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Faraji M, Viera-Resto OA, Berrios BJ, Bizon JL, Setlow B. Effects of systemic oxytocin receptor activation and blockade on risky decision making in female and male rats. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.593981. [PMID: 38798601 PMCID: PMC11118492 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.593981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin is traditionally known for its roles in parturition, lactation, and social behavior. Other data, however, show that oxytocin can modulate behaviors outside of these contexts, including drug self-administration and some aspects of cost-benefit decision making. Here we used a pharmacological approach to investigate the contributions of oxytocin signaling to decision making under risk of explicit punishment. Female and male Long-Evans rats were trained on a risky decision-making task in which they chose between a small, "safe" food reward and a large, "risky" food reward that was accompanied by varying probabilities of mild footshock. Once stable choice behavior emerged, rats were tested in the task following acute intraperitoneal injections of oxytocin or the oxytocin receptor antagonist L-368,899. Neither drug affected task performance in males. In females, however, both oxytocin and L-368,899 caused a dose-dependent reduction in preference for large risky reward. Control experiments showed that these effects could not be accounted for by alterations in food motivation or shock sensitivity. Together, these results reveal a sex-dependent effect of oxytocin signaling on risky decision making in rats.
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Proskynitopoulos PJ, Bleich S, Muschler MAN, Buchholz V, Frieling H, Glahn A, Rhein M. Methylation of the Oxytocin, Oxytocin Receptor, and Vasopressin Gene Promoters in Tobacco Use Disorder during Cessation. Neuropsychobiology 2024; 83:28-40. [PMID: 38185116 PMCID: PMC10871687 DOI: 10.1159/000535663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OT) exert sex-specific effects on social pair bonding and stress reactions while also influencing craving in substance use disorders. In this regard, intranasal oxytocin (OT) and AVP antagonists present potential treatments for tobacco use disorder (TUD). Since transcription of both hormones is also regulated by gene methylation, we hypothesized sex-specific changes in methylation levels of the AVP, OT, and OT receptor (OXTR) gene during nicotine withdrawal. METHODS The study population consisted of 49 smokers (29 males, 20 females) and 51 healthy non-smokers (25 males, 26 females). Blood was drawn at day 1, day 7, and day 14 of smoking cessation. Craving was assessed with the questionnaire on smoking urges (QSU). RESULTS Throughout cessation, mean methylation of the OT promoter gene increased in males and decreased in females. OXTR receptor methylation decreased in females, while in males it was significantly lower at day 7. Regarding the AVP promoter, mean methylation increased in males while there were no changes in females. Using mixed linear modeling, CpG position, time point, sex, and the interaction of time point and sex as well as time point, sex, and QSU had a significant fixed effect on OT and AVP gene methylation. The interaction effect suggests that sex, time point, and QSU are interrelated, meaning that, depending on the sex, methylation could be different at different time points and vice versa. There was no significant effect of QSU on mean OXTR methylation. DISCUSSION We identified differences at specific CpGs between controls and smokers in OT and AVP and in overall methylation of the AVP gene. Furthermore, we found sex-specific changes in mean methylation levels of the mentioned genes throughout smoking cessation, underlining the relevance of sex in the OT and vasopressin system. This is the first study on epigenetic regulation of the OT promoter in TUD. Our results have implications for research on the utility of the AVP and OT system for treating substance craving. Future studies on both targets need to analyze their effect in the context of sex, social factors, and gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan Bleich
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Vanessa Buchholz
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuroscience, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Helge Frieling
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuroscience, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alexander Glahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mathias Rhein
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuroscience, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Luo M, Gan Q, Fu Y, Chen Z. Cue-reactivity targeted smoking cessation intervention in individuals with tobacco use disorder: a scoping review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1167283. [PMID: 37743997 PMCID: PMC10512743 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1167283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Cue-reactivity is a critical step leading to the emergence of addictive psychology and the triggering of addictive behaviors within the framework of addiction theory and is considered a significant risk factor for addiction-related behaviors. However, the effect of cue-reactivity targeted smoking cessation intervention and the cue-reactivity paradigms used in the randomized controlled trials varies, which introduces more heterogeneity and makes a side-by-side comparison of cessation responses difficult. Therefore, the scoping review aims to integrate existing research and identify evidence gaps. Methods We searched databases in English (PubMed and Embase) and Chinese (CNKI and Wanfang) using terms synonymous with 'cue' and 'tobacco use disorder (TUD)' to April 2023, and via hand-searching and reference screening of included studies. Studies were included if they were randomized controlled trials taking cue-reactivity as an indicator for tobacco use disorder (TUD) defined by different kinds of criteria. Results Data were extracted on each study's country, population, methods, timeframes, outcomes, cue-reactivity paradigms, and so on. Of the 2,944 literature were retrieved, 201 studies met the criteria and were selected for full-text screening. Finally, 