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Polis B, Cuda CM, Putterman C. Animal models of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus: deciphering the complexity and guiding therapeutic development. Autoimmunity 2024; 57:2330387. [PMID: 38555866 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2024.2330387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) poses formidable challenges due to its multifaceted etiology while impacting multiple tissues and organs and displaying diverse clinical manifestations. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to SLE complexity, with relatively limited approved therapeutic options. Murine models offer insights into SLE pathogenesis but do not always replicate the nuances of human disease. This review critically evaluates spontaneous and induced animal models, emphasizing their validity and relevance to neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). While these models undoubtedly contribute to understanding disease pathophysiology, discrepancies persist in mimicking some NPSLE intricacies. The lack of literature addressing this issue impedes therapeutic progress. We underscore the urgent need for refining models that truly reflect NPSLE complexities to enhance translational fidelity. We encourage a comprehensive, creative translational approach for targeted SLE interventions, balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations to eventually improve the management of NPSLE patients. A thorough grasp of these issues informs researchers in designing experiments, interpreting results, and exploring alternatives to advance NPSLE research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baruh Polis
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Carla M Cuda
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
- Division of Rheumatology and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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2
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Tal T, Myhre O, Fritsche E, Rüegg J, Craenen K, Aiello-Holden K, Agrillo C, Babin PJ, Escher BI, Dirven H, Hellsten K, Dolva K, Hessel E, Heusinkveld HJ, Hadzhiev Y, Hurem S, Jagiello K, Judzinska B, Klüver N, Knoll-Gellida A, Kühne BA, Leist M, Lislien M, Lyche JL, Müller F, Colbourne JK, Neuhaus W, Pallocca G, Seeger B, Scharkin I, Scholz S, Spjuth O, Torres-Ruiz M, Bartmann K. New approach methods to assess developmental and adult neurotoxicity for regulatory use: a PARC work package 5 project. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1359507. [PMID: 38742231 PMCID: PMC11089904 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1359507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In the European regulatory context, rodent in vivo studies are the predominant source of neurotoxicity information. Although they form a cornerstone of neurotoxicological assessments, they are costly and the topic of ethical debate. While the public expects chemicals and products to be safe for the developing and mature nervous systems, considerable numbers of chemicals in commerce have not, or only to a limited extent, been assessed for their potential to cause neurotoxicity. As such, there is a societal push toward the replacement of animal models with in vitro or alternative methods. New approach methods (NAMs) can contribute to the regulatory knowledge base, increase chemical safety, and modernize chemical hazard and risk assessment. Provided they reach an acceptable level of regulatory relevance and reliability, NAMs may be considered as replacements for specific in vivo studies. The European Partnership for the Assessment of Risks from Chemicals (PARC) addresses challenges to the development and implementation of NAMs in chemical risk assessment. In collaboration with regulatory agencies, Project 5.2.1e (Neurotoxicity) aims to develop and evaluate NAMs for developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) and adult neurotoxicity (ANT) and to understand the applicability domain of specific NAMs for the detection of endocrine disruption and epigenetic perturbation. To speed up assay time and reduce costs, we identify early indicators of later-onset effects. Ultimately, we will assemble second-generation developmental neurotoxicity and first-generation adult neurotoxicity test batteries, both of which aim to provide regulatory hazard and risk assessors and industry stakeholders with robust, speedy, lower-cost, and informative next-generation hazard and risk assessment tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Tal
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Chemicals in the Environment Research Section, Leipzig, Germany
- University of Leipzig, Medical Faculty, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Oddvar Myhre
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health – NIPH, Department of Chemical Toxicology, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF – Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
- DNTOX GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joëlle Rüegg
- Uppsala University, Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kai Craenen
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Caroline Agrillo
- Uppsala University, Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patrick J. Babin
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Maladies Rares: Génétique et Métabolisme (MRGM), Pessac, France
| | - Beate I. Escher
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Chemicals in the Environment Research Section, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hubert Dirven
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health – NIPH, Department of Chemical Toxicology, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Kristine Dolva
- University of Oslo, Section for Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Department of Pharmacy, Olso, Norway
| | - Ellen Hessel
- Dutch Nation Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Centre for Health Protection, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Harm J. Heusinkveld
- Dutch Nation Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Centre for Health Protection, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Yavor Hadzhiev
- University of Birmingham, Centre for Environmental Research and Justice, Birmingham, UK
| | - Selma Hurem
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ås, Norway
| | - Karolina Jagiello
- University of Gdansk, Laboratory of Environmental Chemoinformatics, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Beata Judzinska
- University of Gdansk, Laboratory of Environmental Chemoinformatics, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Nils Klüver
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Chemicals in the Environment Research Section, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Knoll-Gellida
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Maladies Rares: Génétique et Métabolisme (MRGM), Pessac, France
| | - Britta A. Kühne
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Institute for Food Quality and Food Safety, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marcel Leist
- University of Konstanz, In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine/CAAT-Europe, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Malene Lislien
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health – NIPH, Department of Chemical Toxicology, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan L. Lyche
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ås, Norway
| | - Ferenc Müller
- University of Birmingham, Centre for Environmental Research and Justice, Birmingham, UK
| | - John K. Colbourne
- University of Birmingham, Centre for Environmental Research and Justice, Birmingham, UK
| | - Winfried Neuhaus
- AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics, Center Health and Bioresources, Vienna, Austria
- Danube Private University, Faculty of Dentistry and Medicine, Department of Medicine, Krems, Austria
| | - Giorgia Pallocca
- University of Konstanz, In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine/CAAT-Europe, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Bettina Seeger
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Institute for Food Quality and Food Safety, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ilka Scharkin
- IUF – Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Scholz
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Chemicals in the Environment Research Section, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ola Spjuth
- Uppsala University and Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Monica Torres-Ruiz
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Environmental Toxicology Unit, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Kristina Bartmann
- IUF – Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
- DNTOX GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Morse JL, Acheson DT, Almklov E, Pittman JOE, Lang AJ, Lindamer L. Associations Among Environmental Exposures and Physical and Psychiatric Symptoms in a Care-Seeking Sample of U.S. Military Veterans. Mil Med 2024:usae035. [PMID: 38442364 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usae035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent research and policy (e.g., the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act) have highlighted the potential health consequences of toxic environmental exposures. The purpose of the current study was to assess the self-reported prevalence of such exposures among a sample of U.S. military veterans seeking care at a Veterans Affairs facility and to examine associations between exposures and physical and psychiatric symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Participants were 4,647 newly enrolling post-9/11 veterans at the VA San Diego Healthcare System who completed standard clinical screening processes between January 2015 and April 2019. Electronic health screening data, including demographic information, military history, environmental exposures, and physical and psychiatric symptoms, were assessed. t-Tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables were used to compare exposed to unexposed veterans on demographic and military characteristics as well as physical and psychiatric symptoms. RESULTS A total of 2,028 veterans (43.6%) reported exposure to environmental toxins during their military service. Analyses revealed a disproportionate burden of exposure on older, male, educated, combat veterans as well as Asian and Native American veterans. Exposure to any type of environmental toxin was associated with more physical symptoms, particularly pain, fatigue, and insomnia, as well as psychiatric symptoms, including moderate depressive symptomology, mild to moderate anxiety, and scores approaching the threshold for likely post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol misuse. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence and detrimental health correlates of environmental exposures underscore the importance of implementing screening for exposures and providing healthcare services that address the multisystemic nature of exposure-related illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Morse
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Dean T Acheson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Erin Almklov
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - James O E Pittman
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Ariel J Lang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Laurie Lindamer
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
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4
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Sharma D, Khan H, Kumar A, Grewal AK, Dua K, Singh TG. Pharmacological modulation of HIF-1 in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2023; 130:1523-1535. [PMID: 37740098 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02698-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 has been identified as an important therapeutic target in psychiatric illnesses. Hypoxia is a condition in which tissues do not receive enough oxygen, resulting in less oxidative energy production. HIF-1, the master regulator of molecular response to hypoxia, is destabilized when oxygen levels fall. HIF-1, when activated, increases the gene transcription factors that promote adaptive response and longevity in hypoxia. HIF-regulated genes encode proteins involved in cell survival, energy metabolism, angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, and vasomotor control. Multiple genetic and environmental variables contribute to the pathophysiology of psychiatric disease. This review focuses on the most recent findings indicating the role of oxygen deprivation in CNS damage, with strong attention on HIF-mediated pathways. Several pieces of evidence suggested that, in the case of hypoxia, induction and maintenance of HIF-1 target genes may help reduce nerve damage. Major new insights into the molecular mechanisms that control HIF's sensitivity to oxygen are used to make drugs that can change the way HIF works as a therapeutic target for some CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Heena Khan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Amarjot Kaur Grewal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Thakur Gurjeet Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India.
