Treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder: strategies for intervention

Effects of low doses of the novel dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) derivative BNN27 in rat models of anxiety

RATIONALE

Several lines of evidence indicate that the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is involved in anxiety. BNN27 is a new DHEA derivative lacking steroidogenic effects. The beneficial effects exerted by BNN27 in preclinical models of schizophrenia and memory disorders have been recently reported.

OBJECTIVES

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of this DHEA novel analog on anxiety-like behavior in rats.

METHODS

To this end, the light/dark box, the open field, the contextual fear conditioning, and the excessive self-grooming induced by the serotonin 5-HT2c receptor agonist mCPP tests were utilized.

RESULTS

Animals treated acutely with BNN27 (1, 3, and 6 mg/kg) dose dependently spent more time in the bright compartment of the light/dark box and in the central zone of the open field with respect to their vehicle-treated cohorts. Further, BNN27 reduced freezing behavior and weakened the mCPP-induced excessive self-grooming.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that BNN27 is a highly potent anxiolytic agent, as in all studied paradigms it showed anxiolytic-like effects in male rats.

A multi-centre, double-blind, 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive N-Acetylcysteine for treatment-resistant PTSD

BACKGROUND

PTSD may involve oxidative stress, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may reduce the impact of oxidative stress in the brain. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of adjuvant NAC in people with treatment-resistant PTSD.

METHODS

A multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial for adults with PTSD unresponsive to first-line treatment. The intervention was either oral NAC 2.7 g/day or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was change in Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) at 12 weeks compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes included depression and substance craving. Follow-up measures were obtained at 16 and 64-weeks.

RESULTS

133 patients were assessed, with 105 randomised; 81 participants completed the 12-week trial, 79 completed week-16 follow-up, and 21 completed week-64 follow-up. There were no significant differences between those taking NAC and those taking placebo in CAPS-5 scores at week 12, nor in secondary outcomes. Significant between-group differences were observed at week 64 in craving duration (Cohen's d = 1.61) and craving resistance (Cohen's d = 1.03), both in favour of NAC.

CONCLUSION

This was the first multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive NAC for treatment-resistant PTSD. No benefit of NAC was observed in this group beyond that provided by placebo at end of the trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12618001784202, retrospectively registered 31/10/2018, URL: http://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376004.

Moving Forward from Moral Injury: A Mixed Methods Study Investigating the Use of 3MDR for Treatment-Resistant PTSD

BACKGROUND

Exposure to trauma and potentially morally injurious events may lead to moral injury (MI). The link between MI and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have particularly relevant implications for treatment-resistant PTSD (TR-PTSD). Multi-modal Motion-Assisted Memory Desensitization and Reconsolidation (3MDR), a technology-assisted exposure-based trauma therapy that has been used in the treatment of PTSD, may also be an acceptable modality for patients in the treatment of TR-PTSD and MI. This proof-of-concept study aimed to investigate (1) whether MI co-occurs in military members (MMs) and veterans with TR-PTSD, and (2) the perspectives of MMs and veterans with TR-PTSD utilizing 3MDR for MI.

METHODS

This study employed a mixed-methods clinical trial. Military Members and veterans participated in this study (N = 11) through self-reported questionnaires, video recordings of treatment sessions, and semi-structured interviews post-session and post-intervention, with longitudinal follow-up to 6 months.

RESULTS

MI scores correlated with self-reported measures of mental health symptoms related to PTSD. The thematic analysis revealed three emergent themes: (1) Realities of War, (2) Wrestling Scruples, and (3) Moral Sensemaking.

CONCLUSION

MI was highly correlated with TR-PTSD and themes regarding MI. This result, while preliminary, allows for the postulation that MI may be contributing to the continuation of PTSD symptoms in TR-PTSD, and that 3MDR may be an acceptable modality for addressing these symptoms in MMs and veterans.

Quetiapine Treatment for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Paroxetine and Sertraline are the only medications approved in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, about 60% of traumatized patients fail to show an adequate clinical response. Second generation antipsychotics are recommended as second-line monotherapy or third-line augmentation strategies and quetiapine appears as one of the most used and promising agents. Up to date, no reviews assessed the efficacy of quetiapine in the treatment of PTSD. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and general safety of quetiapine on PTSD. A systematic review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Cochrane guidelines, selecting studies that evaluated the efficacy of quetiapine on global or specific PTSD symptomatology. Ten studies (n = 894) were considered eligible for qualitative synthesis: one case report, one case series, one prospective cohort study, 3 open-label trials, 3 retrospective studies, one randomized controlled trial. Quetiapine was effective on global PTSD symptomatology assessed in 6 studies as well as on re-experiencing (4/4 studies), avoidance (4/3 studies) and hyperarousal (4/4 studies), flashbacks (2/2 studies), depressive (4/4 studies), anxiety (1/1 studies), psychotic (3/3 studies), insomnia (4/5 studies), nightmares (3/3 studies) specific symptoms and PTSD domains. Sedation was among the most frequently observed adverse effects and the main cause of drug discontinuation. Preliminary findings support the efficacy of quetiapine in ameliorating symptoms relative to PTSD and its overall safety. However, quetiapine use in PTSD cannot be recommended yet as studies mainly rely on open-label, retrospective studies or case series.

Toward staging differentiation for posttraumatic stress disorder treatment

OBJECTIVES

Several medical and psychiatric disorders have stage-based treatment decision-making methods. However, international treatment guidelines for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) fail to give specific treatment recommendations based on chronicity or stage of the disorder. There is convincing evidence of a finite range of PTSD symptom trajectories, implying that different phenotypes of the disorder can be distinguished, which are highly relevant for a staging typology of PTSD.

METHODS

State-of-the-art review building on prior work on staging models in other disorders as a mapping tool to identify and synthesize toward PTSD.

RESULTS

We propose a four-stage model of PTSD ranging from stage 0: trauma-exposed asymptomatic but at risk to stage 4: severe unremitting illness of increasing chronicity. We favor a symptom description in various chronological characteristics based on neurobiological markers, information processing systems, stress reactivity, and consciousness dimensions. We also advocate for a separate phenomenology of treatment resistance since this can yield treatment recommendations.

CONCLUSION

A staging perspective in the field of PTSD is highly needed. This can facilitate the selection of interventions that are proportionate to patients' current needs and risk of illness progression and can also contribute to an efficient framework to organize biomarker data and guide service delivery. Therefore, we propose that a neurobiologically driven trajectory-based typology of PTSD can help deduct several treatment recommendations leading to a more personalized and refined grid to strategize, plan and evaluate treatment interventions.

