1
|
Zhang P, Chen JS, Li QY, Sheng LX, Gao YX, Lu BZ, Zhu WB, Zhan XY, Li Y, Yuan ZB, Xu G, Qiu BT, Yan M, Guo CX, Wang YQ, Huang YJ, Zhang JX, Liu FY, Tang ZW, Lin SZ, Cooper DN, Yang HM, Wang J, Gao YQ, Yin W, Zhang GJ, Yan GM. Neuroprotectants attenuate hypobaric hypoxia-induced brain injuries in cynomolgus monkeys. Zool Res 2020; 41:3-19. [PMID: 31840949 PMCID: PMC6956719 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2020.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypobaric hypoxia (HH) exposure can cause serious brain injury as well as life-threatening cerebral edema in severe cases. Previous studies on the mechanisms of HH-induced brain injury have been conducted primarily using non-primate animal models that are genetically distant to humans, thus hindering the development of disease treatment. Here, we report that cynomolgus monkeys (Macacafascicularis) exposed to acute HH developed human-like HH syndrome involving severe brain injury and abnormal behavior. Transcriptome profiling of white blood cells and brain tissue from monkeys exposed to increasing altitude revealed the central role of the HIF-1 and other novel signaling pathways, such as the vitamin D receptor (VDR) signaling pathway, in co-regulating HH-induced inflammation processes. We also observed profound transcriptomic alterations in brains after exposure to acute HH, including the activation of angiogenesis and impairment of aerobic respiration and protein folding processes, which likely underlie the pathological effects of HH-induced brain injury. Administration of progesterone (PROG) and steroid neuroprotectant 5α-androst-3β,5,6β-triol (TRIOL) significantly attenuated brain injuries and rescued the transcriptomic changes induced by acute HH. Functional investigation of the affected genes suggested that these two neuroprotectants protect the brain by targeting different pathways, with PROG enhancing erythropoiesis and TRIOL suppressing glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. Thus, this study advances our understanding of the pathology induced by acute HH and provides potential compounds for the development of neuroprotectant drugs for therapeutic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518083, China.,Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Jie-Si Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Qi-Ye Li
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518083, China
| | - Long-Xiang Sheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Yi-Xing Gao
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine of People's Liberation Army, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Bing-Zheng Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Wen-Bo Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | | | - Yuan Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Zhi-Bing Yuan
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine of People's Liberation Army, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine of People's Liberation Army, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Bi-Tao Qiu
- Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Min Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | | | - You-Qiong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Yi-Jun Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Jing-Xia Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Fu-Yu Liu
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine of People's Liberation Army, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhong-Wei Tang
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine of People's Liberation Army, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Sui-Zhen Lin
- Guangzhou Cellprotek Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Guangzhou, Guangdong 510663, China
| | - David N. Cooper
- Institute of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Huan-Ming Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518083, China.,James D. Watson Institute of Genome Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jian Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518083, China.,James D. Watson Institute of Genome Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yu-Qi Gao
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine of People's Liberation Army, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China. E-mail:
| | - Wei Yin
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China. E-mail:
| | - Guo-Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China.,Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China.,China National Genebank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518120, China. E-mail:
| | - Guang-Mei Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Upadhya MA, Shelkar GP, Subhedar NK, Kokare DM. CART modulates the effects of levodopa in rat model of Parkinson's disease. Behav Brain Res 2016; 301:262-72. [PMID: 26771081 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-related disorder characterized by a progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons of substantia nigra (SN). The neuropeptide cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) is known to closely interact with the dopamine system and regulate psychomotor activity. We screened the effectiveness of CART in reversing the symptoms of PD in a rat model. PD like condition was induced by administering 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) directly in the SN of the right side. Fifteen days later, intraperitoneal (IP) treatment with apomorphine hydrochloride to these rats, resulted in contralateral rotations in the rotation test chamber suggesting induction of PD-like symptoms. This action of apomorphine was significantly attenuated by intracerebroventricular (ICV) treatment with CART and potentiated by CART antibody. IP treatment with levodopa also produced contralateral rotation in PD induced rats, and showed anti-Parkinson-like action. Prior treatment with CART via ICV route potentiated the anti-Parkinsonian effects of levodopa, while CART antibody produced opposite effects. CART treatment per se, to PD induced rats produced ipsilateral rotations, suggesting that the peptide may promote the endogenous release of dopamine from intact neurons. While CART-immunoreactivity in arcuate nucleus, paraventricular nucleus, striatum, substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area and locus coeruleus was reduced in the PD induced rats, levodopa treatment restored the expression of CART-immunoreactivity in these nuclei. These results suggest that endogenous CART might closely interact with the dopamine containing SN-striatal pathway which is known to profoundly influence the motor system. The study underscores the importance of CART as a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manoj A Upadhya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, India
| | - Gajanan P Shelkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, India
| | - Nishikant K Subhedar
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Central Tower, Sai Trinity Building, Garware Circle, Sutarwadi, Pashan, Pune 411 021, Maharashtra, India
| | - Dadasaheb M Kokare