67 pieces of literature were selected for inclusion and data extraction. The results mainly revealed that non-invasive brain stimulation and exercise therapy showed a trend of greater possibility in reducing subjective craving compared to the remaining therapies, despite variations in the number of research studies conducted in each category. And cue-reactivity paradigms vary in materials and mainly fall into two main categories: behaviorally induced craving paradigm or visually induced craving paradigm. Conclusion The current studies are still inadequate in terms of comparability due to their heterogeneity, cue-reactivity can be conducted in the future by constructing a standard library of smoking cue materials. Causal analysis is suggested in order to adequately screen for causes of addiction persistence, and further explore the specific objective cue-reactivity-related indicators of TUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaoling Luo
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Quan Gan
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Yu Fu
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Zhuangfei Chen
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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4
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Mellentin AI, Finn SW, Skøt L, Thaysen-Petersen D, Mistarz N, Fink-Jensen A, Nielsen DG. The Effectiveness of Oxytocin for Treating Substance Use Disorders:A Systematic Review of Randomized Placebo-controlled Trials. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 151:105185. [PMID: 37119993 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin is gaining traction in the treatment of various substance use disorders (SUD). We performed a systematic review assessing the efficacy of oxytocin for treating different SUD. The electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched for randomized controlled trials examining the effects of oxytocin vs. placebo in SUD samples. Quality assessment was conducted using a Cochrane validated checklist. A total of 17 trials with unique samples were identified. These were conducted on participants with SUD involving alcohol (n = 5), opioids (n = 3), opioids and/or cocaine/other stimulants (n = 3), cannabis (n = 2), or nicotine (n = 4). Across the SUD-groups, oxytocin reduced withdrawal symptoms (3/5 trials), negative emotional states (4/11 trials), cravings (4/11 trials), cue-induced cravings (4/7 trials), and consumption (4/8 trials). Sixteen trials had an overall considerable risk of bias. In conclusion, although oxytocin showed some promising therapeutic effects, the findings are too inconsistent and the trials too heterogeneous to derive any firm conclusions. Sounder methodological and well-powered trials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Isabella Mellentin
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research (UCAR), University of Southern Denmark. Denmark; Department of Psychiatry, Odense University Hospital, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence (BRIDGE), Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Center for Digital Psychiatry (CDP), Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark.
| | - Sara Wallhed Finn
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research (UCAR), University of Southern Denmark. Denmark; Unit of Epidemiology of Psychiatric Conditions, Substance use and Social Environment (EPiCSS), Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Lotte Skøt
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research (UCAR), University of Southern Denmark. Denmark
| | - Daniel Thaysen-Petersen
- Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Nicolaj Mistarz
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research (UCAR), University of Southern Denmark. Denmark
| | - Anders Fink-Jensen
- Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Dorthe Grüner Nielsen
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research (UCAR), University of Southern Denmark. Denmark; Drug Treatment Center Odense, Odense C, Denmark
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The dual neural effects of oxytocin in autistic youth: results from a randomized trial. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16304. [PMID: 36175473 PMCID: PMC9523043 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19524-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent discoveries have highlighted the effects of oxytocin (OT) on social behavior and perception among autistic individuals. However, a gap persists in the literature regarding the potential effects of OT and the neural temporal dynamics due to OT administration. We explored the effect of OT on autistic individuals using magnetoencephalography (MEG), focusing on M100, M170, and M250, social perception-related components that tend to show atypical patterns in autistic individuals. Twenty-five autistic adolescents participated in this randomized, double-blind MEG study. Autistic individuals arrived at the lab twice and received an acute dose of intranasal OT or placebo in each session. During the scans, participants were asked to identify pictures of social and non-social stimuli. Additionally, 23 typically developing (TD) adolescents performed the same task in the MEG as a benchmark that allowed us to better characterize neural regions of interest and behavioral results for this age group in this task. A source-model beamformer analysis revealed that OT enhanced neural activity for social stimuli in frontal regions during M170. Additionally, in each of the preselected time windows, OT increased activation in the left hemisphere, regardless of the content of the presented stimuli. We suggest that OT increased the processing of social stimuli through two separate mechanisms. First, OT increased neural activity in a nonspecific manner, allowing increased allocation of attention toward the stimuli. Second, OT enhanced M170 activity in frontal regions only in response to social stimuli. These results reveal the temporal dynamics of the effects of OT on the early stages of social and non-social perception in autistic adolescents. Trial registration: This study was a part of a project registered as clinical trial October 27th, 2021. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05096676.