Case report: Medical student types journals during ketamine infusions for suicidal ideation, treatment-resistant depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder

Suicide is the most common cause of death in male resident physicians and the second most common cause of death in resident physicians overall. Physicians also experience high rates of major depressive disorder (MDD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and burnout. These conditions frequently develop during medical school, and threaten not only physicians but the patients they care for. A 30-year-old medical student presented to our clinic with a history of treatment-resistant depression (TRD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), PTSD, and 5 years of daily suicidal ideation. Previous treatments included therapy, lifestyle modifications, and various combinations of six antidepressants. These interventions had little effect on the patient's mental health. The patient was treated at our clinic with an 8-month regimen of IV ketamine infusions and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). The patient achieved remission from suicidality and PTSD within 1 month; and TRD and GAD within 7 months. The patient's Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score decreased from 25 (severe depression) to 1 (not depressed). These findings suggest that ketamine and KAP may represent effective interventions for mental health applications in healthcare professionals. The patient made the unique decision to attempt to type narrative journals during four of his ketamine infusions (doses ranged from 1.8 to 2.1 mg/kg/h IV). The patient successfully typed detailed journals throughout each 1-h ketamine infusion. To our knowledge, these journals represent the first independently typed, first-person, real-time narratives of ketamine-induced non ordinary states of consciousness. The transcripts of these journals may provide useful insights for clinicians, particularly in the context of KAP.

Cyproheptadine: a psychopharmacological treasure trove?

Cyproheptadine has a unique pharmacologic portfolio that speaks to the idea of a pluripotent molecule beyond an antiallergic agent which can expand its therapeutic potential to address a multitude of psychiatric indications. Here, authors touch on the topic with focused literature review of extant evidence.

Quantitative changes in mental health measures with 3MDR treatment for Canadian military members and veterans

OBJECTIVE

Military members and veterans are at elevated risk of treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder (TR-PTSD) due to higher rates of exposure to potentially traumatic events during the course of duty. Knowledge of TR-PTSD is limited, and specific protocols or evidence-based TR-PTSD therapies are lacking. Multimodal motion-assisted memory desensitization and reconsolidation (3MDR) therapy is an emerging intervention for combat-related TR-PTSD. The purpose of this study was to preliminarily assess the effectiveness of 3MDR in addressing TR-PTSD in Canadian military members and veterans.

METHODS

This study is a longitudinal mixed-methods clinical trial. English-speaking military members and veterans aged 18-60 with TR-PTSD were recruited to participate. The intervention consisted of six sessions of 3MDR therapy. Quantitative data were collected pretreatment, posttreatment, and longitudinally at 1, 3, and 6 months after completion of 3MDR.

RESULTS

Results from the first 11 participants to complete the 3MDR protocol exhibited statistically significant improvement (surviving multiple comparison correction) in clinically administered and self-reported scores for PTSD (CAPS-5 and PCL-5), moral injury (MISS-M-SF), depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), emotional regulation (DERS-18), and resilience (CD-RS-25).

CONCLUSION

The preliminary and exploratory results from this clinical trial support the growing body of literature illustrating 3MDR as an effective treatment for military-related TR-PTSD. These results are notable given participants' previous lack of success with frontline psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions. Given that there are currently very limited treatment options for TR-PTSD, 3MDR could prove to be a valuable treatment option for military members and veterans with TR-PTSD.

Exploration of Trauma-Oriented Retreats: Quantitative Changes in Mental Health Measures for Canadian Military Members, Veterans and Royal Canadian Mounted Police with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Moral Injury

Background: Military members, veterans, and public safety personnel have been noted to have a higher risk of exposure to potentially traumatic events and potentially morally injurious events resulting in operational stress injuries (OSI) such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and moral injury (MI). Treatments that can quickly and effectively address these conditions are desperately needed. The purpose of this research was to identify the impact of participation in a non-evidence-based trauma-oriented retreat for the above populations experiencing PTSD and MI. Methods: This study was an embedded mixed-methods longitudinal study with parallel repeated quantitative measures designed to evaluate outcomes at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after completion of the retreat. Results: Analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in self-reported symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, stress, depression, MI, anger, and emotional dysregulation pre/post-retreat, and an increase in resilience. Self-reported longitudinal results did not see a change in symptom scores, with participants continuing to maintain their clinical diagnoses post-retreat. Conclusions: The results from this study illustrate that trauma-oriented retreats may be a complementary treatment modality for OSI-related conditions but should not be seen as a first-line treatment option. Program evaluation, determination of the evidence-based nature of retreats, and standardization are yet needed.

Behavioral and neural mechanisms of latent inhibition

Fear is an adaptive emotion that serves to protect an organism against potential dangers. It is often studied using classical conditioning paradigms where a conditioned stimulus is paired with an aversive unconditioned stimulus to induce a threat response. Less commonly studied is a phenomenon that is related to this form of conditioning, known as latent inhibition. Latent inhibition (LI) is a paradigm in which a neutral cue is repeatedly presented in the absence of any aversive associations. Subsequent pairing of this pre-exposed cue with an aversive stimulus typically leads to reduced expression of a conditioned fear/threat response. In this article, we review some of the theoretical basis for LI and its behavioral and neural mechanisms. We compare and contrast LI and fear/threat extinction-a process in which a previously conditioned cue is repeatedly presented in the absence of aversive outcomes. We end with highlighting the potential clinical utility of LI. Particularly, we focus on how LI application could be useful for enhancing resilience, especially for individuals who are more prone to continuous exposure to trauma and stressful environments, such as healthcare workers and first responders. The knowledge to be gained from advancing our understanding of neural mechanisms in latent inhibition could be applicable across psychiatric disorders characterized by exaggerated fear responses and impaired emotion regulation.

Defining post-traumatic stress disorder recovery in veterans: Benchmarking symptom change against functioning indicators

Improved metrics of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment response that extend beyond a focus on symptom reduction to incorporate meaningful, patient-centred indicators of functioning are needed in veteran populations. The aim of this study was to extend previous research by investigating whether indicators of functioning can successfully distinguish against symptom response categories derived from the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5) pre- and post- PTSD treatment. Participants were 472 veterans receiving hospital-based treatment for PTSD. In addition to the PCL-5, measures included quality of life, social relationships, physical health and psychological distress. Four mutually exclusive, progressive response categories were used to define treatment response including: No Response, Response, Response and Below Threshold, and Remission. PTSD symptom reductions were associated with corresponding improvements in broader indicators of functioning. However, it was only when the magnitude of symptom reduction placed the individual in the 'Response and Below Threshold' category that improvement on functioning measures achieved levels indicative of a good end state. Traditional metrics of treatment 'response' in PTSD treatment do not necessarily indicate recovery on important functioning indicators. Only when an individual both responds to treatment and drops below threshold for probable disorder are they likely to report having meaningful levels of functioning.

The power of appraisals in predicting PTSD symptom improvement following cognitive rehabilitation: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Patients with PTSD often voice concern over their perceived change in cognitive functioning. However, these negative appraisals do not always align with objective neuropsychological performance, yet are strongly predictive of PTSD symptom severity and self-reported functional impairment.

METHODS

The present study involves a secondary analysis examining the role of appraisals of a subsample of 81 adults with full or subthreshold PTSD on treatment outcomes in a randomized controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of a cognitive rehabilitation treatment, Strategic Memory and Reasoning Training (n = 38), compared to a psychoeducation control arm, the Brain Health Workshop (n = 43). Neither condition addressed PTSD symptoms, focusing instead on cognitive skills training and psychoeducation about the brain.