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hsieh YS, Chen PN, Yu CH, Chen CH, Tsai TT, Kuo DY. Involvement of oxidative stress in the regulation of NPY/CART-mediated appetite control in amphetamine-treated rats. Neurotoxicology 2015; 48:131-41. [PMID: 25825358 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2015.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamine (AMPH) treatment can suppress appetite and increase oxidative stress in the brain. AMPH-induced appetite suppression is associated with the regulation of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) in the hypothalamus. The present study explored whether antioxidants, including glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GP), were involved in this NPY/CART-mediated appetite control. Rats were treated daily with AMPH for four days. Changes in food intake and expression levels of hypothalamic NPY, CART, GST, and GP were examined and compared. Results showed that, in AMPH-treated rats, (1) food intake and NPY expression decreased, while CART, GST, and GP expression increased; (2) NPY knockdown in the brain enhanced the decrease in NPY and the increases in CART, GST, and GP expression; and (3) central inhibition of reactive oxygen species production decreased GST and GP and modulated AMPH anorexia and the expression levels of NPY and CART. The present results suggest that oxidative stress in the brain participates in regulating NPY/CART-mediated appetite control in AMPH-treated rats. These results may advance the knowledge regarding the molecular mechanism of AMPH-evoked or NPY/CART-mediated appetite suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yih-Shou Hsieh
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ni Chen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Han Yu
- Department of Physiology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hui Chen
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Medical Science and Technology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ta Tsai
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Medical Science and Technology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan
| | - Dong-Yih Kuo
- Department of Physiology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu S, Borgland S. Regulation of the mesolimbic dopamine circuit by feeding peptides. Neuroscience 2015; 289:19-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.12.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 12/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
5
|
Chu SC, Chen PN, Ho YJ, Yu CH, Hsieh YS, Kuo DY. Both neuropeptide Y knockdown and Y1 receptor inhibition modulate CART-mediated appetite control. Horm Behav 2015; 67:38-47. [PMID: 25461972 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamine (AMPH)-induced appetite suppression has been attributed to its inhibition of neuropeptide Y (NPY)-containing neurons in the hypothalamus. This study examined whether hypothalamic cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART)-containing neurons and NPY Y1 receptor (Y1R) were involved in the action of AMPH. Rats were treated daily with AMPH for four days, and changes in feeding behavior and expression levels of NPY, CART, and POMC were assessed and compared. The results showed that both feeding behavior and NPY expression decreased during AMPH treatment, with the biggest reduction occurring on Day 2. By contrast, the expression of CART and melanocortin 3 receptor (MC3R), a member of the POMC neurotransmission, increased with the maximum response on Day 2, directly opposite to the NPY expression results. The intracerebroventricular infusion of NPY antisense or Y1R inhibitor both modulated AMPH-induced anorexia and the expression levels of MC3R and CART. The results suggest that in the hypothalamus both POMC- and CART-containing neurons participate in regulating NPY-mediated appetite control during AMPH treatment. These results may advance the knowledge of molecular mechanism of anorectic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Chen Chu
- Department of Food Science, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung City 406, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Pei-Ni Chen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ying-Jui Ho
- School of Psychology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ching-Han Yu
- Department of Physiology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yih-Shou Hsieh
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Dong-Yih Kuo
- Department of Physiology, Chung Shan Medical University and Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City 40201, Taiwan, ROC.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Peng Q, Sun X, Liu Z, Yang J, Oh KW, Hu Z. Microinjection of CART (cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript) peptide into the nucleus accumbens inhibits the cocaine-induced upregulation of dopamine receptors and locomotor sensitization. Neurochem Int 2014; 75:105-11. [PMID: 24953280 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2014.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Repeated exposure to addictive drugs enhances dopamine receptor (DR) signaling and the ultimate phosphorylation of the cyclic adenosine 5'-monophosphate (cAMP)-response element-binding protein (CREB)-regulated cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc). These effects are known to contribute to the expression of behavioral sensitization. CART peptides are neuropeptides that modulate drug reward and reinforcement. The present experiments investigated the effects of CART 55-102 microinjection into the NAcc on (1) the phosphorylation of CREB, (2) cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling and (3) extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylated kinase signaling. Here, we show that repeated microinjections into the NAcc of CART 55-102 peptides (1.0 or 2.5μg, 0.5μl/side) attenuates cocaine-induced enhancements of D1R, D2R and D3R phosphorylation in this sites. Furthermore, the microinjection of CART 55-102 followed by repeated injections of cocaine (15mg/kg) dose-dependently blocked the enhancement of cAMP levels, PKA activity and pERK and pCREB levels on the fifth day of cocaine administration. The cocaine-induced locomotor activity and behavioral sensitization in rats were also inhibited by the 5-day-microinjection of CART peptides. These results suggest that the phosphorylation of CREB by cocaine in the NAcc was blocked by the CART 55-102 peptide via the inhibition of D1R and D2R stimulation, D3R phosphorylation, cAMP/PKA signaling and ERK phosphorylated kinase signaling. These effects may have played a compensatory inhibitory role in the behavioral sensitization of rats that received microinjections of CART 55-102.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 33006, China
| | - Xi Sun
- Evidence Identification Center, Department of Jiangxi Provincial Public Security, Nanchang, Jiangxi 33006, China
| | - Ziyong Liu
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 33006, China
| | - Jianghua Yang
- Evidence Identification Center, Department of Jiangxi Provincial Public Security, Nanchang, Jiangxi 33006, China
| | - Ki-Wan Oh