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Houghton B, Kouimtsidis C, Duka T, Paloyelis Y, Bailey A. Can intranasal oxytocin reduce craving in automated addictive behaviours? A systematic review. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:4316-4334. [PMID: 34235724 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Existing pharmacotherapies for managing craving, a strong predictor of relapse to automated addictive behaviours, are limited in efficacy and characterised by increased health risks associated with their pharmacological profile. Preclinical studies have identified oxytocin as a promising pharmacotherapy with anticraving properties for addictive behaviours. Here, we provide the first systematic review of 17 human studies (n = 722; 30% female) investigating the efficacy of intranasal oxytocin to reduce craving or consumption in addictive behaviours. We identify intranasal oxytocin as a method that warrants further investigation regarding its capacity to decrease cue-induced, acute stress-induced or withdrawal-related craving and relapse related to alcohol, cannabis, opioids, cocaine or nicotine, including a potential role as ad hoc medication following exposure to drug-related cues. Future studies should investigate the role of factors such as treatment regimens and sample characteristics, including the role of the amygdala, which we propose as a distinct mechanism mediating oxytocin's anticraving properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Houghton
- Pharmacology Section, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Theodora Duka
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Yannis Paloyelis
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alexis Bailey
- Pharmacology Section, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, London, UK
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Bardo MT, Hammerslag LR, Malone SG. Effect of early life social adversity on drug abuse vulnerability: Focus on corticotropin-releasing factor and oxytocin. Neuropharmacology 2021; 191:108567. [PMID: 33862030 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Early life adversity can set the trajectory for later psychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders. There are a host of neurobiological factors that may play a role in the negative trajectory. The current review examines preclinical evidence suggesting that early life adversity specifically involving social factors (maternal separation, adolescent social isolation and adolescent social defeat) may influence drug abuse vulnerability by strengthening corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) systems and weakening oxytocin (OT) systems. In adulthood, pharmacological and genetic evidence indicates that both CRF and OT systems are directly involved in drug reward processes. With early life adversity, numerous studies show an increase in drug abuse vulnerability measured in adulthood, along a concomitant strengthening of CRF systems and a weakening of OT systems. Mechanistic studies, while relatively few in number, are generally consistent with the theme that strengthened CRF systems and weakened OT systems mediate, at least in part, the link between early life adversity and drug abuse vulnerability. Establishing a direct role of CRF and OT in mediating the relation between early life social stressors and drug abuse vulnerability will inform clinical researchers and practitioners toward the development of intervention strategies to reduce risk among those suffering from early life adversities. This article is part of the special issue on 'Vulnerabilities to Substance Abuse'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Bardo
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536-0509, USA.
| | - Lindsey R Hammerslag
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536-0509, USA
| | - Samantha G Malone
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536-0509, USA
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Sanna F, De Luca MA. The potential role of oxytocin in addiction: What is the target process? Curr Opin Pharmacol 2021; 58:8-20. [PMID: 33845377 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin regulates a variety of centrally-mediated functions, ranging from socio-sexual behavior, maternal care, and affiliation to fear, stress, anxiety. In the past years, both clinical and preclinical studies characterized oxytocin for its modulatory role on reward-related neural substrates mainly involving the interplay with the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopaminergic pathways. This suggests a role of this nonapeptide on the neurobiology of addiction raising the possibility of its therapeutic use. Although far from a precise knowledge of the underlying mechanisms, the putative role of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis as a key structure where oxytocin may rebalance altered neurochemical processes and neuroplasticity involved in dependence and relapse has been highlighted. This view opens new opportunities to address the health problems related to drug misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Cagliari 09042, Italy
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9
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Kapetaniou GE, Reinhard MA, Christian P, Jobst A, Tobler PN, Padberg F, Soutschek A. The role of oxytocin in delay of gratification and flexibility in non-social decision making. eLife 2021; 10:e61844. [PMID: 33821797 PMCID: PMC8024008 DOI: 10.7554/elife.61844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is well-known for its impact on social cognition. This specificity for the social domain, however, has been challenged by findings suggesting a domain-general allostatic function for oxytocin by promoting future-oriented and flexible behavior. In this pre-registered study, we tested the hypothesized domain-general function of oxytocin by assessing the impact of intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) on core aspects of human social (inequity aversion) and non-social decision making (delay of gratification and cognitive flexibility) in 49 healthy volunteers (within-subject design). In intertemporal choice, patience was higher under oxytocin than under placebo, although this difference was evident only when restricting the analysis to the first experimental session (between-group comparison) due to carry-over effects. Further, oxytocin increased cognitive flexibility in reversal learning as well as generosity under conditions of advantageous but not disadvantageous inequity. Our findings show that oxytocin affects both social and non-social decision making, supporting theoretical accounts of domain-general functions of oxytocin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Eleni Kapetaniou
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
- Graduate School for Systemic Neurosciences, Department of Biology, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
| | - Matthias A Reinhard
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
| | - Patricia Christian
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
- Graduate School for Systemic Neurosciences, Department of Biology, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
| | - Andrea Jobst
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
| | - Philippe N Tobler
- Zurich Center for Neuroeconomics, Department of Economics, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Frank Padberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
| | - Alexander Soutschek
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
- Graduate School for Systemic Neurosciences, Department of Biology, Ludwig Maximilian University MunichMunichGermany
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Ferrer-Pérez C, Reguilón MD, Miñarro J, Rodríguez-Arias M. Oxytocin Signaling as a Target to Block Social Defeat-Induced Increases in Drug Abuse Reward. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052372. [PMID: 33673448 PMCID: PMC7956822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is huge scientific interest in the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) due to its putative capacity to modulate a wide spectrum of physiological and cognitive processes including motivation, learning, emotion, and the stress response. The present review seeks to increase the understanding of the role of OXT in an individual’s vulnerability or resilience with regard to developing a substance use disorder. It places specific attention on the role of social stress as a risk factor of addiction, and explores the hypothesis that OXT constitutes a homeostatic response to stress that buffers against its negative impact. For this purpose, the review summarizes preclinical and clinical literature regarding the effects of OXT in different stages of the addiction cycle. The current literature affirms that a well-functioning oxytocinergic system has protective effects such as the modulation of the initial response to drugs of abuse, the attenuation of the development of dependence, the blunting of drug reinstatement and a general anti-stress effect. However, this system is dysregulated if there is continuous drug use or chronic exposure to stress. In this context, OXT is emerging as a promising pharmacotherapy to restore its natural beneficial effects in the organism and to help rebalance the functions of the addicted brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Ferrer-Pérez
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, C/Ciudad Escolar s/n, 44003 Teruel, Spain;
| | - Marina D. Reguilón
- Unit of Research Psychobiology of Drug Dependence, Department of Psychobiology, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibáñez, 21, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.R.); (J.M.)