RESULTS

Intent-to-treat models showed statistically significant improvements for both groups on composite scores of executive functioning and memory. Additionally, both groups experienced clinically significant reductions in PTSD symptoms (assessed via the Clinician-Administered PTSD Interview) and the SMART group showed fewer negative appraisals about cognitive functioning following training. Change in appraisals of cognitive functioning was associated with change in PTSD as well as change in quality of life, with no differential associations based on group status. In contrast, neurocognitive test score changes were not associated with change in symptoms or functional outcomes.

LIMITATIONS

We did not collect data on other appraisals (e.g., self-efficacy), which could have further elucidated pathways of change.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that interventions that do not directly target PTSD symptoms can lead to PTSD symptom change via change in appraisals of functioning.

Treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms With Low Amplitude Seizure Therapy (LAP-ST) Compared With Standard Right Unilateral Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Pilot Double-Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

An important barrier to further studying electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the cognitive adverse effects. However, recent data suggest that low amplitude seizure therapy (LAP-ST) has no or minimal cognitive adverse effects. The aims of this report were to examine the efficacy of LAP-ST in PTSD and to compare LAP-ST with standard right unilateral (RUL) ECT using a pilot randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to LAP-ST or RUL ECT. Posttraumatic stress disorder was assessed using clinical interview based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, and symptom severity with PTSD Checklist (PCL). The scores pertaining to PCL were analyzed using descriptive analysis for this pilot study.

RESULTS

Eleven patients consented to be enrolled. Seven were randomly allocated to LAP-ST or RUL ECT. Five completed the study and had completed PCL before and after the course. In both groups, PTSD symptoms showed fast improvement. The effect size of improvement seems promising. The mean baseline PCL score for patients in the LAP-ST group was 42.5 (SD = 16.26) and the mean end point PCL score after treatment was 31 (SD = 15.56). The mean baseline PCL score for patients in the standard RUL ECT group was 64.7 (SD = 1.15) and the mean end point was 41 (SD = 15.62).

CONCLUSIONS

Both LAP-ST and standard RUL ECT showed reduction in PTSD symptoms with fast improvement. This first PTSD LAP-ST study adds support to the prior LAP-ST proof-of-concept clinical trial that LAP-ST can produce effective therapeutic outcomes. Replication of this trial is warranted in larger clinical trials (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02583490).

The GABAA-Benzodiazepine Receptor Antagonist Flumazenil Abolishes the Anxiolytic Effects of the Active Constituents of Crocus sativus L. Crocins in Rats

Anxiety is a chronic severe psychiatric disorder. Crocins are among the various bioactive components of the plant Crocus sativus L. (Iridaceae) and their implication in anxiety is well-documented. However, which is the mechanism of action underlying the anti-anxiety effects of crocins remains unknown. In this context, it has been suggested that these beneficial effects might be ascribed to the agonistic properties of these bioactive ingredients of saffron on the GABA type A receptor. The current experimentation was undertaken to clarify this issue in the rat. For this research project, the light/dark and the open field tests were used. A single injection of crocins (50 mg/kg, i.p., 60 min before testing) induces an anti-anxiety-like effect revealed either in the light-dark or open field tests. Acute administration of the GABA_A-benzodiazepine receptor antagonist flumazenil (10 mg/kg, i.p., 30 min before testing) abolished the above mentioned anxiolytic effects of crocins. The current findings suggest a functional interaction between crocins and the GABA_A receptor allosteric modulator flumazenil on anxiety.

Pharmacological treatments for adults with post-traumatic stress disorder: A network meta-analysis of comparative efficacy and acceptability

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare efficacy and acceptability among drug treatments for adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through a systematic review, random-effects pairwise and network meta-analyses.

METHODS

Double-blind randomized controlled trials comparing pharmacological interventions for adults with PTSD were searched from database inception through Aug. 28, 2018, on Cochrane (Central), Embase, LILACS, PILOTS, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science. Clinical trial registries and the websites of pharmaceutical companies were also searched. The GRADE system was used to assess the quality of the evidence.

RESULTS

The systematic review included 58 studies comprising 6766 patients randomized to 26 different interventions. Regarding efficacy, topiramate (SMD = -0.57; 95%CrI: -1.07,-0.10), risperidone (SMD = -0.53; 95%CrI: -0.93,-0.15), quetiapine (SMD = -0.59; 95%CrI: -1.06,-0.11), paroxetine (SMD = -0.35; 95%CrI: -0.48,-0.21), venlafaxine (SMD = -0.25; 95%CrI: -0.44,-0.05), fluoxetine (SMD = -0.28; 95%CrI: -0.46,-0.08), and sertraline (SMD = -0.21; 95%CrI: -0.33,-0.09) outperformed placebo. Moreover, phenelzine (RR = 3.39; 95%CrI: 1.43,11.09), lamotrigine (RR = 4.39; 95%CrI: 1.18,26.38), and fluoxetine (RR = 1.28%CrI: 1.01,1.59) outperformed placebo in terms of acceptability.

CONCLUSIONS

The NMA supports topiramate, risperidone, quetiapine, paroxetine, venlafaxine, fluoxetine and sertraline as effective pharmacological choices for the treatment of PTSD. Quetiapine and topiramate have the shortcoming of relying on a few small studies, but the clinically meaningful change in symptoms is noteworthy and merits further investigation. Among the pharmacological treatments with evidence of efficacy compared to placebo, fluoxetine achieved a relatively high rank regarding acceptability. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest contemporary NMA on the subject and the addition of new medications is an important extension of previous meta-analyses, enabling a larger number of drug comparisons.

Virtual Reality-Based Treatment for Military Members and Veterans With Combat-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Protocol for a Multimodular Motion-Assisted Memory Desensitization and Reconsolidation Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Military members are at elevated risk of operational stress injuries, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and moral injury. Although psychotherapy can reduce symptoms, some military members may experience treatment-resistant PTSD. Multimodular motion-assisted memory desensitization and reconsolidation (3MDR) has been introduced as a virtual reality (VR) intervention for military members with PTSD related to military service. The 3MDR intervention incorporates exposure therapy, psychotherapy, eye movement desensitization and reconsolidation, VR, supportive counselling, and treadmill walking.

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate whether 3MDR reduces PTSD symptoms among military members with combat-related treatment-resistant PTSD (TR-PTSD); examine the technology acceptance and usability of the Computer Assisted Rehabilitation ENvironment (CAREN) and 3MDR interventions by Canadian Armed Forces service members (CAF-SMs), veterans, 3MDR clinicians, and operators; and evaluate the impact on clinicians and operators of delivering 3MDR.