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhenzhen Hu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 33006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Subhedar NK, Nakhate KT, Upadhya MA, Kokare DM. CART in the brain of vertebrates: circuits, functions and evolution. Peptides 2014; 54:108-30. [PMID: 24468550 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptide (CART) with its wide distribution in the brain of mammals has been the focus of considerable research in recent years. Last two decades have witnessed a steady rise in the information on the genes that encode this neuropeptide and regulation of its transcription and translation. CART is highly enriched in the hypothalamic nuclei and its relevance to energy homeostasis and neuroendocrine control has been understood in great details. However, the occurrence of this peptide in a range of diverse circuitries for sensory, motor, vegetative, limbic and higher cortical areas has been confounding. Evidence that CART peptide may have role in addiction, pain, reward, learning and memory, cognition, sleep, reproduction and development, modulation of behavior and regulation of autonomic nervous system are accumulating, but an integration has been missing. A steady stream of papers has been pointing at the therapeutic potentials of CART. The current review is an attempt at piecing together the fragments of available information, and seeks meaning out of the CART elements in their anatomical niche. We try to put together the CART containing neuronal circuitries that have been conclusively demonstrated as well as those which have been proposed, but need confirmation. With a view to finding out the evolutionary antecedents, we visit the CART systems in sub-mammalian vertebrates and seek the answer why the system is shaped the way it is. We enquire into the conservation of the CART system and appreciate its functional diversity across the phyla.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nishikant K Subhedar
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Sai Trinity Building, Sutarwadi, Pashan, Pune 411 021, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Kartik T Nakhate
- Rungta College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Rungta Educational Campus, Kohka-Kurud Road, Bhilai 490 024, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Manoj A Upadhya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, Maharashtra, India
| | - Dadasaheb M Kokare
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440 033, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Volkoff H. The effects of amphetamine injections on feeding behavior and the brain expression of orexin, CART, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) in goldfish (Carassius auratus). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2013; 39:979-991. [PMID: 23229307 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-012-9756-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/01/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effects of peripheral (intraperitoneal) injections of D-amphetamine on feeding behavior were assessed in goldfish. Compared with the saline-injected group, amphetamine injections decreased food intake at doses ranging from 1 to 75 μg/g, but not 0.5 μg/g, but increased locomotor behavior, as indicated by the increased number of total feeding and non-feeding acts, at doses ranging from 2.5 to 25 μg/g. Amphetamine at high doses inhibited both food intake (at 25, 50 and 75 μg/g) and feeding behavior (at 75 μg/g). In the hypothalamus, the expression of orexin was down-regulated, and both CART 1 and CART 2 expressions were up-regulated in amphetamine-treated fish (50 μg/g) as compared to saline-injected fish, but amphetamine treatment had no effect on either hypothalamic TH or TRH expression. In the telencephalon, amphetamine treatment (50 μg/g) up-regulated CART 1, CART 2 and TH mRNA expressions but had no effect on either orexin or TRH. Our results suggest that, as in mammals, the orexin, CART and TH systems might be involved in amphetamine-induced feeding/locomotor responses in goldfish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Volkoff
- Departments of Biology and Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL A1B 3X9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Karch SB. Possible Strategies for the Diagnosis of Fatal Excited Delirium Syndrome. Acad Forensic Pathol 2012. [DOI: 10.23907/2012.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Excited Delirium Syndrome (ExDS) is a term traditionally used in forensic literature to describe the symptoms and signs seen in a subgroup of patients with delirium who die in an agitated state. Components of this syndrome are altered mental status, combativeness and/or aggressiveness, increased tolerance to significant pain, tachypnea, profuse sweating, severe agitation, elevated temperature, delirium, and noncompliance with law enforcement and medical personnel. The individual may display “superhuman” strength and wear clothing inappropriate for the environment. Patients with this presentation are almost guaranteed to cause difficulties for law enforcement officers and medical staff. This review is written in hopes of minimizing some of these difficulties by 1) increasing general awareness and specific knowledge about this condition, 2) explaining the neurochemical and neuroanatomical alterations that have been shown to cause those symptoms, and 3) by suggesting new lines of research that might identify easily measured biomarkers for the disease. If the disease mechanism can be deciphered, then it should be possible to devise effective strategies for treatment. It would also be of enormous value to the legal system. When defending a diagnosis before the court, physical evidence always trumps knowledge and experience. It would be far better to be able to present physical proof than to opine that the decedent's behavior was typical for the disease. In this aspect, ExDS is analogous to myocardial infarction: if a man dies suddenly, it is much easier to prove the cardiac origin of the event if an occlusive thrombus is found in a major coronary artery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven B. Karch
- (Royal College of Physicians, London). Royal London Hospital and Cardiac Pathology at the Stanford Transplant Laboratory. San Francisco Medical Examiner
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Reeber SL, Sillitoe RV. Patterned expression of a cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptide reveals complex circuit topography in the rodent cerebellar cortex. J Comp Neurol 2011; 519:1781-96. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.22601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
11
|
Moffett MC, Song J, Kuhar MJ. CART peptide inhibits locomotor activity induced by simultaneous stimulation of D1 and D2 receptors, but not by stimulation of individual dopamine receptors. Synapse 2011; 65:1-7. [PMID: 20506412 DOI: 10.1002/syn.20815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