| | - José Miñarro
- Unit of Research Psychobiology of Drug Dependence, Department of Psychobiology, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibáñez, 21, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Marta Rodríguez-Arias
- Unit of Research Psychobiology of Drug Dependence, Department of Psychobiology, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibáñez, 21, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.D.R.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence:
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Melby K, Gråwe RW, Aamo TO, Skovlund E, Spigset O. Efficacy of Self-Administered Intranasal Oxytocin on Alcohol Use and Craving After Detoxification in Patients With Alcohol Dependence. A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial. Alcohol Alcohol 2020; 56:565-572. [PMID: 33352584 PMCID: PMC8406061 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agaa133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of self-administered intranasal oxytocin on alcohol dependence after detoxification. Methods In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 38 patients fulfilling the criteria for ICD-10 diagnosis of alcohol dependence received either 8 IU oxytocin or placebo at their own discretion up to thrice daily for 4 weeks, after completing detoxification. Primary outcome was alcohol intake specified as the amount of alcohol consumed, the number of days to relapse into alcohol use and the proportion of subjects relapsing. Secondary outcomes were self-reported symptoms of craving, sleep and mental distress. Results There were no significant differences between the oxytocin group and the placebo group in daily alcohol intake in total (mean 1.3 ± 2.9 vs. 2.0 ± 5.0 units; P = 0.63) or on drinking days (mean 8.4 ± 2.7 vs. 7.7 ± 6.0 units; P = 0.76), in the number of days until relapse (P = 0.91) or in the proportion of subjects relapsing (37.5 vs. 41.2%; P = 0.84). Neither were there any statistically significant differences in any other outcomes, except a larger decrease in self-reported nervousness in the oxytocin group (P = 0.022). Conclusion The results were inconclusive as to whether intranasal oxytocin reduced the time to relapse, degree of craving or total amount of alcohol consumed after detoxification. However, the oxytocin group had a larger decrease in self-reported nervousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine Melby
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology - NTNU, Trondheim, Norway.,Blue Cross Lade Addiction Treatment Centre, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rolf W Gråwe
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology - NTNU, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Research and Development, Division of Psychiatry, St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Trond O Aamo
- Blue Cross Lade Addiction Treatment Centre, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Eva Skovlund
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology - NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Olav Spigset
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology - NTNU, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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12
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Examining sex, adverse childhood experiences, and oxytocin on neuroendocrine reactivity in smokers. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 120:104752. [PMID: 32634745 PMCID: PMC7502468 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are associated with greater neuroendocrine responses to social stress in substance users. The neuropeptide oxytocin might attenuate this relationship. Given sex differences in ACE exposure and neuroendocrine stress reactivity, it is unknown whether this association is similar for males and females. Therefore, this secondary analysis evaluated the interactive effect of sex, ACE, and acute oxytocin administration on neuroendocrine stress responses in adult cigarette smokers (N = 144). Participants completed the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire at screening and were randomized to receive intranasal oxytocin or placebo before undergoing the Trier Social Stress Task (TSST). Cortisol levels were assessed at pre- and post-medication administration and at 20 and 40 min following the TSST. Generalized linear mixed models were developed to predict post-TSST cortisol levels. Predictors included treatment assignment (placebo vs. oxytocin), sex (male vs. female), ACE (0-10 total score), pre-medication cortisol levels, and minutes since medication administration. The hypothesized three-way interaction between sex, oxytocin, and ACE scores was significant. Linear associations between ACE scores and cortisol reactivity indicated higher ACE scores were associated with attenuated cortisol response in females, regardless of treatment condition. For males, higher ACE scores were associated with heightened cortisol response, an effect that was attenuated by oxytocin. Results indicate that the association between ACE and neuroendocrine reactivity to social stress, as well as the attenuating effect of oxytocin, is differentially impacted by sex. Males with greater childhood adversity may be more likely to benefit from oxytocin's anxiolytic properties.