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Michalski C, Wen Z. Leveraging iPSC technology to assess neuro-immune interactions in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1291115. [PMID: 38025464 PMCID: PMC10672983 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1291115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Communication between the immune and the nervous system is essential for human brain development and homeostasis. Disruption of this intricately regulated crosstalk can lead to neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, or neurodegenerative disorders. While animal models have been essential in characterizing the role of neuroimmunity in development and disease, they come with inherent limitations due to species specific differences, particularly with regard to microglia, the major subset of brain resident immune cells. The advent of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology now allows the development of clinically relevant models of the central nervous system that adequately reflect human genetic architecture. This article will review recent publications that have leveraged iPSC technology to assess neuro-immune interactions. First, we will discuss the role of environmental stressors such as neurotropic viruses or pro-inflammatory cytokines on neuronal and glial function. Next, we will review how iPSC models can be used to study genetic risk factors in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Lastly, we will evaluate current challenges and future potential for iPSC models in the field of neuroimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Michalski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Zhexing Wen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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6
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Harper KM, Harp SJ, Moy SS. Prenatal stress unmasks behavioral phenotypes in genetic mouse models of neurodevelopmental disorders. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1271225. [PMID: 37809038 PMCID: PMC10556231 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1271225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are complex conditions characterized by heterogeneous clinical profiles and symptoms that arise in infancy and childhood. NDDs are often attributed to a complicated interaction between genetic risk and environmental factors, suggesting a need for preclinical models reflecting the combined impact of heritable susceptibility and environmental effects. A notable advantage of "two-hit" models is the power to reveal underlying vulnerability that may not be detected in studies employing only genetic or environmental alterations. In this review, we summarize existing literature that investigates detrimental interactions between prenatal stress (PNS) and genes associated with NDDs, with a focus on behavioral phenotyping approaches in mouse models. A challenge in determining the overall role of PNS exposure in genetic models is the diversity of approaches for inducing stress, variability in developmental timepoints for exposure, and differences in phenotyping regimens across laboratories. Identification of optimal stress protocols and critical windows for developmental effects would greatly improve the use of PNS in gene × environment mouse models of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Harper
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Samuel J. Harp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sheryl S. Moy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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7
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Seah C, Huckins LM, Brennand KJ. Stem Cell Models for Context-Specific Modeling in Psychiatric Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 93:642-650. [PMID: 36658083 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies reveal the complex polygenic architecture underlying psychiatric disorder risk, but there is an unmet need to validate causal variants, resolve their target genes(s), and explore their functional impacts on disorder-related mechanisms. Disorder-associated loci regulate transcription of target genes in a cell type- and context-specific manner, which can be measured through expression quantitative trait loci. In this review, we discuss methods and insights from context-specific modeling of genetically and environmentally regulated expression. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cell type and organoid models have uncovered context-specific psychiatric disorder associations by investigating tissue-, cell type-, sex-, age-, and stressor-specific genetic regulation of expression. Techniques such as massively parallel reporter assays and pooled CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) screens make it possible to functionally fine-map genome-wide association study loci and validate their target genes at scale. Integration of disorder-associated contexts with these patient-specific human induced pluripotent stem cell models makes it possible to uncover gene by environment interactions that mediate disorder risk, which will ultimately improve our ability to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Seah
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Laura M Huckins
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Kristen J Brennand
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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8
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Mental health of UK firefighters. Sci Rep 2023; 13:62. [PMID: 36627314 PMCID: PMC9832123 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24834-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to trauma, high-stress situations, and disrupted sleep are well known risk factors affecting firefighters' mental health. Little is known about the association between firefighters' exposure to fire contaminants and mental health disorders. The UK Firefighter Contamination Survey assessed firefighters' health and capacity for occupational exposure to contaminants. Participants were invited to anonymously complete its 64 questions online. Logistic regression analyses assessed the associations between self-reported mental health disorders and proxies of contaminant exposure. Results found that firefighters who notice soot in their nose/throat for more than a day after attending fires (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.8, 1.4-2.4), and those who remain in their personal protective equipment (PPE) for over 4 h after fires (OR = 1.9, 1.2-3.1), were nearly twice as likely to report mental health disorders. Significantly increased odds ratios for all three outcomes of interest (anxiety, depression and/or any mental health disorders) were also found among firefighters who take PPE home to clean. Sleeping problems were reported by 61% of firefighters. These firefighters were 4.2 times more likely to report any mental health disorder (OR = 4.2, 3.7-4.9), 2.9 times more likely to report anxiety (OR = 2.9, 2.4-3.5) and 2.3 times more likely to report depression (OR = 2.3, 1.9-2.8) when compared to firefighters who did not report sleep issues. Effective decontamination measures within UK Fire and Rescue Services, together with firefighters' wellness, may play a crucial role in protecting firefighters' mental health.
