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Meijer OC, Kooijman S, Kroon J, Winter EM. The importance of the circadian trough in glucocorticoid signaling: a variation on B-flat. Stress 2023; 26:2275210. [PMID: 37874158 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2023.2275210] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid hormones are essential for health, but overexposure may lead to many detrimental effects, including metabolic, psychiatric, and bone disease. These effects may not only be due to increased overall exposure to glucocorticoids, but also to elevated hormone levels at the time of the physiological circadian trough of glucocorticoid levels. The late Mary Dallman developed a model that allows the differentiation between the effects of overall 24-hour glucocorticoid overexposure and the effects of a lack of circadian rhythmicity. For this, she continuously treated rats with a low dose of corticosterone (or "B"), which leads to a constant hormone level, without 24-hour overexposure using subcutaneously implanted pellets. The data from this "B-flat" model suggest that even modest elevations of glucocorticoid signaling during the time of the normal circadian trough of hormone secretion are a substantial contributor to the negative effects of glucocorticoids on health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Kooijman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Kroon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Elizabeth M Winter
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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2
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Alexandrovich YV, Antonov EV, Shikhevich SG, Kharlamova AV, Meister LV, Makovka YV, Shepeleva DV, Gulevich RG, Herbeck YE. The expression profile of genes associated with behavior, stress, and adult neurogenesis along the hippocampal dorsoventral axis in tame and aggressive foxes. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2023; 27:651-661. [PMID: 38213464 PMCID: PMC10782033 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-23-76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The hippocampus plays the key role in stress response regulation, and stress response appears to be weakened in domesticated animals compared to their wild relatives. The hippocampus is functionally heterogeneous along its dorsoventral axis, with its ventral compartment being more closely involved in stress regulation. An earlier series of experiments was conducted with a unique breeding model of animal domestication, the farm silver fox (Vulpes vulpes), which included tame, aggressive, and unselected animals. A decrease in many indices of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity was observed in tame animals. Also, adult hippocampal neurogenesis was more intense in tame foxes, and this fact may relate to reduced stress levels in this experimental population of foxes. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduced stress response in tame animals remain obscure. In this study, serum cortisol levels and the mRNA levels of 13 genes in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus have been measured and compared in tame, aggressive, and unselected foxes. At the current stage of domestication, stress-induced cortisol levels in tame, aggressive, and unselected animals differ significantly from each other: tame foxes show the lowest levels, and aggressive ones, the highest. Twelve genes tested demonstrate significant gene expression differences between the dorsal and ventral hippocampi. These differences are mainly consistent with those found in rodents and humans. In tame foxes, significantly elevated mRNA levels were recorded for several genes: CYP26B1 for cytochrome P450 26B1 and ADRA1A for α1A adrenergic receptor in the dorsal hippocampus, whereas the level of NR3C2 mRNA for mineralocorticoid receptor was higher in the ventral. It is presumed that these genes constitute an important part of the mechanism reducing stress induced by contacts with humans and contribute to linking stress regulation with adult neurogenesis in tame foxes and domesticated animals in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu V Alexandrovich
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - E V Antonov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia Sirius University of Science and Technology, Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sochi, Russia
| | - S G Shikhevich
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A V Kharlamova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - L V Meister
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Y V Makovka
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - D V Shepeleva
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - R G Gulevich
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Yu E Herbeck
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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3
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Yang H, Narayan S, Schmidt MV. From Ligands to Behavioral Outcomes: Understanding the Role of Mineralocorticoid Receptors in Brain Function. Stress 2023; 26:2204366. [PMID: 37067948 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2023.2204366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress is a normal response to situational pressures or demands. Exposure to stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and leads to the release of corticosteroids, which act in the brain via two distinct receptors: mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR). Persistent HPA axis overactivation or dysregulation can disrupt an individual's homeostasis, thereby contributing to an increased risk for mental illness. On the other hand, successful coping with stressful events involves adaptive and cognitive processes in the brain that render individuals more resilient to similar stressors in the future. Here we review the role of the MR in these processes, starting with an overview of the physiological structure, ligand binding, and expression of MR, and further summarizing its role in the brain, its relevance to psychiatric disorders, and related rodent studies. Given the central role of MR in cognitive and emotional functioning, and its importance as a target for promoting resilience, future research should investigate how MR modulation can be used to alleviate disturbances in emotion and behavior, as well as cognitive impairment, in patients with stress-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanqing Yang