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Van Hedger K, Bershad AK, Lee R, de Wit H. Effects of Intranasal Oxytocin on Stress-Induced Cigarette Craving in Daily Smokers. Nicotine Tob Res 2020; 22:89-95. [PMID: 30085292 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/nty159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cigarette smoking is a well-known public health concern, and there is an urgent need to develop new treatments to reduce smoking or facilitate abstinence. One factor that is known to contribute to relapse is stress, making the stress response an important target for treatment. The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) is believed to have stress-reducing effects, and in addition there is evidence that it reduces drug craving. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of intranasal OT on stress-induced cigarette craving in regular smokers after 12 h of abstinence. METHOD Daily smokers (n = 48) completed a stress induction task and a nonstressful control task at two different sessions, receiving intranasal OT (40 IU) or placebo (PBO) before or after the task. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Group PP (n = 16) received PBO before and after the stress/control tasks, Group OP (n = 16) received OT before the tasks and PBO after, and Group PO (n = 16) received PBO before the tasks and OT shortly after completing the tasks. Cigarette craving as well as subjective and physiological responses to stress was assessed. RESULTS OT did not alter responses to stress, whether it was administered before or after the stressful task, on measures of cigarette craving, anxiety, heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels. CONCLUSIONS The current study findings do not support several previous reports that OT reduced either stress or drug craving. IMPLICATIONS This study finds a null result of the neuropeptide oxytocin on stress-induced cigarette craving. Reporting null findings is part of the process of identifying potential treatments for addictive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryne Van Hedger
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Anya K Bershad
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Royce Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Harriet de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Sherman BJ, Baker NL, Brady KT, Joseph JE, Nunn LM, McRae-Clark A. The effect of oxytocin, gender, and ovarian hormones on stress reactivity in individuals with cocaine use disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:2031-2042. [PMID: 32388622 PMCID: PMC8210538 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05516-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is associated with dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which plays a critical role in the human stress response. Men and women with CUD differ in reactivity to social stressors. The hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin is involved in anxiolytic and natural reward processes, and has shown therapeutic potential for addictive disorders and stress reduction. OBJECTIVES To examine the impact of oxytocin (oxytocin (OXY) vs. placebo (PBO)) and gender (female (F) vs. male (M)) on response to a social stress task in individuals with CUD. To explore whether ovarian hormones moderate this stress response. METHODS One hundred twelve adults with CUD were randomized to receive 40 IU intranasal oxytocin (n = 56) or matching placebo (n = 56). Forty minutes after drug administration, participants were exposed to a social stressor. Generalized linear mixed models were used to examine neuroendocrine (cortisol) and subjective (craving, stress) response at pre-stressor, stressor + 0, + 10, + 30, + 60 min. RESULTS Gender moderated the effect of oxytocin on neuroendocrine response (p = 0.048); women receiving oxytocin (F + OXY) showed blunted cortisol response compared to the other three groups (F + PBO; M + OXY; M + PBO). There was a main effect of gender on subjective stress response; women reported greater stress following the stressor compared to men (p = 0.016). Oxytocin had no significant effect on craving or stress, and gender did not moderate the effect of oxytocin on either measure. Higher endogenous progesterone was associated with lower craving response in women (p = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS Oxytocin may have differential effects in men and women with CUD. Women may be at greater risk for relapse in response to social stressors, but ovarian hormones may attenuate this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Sherman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 125 Doughty Street, Suite 190, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
| | - Nathaniel L Baker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Kathleen T Brady
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 125 Doughty Street, Suite 190, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jane E Joseph
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA
| | - Lisa M Nunn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 125 Doughty Street, Suite 190, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Aimee McRae-Clark
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 125 Doughty Street, Suite 190, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