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Xu W, Hu Z, Tang Y, Zhang J, Xu S, Niu Q. Excessive Lysosomal Stress Response and Consequently Impaired Autophagy Contribute to Fluoride-Induced Developmental Neurotoxicity. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022:10.1007/s12011-022-03511-0. [PMID: 36464725 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03511-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Fluoride can cause developmental neurotoxicity; however, the precise mechanism has yet to be determined. We aimed to explore the possible role and mechanism of fluoride-induced developmental neurotoxicity, specifically the significance of the lysosomal stress response. As an in vivo model, Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to sodium fluoride (NaF) from embryo to 2 months of age. We found that NaF caused autophagic flux blockage and apoptosis in the rat hippocampus. These results were validated in human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells in vitro. In addition, in SH-SY5Y cells, NaF hindered autophagosome-lysosome fusion, decreased lysosomal degradation, and elevated lysosomal pH, which is the most prominent hallmark of a lysosomal stress response. Interestingly, rapamycin promoted autophagosome-lysosome fusion, effectively restoring autophagic flux and reducing apoptosis. Notably, bafilomycin A1, a lysosomal lumen alkalizer, unsurprisingly exacerbated the NaF-induced increase in lysosomal pH and decreased lysosomal degradability, as well as enhanced apoptosis of SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, our results suggest that NaF exposure initiates excessive lysosomal stress response, resulting in elevated lysosomal pH, decreased lysosomal degradation, and blocked autophagic flux, which leads to neuronal apoptosis. Thus, the lysosomal stress response may be a promising target for the prevention and treatment of fluoride-induced developmental neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjing Xu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, North 2nd Road, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832000, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases (First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University), Shihezi, China
| | - Zeyu Hu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, North 2nd Road, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832000, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases (First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University), Shihezi, China
| | - Yanling Tang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, North 2nd Road, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832000, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases (First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University), Shihezi, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, North 2nd Road, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832000, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases (First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University), Shihezi, China
| | - Shangzhi Xu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, North 2nd Road, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832000, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases (First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University), Shihezi, China.
| | - Qiang Niu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, North 2nd Road, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832000, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases (First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University), Shihezi, China.
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10
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Petković A, Chaudhury D. Encore: Behavioural animal models of stress, depression and mood disorders. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:931964. [PMID: 36004305 PMCID: PMC9395206 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.931964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal studies over the past two decades have led to extensive advances in our understanding of pathogenesis of depressive and mood disorders. Among these, rodent behavioural models proved to be of highest informative value. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the most popular behavioural models with respect to physiological, circuit, and molecular biological correlates. Behavioural stress paradigms and behavioural tests are assessed in terms of outcomes, strengths, weaknesses, and translational value, especially in the domain of pharmacological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dipesh Chaudhury
- Laboratory of Neural Systems and Behaviour, Department of Biology, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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11
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Schirmbeck GH, Sizonenko S, Sanches EF. Neuroprotective Role of Lactoferrin during Early Brain Development and Injury through Lifespan. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14142923. [PMID: 35889882 PMCID: PMC9322498 DOI: 10.3390/nu14142923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Early adverse fetal environments can significantly disturb central nervous system (CNS) development and subsequently alter brain maturation. Nutritional status is a major variable to be considered during development and increasing evidence links neonate and preterm infant impaired brain growth with neurological and psychiatric diseases in adulthood. Breastfeeding is one of the main components required for healthy newborn development due to the many "constitutive" elements breastmilk contains. Maternal intake of specific nutrients during lactation may alter milk composition, thus affecting newborn nutrition and, potentially, brain development. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a major protein present in colostrum and the main protein in human milk, which plays an important role in the benefits of breastfeeding during postnatal development. It has been demonstrated that Lf has antimicrobial, as well as anti-inflammatory properties, and is potentially able to reduce the incidence of sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which are particularly frequent in premature births. The anti-inflammatory effects of Lf can reduce birth-related pathologies by decreasing the release of pro-inflammatory factors and inhibiting premature cervix maturation (also related to commensal microbiome abnormalities) that could contribute to disrupting brain development. Pre-clinical evidence shows that Lf protects the developing brain from neuronal injury, enhances brain connectivity and neurotrophin production, and decreases inflammation in models of perinatal inflammatory challenge, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI). In this context, Lf can provide nutritional support for brain development and cognition and prevent the origin of neuropsychiatric diseases later in life. In this narrative review, we consider the role of certain nutrients during neurodevelopment linking to the latest research on lactoferrin with respect to neonatology. We also discuss new evidence indicating that early neuroprotective pathways modulated by Lf could prevent neurodegeneration through anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Henrique Schirmbeck
- Biochemistry Post-Graduate Program, Biochemistry Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, Brazil;
| | - Stéphane Sizonenko
- Division of Child Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Eduardo Farias Sanches
- Division of Child Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
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12
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The Roles of Par3, Par6, and aPKC Polarity Proteins in Normal Neurodevelopment and in Neurodegenerative and Neuropsychiatric Disorders. J Neurosci 2022; 42:4774-4793. [PMID: 35705493 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0059-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal neural circuits and functions depend on proper neuronal differentiation, migration, synaptic plasticity, and maintenance. Abnormalities in these processes underlie various neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. Neural development and maintenance are regulated by many proteins. Among them are Par3, Par6 (partitioning defective 3 and 6), and aPKC (atypical protein kinase C) families of evolutionarily conserved polarity proteins. These proteins perform versatile functions by forming tripartite or other combinations of protein complexes, which hereafter are collectively referred to as "Par complexes." In this review, we summarize the major findings on their biophysical and biochemical properties in cell polarization and signaling pathways. We next summarize their expression and localization in the nervous system as well as their versatile functions in various aspects of neurodevelopment, including neuroepithelial polarity, neurogenesis, neuronal migration, neurite differentiation, synaptic plasticity, and memory. These versatile functions rely on the fundamental roles of Par complexes in cell polarity in distinct cellular contexts. We also discuss how cell polarization may correlate with subcellular polarization in neurons. Finally, we review the involvement of Par complexes in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. While emerging evidence indicates that Par complexes are essential for proper neural development and maintenance, many questions on their in vivo functions have yet to be answered. Thus, Par3, Par6, and aPKC continue to be important research topics to advance neuroscience.