CART (Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript) peptide has been implicated in playing a modulatory role in reward and reinforcement. Previously, our laboratory demonstrated that injections of CART peptide (CART 55-102) into the nucleus accumbens (NAc) attenuated both cocaine- and dopamine-induced increases in locomotor activity (LMA), and attenuated cocaine reward as well. In this study, the effects of CART peptide on LMA induced by dopamine receptor agonists were evaluated after intraaccumbal injections in male, Sprague-Dawley rats. Effects of the D1 receptor agonist SKF-81,297, saline, CART 55-102, or CART 55-102 and SKF-81,297 together were compared. The SKF-81,297-induced increase in LMA was potentiated by coadministration of CART, while injection of CART alone had no significant effect. Injection of the D2 agonist 7-OH-DPAT had no effect on LMA, and the combination of both 7-OH-DPAT and CART peptide also had no effect. Quinelorane, a D3 receptor agonist, did not alter LMA, nor did the combination of CART peptide and quinelorane. The next experiment examined the effects of CART peptide on LMA induced by coinjection of both the D1 agonist SKF-81,297 and the D2 agonist 7-OH-DPAT. The combination of SKF-81,297 and 7-OH-DPAT induced greater LMA than SKF-81,297 alone. Coadministration of CART peptide along with the D1 and D2 agonists reduced LMA. These results strongly suggest that CART peptide reduces the effects of psychostimulants by modulating the simultaneous activation of both D1 and D2 dopamine receptors rather than by affecting the action of any individual dopamine receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark C Moffett
- Division of Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abbott M, Volkoff H. Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) in goldfish (Carassius auratus): role in the regulation of feeding and locomotor behaviors and interactions with the orexin system and cocaine- and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART). Horm Behav 2011; 59:236-45. [PMID: 21192941 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2010] [Revised: 11/24/2010] [Accepted: 12/19/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
TRH is a peptide produced by the hypothalamus which major function in mammals is the regulation of TSH secretion by the pituitary. In fish, TRH does not appear to affect TSH secretion, suggesting that it might regulate other functions. In this study, we assessed the effects of central (intracerebroventricular, icv) injections of TRH on feeding and locomotor behavior in goldfish. TRH at 10 and 100 ng/g, but not 1 ng/g, significantly increased feeding and locomotor behaviors, as indicated by an increase in food intake and in the number of total feeding acts as compared to saline-injected fish. In order to assess possible interactions between TRH and other appetite regulators, we examined the effects of icv injections of TRH on the hypothalamic expression of orexin, orexin receptor and CART. The mRNA expression levels of all three peptides were significantly increased in fish injected with TRH at 100 ng/g as compared to saline-injected fish. Fasting increased TRH, orexin, and orexin receptor hypothalamic mRNA levels and decreased CART hypothalamic mRNA levels. Our results suggest that TRH is involved in the regulation of feeding/locomotor activity in goldfish and that this action is associated with a stimulation of both the orexin and CART systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meagan Abbott
- Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL A1B3X9 Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lenard NR, Berthoud HR. Central and peripheral regulation of food intake and physical activity: pathways and genes. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2008; 16 Suppl 3:S11-22. [PMID: 19190620 PMCID: PMC2687326 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2008.511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
A changing environment and lifestyle on the background of evolutionary engraved and perinatally imprinted physiological response patterns is the foremost explanation for the current obesity epidemic. However, it is not clear what the mechanisms are by which the modern environment overrides the physiological controls of appetite and homeostatic body-weight regulation. Food intake and energy expenditure are controlled by complex, redundant, and distributed neural systems involving thousands of genes and reflecting the fundamental biological importance of adequate nutrient supply and energy balance. There has been much progress in identifying the important role of hypothalamus and caudal brainstem in the various hormonal and neural mechanisms by which the brain informs itself about availability of ingested and stored nutrients and, in turn, generates behavioral, autonomic, and endocrine output. Some of the genes involved in this "homeostatic" regulator are crucial for energy balance as manifested in the well-known monogenic obesity models. However, it can be clearly demonstrated that much larger portions of the nervous system of animals and humans, including the cortex, basal ganglia, and the limbic system, are concerned with the procurement of food as a basic and evolutionarily conserved survival mechanism to defend the lower limits of adiposity. By forming representations and reward expectancies through processes of learning and memory, these systems evolved to engage powerful emotions for guaranteed supply with, and ingestion of, beneficial foods from a sparse and often hostile environment. They are now simply overwhelmed with an abundance of food and food cues no longer contested by predators and interrupted by famines. The anatomy, chemistry, and functions of these elaborate neural systems and their interactions with the "homeostatic" regulator in the hypothalamus are poorly understood, and many of the genes involved are either unknown or not well characterized. This is regrettable because these systems are directly and primarily involved in the interactions of the modern environment and lifestyle with the human body. They are no less "physiological" than metabolic-regulatory mechanisms that have attracted most of the research during the past 15 years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R. Lenard
- Neurobiology of Nutrition Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Hans-Rudolf Berthoud
- Neurobiology of Nutrition Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Characterizing intercellular signaling peptides in drug addiction. Neuropharmacology 2008; 56 Suppl 1:196-204. [PMID: 18722391 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2008] [Revised: 07/23/2008] [Accepted: 07/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular signaling peptides (SPs) coordinate the activity of cells and influence organism behavior. SPs, a chemically and structurally diverse group of compounds responsible for transferring information between neurons, are broadly involved in neural plasticity, learning and memory, as well as in drug addiction phenomena. Historically, SP discovery and characterization has tracked advances in measurement capabilities. Today, a suite of analytical technologies is available to investigate individual SPs, as well as entire intercellular signaling complements, in samples ranging from individual cells to entire organisms. Immunochemistry and in situ hybridization are commonly used for following preselected SPs. Discovery-type investigations targeting the transcriptome and proteome are accomplished using high-throughput characterization technologies such as microarrays and mass spectrometry. By integrating directed approaches with discovery approaches, multiplatform studies fill critical gaps in our knowledge of drug-induced alterations in intercellular signaling. Throughout the past 35 years, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has made significant resources available to scientists that study the mechanisms of drug addiction. The roles of SPs in the addiction process are highlighted, as are the analytical approaches used to detect and characterize them.