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Peris J, Steck MR, Krause EG. Oxytocin treatment for alcoholism: Potential neurocircuitry targets. Neuropharmacology 2020; 171:108091. [PMID: 32304701 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) has gained considerable interest in recent years as a potential treatment for alcoholism and other substance use disorders. Evidence continues to mount that OT administered either centrally, peripherally or intranasally can decrease ethanol intake in both humans and animal models. The potential mechanisms for the ability of OT to decrease ethanol reward, and importantly, cue- and stress-induced ethanol relapse, are explored by reviewing the specific neuronal circuits involved in mediating these actions and their sensitivity to OT. In addition to dopamine neurons that project from ventral tegmental area (VTA) to nucleus accumbens (NAc) to signal positively reinforcing events, OT receptors (OxTR) are also expressed by dopamine neurons that project from VTA to brain regions that can convey aversive properties of a stimulus. Moreover, OxTR are expressed by non-dopaminergic neurons in the VTA, such as GABA and glutamate neurons, which can both modulate the activity of dopamine VTA neurons locally (in opposite directions) or can project to other brain regions, including the NAc, where it can alter either positive reinforcement or aversion caused by ethanol. The ability of OT to regulate limbic circuitry and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is discussed as a potential mechanism for the ability of OT to inhibit ethanol-induced negative reinforcement. Together, understanding the diversity and complexity of OT regulation of ethanol reward may contribute to more effective use of OT as pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder. This article is part of the special issue on Neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Peris
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
| | - Madeline R Steck
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Eric G Krause
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
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Van Hedger K, Kushner MJ, Lee R, de Wit H. Oxytocin Reduces Cigarette Consumption in Daily Smokers. Nicotine Tob Res 2020; 21:799-804. [PMID: 29701814 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/nty080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite widespread knowledge of the dangers of cigarette consumption, smoking continues to be a public health concern. One compound that has shown potential for treatment in preclinical models is the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT). The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of intranasal oxytocin on cigarette craving, behavioral economic demand for cigarettes, and cigarette consumption, in regular smokers after 18 hours of abstinence. METHOD Otherwise healthy daily smokers (n = 35) completed two sessions where they received OT (40 IU intranasal) or placebo (PBO) and completed measures of craving and cigarette demand, and they were given six opportunities to smoke partial cigarettes in exchange for money. RESULTS On average participants smoked few cigarettes after receiving OT than after receiving PBO, and they reported less desire for additional cigarettes during the smoking period. OT did not affect cigarette demand or standardized measures of cigarette craving. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that OT decreases some indices of smoking desire and consumption, providing modest support for the idea that OT might be effective for reducing cigarette smoking. IMPLICATIONS This study provides new evidence that oxytocin might have clinical value in the treatment of addictive disorders, in this case tobacco addiction. The study adds to a growing literature suggesting that this neuropeptide, which is mainly known for its role in social bonding and attachment, may also affect mood and motivational states relevant to addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryne Van Hedger
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Meredith J Kushner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Royce Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Harriet de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Actigraphy assessment of motor activity and sleep in patients with alcohol withdrawal syndrome and the effects of intranasal oxytocin. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228700. [PMID: 32053696 PMCID: PMC7018062 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The alcohol withdrawal syndrome increases autonomic activation and stress in patients during detoxification, leading to alterations in motor activity and sleep irregularities. Intranasal oxytocin has been proposed as a possible treatment of acute alcohol withdrawal. The aim of the present study was to explore whether actigraphy could be used as a tool to register symptoms during alcohol detoxification, whether oxytocin affected actigraphy variables related to motor activity and sleep compared to placebo during detoxification, and whether actigraphy-recorded motor function during detoxification was different from that in healthy controls. Methods This study was a part of a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 40 patients with alcohol use disorder admitted for acute detoxification were included. Of these, 20 received insufflations with intranasal oxytocin and 20 received placebo. Outcomes were actigraphy-recorded motor activity during 5-hour sequences following the insufflations and a full 24-hour period, as well as actigraphy-recorded sleep. Results were related to clinical variables of alcohol intake and withdrawal, including self-reported sleep. Finally, the actigraphy results were compared to those in a group of 34 healthy individuals. Results There were no significant differences between the oxytocin group and the placebo group for any of actigraphy variables registered. Neither were there any correlations between actigraphy-recorded motor function and clinical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but there was a significant association between self-reported and actigraphy-recorded sleep. Compared to healthy controls, motor activity during alcohol withdrawal was lower in the evenings and showed increased variability. Conclusion Intranasal oxytocin did not affect actigraphy-recorded motor activity nor sleep in patients with acute alcohol withdrawal. There were no findings indicating that actigraphy can be used to evaluate the degree of withdrawal symptoms during detoxification. However, patients undergoing acute alcohol withdrawal had a motor activity pattern different from than in healthy controls.