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13
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Lee CW, Hsu LF, Wu IL, Wang YL, Chen WC, Liu YJ, Yang LT, Tan CL, Luo YH, Wang CC, Chiu HW, Yang TCK, Lin YY, Chang HA, Chiang YC, Chen CH, Lee MH, Peng KT, Huang CCY. Exposure to polystyrene microplastics impairs hippocampus-dependent learning and memory in mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 430:128431. [PMID: 35150991 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a serious environmental issue worldwide, but its potential effects on health remain unknown. The administration of polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) to mice for eight weeks impaired learning and memory behavior. PS-MPs were detected in the brain especially in the hippocampus of these mice. Concurrently, the hippocampus had decreased levels of immediate-early genes, aberrantly enhanced synaptic glutamate AMPA receptors, and elevated neuroinflammation, all of which are critical for synaptic plasticity and memory. Interestingly, ablation of the vagus nerve, a modulator of the gut-brain axis, improved the memory function of PS-MPs mice. These results indicate that exposure to PS-MPs in mice alters the expression of neuronal activity-dependent genes and synaptic proteins, and increases neuroinflammation in the hippocampus, subsequently causing behavioral changes through the vagus nerve-dependent pathway. Our findings shed light on the adverse impacts of PS-MPs on the brain and hippocampal learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiang-Wen Lee
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, and Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City 243303, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Fen Hsu
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 613, Taiwan; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County 613, Taiwan
| | - I-Lin Wu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Li Wang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yan-Jun Liu
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Tang Yang
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chong-Lun Tan
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Hsia Luo
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | | | - Hui-Wen Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 235, Taiwan
| | - Thomas Chung-Kuang Yang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Yue Lin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-An Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Chang Chiang
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, and Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan
| | | | - Ming-Hsueh Lee
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County 613, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Ti Peng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 33303, Taiwan
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14
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Mitrea L, Nemeş SA, Szabo K, Teleky BE, Vodnar DC. Guts Imbalance Imbalances the Brain: A Review of Gut Microbiota Association With Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:813204. [PMID: 35433746 PMCID: PMC9009523 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.813204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last 10 years, there has been a growing interest in the relationship between gut microbiota, the brain, and neurologic-associated affections. As multiple preclinical and clinical research studies highlight gut microbiota’s potential to modulate the general state of health state, it goes without saying that gut microbiota plays a significant role in neurogenesis, mental and cognitive development, emotions, and behaviors, and in the progression of neuropsychiatric illnesses. Gut microbiota produces important biologic products that, through the gut-brain axis, are directly connected with the appearance and evolution of neurological and psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. This study reviews recent research on the link between gut microbiota and the brain, and microbiome’s role in shaping the development of the most common neurological and psychiatric illnesses. Moreover, special attention is paid to the use of probiotic formulations as a potential non-invasive therapeutic opportunity for prevention and management of neuropsychiatric-associated affections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mitrea
- Institute of Life Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Silvia-Amalia Nemeş
- Institute of Life Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Katalin Szabo
- Institute of Life Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bernadette-Emőke Teleky
- Institute of Life Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dan-Cristian Vodnar
- Institute of Life Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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15
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Nishimura Y, Kurosawa K. Analysis of Gene-Environment Interactions Related to Developmental Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:863664. [PMID: 35370658 PMCID: PMC8969575 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.863664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Various genetic and environmental factors are associated with developmental disorders (DDs). It has been suggested that interaction between genetic and environmental factors (G × E) is involved in the etiology of DDs. There are two major approaches to analyze the interaction: genome-wide and candidate gene-based approaches. In this mini-review, we demonstrate how these approaches can be applied to reveal the G × E related to DDs focusing on zebrafish and mouse models. We also discuss novel approaches to analyze the G × E associated with DDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhei Nishimura
- Department of Integrative Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Kenji Kurosawa
- Division of Medical Genetics, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Clinical Dysmorphology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
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16
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Silverman JL, Thurm A, Ethridge SB, Soller MM, Petkova SP, Abel T, Bauman MD, Brodkin ES, Harony‐Nicolas H, Wöhr M, Halladay A. Reconsidering animal models used to study autism spectrum disorder: Current state and optimizing future. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 21:e12803. [PMID: 35285132 PMCID: PMC9189007 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID), are pervasive, often lifelong disorders, lacking evidence-based interventions for core symptoms. With no established biological markers, diagnoses are defined by behavioral criteria. Thus, preclinical in vivo animal models of NDDs must be optimally utilized. For this reason, experts in the field of behavioral neuroscience convened a workshop with the goals of reviewing current behavioral studies, reports, and assessments in rodent models. Goals included: (a) identifying the maximal utility and limitations of behavior in animal models with construct validity; (b) providing recommendations for phenotyping animal models; and (c) guidelines on how in vivo models should be used and reported reliably and rigorously while acknowledging their limitations. We concluded by recommending minimal criteria for reporting in manuscripts going forward. The workshop elucidated a consensus of potential solutions to several problems, including revisiting claims made about animal model links to ASD (and related conditions). Specific conclusions included: mice (or other rodent or preclinical models) are models of the neurodevelopmental insult, not specifically any disorder (e.g., ASD); a model that perfectly recapitulates a disorder such as ASD is untenable; and greater attention needs be given to validation of behavioral testing methods, data analysis, and critical interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill L. Silverman
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesUniversity of California Davis School of MedicineSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Audrey Thurm
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping ServiceNational Institute of Mental HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Sarah B. Ethridge
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping ServiceNational Institute of Mental HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Makayla M. Soller
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesUniversity of California Davis School of MedicineSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Stela P. Petkova
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesUniversity of California Davis School of MedicineSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ted Abel
- Department of Neuroscience and PharmacologyIowa Neuroscience Institute, University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Melissa D. Bauman
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesUniversity of California Davis School of MedicineSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Edward S. Brodkin
- Department of PsychiatryPerelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Translational Research LaboratoryPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Hala Harony‐Nicolas
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and TreatmentIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Markus Wöhr
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Research Unit Brain and Cognition, Laboratory of Biological PsychologySocial and Affective Neuroscience Research Group, KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium,Leuven Brain InstituteKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium,Faculty of Psychology, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Behavioral NeurosciencePhilipps‐University of MarburgMarburgGermany,Center for Mind, Brain, and BehaviorPhilipps‐University of MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Alycia Halladay
- Autism Science FoundationUSA,Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyRutgers UniversityPiscatawayNew JerseyUSA
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17
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A novel preclinical model of environment-like combined benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) exposure: Behavioral and neurochemical findings. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2022; 91:107076. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2022.107076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
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18
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Volk HE, Ames JL, Chen A, Fallin MD, Hertz-Picciotto I, Halladay A, Hirtz D, Lavin A, Ritz B, Zoeller T, Swanson M. Considering Toxic Chemicals in the Etiology of Autism. Pediatrics 2022; 149:183720. [PMID: 34972219 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-053012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Heather E Volk
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities Research, Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jennifer L Ames
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - M Daniele Fallin
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities Research, Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, MIND (Medical Investigations of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Alycia Halladay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey.,Autism Science Foundation, New York, New York
| | - Deborah Hirtz
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Arthur Lavin
- Department of Pediatrics, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, Ohio
| | - Beate Ritz
- Departments of Epidemiology, Environmental Health, and Neurology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Tom Zoeller
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Maureen Swanson
- The Arc of the United States, Washington, District of Columbia
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19
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Jacobson MH, Ghassabian A, Gore AC, Trasande L. Exposure to environmental chemicals and perinatal psychopathology. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 195:114835. [PMID: 34774531 PMCID: PMC8712457 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Women are nearly twice as likely to develop mood disorders compared with men, and incidence is greatest during reproductive transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum. Because these periods are characterized by dramatic hormonal and physiologic changes, there is heightened susceptibility to external factors, such as exposure to environmental toxicants, which may play a role in maternal psychopathology. The purpose of this scoping review was to provide an overview of studies conducted in humans and animal models on the effects of nonoccupational exposure to environmental chemicals on maternal psychopathology during the perinatal period. The largest number of studies examined exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and antenatal depression and showed consistently positive findings, although more prospective studies using biomarkers for exposure assessment are needed. The few studies examining persistent organic pollutants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers and perinatal depression were consistent in showing associations with increased depressive symptoms. Results were mixed for exposure to heavy metals and non-persistent chemicals, but a strong literature in animal models supported an association between bisphenols and phthalates and reduced maternal behavior and care of pups after parturition. Biological mechanisms may include endocrine disruption, neurotransmitter system impairment, alterations in gene expression, and immune activation and inflammation. Additional longitudinal studies that include biospecimen collection are essential to furthering the understanding of how environmental toxicants during pregnancy may affect perinatal psychopathology and the underlying mechanisms of action. Future work should also leverage the parallels between animal and human maternal behavior, thereby highlighting the opportunity for multidisciplinary work in this avenue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie H Jacobson
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Akhgar Ghassabian
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; New York University Wagner School of Public Service, New York, NY, USA; New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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20
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An Overview of Zebrafish Modeling Methods in Drug Discovery and Development. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1387:145-169. [PMID: 34961915 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2021_684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Animal studies are recognized as a significant step forward in the bridging between drug discovery and clinical applications. Animal models, due to their relative genetic, molecular, physiological, and even anatomical similarities to humans, can provide a suitable platform for unraveling the mechanisms underlying human diseases and discovering new therapeutic approaches as well. Recently, zebrafish has attracted attention as a valuable experimental and pharmacological model in drug discovery and development studies due to its prominent characteristics such as the high degree of genetic similarity with humans, genetic manipulability, and prominent clinical features. Since advancing a theory to a valid and reliable observation requires the manipulation of animals, it is, therefore, essential to use efficient modeling methods appropriate to the different aspects of experimental conditions. In this context, applying several various approaches such as using chemicals, pathogens, and genetic manipulation approaches allows zebrafish development into a preferable model that mimics some human disease pathophysiology. Thus, such modeling approaches not only can provide a framework for a comprehensive understanding of the human disease mechanisms that have a counterpart in zebrafish but also can pave the way for discovering new drugs that are accompanied by higher amelioration effects on different human diseases.