Methods

This is a mixed-methods waitlist controlled crossover design randomized controlled trial. Participants include both CAF-SMs and veterans (N=40) aged 18-60 years with combat-related TR-PTSD (unsuccessful experience of at least 2 evidence-based trauma treatments). Participants will also include clinicians and operators (N=12) who have been trained in 3MDR and subsequently utilized this intervention with patients. CAF-SMs and veterans will receive 6 weekly 90-minute 3MDR sessions. Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months postintervention. Quantitative data collection will include multiomic biomarkers (ie, blood and salivary proteomic and genomic profiles of neuroendocrine, immune-inflammatory mediators, and microRNA), eye tracking, electroencephalography, and physiological data. Data from outcome measures will capture self-reported symptoms of PTSD, moral injury, resilience, and technology acceptance and usability. Qualitative data will be collected from audiovisual recordings of 3MDR sessions and semistructured interviews. Data analysis will include univariate and multivariate approaches, and thematic analysis of treatment sessions and interviews. Machine learning analysis will be included to develop models for the prediction of diagnosis, symptom severity, and treatment outcomes.

Results

This study commenced in April 2019 and is planned to conclude in April 2021. Study results will guide the further evolution and utilization of 3MDR for military members with TR-PTSD and will have utility in treating other trauma-affected populations.

Conclusions

The goal of this study is to utilize qualitative and quantitative primary and secondary outcomes to provide evidence for the effectiveness and feasibility of 3MDR for treating CAF-SMs and veterans with combat-related TR-PTSD. The results will inform a full-scale clinical trial and stimulate development and adaptation of the protocol to mobile VR apps in supervised clinical settings. This study will add to knowledge of the clinical effectiveness of 3MDR, and provide the first comprehensive analysis of biomarkers, technology acceptance and usability, moral injury, resilience, and the experience of clinicians and operators delivering 3MDR.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN Registry 11264368; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN11264368.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/20620

Neurophysiology and Psychopathology Underlying PTSD and Recent Insights into the PTSD Therapies-A Comprehensive Review

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a well-known psychiatric disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Pharmacodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) have been used to treat patients with PTSD. However, it remains unclear whether there are concurrent changes in psychopathological and neurophysiological factors associated with PTSD patients. Past reports described those PTSD patients with efficient fatty acid metabolism, neurogenesis, mitochondrial energy balance could improve ability to cope against the conditioned fear responses and traumatic memories. Furthermore, cognitive, behavioral, cellular, and molecular evidence can be combined to create personalized therapies for PTSD sufferers either with or without comorbidities such as depression or memory impairment. Unfortunately, there is still evidence lacking to establish a full understanding of the underlying neurophysiological and psychopathological aspects associated with PTSD. This review has extensively discussed the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) of genetic factors to cause PTSD, the implications of inflammation, neurotransmitter genomics, metabolic alterations, neuroendocrine disturbance (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis), mitochondrial dynamics, neurogenesis, and premature aging related to PTSD-induced psychopathology and neurophysiology. In addition, the review delineated the importance of CBT and several pharmacodynamic therapies to mitigate symptomatology of PTSD.

A multi-centre, double-blind, 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of adjunctive N-Acetylcysteine for treatment-resistant PTSD: a study protocol

BACKGROUND

Most patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) suffer residual symptoms following first-line treatment. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathophysiology of PTSD. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a precursor of the brain's primary antioxidant, glutathione, and may diminish oxidative cellular damage. An 8-week pilot study of NAC in veterans with PTSD found that symptoms were significantly reduced in the NAC group compared to placebo. This study aims to confirm these findings with a larger sample in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to further explore the efficacy of NAC as an adjunctive therapy in treatment-resistant PTSD.

METHODS

A multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial for adult patients who still meet criteria for PTSD following first-line treatment. The intervention comprises either NAC as a fixed dose regime of 2.7 g/day (900 mg three times daily) administered orally for 12 weeks, or placebo. Standard care for PTSD will continue in addition, including other pharmacotherapies. Detailed clinical data will be collected at randomisation and weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, and 64 post-randomisation, with self-report measures completed weekly from baseline to 16 weeks and at 64 weeks post-randomisation. Blood-based biomarkers will be collected at baseline and 12 weeks to assess the mechanism of effect. The primary outcome measure will be change in Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 at 12 weeks compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes will be change in quality of life, depression, anxiety, substance use and craving, and somatic symptoms. With 126 completed participants (63 per arm), the study is powered at 80% to detect a true difference in the primary outcome measure using a two-tailed analysis with alpha = 0.05, beta = 0.2.

DISCUSSION

This is the first multicentre, double blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive NAC for treatment-resistant PTSD. NAC has an established safety profile, is readily available and easy to administer, and has a favourable tolerability profile, therefore making it an attractive adjunctive therapy. Inclusion of blood analyses to assess potential target engagement biomarkers of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation may help gauge the biological mechanisms of effect of NAC.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12618001784202, retrospectively registered 31/10/2018, URL: http://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376004 .

Stress reactivity after traumatic brain injury: implications for comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder

Most people have or will experience traumatic stress at some time over the lifespan, but only a subset of traumatized individuals develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Clinical research supports high rates of traumatic brain injury (TBI)-PTSD comorbidity and demonstrates TBI as a significant predictor of the development of PTSD. Biological factors impacted following brain injury that may contribute to increased PTSD risk are unknown. Heightened stress reactivity and dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function are common to both TBI and PTSD, and affect amygdalar structure and function, which is implicated in PTSD. In this review, we summarize a growing body of literature that shows HPA axis dysregulation, as well as enhanced fear and amygdalar function after TBI. We present the hypothesis that altered stress reactivity as a result of brain injury impacts the amygdala and defense systems to be vulnerable to increased fear and PTSD development from traumatic stress. Identifying biological mechanisms that underlie this vulnerability, such as dysregulated HPA axis function, may lead to better targeted treatments and preventive measures to support psychological health after TBI.

Ziprasidone Augmentation of SSRI Antidepressants in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of Augmentation Therapy

BACKGROUND

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often a chronic, disabling illness for which antidepressant medications (ie, SSRI) are considered the primary psychopharmacological treatment. However, many patients remain refractory to antidepressants alone or in combination with psychotherapy. Safe and effective treatments for individuals with refractory PTSD are needed. This study aimed to examine ziprasidone augmentation of SSRI treatment of PTSD.

METHODS

This was a 2-phase study. In phase 1, subjects were treated with paroxetine or sertraline for 8 weeks. Individuals refractory to the SSRI treatment then entered into phase II of the study and were randomized, in a double-blind fashion, to 8 weeks of treatment with either ziprasidone or placebo. The primary outcome measure was change in Clinician Administered PTSD Scale total scores with the intent-to-treat sample. Secondary outcome measures included Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale scores, measures of depression and anxiety, and safety measures.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed on the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, or other outcome measures between ziprasidone and placebo groups. No significant differences were observed for safety measures including metabolic profiles, extrapyramidal symptoms/movement disorder rating scales, nor study dropout.

CONCLUSIONS

Although no significant differences were noted in efficacy or safety measures between ziprasidone and placebo in this pilot study, the small sample size prevents definitive conclusions.