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McClure EA, Baker NL, Gray KM, Hood CO, Tomko RL, Carpenter MJ, Ramakrishnan VR, Buchanan CJ, Saladin ME. The influence of gender and oxytocin on stress reactivity, cigarette craving, and smoking in a randomized, placebo-controlled laboratory relapse paradigm. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:543-555. [PMID: 31792646 PMCID: PMC7024045 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05392-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Female cigarette smokers tend to show greater cessation failure compared with males. Variables that contribute to the maintenance of smoking, including stress and craving, may differentially impact male and female smokers. Novel pharmacotherapies, such as oxytocin, may attenuate stress reactivity and craving in smokers, but work in this area is limited. OBJECTIVES This study assessed the influence of gender and oxytocin on stress reactivity, craving, and smoking in a randomized, placebo-controlled laboratory relapse paradigm. METHODS Male and female adult cigarette smokers (ages 18-45) were enrolled (women oversampled 2:1) and completed a laboratory session, in which intranasal oxytocin or placebo was administered followed by a laboratory social stress task. The role of gender and oxytocin were assessed on measures of stress reactivity, cigarette craving, latency to smoke in a resistance task, subjective responses to smoking, and ad-libitum smoking. RESULTS Participants (N = 144) had a mean age of 31 were 63% female and 56% White. Following stress induction, female smokers evidenced greater subjective stress than males, though males demonstrated greater neuroendocrine reactivity and smoking intensity than females. No gender differences were demonstrated for craving. Oxytocin did not attenuate any aspect of stress reactivity, craving, smoking, or subjective responses to smoking compared with placebo. CONCLUSIONS Gender differences in stress reactivity were shown in the hypothesized direction, but oxytocin appeared to exert little impact on subjective or behavioral metrics. Results highlight the complex relationship between gender, stress, and smoking, as well as the implications for oxytocin as a potential pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A McClure
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Nathaniel L Baker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Kevin M Gray
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Caitlyn O Hood
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Rachel L Tomko
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Matthew J Carpenter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Viswanathan R Ramakrishnan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Cole J Buchanan
- College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Michael E Saladin
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Wang P, Wang SC, Yang H, Lv C, Jia S, Liu X, Wang X, Meng D, Qin D, Zhu H, Wang YF. Therapeutic Potential of Oxytocin in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:454. [PMID: 31178679 PMCID: PMC6537480 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cardiovascular disease responsible for high morbidity and mortality worldwide. The major pathophysiological basis of CAD is atherosclerosis in association with varieties of immunometabolic disorders that can suppress oxytocin (OT) receptor (OTR) signaling in the cardiovascular system (CVS). By contrast, OT not only maintains cardiovascular integrity but also has the potential to suppress and even reverse atherosclerotic alterations and CAD. These protective effects of OT are associated with its protection of the heart and blood vessels from immunometabolic injuries and the resultant inflammation and apoptosis through both peripheral and central approaches. As a result, OT can decelerate the progression of atherosclerosis and facilitate the recovery of CVS from these injuries. At the cellular level, the protective effect of OT on CVS involves a broad array of OTR signaling events. These signals mainly belong to the reperfusion injury salvage kinase pathway that is composed of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-endothelial nitric oxide synthase cascades and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2. Additionally, AMP-activated protein kinase, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase signaling and many others are also implicated in OTR signaling in the CVS protection. These signaling events interact coordinately at many levels to suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines and the activation of apoptotic pathways. A particular target of these signaling events is endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and mitochondrial oxidative stress that interact through mitochondria-associated ER membrane. In contrast to these protective effects and machineries, rare but serious cardiovascular disturbances were also reported in labor induction and animal studies including hypotension, reflexive tachycardia, coronary spasm or thrombosis and allergy. Here, we review our current understanding of the protective effect of OT against varieties of atherosclerotic etiologies as well as the approaches and underlying mechanisms of these effects. Moreover, potential cardiovascular disturbances following OT application are also discussed to avoid unwanted effects in clinical trials of OT usages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Stephani C Wang
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Haipeng Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Forth Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chunmei Lv
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuwei Jia
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoran Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dexin Meng
- Department of Physiology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Danian Qin
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University of Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Solomon DT, Nietert PJ, Calhoun C, Smith DW, Back SE, Barden E, Brady KT, Flanagan JC. Effects of Oxytocin on Emotional and Physiological Responses to Conflict in Couples with Substance Misuse. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 7:91-102. [PMID: 30740265 DOI: 10.1037/cfp0000103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Social stress, especially dyadic conflict among couples, is an important correlate of addiction. Several authors have suggested that the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) may be useful in the treatment of couples with substance misuse. However, the literature examining OT among couples is scant and has yielded mixed findings. The current study examined the effects of OT versus placebo on emotional (e.g., warmth and anger) and physiological (e.g., skin conductance and heart rate) reactivity to a conflict resolution task in 30 heterosexual couples (N=60) in which one or both members misused substances. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, both partners within each dyad were randomized to the same treatment condition. Participants completed a standardized conflict resolution task at baseline and 45 minutes following drug self-administration. Physiological measures were examined continuously during the laboratory tasks and emotional reactivity was self-reported at baseline and at 5 time points over the course of 1 hour following the second conflict resolution task. Results of a multi-level growth curve model accounting for baseline scores, gender and drug condition indicate that positive emotional experiences and skin conductance measures increased over the 5 time points. Neither drug condition nor gender was significantly related to outcomes, and no interaction effects were observed. These findings highlight the complexities involved in translational OT research and suggest that the impact of OT on key outcomes requires further exploration in regards to OT's potential therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Casey Calhoun