- Research Group Neurobiology of Stress Resilience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany
| | - Sowmya Narayan
- Research Group Neurobiology of Stress Resilience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany
- Department Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry (IMPRS-TP), 80804 Munich, Germany
| | - Mathias V Schmidt
- Research Group Neurobiology of Stress Resilience, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany
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4
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Fan X, Zhao Z, Huang Z, Wu M, Wang D, Xiao J. Mineralocorticoid receptor agonist aldosterone rescues hippocampal neural stem cell proliferation defects and improves postoperative cognitive function in aged mice. World J Biol Psychiatry 2023; 24:149-161. [PMID: 35615969 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2022.2082524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hippocampal neurogenesis is closely related to learning and memory, and hippocampal neurogenesis disorders are involved in the development of many neurodegenerative diseases. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) plays a vital role in regulating stress response, neuroendocrine and cognitive functions, and is involved in regulating the integrity and stability of neural networks. However, the potential role of MR in the pathogenesis of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is unclear. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect and mechanism of MR activation on postoperative hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive function in aged mice. METHODS 18-month-old male Kunming mice were randomly divided into Control group (C group), Surgery group (S group), Surgery+ Aldosterone group (S+Aldo group), Surgery + Wortmannin group (S+Wort group), Surgery + Aldosterone + Wortmannin group (S+Aldo+Wort group). Laparotomy was used to establish an animal model of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. After surgery, mice were intraperitoneally injected with aldosterone (100 ug/kg,150 ug/kg,200 ug/kg) and / or wortmannin (1 mg/kg); One day before the sacrifice, mice were injected intraperitoneally with BrdU (100 mg / kg / time, 3 times in total). Mice were subjected to Morris water maze and field tests at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after surgery. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the number of BrdU +, Nestin +, BrdU/Nestin + positive cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of mice at 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after surgery. Western-blot was used to detect PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway related proteins Akt, p-Akt, GSK-3β, P-GSK-3β expression. RESULTS Stress impairs the performance of aged mice in water maze and open field tests, reduces the number of BrdU/Nestin+ cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, and inhibits the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β proteins in the hippocampus. Aldosterone treatment promotes P-Akt, P-GSK-3β protein expression and hippocampal neural stem cell proliferation, and improves postoperative cognitive dysfunction. However, wortmannin treatment significantly reversed these effects of aldosterone. CONCLUSIONS The mineralocorticoid receptor agonist aldosterone promotes the proliferation of hippocampal neural stem cells and improves cognitive dysfunction in aged mice after surgery, and the mechanism may be related to activation of PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhong Fan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zixia Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Mingyue Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Deming Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ji Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
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Calis D, Hess M, Marchetta P, Singer W, Modro J, Nelissen E, Prickaerts J, Sandner P, Lukowski R, Ruth P, Knipper M, Rüttiger L. Acute deletion of the central MR/GR steroid receptor correlates with changes in LTP, auditory neural gain, and GC-A cGMP signaling. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1017761. [PMID: 36873102 PMCID: PMC9983609 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1017761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex mechanism by which stress can affect sensory processes such as hearing is still poorly understood. In a previous study, the mineralocorticoid (MR) and/or glucocorticoid receptor (GR) were deleted in frontal brain regions but not cochlear regions using a CaMKIIα-based tamoxifen-inducible Cre ERT2/loxP approach. These mice exhibit either a diminished (MRTMXcKO) or disinhibited (GRTMXcKO) auditory nerve activity. In the present study, we observed that mice differentially were (MRTMXcKO) or were not (GRTMXcKO) able to compensate for altered auditory nerve activity in the central auditory pathway. As previous findings demonstrated a link between central auditory compensation and memory-dependent adaptation processes, we analyzed hippocampal paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) and long-term potentiation (LTP). To determine which molecular mechanisms may impact differences in synaptic plasticity, we analyzed Arc/Arg3.1, known to control AMPA receptor trafficking, as well as regulators of tissue perfusion and energy consumption (NO-GC and GC-A). We observed that the changes in PPF of MRTMXcKOs mirrored the changes in their auditory nerve activity, whereas changes in the LTP of MRTMXcKOs and GRTMXcKOs mirrored instead the changes in their central compensation capacity. Enhanced GR expression levels in MRTMXcKOs suggest that MRs typically suppress GR expression. We observed that hippocampal LTP, GC-A mRNA expression levels, and ABR wave IV/I ratio were all enhanced in animals with elevated GR (MRTMXcKOs) but were all lower or not mobilized in animals with impaired GR expression levels (GRTMXcKOs and MRGRTMXcKOs). This suggests that GC-A may link LTP and auditory neural gain through GR-dependent processes. In addition, enhanced NO-GC expression levels in MR, GR, and MRGRTMXcKOs suggest that both receptors suppress NO-GC; on the other hand, elevated Arc/Arg3.1 levels in MRTMXcKOs and MRGRTMXcKOs but not GRTMXcKOs suggest that MR suppresses Arc/Arg3.1 expression levels. Conclusively, MR through GR inhibition may define the threshold for hemodynamic responses for LTP and auditory neural gain associated with GC-A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dila Calis