Perceived Benefits of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy beyond Symptom Reduction: Qualitative Follow-Up Study of a Clinical Trial for Individuals with Treatment-Resistant PTSD

We present select findings from a long-term follow-up qualitative study of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for veterans, firefighters, and police officers suffering from chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted at participants' one-year follow-up after a recently completed phase 2 clinical trial. Available interviews from 19 of 24 participants were analyzed. This qualitative analysis sought to complement, clarify, and expand upon the quantitative findings obtained from the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-IV) and supported by the Long-Term Follow-Up (LTFU) Questionnaire. Pertinent data from interview transcripts were coded and analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) methodological framework. We explore prominent thematic elements from participant accounts to better understand the outcomes experienced in this trial. All participants reported experiencing lasting personal benefits and enhanced quality of life that extend beyond quantifiable symptom reduction. We explore a range of treatment benefits beyond symptom reduction to highlight the utility of qualitative investigations of the process and effects of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Limitations and challenges encountered in conducting this study are discussed along with recommendations for improved qualitative research protocols in future clinical trials.

Posttraumatic stress disorder: a model of the longitudinal course and the role of risk factors

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) differs from other anxiety disorders in that experience of a traumatic event is necessary for the onset of the disorder. The condition runs a longitudinal course, involving a series of transitional states, with progressive modification occurring with time. Notably, only a small percentage of people that experience trauma will develop PTSD. Risk factors, such as prior trauma, prior psychiatric history, family psychiatric history, peritraumatic dissociation, acute stress symptoms, the nature of the biological response, and autonomic hyperarousal, need to be considered when setting up models to predict the course of the condition. These risk factors influence vulnerability to the onset of PTSD and its spontaneous remission. In the majority of cases, PTSD is accompanied by another condition, such as major depression, an anxiety disorder, or substance abuse. This comorbidity can also complicate the course of the disorder and raises questions about the role of PTSD in other psychiatric conditions. This article reviews what is known about the emergence of PTSD following exposure to a traumatic event using data from clinical studies.

Anxiolytic properties of compounds that counteract oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and glutamatergic dysfunction: a review

Objective:

Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and the efficacy of the available anxiolytic drugs is less than desired. Adverse effects also compromise patient quality of life and adherence to treatment. Accumulating evidence shows that the pathophysiology of anxiety and related disorders is multifactorial, involving oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and glutamatergic dysfunction. The aim of this review was to evaluate data from animal studies and clinical trials showing the anxiolytic effects of agents whose mechanisms of action target these multiple domains.

Methods:

The PubMed database was searched for multitarget agents that had been evaluated in animal models of anxiety, as well as randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials of anxiety and/or anxiety related disorders.

Results:

The main multitarget agents that have shown consistent anxiolytic effects in various animal models of anxiety, as well in clinical trials, are agomelatine, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and omega-3 fatty acids. Data from clinical trials are preliminary at best, but reveal good safety profiles and tolerance to adverse effects.

Conclusion:

Agomelatine, NAC and omega-3 fatty acids show beneficial effects in clinical conditions where mainstream treatments are ineffective. These three multitarget agents are considered promising candidates for innovative, effective, and better-tolerated anxiolytics.

DBS in Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychiatric condition for which pharmacological therapy is not always solvable. Various treatments have been suggested and deep brain stimulation (DBS) is currently under investigation for patients affected by PTSD. We review the neurocircuitry and up-to-date clinical concepts which are behind the use of DBS in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The role of DBS in treatment-refractory PTSD patients has been investigated relying on both preclinical and clinical studies. DBS for PTSD is in its preliminary phases and likely to provide hope for patients with medical refractory PTSD following the results of randomized controlled studies.

Predictors of PTSD Symptom Change Among Outpatients in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care System

Although the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has prioritized care for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), many patients with PTSD remain symptomatic. Patterns of PTSD symptom change are not well understood. Thus, the current study was designed to categorize and investigate potential predictors of symptom trajectories in patients with PTSD. The sample comprised 2,237 VA patients who were diagnosed with PTSD in 2013 and completed at least 4 PTSD Checklist (PCL) assessments over 12 weeks. Latent trajectory analysis was used to identify latent classes of patients based on PCL scores. Based on model fit indices, 3 trajectories were identified. Compared to patients in the mild-improving trajectory (21.9%), those in the severe-stable trajectory (34.3%) were more likely to be male, relative risk ratio (RRR) = 1.48, 95% CI [1.08, 2.02]; non-White, RRR = 1.77, 95% CI [1.33, 2.35]; Hispanic, RRR = 2.07, 95% CI [1.40, 3.04]; and have comorbid depression, RRR = 1.58, 95% CI [1.25, 1.99]. Compared to patients in the moderate-improving trajectory (43.8%), those in the severe-stable trajectory were more likely to have sleep disorders, RRR = 1.25, 95% CI [1.01, 1.55]. Our findings suggest that male veterans, minority veterans, and veterans with certain comorbid conditions may be less likely to achieve improved PTSD symptoms. Targeted efforts are needed to improve outcomes for PTSD patients on nonremitting trajectories and to improve the consistency of PTSD assessment across the VA health care system.

Genome to Phenome: A Systems Biology Approach to PTSD Using an Animal Model

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating illness that imposes significant emotional and financial burdens on military families. The understanding of PTSD etiology remains elusive; nonetheless, it is clear that PTSD is manifested by a cluster of symptoms including hyperarousal, reexperiencing of traumatic events, and avoidance of trauma reminders. With these characteristics in mind, several rodent models have been developed eliciting PTSD-like features. Animal models with social dimensions are of particular interest, since the social context plays a major role in the development and manifestation of PTSD.For civilians, a core trauma that elicits PTSD might be characterized by a singular life-threatening event such as a car accident. In contrast, among war veterans, PTSD might be triggered by repeated threats and a cumulative psychological burden that coalesced in the combat zone. In capturing this fundamental difference, the aggressor-exposed social stress (Agg-E SS) model imposes highly threatening conspecific trauma on naïve mice repeatedly and randomly.There is abundant evidence that suggests the potential role of genetic contributions to risk factors for PTSD. Specific observations include putatively heritable attributes of the disorder, the cited cases of atypical brain morphology, and the observed neuroendocrine shifts away from normative. Taken together, these features underscore the importance of multi-omics investigations to develop a comprehensive picture. More daunting will be the task of downstream analysis with integration of these heterogeneous genotypic and phenotypic data types to deliver putative clinical biomarkers. Researchers are advocating for a systems biology approach, which has demonstrated an increasingly robust potential for integrating multidisciplinary data. By applying a systems biology approach here, we have connected the tissue-specific molecular perturbations to the behaviors displayed by mice subjected to Agg-E SS. A molecular pattern that links the atypical fear plasticity to energy deficiency was thereby identified to be causally associated with many behavioral shifts and transformations.PTSD is a multifactorial illness sensitive to environmental influence. Accordingly, it is essential to employ the optimal animal model approximating the environmental condition that elicits PTSD-like symptoms. Integration of an optimal animal model with a systems biology approach can contribute to a more knowledge-driven and efficient next-generation care management system and, potentially, prevention of PTSD.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Perspectives for the Use of Deep Brain Stimulation

OBJECTIVES

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) has been either approved or is currently under investigation for a number of psychiatric disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We review clinical and preclinical concepts as well as the neurocircuitry that may be of relevance for the implementation of DBS in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

RESULTS

PTSD is a chronic and debilitating illness associated with dysfunction in well-established neural circuits, including the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Although most patients often improve with medications and/or psychotherapy, approximately 20-30% are considered to be refractory to conventional treatments. In other psychiatric disorders, DBS has been investigated in treatment-refractory patients. To date, preclinical work suggests that stimulation at high frequency delivered at particular timeframes to different targets, including the amygdala, ventral striatum, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex may improve fear extinction and anxiety-like behavior in rodents. In the only clinical report published so far, a patient implanted with electrodes in the amygdala has shown striking improvements in PTSD symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuroimaging, preclinical, and preliminary clinical data suggest that the use of DBS for the treatment of PTSD may be practical but the field requires further investigation.