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21
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Walsh JJ, Llorach P, Cardozo Pinto DF, Wenderski W, Christoffel DJ, Salgado JS, Heifets BD, Crabtree GR, Malenka RC. Systemic enhancement of serotonin signaling reverses social deficits in multiple mouse models for ASD. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:2000-2010. [PMID: 34239048 PMCID: PMC8429585 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01091-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders resulting from a variety of genetic and environmental risk factors. A core feature of ASD is impairment in prosocial interactions. Current treatment options for individuals diagnosed with ASD are limited, with no current FDA-approved medications that effectively treat its core symptoms. We recently demonstrated that enhanced serotonin (5-HT) activity in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), via optogenetic activation of 5-HTergic inputs or direct infusion of a specific 5-HT1b receptor agonist, reverses social deficits in a genetic mouse model for ASD based on 16p11.2 copy number variation. Furthermore, the recreational drug MDMA, which is currently being evaluated in clinical trials, promotes sociability in mice due to its 5-HT releasing properties in the NAc. Here, we systematically evaluated the ability of MDMA and a selective 5-HT1b receptor agonist to rescue sociability deficits in multiple different mouse models for ASD. We find that MDMA administration enhances sociability in control mice and reverses sociability deficits in all four ASD mouse models examined, whereas administration of a 5-HT1b receptor agonist selectively rescued the sociability deficits in all six mouse models for ASD. These preclinical findings suggest that pharmacological enhancement of 5-HT release or direct 5-HT1b receptor activation may be therapeutically efficacious in ameliorating some of the core sociability deficits present across etiologically distinct presentations of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Walsh
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Pierre Llorach
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Daniel F Cardozo Pinto
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Wendy Wenderski
- Department of Pathology, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Daniel J Christoffel
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Juliana S Salgado
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Boris D Heifets
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gerald R Crabtree
- Department of Pathology, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Robert C Malenka
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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22
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Oxidative Stress as a Common Key Event in Developmental Neurotoxicity. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6685204. [PMID: 34336113 PMCID: PMC8315852 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6685204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The developing brain is extremely sensitive to many chemicals. Perinatal exposure to neurotoxicants has been implicated in several neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, and schizophrenia. Studies of the molecular and cellular events related to developmental neurotoxicity have identified a number of “adverse outcome pathways,” many of which share oxidative stress as a key event. Oxidative stress occurs when the balance between the production of free oxygen radicals and the activity of the cellular antioxidant system is dysregulated. In this review, we describe some of the developmental neurotoxins that target the antioxidant system and the mechanisms by which they elicit stress, including oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria and plasma membrane redox system in rodent models. We also discuss future directions for identifying adverse outcome pathways related to oxidative stress and developmental neurotoxicity, with the goal of improving our ability to quickly and accurately screen chemicals for their potential developmental neurotoxicity.
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23
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Turano A, McAuley EM, Muench MC, Schwarz JM. EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF NEUROIMMUNE DYSREGULATION ON SOCIAL BEHAVIOR OF MALE AND FEMALE JUVENILE RATS. Behav Brain Res 2021; 415:113449. [PMID: 34252501 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Many individuals diagnosed with neuropsychiatric disorders, such as autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and social anxiety disorder, all share a common dimension of aberrant social behavior. Epidemiological data indicate that adverse environmental factors contribute to the risk for neurodevelopmental disorders, including those associated with aberrant social behavior. Early-life exposure to infectious pathogens is one of those adverse environmental factors, suggesting that activation of the immune system during early development may contribute to disease pathology associated with altered social behavior. In the current project, we examined the impact of neonatal infection, with or without juvenile immune activation, on the expression of juvenile social behavior and on the expression of inflammatory cytokines and microglial signaling molecules in the juvenile rat brain. The outcomes of these experiments revealed that neonatal infection significantly decreased juvenile social interaction, but significantly increased juvenile play behavior in male and female rats. Moreover, neonatal infection alone, juvenile immune activation alone, and neonatal infection plus juvenile immune activation all significantly impaired social recognition in juvenile male rats. Juvenile female rats (including controls) failed to demonstrate social recognition as measured in our three-chamber social recognition test. Taken together, the behavioral and molecular data presented here support the sensitivity of the developing brain to immune activation, particularly in the expression of age-appropriate social behaviors. These data warrant the design of additional studies to examine the mechanistic relationship between early-life immune activation and aberrant social behavior to develop novel as well as modify existing therapeutic targets and preventative measures to help those who display aberrant social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Turano
- University of Delaware, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, 105 The Green, Newark, Delaware, 19716, United States.
| | - Elizabeth M McAuley
- University of Delaware, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, 105 The Green, Newark, Delaware, 19716, United States.
| | - Megan C Muench
- University of Delaware, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, 105 The Green, Newark, Delaware, 19716, United States.
| | - Jaclyn M Schwarz
- University of Delaware, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, 105 The Green, Newark, Delaware, 19716, United States.