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Morgan Hess
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Philine Marchetta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wibke Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julian Modro
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer Health Care Pharmaceuticals, Global Drug Discovery Pharma Research Centre Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Robert Lukowski
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Ruth
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Marissal-Arvy N, Moisan MP. Diabetes and associated cognitive disorders: Role of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary Adrenal axis. Metabol Open 2022; 15:100202. [PMID: 35958117 PMCID: PMC9357829 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2022.100202] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Both diabetes types, types 1 and 2, are associated with cognitive impairments. Each period of life is concerned, and this is an increasing public health problem. Animal models have been developed to investigate the biological actors involved in such impairments. Many levels of the brain function (structure, volume, neurogenesis, neurotransmission, behavior) are involved. In this review, we detailed the part potentially played by the Hypothalamic-Pituitary Adrenal axis in these dysfunctions. Notably, regulating glucocorticoid levels, their receptors and their bioavailability appear to be relevant for future research studies, and treatment development.
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7
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Paul SN, Wingenfeld K, Otte C, Meijer OC. Brain Mineralocorticoid receptor in health and disease: from molecular signaling to cognitive and emotional function. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:3205-3219. [PMID: 35297038 PMCID: PMC9323486 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) mediate effects of glucocorticoid hormones in stress adaptation, as well as the effects of aldosterone itself in relation to salt homeostasis. Brain stem MRs respond to aldosterone, whereas forebrain MRs mediate rapid and delayed glucocorticoid effects in conjunction with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). MR‐mediated effects depend on age, gender, genetic variations, and environmental influences. Disturbed MR activity through chronic stress, certain (endocrine) diseases or during glucocorticoid therapy can cause deleterious effects on affective state, cognitive and behavioural function in susceptible individuals. Considering the important role MR plays in cognition and emotional function in health and disease, MR modulation by pharmacological intervention could relieve stress‐ and endocrine‐related symptoms. Here, we discuss recent pharmacological interventions in the clinic and genetic developments in the molecular underpinnings of MR signalling. Further understanding of MR‐dependent pathways may help to improve psychiatric symptoms in a diversity of settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana N Paul
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Wingenfeld
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Otte
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.,NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Wada Y, Higashide T, Sakaguchi K, Nagata A, Hirooka K, Sugiyama K. Compromised blood flow in the optic nerve head after systemic administration of 2 aldosterone in rats: A possible rat model of retinal ganglion cell loss. Curr Eye Res 2022; 47:777-785. [PMID: 35179420 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2029907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the optic nerve head (ONH) blood flow, retinal vessel diameters, and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss after systemic administration of aldosterone in rats. METHODS Aldosterone (80 μg/kg/day) or vehicle was administered using an osmotic minipump in Brown Norway rats. The mean blur rate in the vessel (MV) and tissue (MT) regions and retinal vessel diameters in the ONH were measured by laser speckle flowgraphy before and 1, 2, and 4 weeks after administration of aldosterone or vehicle. Intraocular pressure (IOP), blood pressure, and heart rate were recorded. The retrogradely labeled RGCs were counted in the retinal flatmounts prepared 5 weeks after treatment. RESULTS The MV and MT in the aldosterone group significantly decreased at 2 and 4 weeks (MV: 2 weeks, P = 0.001, 4 weeks, P < 0.001; MT: 2 weeks, P = 0.02, 4 weeks, P = 0.03). The artery and vein diameters significantly decreased at 1, 2, and 4 weeks in the aldosterone group (all P < 0.001). The MV, MT, and vessel diameters remained unchanged in the vehicle group. Other parameters did not change over time in either group. RGC counts were significantly lower in the aldosterone group than in the vehicle group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS ONH blood flow decreased following retinal vessel constriction without changes in IOP or blood pressure in a possible rat model of RGC loss by systemic administration of aldosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Wada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan.,Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization Kanazawa Medical Center, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tomomi Higashide
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kimikazu Sakaguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nagata
- Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization Kanazawa Medical Center, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Hirooka
- Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Sugiyama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan
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9