Treatment-refractory posttraumatic stress disorder (TRPTSD): a review and framework for the future

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious psychiatric consequence of trauma that occurs in a proportion of individuals exposed to life-threatening events. Trauma-focused psychotherapy is often recommended as first choice for those who do not recover spontaneously. But many individuals require medications. In the US, only paroxetine (PRX) and sertraline (SRT) are FDA approved for PTSD. But response and remission rates with these medications are low, so numerous other pharmacologic interventions have been tried. To date, there has not been a systematic review of the data on what are the best next-step pharmacologic strategies for individuals who fail standard treatments. To that end, we review 168 published trials of medications other than PRX or SRT and provide a detailed analysis of the 88/168 studies that describe alternative pharmacologic interventions in patients refractory to other treatment. We also review clinical factors relevant to treatment-refractory PTSD; the neurobiology of extinction, as well as evidence-based psychotherapy and neuromodulation strategies for this condition.

Constituents of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) as Potential Candidates for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders and Schizophrenia

Anxiety disorders and schizophrenia are common public health issues. The dried stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L., (C. sativus) commonly known as saffron are used in folk medicine for various purposes. Several lines of evidence suggest that C. sativus, crocins and safranal are implicated in anxiety and schizophrenia. Here, I intend to critically review advances in research of these emerging molecules for the treatment of anxiety and schizophrenia, discuss their advantages over currently used anxiolytics and neuroleptics, as well remaining challenges. Current analysis shows that C. sativus and its components might be a promising class of compounds for the treatment of the above mentioned psychiatric diseases.

Role of Hybrid Brain Imaging in Neuropsychiatric Disorders

This is a focused review of imaging literature to scope the utility of hybrid brain imaging in neuropsychiatric disorders. The review focuses on brain imaging modalities that utilize hybrid (fusion) techniques to characterize abnormal brain molecular signals in combination with structural and functional changes that have been observed in neuropsychiatric disorders. An overview of clinical hybrid brain imaging technologies for human use is followed by a selective review of the literature that conceptualizes the use of these technologies in understanding basic mechanisms of major neuropsychiatric disorders and their therapeutics. Neuronal network abnormalities are highlighted throughout this review to scope the utility of hybrid imaging as a potential biomarker for each disorder.

Pharmacologic management of comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and addictions

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUD) frequently co-occur, and their combination can increase poor health outcomes as well as mortality.

METHODS

Using PUBMED and the list of references from key publications, this review article covered the epidemiology, neurobiology and pharmacotherapy of PTSD with comorbid alcohol, opiate, and cannabis use disorders. These SUD represent two with and one without FDA approved pharmacotherapies.

RESULTS

SUD is two to three times more likely among individuals with lifetime PTSD, and suicide, which is made more likely by both of these disorders, appears to be additively increased by having this comorbidity of SUD and PTSD. The shared neurobiological features of these two illnesses include amygdalar hyperactivity with hippocampal, medial prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex dysfunction. Medications for comorbid PTSD and SUD include the PTSD treatment sertraline, often used in combination with anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and adrenergic blockers. When PTSD is comorbid with alcohol use disorder (AUD), naltrexone, acamprosate or disulfiram may be combined with PTSD treatments. Disulfiram alone may treat both PTSD and AUD. For PTSD combined with opiate use disorder methadone or buprenorphine are most commonly used with sertraline. Marijuana use has been considered by some to be a treatment for PTSD, but no FDA treatment for this addiction is approved. Pregabalin and D-cycloserine are two innovations in pharmacotherapy for PTSD and SUD.

CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE

Comorbid PTSD and SUD amplifies their lethality and treatment complexity. Although they share important neurobiology, these patients uncommonly respond to a single pharmacotherapy such as sertraline or disulfiram and more typically require medication combinations and consideration of the specific type of SUD.

Stress-induced increases in depression-like and cocaine place-conditioned behaviors are reversed by disruption of memories during reconsolidation

Maladaptive behavioral responses characteristic of post-traumatic stress disorders are notably resistant to treatment. We hypothesized that the pharmacological disruption of memories activated during reconsolidation might reverse established stress-induced increases in depression-like behaviors and cocaine reward. C57BL/6J mice were subjected to repeated social defeat stress (SDS), and examined for time spent immobile in a subsequent forced swim test (FST). An additional set of SDS-exposed mice were place-conditioned with cocaine, and tested for cocaine-conditioned place preference (CPP). All stress-exposed mice were then subjected to a single additional trial of SDS while under the influence of propranolol or cycloheximide to disrupt memory reconsolidation, then given one additional FST or CPP test the next day. Mice subjected to repeated SDS subsequently demonstrated increases in time spent immobile in the FST or in the cocaine-paired chamber. Vehicle-treatment followed by additional SDS exposure did not alter these behaviors, but propranolol or cycloheximide treatment reversed each of the potentiated responses in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, these results demonstrate that while repeated exposure to a social defeat stressor subsequently increased depression-like behavior and cocaine-CPP, disruption of traumatic memories made labile by re-exposure to SDS during reconsolidation may have therapeutic value in the treatment of established post-traumatic stress disorder-related behaviors.

Assessing Treatment-Resistant Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: The Emory Treatment Resistance Interview for PTSD (E-TRIP)

Patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who fail to respond to established treatments are at risk for chronic disability and distress. Although treatment-resistant PTSD (TR-PTSD) is a common clinical problem, there is currently no standard method for evaluating previous treatment outcomes. Development of a tool that could quantify the degree of resistance to previously provided treatments would inform research in patients with PTSD. We conducted a systematic review of PTSD treatment trials to identify medication and psychotherapy interventions proven to be efficacious for PTSD. We then developed a semi-structured clinician interview called the Emory Treatment Resistance Interview for PTSD (E-TRIP). The E-TRIP includes clinician-administered questions to assess the adequacy and benefit derived from past treatment trials. For each adequately delivered treatment to which the patient failed to respond, a score is assigned depending on the strength of evidence supporting the treatment’s efficacy. The E-TRIP provides a comprehensive assessment of prior PTSD treatments that should prove valuable for researchers studying TR-PTSD and evaluating the efficacy of new treatments for patients with PTSD. The E-TRIP is not intended to guide treatment; rather, the tool quantifies the level of treatment resistance in patients with PTSD in order to standardize TR-PTSD in the research domain.