Collapse
|
15
|
Choi YH, Li C, Hartzell DL, Little DE, Della-Fera MA, Baile CA. ICV leptin effects on spontaneous physical activity and feeding behavior in rats. Behav Brain Res 2008; 188:100-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2007.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2007] [Revised: 10/19/2007] [Accepted: 10/25/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
16
|
Yoon HS, Kim S, Park HK, Kim JH. Microinjection of CART peptide 55-102 into the nucleus accumbens blocks both the expression of behavioral sensitization and ERK phosphorylation by cocaine. Neuropharmacology 2007; 53:344-51. [PMID: 17610912 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2007.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2007] [Revised: 05/17/2007] [Accepted: 05/21/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The role of the biologically active CART 55-102 peptide in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) in the expression of cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization was investigated. Rats were divided into four groups: one for saline and the other three for cocaine pre-exposures (15 mg/kg, i.p., once daily for 7 days). After 3 weeks of withdrawal, rats were microinjected into the NAcc either saline or CART 55-102 (1.0, or 2.5 microg/0.5 microl/side) followed by cocaine challenge (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Microinjection into the NAcc of CART 55-102 peptide dose-dependently blocked the expression of locomotor sensitization produced by repeated cocaine pre-exposures. Next, we further examined the effect of CART 55-102 microinjection on extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation levels in the NAcc. Additional four groups of rats were all cocaine pre-exposed and, after 3 weeks of withdrawal, they were either saline or cocaine challenged systemically following microinjection into the NAcc of either saline, CART 55-102 (2.5 microg/0.5 microl/side), or the equivalent mole amount of inactive CART 1-27 peptide. The increase of ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels in the NAcc by cocaine was completely blocked by CART 55-102 microinjection in this site, while it remains unaffected by inactive CART 1-27 peptide. These results suggest that CART 55-102 peptide in the NAcc may play a compensatory inhibitory role in the expression of behavioral sensitization by cocaine and these effects may be mediated by its inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation in this site.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyung Shin Yoon
- Department of Physiology, Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 134 Shinchondong, Seodaemungu, Seoul 120-752, South Korea
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ma Z, Pearson E, Tao R. CART peptides increase 5-hydroxytryptamine in the dorsal raphe and nucleus accumbens of freely behaving rats. Neurosci Lett 2007; 417:303-7. [PMID: 17346884 PMCID: PMC4242193 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2007.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2006] [Revised: 02/12/2007] [Accepted: 02/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptides (CART) are implicated in the antidepressant effect. This may involve in 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the CNS. The aim of the present studies was to investigate the effect of CART peptides on extracellular 5-HT in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) and nucleus accumbens (NAcc) using a microdialysis approach in freely behaving rats. Reverse infusion of CART61-102 in the DRN produced a concentration (10-100 microM) -dependent increase in 5-HT in the DRN. Similarly, CART62-76 (10-100 microM) infused into the DRN and NAcc elevated 5-HT in the DRN and NAcc, respectively. Thus, CART increases extracellular 5-HT in both the DRN and NAcc. In addition, infusion of CART62-76 (100 microM) in the DRN produced a significant increase in 5-HT in the NAcc, implying an existence of CART receptors responsible for the depolarization-dependent release. In summary, the results of the present studies suggest that CART peptides may have an antidepressant effect through increases in extracellular 5-HT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Ma
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, USA
| | - Elliot Pearson
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, USA
| | - Rui Tao
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jones DC, Kuhar MJ. CART receptor binding in primary cell cultures of the rat nucleus accumbens. Synapse 2007; 62:122-7. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.20476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
19
|
Dylag T, Rafalski P, Kotlinska J, Silberring J. CART (85-102)-inhibition of psychostimulant-induced hyperlocomotion: importance of cyclization. Peptides 2006; 27:3183-92. [PMID: 17088012 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2006.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2006] [Revised: 09/22/2006] [Accepted: 09/25/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic derivative of C-terminal fragment of CART (55-102) with reduced thiol groups, [Abu(86,94)]CART (85-102)(red), given together with amphetamine (5 mg/kg, s.c.) or cocaine (15 mg/kg, s.c.), reversed hyperlocomotion induced by these drugs at a dose of 0.1 microg but not at a higher dose. In the cerebral cortex homogenate, [Abu(86,94)]CART (85-102)(red) was nonspecifically cleaved from N- and C-termini. This peptide contains two chemically blocked Cys residues, and two others in reduced form. Concomitant with cleavage, rapid cyclization occurred. The newly formed cyclic peptides were stable. The cyclic peptide [Abu(86,94)]CART (85-102)(ox) failed to inhibit amphetamine- and cocaine-induced locomotor activity. The ability to inhibit the locomotor-stimulant activity of amphetamine was retained in [Abu(86,88,94,101)]CART (85-102), in which all Cys were replaced with 2-aminobutyric acid to prevent their pairing. Disulfide bridge formation may be an interesting mechanism that prevents proteolysis of [Abu(86,94)]CART (85-102)(red) and terminates its ability to reverse amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Dylag
- Faculty of Chemistry and Regional Laboratory, Jagiellonian University, Ingardena 3, 30-060 Krakow, Poland
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dylag T, Kotlinska J, Rafalski P, Pachuta A, Silberring J. The activity of CART peptide fragments. Peptides 2006; 27:1926-33. [PMID: 16730858 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2005.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2005] [Accepted: 10/11/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptides attracted much attention after the discovery that the level of CART mRNA is increased in rat striatum after acute administration of cocaine and amphetamine. The most widely investigated sequence is CART (55-102), whose roles were confirmed in modulation of various physiological processes such as feeding, energy expenditure, stress control, endocrine secretion, and reward. However, peptides other than (55-102) may be generated from the CART precursor as well. This review describes biological activity of peptides derived from the CART precursor in vivo, and of synthetic CART fragments that have not been found in the nature. In particular, the activity of CART (85-102) is described, whose ability to exert behavioral responses was confirmed by the observed attenuation of the expression of sensitization to morphine-induced hyperlocomotion. This fragment also decreased the number of escape jumps evoked by naloxone in morphine-addicted mice after intracerebroventricular administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Dylag
- Faculty of Chemistry and Regional Laboratory, Jagiellonian University, Ingardena 3, 30-060 Krakow, Poland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