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Stott RT, Kritsky O, Tsai LH. Profiling DNA break sites and transcriptional changes in response to contextual fear learning. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249691. [PMID: 34197463 PMCID: PMC8248687 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal activity generates DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) at specific loci in vitro and this facilitates the rapid transcriptional induction of early response genes (ERGs). Physiological neuronal activity, including exposure of mice to learning behaviors, also cause the formation of DSBs, yet the distribution of these breaks and their relation to brain function remains unclear. Here, following contextual fear conditioning (CFC) in mice, we profiled the locations of DSBs genome-wide in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus using γH2AX ChIP-Seq. Remarkably, we found that DSB formation is widespread in the brain compared to cultured primary neurons and they are predominately involved in synaptic processes. We observed increased DNA breaks at genes induced by CFC in neuronal and non-neuronal nuclei. Activity-regulated and proteostasis-related transcription factors appear to govern some of these gene expression changes across cell types. Finally, we find that glia but not neurons have a robust transcriptional response to glucocorticoids, and many of these genes are sites of DSBs. Our results indicate that learning behaviors cause widespread DSB formation in the brain that are associated with experience-driven transcriptional changes across both neuronal and glial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan T. Stott
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
| | - Oleg Kritsky
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
| | - Li-Huei Tsai
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
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25
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Clifton NE, Rees E, Holmans PA, Pardiñas AF, Harwood JC, Di Florio A, Kirov G, Walters JTR, O'Donovan MC, Owen MJ, Hall J, Pocklington AJ. Genetic association of FMRP targets with psychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:2977-2990. [PMID: 33077856 PMCID: PMC8505260 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-00912-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Genes encoding the mRNA targets of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) are enriched for genetic association with psychiatric disorders. However, many FMRP targets possess functions that are themselves genetically associated with psychiatric disorders, including synaptic transmission and plasticity, making it unclear whether the genetic risk is truly related to binding by FMRP or is alternatively mediated by the sampling of genes better characterised by another trait or functional annotation. Using published common variant, rare coding variant and copy number variant data, we examined the relationship between FMRP binding and genetic association with schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. High-confidence targets of FMRP, derived from studies of multiple tissue types, were enriched for common schizophrenia risk alleles, as well as rare loss-of-function and de novo nonsynonymous variants in schizophrenia cases. Similarly, through common variation, FMRP targets were associated with major depressive disorder, and we present novel evidence of association with bipolar disorder. These relationships could not be explained by other functional annotations known to be associated with psychiatric disorders, including those related to synaptic structure and function. This study reinforces the evidence that targeting by FMRP captures a subpopulation of genes enriched for genetic association with a range of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Clifton
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Elliott Rees
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Peter A Holmans
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Antonio F Pardiñas
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Janet C Harwood
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Arianna Di Florio
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - George Kirov
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - James T R Walters
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Michael C O'Donovan
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Michael J Owen
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jeremy Hall
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Andrew J Pocklington
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
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26
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Weitekamp CA, Hofmann HA. Effects of air pollution exposure on social behavior: a synthesis and call for research. Environ Health 2021; 20:72. [PMID: 34187479 PMCID: PMC8243425 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-021-00761-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing literature from both epidemiologic and experimental animal studies suggesting that exposure to air pollution can lead to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, we suggest that effects of air pollutant exposure on the brain may be even broader, with the potential to affect social decision-making in general. METHODS We discuss how the neurobiological substrates of social behavior are vulnerable to air pollution, then briefly present studies that examine the effects of air pollutant exposure on social behavior-related outcomes. RESULTS Few experimental studies have investigated the effects of air pollution on social behavior and those that have focus on standard laboratory tests in rodent model systems. Nonetheless, there is sufficient evidence to support a critical need for more research. CONCLUSION For future research, we suggest a comparative approach that utilizes diverse model systems to probe the effects of air pollution on a wider range of social behaviors, brain regions, and neurochemical pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea A. Weitekamp
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC USA
| | - Hans A. Hofmann
- Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas At Austin, Austin, TX USA
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas At Austin, Austin, TX USA
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas At Austin, Austin, TX USA
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27
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de Sousa MBC, de Meiroz Grilo MLP, Galvão-Coelho NL. Natural and Experimental Evidence Drives Marmosets for Research on Psychiatric Disorders Related to Stress. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:674256. [PMID: 34177478 PMCID: PMC8227430 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.674256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the behavioral ecology of marmosets carried out in their natural habitat associated with the advent of a non-invasive technique for measuring steroid hormones in feces has made a significant contribution to understanding their social relationships and sexual strategies. These studies showed that they are mainly monogamous, live in relatively stable social groups according to a social hierarchy in which females compete and males cooperate, and form social bonds similar to humans, which makes this species a potential animal model to study disorders related to social stress. In addition, laboratory studies observed the expression of behaviors similar to those in nature and deepened the descriptions of their social and reproductive strategies. They also characterized their responses to the challenge using behavioral, cognitive, physiological, and genetic approaches that were sexually dimorphic and influenced by age and social context. These findings, added to some advantages which indicate good adaptation to captivity and the benefits of the birth of twins, small size, and life cycle in comparison to primates of the Old World, led to their use as animal models for validating psychiatric diseases such as major depression. Juvenile marmosets have recently been used to develop a depression model and to test a psychedelic brew called Ayahuasca from the Amazon rainforest as an alternative treatment for major depression, for which positive results have been found which encourage further studies in adolescents. Therefore, we will review the experimental evidence obtained so far and discuss the extension of the marmoset as an animal model for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bernardete Cordeiro de Sousa
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil.,Postgraduation Program in Psychobiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil.,Postgraduation Program in Neuroscience, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil.,Laboratory of Advanced Studies in Primates, UFRN-Brazil, and Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Natal, Brazil
| | - Maria Lara Porpino de Meiroz Grilo
- Postgraduation Program in Psychobiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil.,Laboratory of Advanced Studies in Primates, UFRN-Brazil, and Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Natal, Brazil
| | - Nicole Leite Galvão-Coelho
- Postgraduation Program in Psychobiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil.,Laboratory of Advanced Studies in Primates, UFRN-Brazil, and Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Natal, Brazil.,Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Translational Medicine, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
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28
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Campbell KA, Hickman R, Fallin MD, Bakulski KM. Prenatal exposure to metals and autism spectrum disorder: Current status and future directions. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2021.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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29
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Guloksuz S, van Os J. En attendant Godot: Waiting for the Funeral of "Schizophrenia" and the Baby Shower of the Psychosis Spectrum. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:618842. [PMID: 34122159 PMCID: PMC8193729 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.618842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Guloksuz