Efficacy and acceptability of atypical antipsychotics for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials

As some evidences demonstrated that atypical antipsychotics (AA) may be efficacious in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), we preformed a meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) of AAs for the treatment of PTSD. Two hundred and fifty one papers were searched and screened. Eight RCTs met the inclusion criteria. AAs may be superior to placebo in the treatment of PTSD, as indicated by the changes in Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) total scores (weighted mean differences (WMD)=-5.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) [-9.21, -2.56], P=0.0005) and also in CAPS subscale intrusion (WMD=-2.58, 95% CI[-3.83, -1.33], P<0.0001 ) and subscale hyperarousal (WMD=-2.94, 95% CI[-5.45, -0.43], P=0.02). The acceptability measured by dropout rates between AAs and placebo showed no statistical difference (OR=1.24, 95%CI [0.78, 1.97], P=0.36). PTSD symptom cluster, especially in intrusion and hyperarousal. However, we should be careful to generalize the conclusion because of the small number of included trails. We expect more RCTs will be done in the future so as to clarify the specific value of AAs for PTSD.

Methylphenidate and desipramine combined treatment improves PTSD symptomatology in a rat model

Antidepressant medication constitutes the first line pharmacological treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), however, because many patients display no beneficial drug effects it has been suggested that combinations of antidepressants with additional drugs may be necessary. The defining symptoms of PTSD include re-experiencing, avoidance and hyperarousal. In addition, PTSD patients were shown to become easily distracted and often suffer from poor concentration together with indications of comorbidity with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylphenidate (MPH) is the most common and effective drug treatment for ADHD, thus we aimed to investigate the effects of MPH treatment, by itself or in combination with the antidepressants fluoxetine (FLU) or desipramine (DES). We modified an animal model of PTSD by exposing rats to chronic stress and evaluating the subsequent development of behavioral PTSD-like symptoms, as well as the effects on proinflammatory cytokines, which were implicated in PTSD. We report that while FLU or DES had a beneficial effect on avoidance and hyperarousal symptoms, MPH improved all three symptoms. Moreover, the combination of MPH with DES produced the most dramatic beneficial effects. Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6 were elevated in the PTSD-like group compared with the control group, and were decreased by MPH, FLU, DES or the combination drug treatments, with the combination of DES+MPH producing the most complete rescue of the inflammatory response. Considering the versatile symptoms of PTSD, our results suggest a new combined treatment for PTSD comprising the antidepressant DES and the psychostimulant MPH.

Chronic stress disrupts fear extinction and enhances amygdala and hippocampal Fos expression in an animal model of post-traumatic stress disorder

Chronic stress may impose a vulnerability to develop maladaptive fear-related behaviors after a traumatic event. Whereas previous work found that chronic stress impairs the acquisition and recall of extinguished fear, it is unknown how chronic stress impacts nonassociative fear, such as in the absence of the conditioned stimulus (CS) or in a novel context. Male rats were subjected to chronic stress (STR; wire mesh restraint 6 h/d/21d) or undisturbed (CON), then tested on fear acquisition (3 tone-footshock pairings), and two extinction sessions (15 tones/session) within the same context. Then each group was tested (6 tones) in the same context (SAME) or a novel context (NOVEL), and brains were processed for functional activation using Fos immunohistochemistry. Compared to CON, STR showed facilitated fear acquisition, resistance to CS extinction on the first extinction day, and robust recovery of fear responses on the second extinction day. STR also showed robust freezing to the context alone during the first extinction day compared to CON. When tested in the same or a novel context, STR exhibited higher freezing to context than did CON, suggesting that STR-induced fear was independent of context. In support of this, STR showed increased Fos-like expression in the basolateral amygdala and CA1 region of the hippocampus in both the SAME and NOVEL contexts. Increased Fos-like expression was also observed in the central amygdala in STR-NOVEL vs. CON-NOVEL. These data demonstrate that chronic stress enhances fear learning and impairs extinction, and affects nonassociative processes as demonstrated by enhanced fear in a novel context.

Emerging roles for atypical antipsychotics in chronic post-traumatic stress disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder that may occur after the individual is exposed to severe psychologic trauma such as combat, sexual assault, or childhood physical or sexual abuse. Chronic post-traumatic stress disorder may result in considerable psychologic pain and suffering for the individual in addition to significant functional impairment. In addition to the heterogeneity of symptoms that occur in post-traumatic stress disorder, there may also be extensive comorbidity with other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and other psychiatric disorders. This complicates the treatment picture. Currently, accepted treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder include psychotherapy, in particular cognitive behavioral-based approaches and antidepressant medication. However, many patients are refractory to these initial treatments or have only a partial response. In light of this, may clinicians combine additional classes of psychotropic agents and different psychotherapeutic approaches to enhance treatment response. This article reviews the literature on the use of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. Most of the research to date has involved combat veterans partially responsive or refractory to treatment, namely with antidepressants. Studies have shown improvement across post-traumatic stress disorder symptom clusters, as well as improvement in comorbid psychotic symptoms or disorders. More research is needed to confirm these recent findings and further delineate the role of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. Currently, possible indications for their use include treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder with comorbid psychotic features.

The metabotropic glutamate receptors: potential drug targets for the treatment of anxiety disorders?

Anxiety-related disorders are a common public health issue. Several lines of evidence suggest that altered glutamatergic neurotransmission underlies anxiety. Thus, novel molecules targeting glutamatergic neurotransmission, such as ligands of the metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlurs) might be promising candidates for the treatment of anxiety disorders. To date, several ligands selective for each mGlu receptor (mGlur) have been synthesized, and pharmacological significances of these compounds have been demonstrated mainly in animal models. Here we critically review advances in research of these emerging molecular targets for the treatment of anxiety, discuss their advantages over currently used anxiolytics as well as remaining challenges.

Endogenous neuromodulation at infralow frequencies

Neuromodulation in the bioelectrical domain is an attractive option for the remediation of functionally based deficits. Most of the interest to date has focused on exogenous methods, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, transient direct current stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, and deep brain stimulation. Much less attention has been given to endogenous methods of exploiting latent brain plasticity. These have reached a level of sophistication and maturity that invites attention. Over the last 7 years, the domain of infralow frequencies has been exploited productively for the enhancement of neuroregulation. The principal mechanism is putatively the renormalization of functional connectivity of our resting-state networks. The endogeneous techniques are particularly attractive for the pediatric population, where they can be utilized before dysfunctional patterns of brain behavior become consolidated and further elaborated into clinical syndromes.

Enhancing exposure therapy for PTSD with yohimbine HCL: protocol for a double-blind, randomized controlled study implementing subjective and objective measures of treatment outcome

Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy is considered a gold standard protocol for the treatment of PTSD, and it is associated with large treatment effect sizes in combat veteran samples. However, considering high rates of PTSD in the present veteran population, ongoing research work is important toward improving treatment efficiency by decreasing time to symptom amelioration and increasing the amount of symptom amelioration. The proposed research aims to enhance exposure therapy outcomes for veterans with PTSD via combination treatment with PE and yohimbine hydrochloride (HCL), an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist. The proposed investigation entails a randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effect of a single administration of yohimbine HCL (paired with the first session of imaginal exposure) on outcome of PE in 40 veterans with PTSD. An additional goal is to establish a pragmatic method of tracking psychophysiological measures over the course of therapy for incorporation into future clinical psychotherapy trials. Thus, in addition to traditional self- and clinician-reported psychological outcomes, heart rate and skin conductance reactivity will be measured during a standard trauma-specific imagery task before, during, and after PE treatment. We will further investigate whether changes in psychophysiological measures predict changes in patient- and clinician-reported outcome measures.