CART is a neuropeptide that appears to play an important role in a variety of physiological processes. The major research focus into the function of CART peptide has been on feeding behavior, modulation of mesolimbic dopamine, and actions of psychostimulant drugs. The neuroanatomic expression profile of CART does however suggest other functions as well, and its presence within the limbic system points to a possible role in emotionality. There are now several published reports which describe a new role for CART as a mediator of anxiety-like behaviors in rodents. This review will summarize these findings and speculate on the mechanisms by which CART might be involved in the modulation of these behaviors. We will also consider what future studies need to be done to further clarify the role of this peptide in anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Stanek
- Emory University School of Medicine, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Department of Neuroscience, Yerkes Research Center, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Vicentic A, Lakatos A, Jones D. The CART receptors: background and recent advances. Peptides 2006; 27:1934-7. [PMID: 16713658 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2006.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2006] [Accepted: 03/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Previous evidence obtained from several behavioral and biochemical studies suggested the existence of multiple CART receptors. However, identification of CART receptor binding has been largely unsuccessful until recently. The first evidence of CART signaling properties came from a study demonstrating that CART 55-102 inhibited voltage-dependent intracellular calcium signaling. More recent studies showed CART-induced dose- and time-dependent activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1 and 2 in AtT20 cell line. The activation of ERK was blocked by pertussis toxin but not genisten suggesting the involvement of Gi/o linked cascade in CART's signaling properties in AtT20 cells. Shortly after these findings, the evidence of CART 61-102 specific binding was obtained from the same cell line. This study demonstrated that [(125)I]-CART 61-102 was displaced only by active CART peptide but not by inactive CART fragments or several other unrelated peptides or drugs. The [(125)I]-CART 61-102 binding was saturable and it had a high affinity for a single site in AtT20 cells. The binding was also dependent on time, pH, temperature and protein concentration. The average (+/-S.E.M.) B(max) and K(d) values were 101.4+/-8.8 fmol/mg protein and 21.9+/-8.0 pM, respectively. These data indicate the existence of specific CART receptor binding in AtT20 cells where CART signaling has been demonstrated. The identification of a receptor clone in these cells may help us elucidate CART receptors in other tissues. Because CART is implicated with several physiological functions including feeding, drug reward and stress, identification of a CART receptor would provide a novel target for the development of pharmacological tools and drugs for obesity and other disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Vicentic
- Neuroscience Division, Yerkes National Primate Research Center of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wierup N, Björkqvist M, Kuhar MJ, Mulder H, Sundler F. CART regulates islet hormone secretion and is expressed in the beta-cells of type 2 diabetic rats. Diabetes 2006; 55:305-11. [PMID: 16443761 DOI: 10.2337/diabetes.55.02.06.db04-1383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) is an anorexigenic peptide widely expressed in the central, peripheral, and enteric nervous systems. CART is also expressed in endocrine cells, including beta-cells during rat development and delta-cells of adult rats. We examined the effect of CART 55-102 on islet hormone secretion, using INS-1(832/13) cells and isolated rat islets. In addition, islet CART expression was examined in two rat models of type 2 diabetes: Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats and dexamethasone (DEX)-treated rats. At high glucose, CART potentiated cAMP-enhanced insulin secretion via the cAMP/protein kinase A-dependent pathway. In the absence of cAMP-elevating agents, CART was without effect on INS-1 cells but modestly inhibited secretion of insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin from isolated islets. CART was markedly upregulated in the beta-cells of both diabetes models. Thus, in DEX-treated rats, islet CART mRNA expression, and the number of CART-immunoreactive beta-cells were 10-fold higher than in control rats. In GK rats, the relative number of CART-expressing beta-cells was 30-fold higher than in control rats. We conclude that CART is a regulator of islet hormone secretion and that CART is upregulated in the beta-cells of type 2 diabetic rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nils Wierup
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Division of Diabetes, Metabolism, and Endocrinology, Lund University, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kuhar MJ, Jaworski JN, Hubert GW, Philpot KB, Dominguez G. Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptides play a role in drug abuse and are potential therapeutic targets. AAPS JOURNAL 2005; 7:E259-65. [PMID: 16146347 PMCID: PMC2751515 DOI: 10.1208/aapsj070125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptides (55 to 102 and 62 to 102) are neurotransmitters with important roles in a number of physiologic processes. They have a role in drug abuse by virtue of the fact that they are modulators of mesolimbic function. Key findings supporting a role in drug abuse are as follows. First, high densities of CART-containing nerve terminals are localized in mesolimbic areas. Second, CART 55 to 102 blunts some of the behavioral effects of cocaine and dopamine (DA). This functional antagonism suggests that CART peptides be considered as targets for medications development. Third, CREB in the nucleus accumbens has been shown to have an opposing effect on cocaine self-administration. CREB may activate CART expression in that region, and, if so, CART may mediate at least some of the effects of CREB. Fourth, in addition to the effects of CART on DA, DA can influence CART in the accumbens. Thus a complex interacting circuitry likely exists. Fifth, in humans, CART is altered in the ventral tegmental area of cocaine overdose victims, and a mutation in the CART gene associates with alcoholism. Overall, it is clear that there are functional interactions among CART, DA, and cocaine and that plausible cellular mechanisms exist to explain some of these actions. Future studies will clarify and extend these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Kuhar
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Couceyro PR, Evans C, McKinzie A, Mitchell D, Dube M, Hagshenas L, White FJ, Douglass J, Richards WG, Bannon AW. Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript (CART) Peptides Modulate the Locomotor and Motivational Properties of Psychostimulants. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2005; 315:1091-100. [PMID: 16099925 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.105.091678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug addiction results from a subversion of neural circuits that control motivation. Although the hedonic and addictive properties of psychostimulants and drugs of abuse are predominantly attributed to dopamine and glutamate, it is appreciated that other signaling molecules in the brain are important. This study suggests that cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptides modulate the locomotor and motivational properties of psychostimulants. The behavioral effects of cocaine and amphetamine were examined in Carttm1Amgen knockout (Cart KO) and wild-type (WT) mice. Acute amphetamine administration increased in locomotor activity in WT mice, but this response was attenuated in Cart KO mice. Repeated amphetamine produced locomotor sensitization in WT mice but hardly any in Cart KO mice. Amphetamine elicited conditioned place preference in both genotypes, but amphetamine's potency was reduced in the Cart KO mice. Intravenous cocaine self-administration was observed in both genotypes, but Cart KO mice consumed less cocaine and responded less for cocaine than WT mice. The behavioral effects of psychostimulants were reduced in the mutant Cart KO mice. By contrast, open field activity and sucrose preference of drug-naive mice WT and Cart KO mice were not significantly different. The attenuated effects of amphetamine and cocaine in Cart KO mice suggest a positive neuromodulatory role for CART peptides in the locomotor and motivational properties of psychostimulants and implicate CART peptides in psychostimulant addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pastor R Couceyro