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, King's Health Partners, Institute of Psychiatry, London, United Kingdom
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30
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Albores-Garcia D, McGlothan JL, Guilarte TR. Early-life lead exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 26:22-27. [PMID: 34013137 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Lead (Pb2+) exposure is a global public health problem of major proportion with an alarming number of children with blood Pb2+ levels > 10 >g/dL, twice the current CDC reference level for Pb2+ exposure. Mounting evidence from population-based studies suggests an association between chronic early life Pb2+ exposure (CELLE) and psychiatric disorders, specifically schizophrenia (SZ). Preclinical studies suggest a common mechanism in the pathophysiology of CELLE and SZ, NMDA receptor hypofunction. Here we describe human and experimental animal studies providing the evidence for such an association. Further, recent preclinical studies indicate that Pb2+-induced changes in neurotransmitter receptors that mediate the action(s) of drugs of abuse are increased in brain regions associated with addiction circuits in adolescence, a period of increased susceptibility to drug use and abuse and expression of psychiatric disease in humans. In summary, the relationship between the global burden of childhood Pb2+ exposure and the latent onset of psychiatric disorders and predisposition to drug use requires further investigations in human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Albores-Garcia
- Brain, Behavior & the Environment Program Department of Environmental Health Sciences Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work Florida International University Miami, FL 33199, United States
| | - J L McGlothan
- Brain, Behavior & the Environment Program Department of Environmental Health Sciences Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work Florida International University Miami, FL 33199, United States
| | - T R Guilarte
- Brain, Behavior & the Environment Program Department of Environmental Health Sciences Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work Florida International University Miami, FL 33199, United States
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31
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De Berardis D, De Filippis S, Masi G, Vicari S, Zuddas A. A Neurodevelopment Approach for a Transitional Model of Early Onset Schizophrenia. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11020275. [PMID: 33672396 PMCID: PMC7926620 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11020275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, the conceptualization of schizophrenia has dramatically changed, moving from a neurodegenerative process occurring in early adult life to a neurodevelopmental disorder starting be-fore birth, showing a variety of premorbid and prodromal symptoms and, in relatively few cases, evolving in the full-blown psychotic syndrome. High rates of co-occurring different neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, predating the onset of SCZ, and neurobio-logical underpinning with significant similarities, support the notion of a pan-developmental disturbance consisting of impairments in neuromotor, receptive language, social and cognitive development. Con-sidering that many SCZ risk factors may be similar to symptoms of other neurodevelopmental psychi-atric disorders, transition processes from child & adolescent to adult systems of care should include both high risk people as well as subject with other neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders with different levels of severity. This descriptive mini-review discuss the need of innovative clinical approaches, re-considering specific diagnostic categories, stimulating a careful analysis of risk factors and promoting the appropriate use of new and safer medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico De Berardis
- Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital “G. Mazzini,” National Health Service (NHS), 64100 ASL 4 Teramo, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences and Imaging, University “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Sergio De Filippis
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Villa von Siebenthal Neuropsychiatric Hospital and Clinic, Genzano di Roma, 100045 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gabriele Masi
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, 56128 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Department of Life Sciences and Publich Health, Catholic University, 00135 Rome, Italy;
- Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zuddas
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari and “A Cao” Paediatric Hospital, “G Brotzu” Hospital Trust, 109134 Cagliari, Italy;
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Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders are major causes of the global burden of diseases, frequently co-occurring with multiple co-morbidities, especially obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its various risk factors in the metabolic syndrome. While the determining factors of neuropsychiatric disorders are complex, recent studies have shown that there is a strong link between diet, metabolic state and neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety and depression. There is no doubt that rodent models are of great value for preclinical research. Therefore, this article focuses on a rodent model of chronic consumption of high-fat diet (HFD), and/or the addition of a certain amount of cholesterol or sugar, meanwhile, summarising the pattern of diet that induces anxiety/depressive-like behaviour and the underlying mechanism. We highlight how dietary and metabolic risk influence neuropsychiatric behaviour in animals. Changes in dietary patterns, especially HFD, can induce anxiety- or depression-like behaviours, which may vary by diet exposure period, sex, age, species and genetic background of the animals used. Furthermore, dietary patterns significantly aggravate anxiety/depression-like behaviour in animal models of neuropsychiatric disorders. The mechanisms by which diet induces anxiety/depressive-like behaviour may involve neuroinflammation, neurotransmitters/neuromodulators, neurotrophins and the gut-brain axis. Future research should be focused on elucidating the mechanism and identifying the contribution of diet and diet-induced metabolic risk to neuropsychiatric disorders, which can form the basis for future clinical dietary intervention strategies for neuropsychiatric disorders.
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33
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Jiménez JA, Zylka MJ. Controlling litter effects to enhance rigor and reproducibility with rodent models of neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:2. [PMID: 33397279 PMCID: PMC7780384 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-020-09353-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Research with rodents is crucial for expanding our understanding of genetic and environmental risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). However, there is growing concern about the number of animal studies that are difficult to replicate, potentially undermining the validity of results. These concerns have prompted funding agencies and academic journals to implement more rigorous standards in an effort to increase reproducibility in research. However, these standards fail to address a major source of variability in rodent research brought on by the “litter effect,” the fact that rodents from the same litter are phenotypically more similar to one other than rodents from different litters of the same strain. We show that the litter effect accounts for 30–60% of the variability associated with commonly studied phenotypes, including brain, placenta, and body weight. Moreover, we show how failure to control for litter-to-litter variation can mask a phenotype in Chd8V986*/+ mice that model haploinsufficiency of CHD8, a high-confidence autism gene. Thus, if not properly controlled, the litter effect has the potential to negatively influence rigor and reproducibility of NDD research. While efforts have been made to educate scientists on the importance of controlling for litter effects in previous publications, our analysis of the recent literature (2015–2020) shows that the vast majority of NDD studies focused on genetic risks, including mutant mouse studies, and environmental risks, such as air pollution and valproic acid exposure, do not correct for litter effects or report information on the number of litters used. We outline best practices to help scientists minimize the impact of litter-to-litter variability and to enhance rigor and reproducibility in future NDD studies using rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Jiménez
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Mark J Zylka
- UNC Neuroscience Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA. .,Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA. .,Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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34