Psychosocial animal model of PTSD produces a long-lasting traumatic memory, an increase in general anxiety and PTSD-like glucocorticoid abnormalities

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by a pathologically intense memory for a traumatic experience, persistent anxiety and physiological abnormalities, such as low baseline glucocorticoid levels and increased sensitivity to dexamethasone. We have addressed the hypothesis that rats subjected to chronic psychosocial stress would exhibit PTSD-like sequelae, including traumatic memory expression, increased anxiety and abnormal glucocorticoid responses. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to a cat on two occasions separated by 10 days, in conjunction with chronic social instability. Three weeks after the second cat exposure, the rats were tested for glucocorticoid abnormalities, general anxiety and their fear-conditioned memory of the two cat exposures. Stressed rats exhibited reduced basal glucocorticoid levels, increased glucocorticoid suppression following dexamethasone administration, heightened anxiety and a robust fear memory in response to cues that were paired with the two cat exposures. The commonalities in endocrine and behavioral measures between psychosocially stressed rats and traumatized people with PTSD provide the opportunity to explore mechanisms underlying psychological trauma-induced changes in neuroendocrine systems and cognition.

The association between brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met variants and psychotic symptoms in posttraumatic stress disorder

OBJECTIVES

Psychotic symptoms frequently occur in veterans with combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a major role in neurodevelopment, neuro-regeneration, neurotransmission, learning, regulation of mood and stress responses. The Met allele of the functional polymorphism, BDNF Val66Met, is associated with psychotic disorders. This study intended to assess whether the Met allele is overrepresented in unrelated Caucasian male veterans with psychotic PTSD compared to veteran controls.

METHODS

The BDNF Val66Met variants were genotyped in 576 veterans: 206 veterans without PTSD and 370 veterans with PTSD subdivided into groups with or without psychotic features.

RESULTS

Veterans with psychotic PTSD were more frequently carriers of one or two Met alleles of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism than veterans with PTSD without psychotic features and veterans without PTSD.

CONCLUSIONS

The study shows that veterans with psychotic PTSD carried more Met alleles of the BDNF Val66Met than non-psychotic veterans with PTSD or veterans without PTSD. The results might add further support to the hypothesis that psychotic PTSD is a more severe subtype of PTSD.

Seeking Safety treatment for male veterans with a substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder symptomatology

AIMS

To determine whether substituting Seeking Safety (SS), a manualized therapy for comorbid substance use disorders (SUD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for part of treatment-as-usual (TAU) improves substance use outcomes.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled effectiveness trial.

SETTINGS

Out-patient Veterans Administration Health Care System SUD clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Ninety-eight male military Veterans with a SUD and co-occurring PTSD symptomatology.

MEASUREMENTS

Drug and alcohol use and PTSD severity, measured on the first day of treatment, and 3 (i.e. the planned end of SS sessions) and 6 months following the baseline assessment. Treatment attendance and patient satisfaction were measured following treatment (3-month follow-up). Active coping was measured at treatment intake and following treatment.

FINDINGS

SS compared to TAU was associated with better drug use outcomes (P < 0.05), but alcohol use and PTSD severity decreased equally under both treatments (P's < 0.01). SS versus TAU was associated with increased treatment attendance, client satisfaction and active coping (all P's < 0.01). However, neither these factors nor decreases in PTSD severity mediated the effect of treatment on drug use.

CONCLUSIONS

The manualized treatment approach for substance use disorder, Seeking Safety, is well received and associated with better drug use outcomes than 'treatment as usual' in male veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. However, the mechanism of its effect is unclear.

Association between serotonin transporter gene promoter-region polymorphism and 4- and 12-week treatment response to sertraline in posttraumatic stress disorder

BACKGROUND

We examined the association between serotonin transporter (5HTTLPR) genotype (SS vs SL vs LL) and sertraline treatment outcome in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

METHODS

Outpatients (n=330) with PTSD underwent 5HTTLPR genotyping. All patients received sertraline (100 mg/day) for 12 weeks. Patients were assessed using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) and other instruments. Patients and rater were blind to the genotyping results. The primary outcome was completer sample CAPS improvement at 12 weeks. Response was defined as ≥30% improvement in CAPS total score with a CGI-I score of 1 or 2.

RESULTS

The discontinuation rate was 31.5%. Adverse events led to drop out in 18.1%, 15.3%, and 5.9% of SS, SL, and LL patients, respectively (P=0.038). Among completers, there were 95, 43, and 88 patients with the SS, SL, and LL genotypes, respectively. At endpoint, CAPS total scores improved by 26% vs 46%, respectively, in SS and SL vs LL patients (P<0.001); much of this improvement (15% vs 31% in SS and SL vs LL patients, respectively; P<0.001) was apparent by week 4. The findings were largely similar for the other outcome measures. The response rate was 0%, 0%, and 47.7% in the SS, SL, and LL groups, respectively (P<0.001).

LIMITATIONS

We administered a fixed dose of sertraline. For sociopolitical reasons, we planned a completer analysis only.

CONCLUSIONS

Relative to the SS and SL 5HTTLPR genotypes, the LL genotype is associated with greater responsiveness of PTSD to sertraline (100mg/day) and with lower drop out due to adverse events. The S allele is associated with a striking specificity for treatment nonresponse, as defined in this study.

New perspectives in glutamate and anxiety

Anxiety and stress-related disorders, namely posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (ODC), social and specific phobias, and panic disorder, are a major public health issue. A growing body of evidence suggests that glutamatergic neurotransmission may be involved in the biological mechanisms underlying stress response and anxiety-related disorders. The glutamatergic system mediates the acquisition and extinction of fear-conditioning. Thus, new drugs targeting glutamatergic neurotransmission may be promising candidates for new pharmacological treatments. In particular, N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) antagonists (AP5, AP7, CGP37849, CGP39551, LY235959, NPC17742, and MK-801), NMDAR partial agonists (DCS, ACPC), α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate receptors (AMPARs) antagonists (topiramate), and several allosteric modulators targeting metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) mGluR1, mGluR2/3, and mGluR5, have shown anxiolytic-like effects in several animal and human studies. Several studies have suggested that polyamines (agmatine, putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) may be involved in the neurobiological mechanisms underlying stress-response and anxiety-related disorders. This could mainly be attributed to their ability to modulate ionotropic glutamate receptors, especially NR2B subunits. The aim of this review is to establish that glutamate neurotransmission and polyaminergic system play a fundamental role in the onset of anxiety-related disorders. This may open the way for new drugs that may help to treat these conditions.