has received increased attention. However, there are no studies investigating BDNF levels in individuals with an at-risk mental state (ARMS) for psychosis. Hence, the aims of the present study were: (1) assessing peripheral BDNF levels across different (potential) stages of psychosis; (2) investigating their association with cognition.Methods: Plasma and serum BDNF levels and neuropsychological performance were assessed in 16 ARMS, six first-episode psychosis (FEP), and 11 chronic schizophrenia (CS) patients. Neuropsychological assessment covered intelligence, verbal memory, working memory, attention and executive functioning.Results: Both plasma and serum BDNF levels were highest in CS, intermediate in FEP and lowest in ARMS. Multiple regression analysis revealed a significant positive association of plasma BDNF levels with planning ability across all groups.Conclusions: The lower peripheral BDNF levels in ARMS compared to FEP and CS might point towards an important drop of this neurotrophin prior to the onset of frank psychosis. The associations of peripheral BDNF with planning-abilities match previous findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Heitz
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martina Papmeyer
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.,Rehabilitation Services and Care Unit, Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Erich Studerus
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Laura Egloff
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Ittig
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christina Andreou
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Vogel
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Borgwardt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Graf
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anne Eckert
- Neurobiology Laboratory for Brain Aging and Mental Health, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anita Riecher-Rössler
- Center for Gender Research and Early Detection, University of Basel Psychiatric Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
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48
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Lozupone M, La Montagna M, D'Urso F, Daniele A, Greco A, Seripa D, Logroscino G, Bellomo A, Panza F. The Role of Biomarkers in Psychiatry. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1118:135-162. [PMID: 30747421 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-05542-4_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric illnesses are cognitive and behavioral disorders of the brain. At present, psychiatric diagnosis is based on DSM-5 criteria. Even if endophenotype specificity for psychiatric disorders is discussed, it is difficult to study and identify psychiatric biomarkers to support diagnosis, prognosis, or clinical response to treatment. This chapter investigates the innovative biomarkers of psychiatric diseases for diagnosis and personalized treatment, in particular post-genomic data and proteomic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madia Lozupone
- Neurodegenerative Disease Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Maddalena La Montagna
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Francesca D'Urso
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonio Daniele
- Institute of Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Greco
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Foggia, Italy
| | - Davide Seripa
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Neurodegenerative Disease Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy.,Department of Clinical Research in Neurology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Lecce, Italy
| | - Antonello Bellomo
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Francesco Panza
- Neurodegenerative Disease Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy. .,Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Foggia, Italy. .,Department of Clinical Research in Neurology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Lecce, Italy.
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49
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D'Addario C, Bellia F, Benatti B, Grancini B, Vismara M, Pucci M, De Carlo V, Viganò C, Galimberti D, Fenoglio C, Scarpini E, Maccarrone M, Dell'Osso B. Exploring the role of BDNF DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation in patients with obsessive compulsive disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2019; 114:17-23. [PMID: 31004918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a clinically heterogeneous neuropsychiatric condition associated with profound disability, whose susceptibility, stemming from genetic and environmental factors that intersect with each other, is still under investigation. In this perspective, we sought to explore the transcriptional regulation of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a promising candidate biomarker in both development and etiology of different neuropsychiatric conditions, in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from OCD patients and healthy controls. In particular, we focused on BDNF gene expression and interrogated in depth DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation at gene promoters (exons I, IV and IX) in a sample of OCD patients attending a tertiary OCD Clinic to receive guidelines-recommended treatment, and matched controls. Our preliminary data showed a significant increase in BDNF gene expression and a significant correlation with changes in the two epigenetic modifications selectively at promoter exon I, with no changes in the other promoters under study. We can conclude that transcriptional regulation of BDNF in OCD engages epigenetic mechanisms, and can suggest that this is likely evoked by the long-term pharmacotherapy. It is important to underline that many different factors need to be taken into account (i.e. age, sex, duration of illness, treatment), and thus further studies are mandatory to investigate their role in the epigenetic regulation of BDNF gene. Of note, we provide unprecedented evidence for the importance of analyzing 5-hydroxymethylcytosine levels to correctly evaluate 5-methylcytosine changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Addario
- University of Teramo, Bioscience, Teramo, Italy; Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | - Beatrice Benatti
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy
| | - Benedetta Grancini
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Vismara
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Vera De Carlo
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy
| | - Caterina Viganò
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy
| | - Daniela Galimberti
- University of Milan, Dino Ferrari Center, Milan, Italy; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Fenoglio
- University of Milan, Dino Ferrari Center, Milan, Italy; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Elio Scarpini
- University of Milan, Dino Ferrari Center, Milan, Italy; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Fondazione IRCCS Santa Lucia, Unit of Lipid Neurochemistry, Rome, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy; CRC "Aldo Ravelli", University of Milan, Milano, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, CA, USA.
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50
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Increased plasma Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels in females with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2019; 209:212-217. [PMID: 31088701 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) acts as a critical regulator of synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Sex differences have been demonstrated in many aspects of schizophrenia. This study tested for sex-specific differences in peripheral BDNF levels in people with schizophrenia and healthy controls. We measured circulating plasma BDNF levels in 95 people with schizophrenia and 80 healthy controls. Plasma BDNF levels were significantly elevated in females with schizophrenia compared to males with schizophrenia and to female healthy controls. These results suggest that sex differences in peripheral BDNF levels may contribute to other sex related differences in schizophrenia.
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