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Van der Auwera S, Klinger-König J, Wittfeld K, Terock J, Hannemann A, Bülow R, Nauck M, Völker U, Völzke H, Grabe HJ. The interplay between genetic variation and gene expression of the glucocorticoid receptor gene NR3C1 and blood cortisol levels on verbal memory and hippocampal volumes. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 272:1505-1516. [PMID: 35579746 PMCID: PMC9653325 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01420-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis is the main physiological stress response system and regulating the release of cortisol. The two corticoid receptors encoded by the genes NR3C1 and NR3C2 are the main players in regulating the physiological response to cortisol. This biological system has been linked to neurocognitive processes and memory, yet the mechanisms remain largely unclear. In two independent general population studies (SHIP, total sample size > 5500), we aim to diseantangle the effects of genetic variation, gene expression and cortisol on verbal memory and memory associated brain volume. Especially for NR3C1 results exhibited a consistent pattern of direct an interactive effects. All three biological layers, genetic variation (rs56149945), gene expression for NR3C1 and cortisol levels, were directly associated with verbal memory. Interactions between these components showed significant effects on verbal memory as well as hippocampal volume. For NR3C2 such a complex association pattern could not be observed. Our analyses revealed that different components of the stress response system are acting together on different aspects of cognition. Complex phenotypes, such as cognition and memory function are regulated by a complex interplay between different genetic and epigenetic features. We promote the glucocorticoid receptor NR3C1 as a main target to focus in the context of verbal memory and provided a mechanistic concept of the interaction between various biological layers spanning NR3C1 function and its effects on memory. Especially the NR3C1 transcript seemed to be a key element in this complex system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Van der Auwera
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Ellernholzstraße 1-2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Johanna Klinger-König
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Ellernholzstraße 1-2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Katharina Wittfeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Ellernholzstraße 1-2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jan Terock
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Ellernholzstraße 1-2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, HELIOS Hanseklinikum Stralsund, Rostocker Chaussee, Stralsund, Germany
| | - Anke Hannemann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Greifswald, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Robin Bülow
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Matthias Nauck
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Greifswald, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uwe Völker
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Greifswald, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Henry Völzke
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Hans Jörgen Grabe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Ellernholzstraße 1-2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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10
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Medina J, De Guzman RM, Workman JL. Lactation is not required for maintaining maternal care and active coping responses in chronically stressed postpartum rats: Interactions between nursing demand and chronic variable stress. Horm Behav 2021; 136:105035. [PMID: 34488064 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Women who do not breastfeed or discontinue breastfeeding early are more likely to develop postpartum depression (PPD) and stress is a significant risk factor for depression, including PPD. Using a rat model, we investigated whether the absence of nursing would increase the susceptibility to chronic stress-related behavioral and neural changes during the postpartum period. Adult female rats underwent thelectomy (thel; removal of teats), sham surgery, or no surgery (control) and were paired with males for breeding. All litters were rotated twice daily until postpartum day (PD) 26. Sham rats served as surrogates for thel litters, yielding a higher nursing demand for sham rats. Concurrently, rats received either no stress or chronic variable stress until PD 25. Rats were observed for maternal behaviors and tested in a series of tasks including open field, sucrose preference, and forced swim. We used immunohistochemistry (IHC) for doublecortin (DCX; to label immature neurons) or for mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). Contrary to our expectations, non-nursing thel rats were resistant to the effects of stress in all dependent measures. Our data indicate that even in chronic adverse conditions, nursing is not required for maintaining stable care to offspring or active coping responses in an acutely stressful task. We discuss the possible role of offspring contact and consider future directions for biomedical and clinical research. In rats with high nursing demand, however, chronic stress increased immobility, hippocampal neurogenesis, and MR expression (largely in opposition to the effects of stress in rats with typical nursing demand). We discuss these patterns in the context of energetics and allostatic load. This research highlights the complexity in relationships between stress, nursing, and neurobehavioral outcomes in the postpartum period and underscores the need for additional biomedical and clinical research geared toward optimizing treatments and interventions for women with PPD, regardless of breastfeeding status. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The goal of this research was to determine how the absence of nursing and higher nursing demand impact stress-coping behaviors and neural changes associated with chronic stress in order to disentangle the complex interplay of factors that contribute to psychological illness during the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Medina
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12222, United States of America
| | - Rose M De Guzman
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12222, United States of America
| | - Joanna L Workman
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12222, United States of America; Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12222, United States of America.