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Pries LK, Erzin G, van Os J, ten Have M, de Graaf R, van Dorsselaer S, Bak M, Rutten BPF, Guloksuz S. Predictive Performance of Exposome Score for Schizophrenia in the General Population. Schizophr Bull 2020; 47:277-283. [PMID: 33215211 PMCID: PMC7965069 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbaa170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we established an estimated exposome score for schizophrenia (ES-SCZ) as a cumulative measure of environmental liability for schizophrenia to use in gene-environment interaction studies and for risk stratification in population cohorts. Hereby, we examined the discriminative function of ES-SCZ for identifying individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder in the general population by measuring the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Furthermore, we compared this ES-SCZ method to an environmental sum score (Esum-SCZ) and an aggregate environmental score weighted by the meta-analytical estimates (Emet-SCZ). We also estimated ORs and Nagelkerke's R2 for ES-SCZ in association with psychiatric diagnoses and other medical outcomes. ES-SCZ showed a good discriminative function (AUC = 0.84) and statistically significantly performed better than both Esum-SCZ (AUC = 0.80) and Emet-SCZ (AUC = 0.80). At optimal cut point, ES-SCZ showed similar performance in ruling out (LR- = 0.20) and ruling in (LR+ = 3.86) schizophrenia. ES-SCZ at optimal cut point showed also a progressively greater magnitude of association with increasing psychosis risk strata. Among all clinical outcomes, ES-SCZ was associated with schizophrenia diagnosis with the highest OR (2.76, P < .001) and greatest explained variance (R2 = 14.03%), followed by bipolar disorder (OR = 2.61, P < .001, R2 = 13.01%) and suicide plan (OR = 2.44, P < .001, R2 = 12.44%). Our findings from an epidemiologically representative general population cohort demonstrate that an aggregate environmental exposure score for schizophrenia constructed using a predictive modeling approach-ES-SCZ-has the potential to improve risk prediction and stratification for research purposes and may help gain insight into the multicausal etiology of psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotta-Katrin Pries
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gamze Erzin
- Department of Psychiatry, Ankara Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands,Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Margreet ten Have
- Department of Epidemiology, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ron de Graaf
- Department of Epidemiology, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia van Dorsselaer
- Department of Epidemiology, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Bak
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands,FACT, Mondriaan Mental Health, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart P F Rutten
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sinan Guloksuz
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT,To whom correspondence should be addressed; tel: 31-433-88-4071, fax: 31433-88-4122, e-mail:
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35
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Wanner NM, Colwell M, Drown C, Faulk C. Subacute cannabidiol alters genome-wide DNA methylation in adult mouse hippocampus. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2020; 61:890-900. [PMID: 32579259 PMCID: PMC7765463 DOI: 10.1002/em.22396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Use of cannabidiol (CBD), the most abundant non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis (Cannabis sativa), has recently increased as a result of widespread availability of CBD-containing products. CBD is FDA-approved for the treatment of epilepsy and exhibits anxiolytic, antipsychotic, prosocial, and other behavioral effects in animal studies and clinical trials, however, the underlying mechanisms governing these phenotypes are still being elucidated. The epigenome, particularly DNA methylation, is responsive to environmental input and can govern persistent patterns of gene regulation affecting phenotype across the life course. In order to understand the epigenomic activity of cannabidiol exposure in the adult brain, 12-week-old male wild-type a/a Agouti viable yellow (Avy ) mice were exposed to either 20 mg/kg CBD or vehicle daily by oral administration for 14 days. Hippocampal tissue was collected and reduced-representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) was performed. Analyses revealed 3,323 differentially methylated loci (DMLs) in CBD-exposed animals with a small skew toward global hypomethylation. Genes for cell adhesion and migration, dendritic spine development, and excitatory postsynaptic potential were found to be enriched in a gene ontology term analysis of DML-containing genes, and disease ontology enrichment revealed an overrepresentation of DMLs in gene sets associated with autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and other phenotypes. These results suggest that the epigenome may be a key substrate for CBD's behavioral effects and provides a wealth of gene regulatory information for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Wanner
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
| | | | - Chelsea Drown
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota
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Mitochondria under the spotlight: On the implications of mitochondrial dysfunction and its connectivity to neuropsychiatric disorders. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:2535-2546. [PMID: 33033576 PMCID: PMC7522539 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs) such as bipolar disorder (BD), schizophrenia (SZ) and mood disorder (MD) are hard to manage due to overlapping symptoms and lack of biomarkers. Risk alleles of BD/SZ/MD are emerging, with evidence suggesting mitochondrial (mt) dysfunction as a critical factor for disease onset and progression. Mood stabilizing treatments for these disorders are scarce, revealing the need for biomarker discovery and artificial intelligence approaches to design synthetically accessible novel therapeutics. Here, we show mt involvement in NPDs by associating 245 mt proteins to BD/SZ/MD, with 7 common players in these disease categories. Analysis of over 650 publications suggests that 245 NPD-linked mt proteins are associated with 800 other mt proteins, with mt impairment likely to rewire these interactions. High dosage of mood stabilizers is known to alleviate manic episodes, but which compounds target mt pathways is another gap in the field that we address through mood stabilizer-gene interaction analysis of 37 prescriptions and over-the-counter psychotropic treatments, which we have refined to 15 mood-stabilizing agents. We show 26 of the 245 NPD-linked mt proteins are uniquely or commonly targeted by one or more of these mood stabilizers. Further, induced pluripotent stem cell-derived patient neurons and three-dimensional human brain organoids as reliable BD/SZ/MD models are outlined, along with multiomics methods and machine learning-based decision making tools for biomarker discovery, which remains a bottleneck for precision psychiatry medicine.
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Italia M, Forastieri C, Longaretti A, Battaglioli E, Rusconi F. Rationale, Relevance, and Limits of Stress-Induced Psychopathology in Rodents as Models for Psychiatry Research: An Introductory Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7455. [PMID: 33050350 PMCID: PMC7589795 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Emotional and cognitive information processing represent higher-order brain functions. They require coordinated interaction of specialized brain areas via a complex spatial and temporal equilibrium among neuronal cell-autonomous, circuitry, and network mechanisms. The delicate balance can be corrupted by stressful experiences, increasing the risk of developing psychopathologies in vulnerable individuals. Neuropsychiatric disorders affect twenty percent of the western world population, but therapies are still not effective for some patients. Elusive knowledge of molecular pathomechanisms and scarcity of objective biomarkers in humans present complex challenges, while the adoption of rodent models helps to improve our understanding of disease correlate and aids the search for novel pharmacological targets. Stress administration represents a strategy to induce, trace, and modify molecular and behavioral endophenotypes of mood disorders in animals. However, a mouse or rat model will only display one or a few endophenotypes of a specific human psychopathology, which cannot be in any case recapitulated as a whole. To override this issue, shared criteria have been adopted to deconstruct neuropsychiatric disorders, i.e., depression, into specific behavioral aspects, and inherent neurobiological substrates, also recognizable in lower mammals. In this work, we provide a rationale for rodent models of stress administration. In particular, comparing each rodent model with a real-life human traumatic experience, we intend to suggest an introductive guide to better comprehend and interpret these paradigms.
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Gestational exposures to organophosphorus insecticides: From acute poisoning to developmental neurotoxicity. Neuropharmacology 2020; 180:108271. [PMID: 32814088 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
For over three-quarters of a century, organophosphorus (OP) insecticides have been ubiquitously used in agricultural, residential, and commercial settings and in public health programs to mitigate insect-borne diseases. Their broad-spectrum insecticidal effectiveness is accounted for by the irreversible inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the enzyme that catalyzes acetylcholine (ACh) hydrolysis, in the nervous system of insects. However, because AChE is evolutionarily conserved, OP insecticides are also toxic to mammals, including humans, and acute OP intoxication remains a major public health concern in countries where OP insecticide usage is poorly regulated. Environmental exposures to OP levels that are generally too low to cause marked inhibition of AChE and to trigger acute signs of intoxication, on the other hand, represent an insidious public health issue worldwide. Gestational exposures to OP insecticides are particularly concerning because of the exquisite sensitivity of the developing brain to these insecticides. The present article overviews and discusses: (i) the health effects and therapeutic management of acute OP poisoning during pregnancy, (ii) epidemiological studies examining associations between environmental OP exposures during gestation and health outcomes of offspring, (iii) preclinical evidence that OP insecticides are developmental neurotoxicants, and (iv) potential mechanisms underlying the developmental neurotoxicity of OP insecticides. Understanding how gestational exposures to different levels of OP insecticides affect pregnancy and childhood development is critical to guiding implementation of preventive measures and direct research aimed at identifying effective therapeutic interventions that can limit the negative impact of these exposures on public health.
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