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science/Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Castañeda TR, Jürgens H, Wiedmer P, Pfluger P, Diano S, Horvath TL, Tang-Christensen M, Tschöp MH. Obesity and the neuroendocrine control of energy homeostasis: the role of spontaneous locomotor activity. J Nutr 2005; 135:1314-9. [PMID: 15867332 DOI: 10.1093/jn/135.5.1314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity represents one of the most urgent global health threats as well as one of the leading causes of death throughout industrialized nations. Efficacious and safe therapies remain at large. Attempts to decrease fat mass via pharmacological reduction of energy intake have had limited potency or intolerable side effects. Increasingly widespread sedentary lifestyle is often cited as a major contributor to the increasing prevalence of obesity. Moreover, low levels of spontaneous physical activity (SPA) are a major predictor of fat mass accumulation during overfeeding in humans, pointing to a substantial role for SPA in the control of energy balance. Despite this, very little is known about the molecular mechanisms by which SPA is regulated. The overview will attempt to summarize available information on neuroendocrine factors regulating SPA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara R Castañeda
- Obesity Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Loos RJF, Rankinen T, Tremblay A, Pérusse L, Chagnon Y, Bouchard C. Melanocortin-4 receptor gene and physical activity in the Québec Family Study. Int J Obes (Lond) 2005; 29:420-8. [PMID: 15597110 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijo.0802869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Physical inactivity is a risk factor for numerous chronic diseases. Low compliance with interventions to increase activity suggests involvement of biological systems. OBJECTIVE To examine whether sequence variants in genes encoding neuropeptides and receptors in the arcuate and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus contribute to variations in physical activity level in the Québec Family Study. METHODS We genotyped polymorphisms in the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R), melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R), neuropeptide-Y (NPY), neuropeptide-Y Y1 receptor (NPY Y1R), cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART), agouti-related protein (AGRP), and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) genes in 669 subjects (age (X+/-s.d.): parents: 52+/-3.4 y; offspring: 28+/-8.7 y). Total physical activity, moderate-to-strenuous activity, and inactivity phenotypes were estimated from a three-day record. The past year's physical activity level was assessed from a questionnaire. Associations between the physical activity phenotypes and the polymorphisms were analyzed using the MIXED model (SAS). RESULTS The MC4R-C-2745T variant showed significant associations with physical activity phenotypes. The lowest moderate-to-strenuous activity scores (P = 0.005) and the highest inactivity scores (P = 0.01) emerged in the T/T genotype. Exclusion of obese subjects increased the association. For inactivity, the association of the MC4R-C-2745T variant was strongest in the offspring (P = 0.002). The T/T offspring had both the highest inactivity score and the lowest body mass index. The CART-A1475G variant modified the associations with MC4R-C-2745T; T/T homozygotes had the lowest activity scores when they also had the A/A CART-A1475G genotype. No significant associations were observed with polymorphisms in the other neuropeptides. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that DNA sequence variation at the MC4R gene locus may contribute to the propensity to be sedentary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R J F Loos
- Human Genomics Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Smith SM, Vaughan JM, Donaldson CJ, Rivier J, Li C, Chen A, Vale WW. Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis through a corticotropin-releasing factor receptor-dependent mechanism. Endocrinology 2004; 145:5202-9. [PMID: 15271883 DOI: 10.1210/en.2004-0708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) is a highly expressed hypothalamic transcript that is concentrated in areas associated with the stress response. There is evidence for a role of CART in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. However, it is not clear whether CART regulates activity of the HPA axis by directly stimulating ACTH release from pituitary corticotropes or through interaction with hypothalamic factors. To address this issue, the effects of central and peripheral administration of CART on the HPA axis were compared. Central administration of CART(55-102) (1 microg) significantly increased circulating levels of ACTH (481 +/- 122 vs. 93 +/- 14 pg/ml; CART vs. vehicle) and corticosterone (460 +/- 29 vs. 179 +/- 62 ng/ml; CART vs. vehicle). In contrast, iv injection of CART(55-102) (0.09-9.0 nmol/kg) did not significantly affect circulating levels of ACTH or corticosterone. The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor antagonist Astressin B was used to determine whether CART(55-102) elicits ACTH secretion via a CRF receptor-dependent mechanism. Injection of Astressin B (50 microg/kg, iv) inhibited CART(55-102)-induced ACTH and corticosterone responses. The effects of CART(55-102) on CRF and arginine vasopressin (AVP) expression were also examined in static hypothalamic explants. RT-PCR analysis revealed a significant up-regulation of CRF and AVP mRNA levels after CART(55-102) (10 nm and 1 microm) treatment. Last, the effects of CART(55-102) on CRF- and AVP-mediated ACTH release was investigated in dispersed rat anterior pituitary cells. Incubation of CART(55-102) (10-100 nm) did not significantly affect ACTH release from anterior pituitary cells. Findings from the present study suggest that CART regulates activity of the HPA axis through a CRF-dependent central mechanism and not by means of direct interaction with pituitary corticotropes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Smith
- Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
CART (cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript) peptides are neurotransmitters that have received much attention as mediators of feeding behavior and body-weight regulation in mammals. CART peptides and their mRNAs are found in many brain regions and in peripheral tissues that are involved in feeding, and many animal studies implicate CART as an inhibitor of feeding. Animal studies also demonstrate that CART expression is regulated by both leptin and glucocorticoids, two hormones known to be associated with the regulation of body weight. A recent study also links a mutation in the CART gene to obesity in humans. These peptides might become targets for drug development in the area of obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard G Hunter