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Mehdipour M, Emamghoreishi M, Farrokhi MR, Amirinezhadfard E, Keshavarz M. The Effect of Spironolactone on β-amyloid-Induced Memory Impairment in Male Rats: The Role of Microglial Inhibition. Adv Pharm Bull 2021; 12:623-631. [PMID: 35935039 PMCID: PMC9348523 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2022.065] [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: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Neuroinflammation was indicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Previous reports have also signified that spironolactone has anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the modulatory effects of spironolactone on neuroinflammation and memory loss in a rat model of AD.
Methods: The β-amyloid protein fragment 25-35 (Aβ) was injected in the dorsal hippocampus (5 μg/2.5 μL each side) of male Sprague-Dawley rats for four consecutive days to induce memory impairment. Animals have intraperitoneally received spironolactone (10, 25, or 50 mg/kg, N = 6/ group) or vehicle for 14 days. The passive inhibitory avoidance and the novel recognition tests were used for memory evaluation. Neuroinflammation was assessed by measuring the level of Iba1 protein, a marker of microglial activation, using western immunoblotting.
Results: Different doses of spironolactone showed no significant changes in latency times and discriminations ratios in passive inhibitory avoidance and novel recognition tests, respectively, as compared to vehicle. However, spironolactone-treated groups showed significantly lower Iba1 protein levels in comparison to the vehicle-treated group (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Spironolactone had a modulatory effect on neuroinflammation through a repressive effect on microglial activation with no valuable effect on memory improvement in a rat model of AD. The findings of this study suggest that Aβ-induced memory loss may not be directly linked to microglial activation. Spironolactone may be a potential candidate to be examined in other neuroinflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mehdipour
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Emamghoreishi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Majid Reza Farrokhi
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elahe Amirinezhadfard
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Keshavarz
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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12
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Kestering-Ferreira E, Tractenberg SG, Lumertz FS, Orso R, Creutzberg KC, Wearick-Silva LE, Viola TW, Grassi-Oliveira R. Long-term Effects of Maternal Separation on Anxiety-Like Behavior and Neuroendocrine Parameters in Adult Balb/c Mice. CHRONIC STRESS (THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF.) 2021; 5:24705470211067181. [PMID: 34993376 PMCID: PMC8725222 DOI: 10.1177/24705470211067181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Disruption of maternal care using maternal separation (MS) models has provided significant evidence of the deleterious long-term effects of early life stress. Several preclinical studies investigating MS showed multiple behavioral and biomolecular alterations. However, there is still conflicting results from MS studies, which represents a challenge for reliability and replicability of those findings. Objective: To address that, this study was conducted to investigate whether MS would affect anxiety-like behaviors using a battery of classical tasks, as well as central and peripheral stress-related biomarkers. Methods: Male Balb/c mice were exposed to MS from postnatal day (PND) 2 to 14 for 180-min per day. Two independent cohorts were performed to evaluate both baseline and anxiety-like behavior responses to MS at PND60. We performed composite scores to evaluate MS effects on anxiety and risk assessment phenotypes. Also, we assessed mRNA gene expression in the medial pre-frontal cortex (mPFC) of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors (GR and MR) using real-time PCR and peripheral corticosterone levels (CORT) to investigate possible neurobiological correlates to anxiety behaviors. Results: We found increased anxiety-like behavior and decreased risk assessment and exploratory behaviors in MS mice. The animals exposed to MS also presented a decrease in MR mRNA expression and higher levels of CORT compared to controls. Conclusions: Our findings reinforce the body of evidence suggesting that long-term MS induces effects on anxiety and risk assessment phenotypes following the exposure to a standardized MS protocol. Moreover, MS affected the expression of MR mRNA and induced significant changes on CORT response. This data highlights that the reprograming MS effects on HPA axis could be mediate by MR gene expression in mPFC and chronic overactivity of peripheral CORT levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Kestering-Ferreira
- Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab
(DCNL), Pontifical University Catholic of Rio Grande do Sul
| | - Saulo Gantes Tractenberg
- Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab
(DCNL), Pontifical University Catholic of Rio Grande do Sul
| | | | - Rodrigo Orso
- Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab
(DCNL), Pontifical University Catholic of Rio Grande do Sul
| | | | | | - Thiago Wendt Viola
- Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab
(DCNL), Pontifical University Catholic of Rio Grande do Sul
| | - Rodrigo Grassi-Oliveira
- Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab
(DCNL), Pontifical University Catholic of Rio Grande do Sul
- Aarhus University, Denmark