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Sudie E Back
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC.,Ralph H. Johnson VAMC, Charleston, SC
| | - Eileen Barden
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Kathleen T Brady
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC.,Ralph H. Johnson VAMC, Charleston, SC
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Engelhard M, Xu H, Carin L, Oliver JA, Hallyburton M, McClernon FJ. Predicting Smoking Events with a Time-Varying Semi-Parametric Hawkes Process Model. PROCEEDINGS OF MACHINE LEARNING RESEARCH 2018; 85:312-331. [PMID: 30899917 PMCID: PMC6424486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Health risks from cigarette smoking - the leading cause of preventable death in the United States - can be substantially reduced by quitting. Although most smokers are motivated to quit, the majority of quit attempts fail. A number of studies have explored the role of self-reported symptoms, physiologic measurements, and environmental context on smoking risk, but less work has focused on the temporal dynamics of smoking events, including daily patterns and related nicotine effects. In this work, we examine these dynamics and improve risk prediction by modeling smoking as a self-triggering process, in which previous smoking events modify current risk. Specifically, we fit smoking events self-reported by 42 smokers to a time-varying semi-parametric Hawkes process (TV-SPHP) developed for this purpose. Results show that the TV-SPHP achieves superior prediction performance compared to related and existing models, with the incorporation of time-varying predictors having greatest benefit over longer prediction windows. Moreover, the impact function illustrates previously unknown temporal dynamics of smoking, with possible connections to nicotine metabolism to be explored in future work through a randomized study design. By more effectively predicting smoking events and exploring a self-triggering component of smoking risk, this work supports development of novel or improved cessation interventions that aim to reduce death from smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Engelhard
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hongteng Xu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Duke University, InfiniaML, Inc., Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence Carin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jason A Oliver
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Matthew Hallyburton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - F Joseph McClernon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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Vena A, King A, Lee R, de Wit H. Intranasal Oxytocin Does Not Modulate Responses to Alcohol in Social Drinkers. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2018; 42:1725-1734. [PMID: 29917245 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preclinical and clinical evidence suggest that the neuropeptide oxytocin may be of value in treating alcohol use disorder, by either reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol or reducing negative affect induced by alcohol withdrawal. However, the effect of a single dose of oxytocin on subjective and psychomotor responses to alcohol in social drinkers is not known. METHODS This study examined the effect of intranasal oxytocin on subjective, behavioral, and physiological responses to a moderate dose of alcohol (0.8 g/kg) in young adult social drinkers. Participants (N = 35) completed 2 study sessions at which they consumed beverages containing alcohol (ALC; N = 20) or placebo (NoALC; N = 15) in combination with intranasal oxytocin (40 IU with a 20 IU booster) or placebo. They received oxytocin at one session and placebo at the other session (order counterbalanced) 20 minutes before consuming beverages. Subjective mood and drug effects ratings, heart rate and blood pressure, and 4 behavioral tasks (flanker task, digit span, go/no-go, and pursuit rotor) were the primary outcome measures. RESULTS ALC produced its expected subjective and behavioral effects; including feeling intoxicated and impaired performance on the digit span and go/no-go tasks. Oxytocin alone had no significant subjective or physiological effects, and it did not affect responses to alcohol on any measure. CONCLUSIONS We can conclude that, under these conditions, a single dose of intranasal oxytocin does not alter the effects of acute alcohol in healthy young adult social drinkers. Further research is needed to determine whether oxytocin alters responses to alcohol under different conditions, and to determine its potential as an aid in treatment for substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Vena
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience (AV, AK, RL, HdW), University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrea King
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience (AV, AK, RL, HdW), University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Royce Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience (AV, AK, RL, HdW), University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Harriet de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience (AV, AK, RL, HdW), University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Piña JA, Namba MD, Leyrer-Jackson JM, Cabrera-Brown G, Gipson CD. Social Influences on Nicotine-Related Behaviors. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2018; 140:1-32. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Pedersen CA. Oxytocin, Tolerance, and the Dark Side of Addiction. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 136:239-274. [PMID: 29056153 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Substance use disorders blight the lives of millions of people and inflict a heavy financial burden on society. There is a compelling need for new pharmacological treatments as current drugs have limited efficacy and other major drawbacks. A substantial number of animal and recent clinical studies indicate that the neuropeptide, oxytocin, is a particularly promising therapeutic agent for human addictions, especially alcohol use disorders. In preliminary trials, we found that oxytocin administered by the intranasal route, which produces some neuropeptide penetration into the CNS, potently blocked withdrawal and reduced alcohol consumption in heavy drinkers. A considerable body of earlier animal studies demonstrated that oxytocin inhibits tolerance to alcohol, opioids, and stimulants as well as withdrawal from alcohol and opioids. Based on these preclinical findings and our clinical results, we hypothesize that oxytocin may exert therapeutic effects in substance dependence by the novel mechanism of diminishing established tolerance. A newer wave of studies has almost unanimously found that oxytocin decreases self-administration of a number of addictive substances in several animal models of addiction. Reduction of established tolerance should be included among the potential explanations of oxytocin effects in these studies and changes in tolerance should be examined in future studies in relationship to oxytocin influences on acquisition and reinstatement of self-administration as well as extinction of drug seeking. Oxytocin efficacy in reducing anxiety and stress responses as well as established tolerance suggests it may be uniquely effective in reducing negative reinforcement (Koob's "dark side" of addiction) that maintains chronic substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cort A Pedersen
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.
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