- Neuroscience Division, Yerkes National Research Center of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Dominguez G, Kuhar MJ. Transcriptional regulation of the CART promoter in CATH.a cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 126:22-9. [PMID: 15207912 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbrainres.2004.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Changes in Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript (CART) mRNA levels have been observed in brain as a result of various physiologic stimuli including feeding, drugs of abuse, stress and glucocorticoids, and activators of the cyclic AMP (cAMP) and protein kinase A (PKA) pathway. Accordingly, we are interested in identifying factors involved in CART gene regulation. CATH.a cells, derived from the locus coeruleus (LC), express a 213-bp CART mRNA species that is translated and processed. The promoter activity of three CART-LUC constructs containing 3451, 641, and 102 bp of 5' upstream sequence, respectively, were tested in CATH.a cells. cAMP regulation was detected in the construct containing 641 bp of CART promoter sequence which contains a consensus CRE site. Mutation of the CRE site within -641CART-LUC significantly reduced basal and forskolin-induced promoter activity. Additionally, forskolin-induced transcription was inhibited by a dominant-negative mutant of CRE-binding protein (CREB) in CATH.a cells. Finally, tropin-releasing factor (CRF), an endogenously occurring activator of the cAMP/PKA pathway in CATH.a cells, was shown to increase transcriptional activity that was inhibited by a CRF receptor antagonist and a PKA inhibitor. This study provides evidence that the CRE site in the CART proximal promoter is involved in cAMP/PKA/CREB regulation in cells having a neuronal phenotype. Also, given the evidence for involvement of CREB in reward and reinforcement, these results are compatible with a role for CART in these processes as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geraldina Dominguez
- Division of Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Center of Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Jaworski JN, Kozel MA, Philpot KB, Kuhar MJ. Intra-Accumbal Injection of CART (Cocaine-Amphetamine Regulated Transcript) Peptide Reduces Cocaine-Induced Locomotor Activity. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2003; 307:1038-44. [PMID: 14551286 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.103.052332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that CART (cocaine-amphetamine regulated transcript) peptides are mediators or modulators of the actions of psychostimulant drugs. In this study, the effects of intra-accumbal injections of rat long form (rl) CART 55-102 were examined. Injection of the peptide alone had no effect, but pretreatment with the peptide blunted or reduced the locomotor-inducing effects of cocaine after an i.p. injection. This effect was dose related and time limited, as expected. rlCART 1-27, a CART peptide fragment not active in other studies, was without effect on cocaine-induced locomotor activity. Because the actions of cocaine involve dopamine, the effect of rlCART 55-102 on dopamine-induced locomotor activity was examined. Intraaccumbal injection of dopamine produced a dose-related and time-limited increase in locomotor activity, as expected. Coinjection of rlCART 55-102 with dopamine blunted the effect. In summary, these data suggest that CART peptides in the nucleus accumbens would tend to oppose the actions of cocaine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason N Jaworski
- Division of Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center of Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ekblad E, Kuhar M, Wierup N, Sundler F. Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript: distribution and function in rat gastrointestinal tract. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2003; 15:545-57. [PMID: 14507354 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2982.2003.00437.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide, originally isolated from brain, is also expressed in the peripheral nervous system. The distribution, origin and projections of CART-expressing enteric neurones by immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization in rat gastrointestinal (GI) tract were studied. Possible motor functions of CART were studied in vitro using longitudinal muscle strips from stomach, ileum and colon. Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptide was found in numerous myenteric neurones throughout the GI tract while CART-expressing submucous neurones were scarce. Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript was also expressed in the antral gastrin cells. Myenteric CART-expressing neurones in both small and large intestine issued short descending projections. In atrophic ileum, CART mRNA-expressing neurones increased in number while neurones containing CART peptide decreased. In hypertrophied ileum, no change in CART peptide or CART mRNA containing myenteric neurones was detected. Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript 55-102 (10(-9)-10(-7) mol L-1) did not induce any contractile or relaxatory responses in the muscle strips, neither did it affect responses induced by vasoactive intestinal peptide, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide or neuronal stimulation. In colonic, but not in ileal, strips addition of CART attenuated nitric oxide (NO) donor-induced relaxations. Although CART does not seem to play a pivotal role in classic neurotransmission to the longitudinal muscle, it may serve a modulatory role in NO transmission. It may, moreover, be involved in intestinal adaptation, and an additional hormonal role is also possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Ekblad
- Department of Physiological Sciences, BMC F10, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Marie-Claire C, Laurendeau I, Canestrelli C, Courtin C, Vidaud M, Roques B, Noble F. Fos but not Cart (cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript) is overexpressed by several drugs of abuse: a comparative study using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in rat brain. Neurosci Lett 2003; 345:77-80. [PMID: 12821175 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(03)00307-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
It has been reported that cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript (Cart) peptides can increase locomotor activity and produce a conditioned place preference. To establish whether or not Cart can be consider as a valuable marker of addiction we performed a comparative study of the expression of Cart and Fos genes by several drugs of abuse. This was achieved using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in four rat brain structures: prefrontal cortex, caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens and hippocampus. As expected, a significant induction of the immediate early gene Fos was observed after acute administration of morphine, cocaine, 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine and Delta(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol. On the contrary none of these drugs was able to produce a significant change in Cart mRNA levels demonstrating that the expression of this gene is not modulated by drugs of abuse in these brain structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Marie-Claire
- Departement de Pharmacochimie Moleculaire et Structurale, INSERM U266, CNRS FRE 2463, Universite René Descartes-Paris V, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75270 Paris Cedex 06, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Jaworski JN, Vicentic A, Hunter RG, Kimmel HL, Kuhar MJ. CART peptides are modulators of mesolimbic dopamine and psychostimulants. Life Sci 2003; 73:741-7. [PMID: 12801595 DOI: 10.1016/s0024-3205(03)00394-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
CART peptide produces behavioral effects when injected into the VTA or nucleus accumbens. In the VTA, the peptide behaves like an endogenous psychostimulant and produces increased locomotor activity and conditioned place preference. Since this is blocked by dopamine receptor blockers, it presumably involves release of dopamine. But in the nucleus accumbens, CART peptide reduces the locomotor-increasing effects of cocaine. This suggests that the peptide is an interesting target for medications development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J N Jaworski
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center of Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|