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13
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McCann KE, Lustberg DJ, Shaughnessy EK, Carstens KE, Farris S, Alexander GM, Radzicki D, Zhao M, Dudek SM. Novel role for mineralocorticoid receptors in control of a neuronal phenotype. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:350-364. [PMID: 31745235 PMCID: PMC7234915 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0598-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) in the brain play a role in learning and memory, neuronal differentiation, and regulation of the stress response. Within the hippocampus, the highest expression of MRs is in area CA2. CA2 pyramidal neurons have a distinct molecular makeup resulting in a plasticity-resistant phenotype, distinguishing them from neurons in CA1 and CA3. Thus, we asked whether MRs regulate CA2 neuron properties and CA2-related behaviors. Using three conditional knockout methods at different stages of development, we found a striking decrease in multiple molecular markers for CA2, an effect mimicked by chronic antagonism of MRs. Furthermore, embryonic deletion of MRs disrupted afferent inputs to CA2 and enabled synaptic potentiation of the normally LTP-resistant synaptic currents in CA2. We also found that CA2-targeted MR knockout was sufficient to disrupt social behavior and alter behavioral responses to novelty. Altogether, these results demonstrate an unappreciated role for MRs in controlling CA2 pyramidal cell identity and in facilitating CA2-dependent behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine E McCann
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Daniel J Lustberg
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
- Molecular and Systems Pharmacology Graduate Program, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Emma K Shaughnessy
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kelly E Carstens
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Shannon Farris
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, USA
| | - Georgia M Alexander
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Daniel Radzicki
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Meilan Zhao
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Serena M Dudek
- Synaptic and Developmental Plasticity Group, Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
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14
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Makhijani VH, Irukulapati P, Van Voorhies K, Fortino B, Besheer J. Central amygdala mineralocorticoid receptors modulate alcohol self-administration. Neuropharmacology 2020; 181:108337. [PMID: 33007359 PMCID: PMC7657087 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108337] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is an emerging target in the field of alcohol research. The MR is a steroid receptor in the same family as the glucocorticoid receptor, with which it shares the ligand corticosterone in addition to the MR selective ligand aldosterone. Recent studies have shown correlations between central amygdala (CeA) MR expression and alcohol drinking in rats and macaques, as well as correlations between aldosterone and alcohol craving in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Additionally, our previous work demonstrated that systemic treatment with the MR antagonist spironolactone reduced alcohol self-administration and response persistence in both male and female rats. This study examined if reductions in self-administration following MR antagonist treatment were related to dysregulation of MR-mediated corticosterone negative feedback. Female rats treated with spironolactone (50 mg/kg; IP) showed increased plasma corticosterone following self-administration, which correlated with reduced alcohol self-administration. Next, local microinjection of the MR-selective antagonist eplerenone was used to identify the brain-regional locus of MR action on alcohol self-administration. Eplerenone infusion produced dose-dependent reductions in alcohol self-administration in the CeA, but had no effect in the dorsal hippocampus. Finally, to assay the functional role of CeA MR expression in alcohol self-administration, CeA MR was knocked down by antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) infusion prior to alcohol self-administration. Rats showed a transient reduction in alcohol self-administration 1 day after ASO infusion. Together these studies demonstrate a functional role of CeA MR in modulating alcohol self-administration and make a case for studying MR antagonists as a novel treatment for AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viren H Makhijani
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, USA; Neuroscience Curriculum, USA
| | | | | | | | - Joyce Besheer
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, USA; Neuroscience Curriculum, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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15
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Brass KE, Herndon N, Gardner SA, Grindstaff JL, Campbell P. Intergenerational effects of paternal predator cue exposure on behavior, stress reactivity, and neural gene expression. Horm Behav 2020; 124:104806. [PMID: 32534838 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Predation threat impacts prey behavior, physiology, and fitness. Stress-mediated alterations to the paternal epigenome can be transmitted to offspring via the germline, conferring a potential advantage to offspring in predator-rich environments. While intergenerational epigenetic transmission of paternal experience has been demonstrated in mammals, how paternal predator exposure might alter offspring phenotypes across development is unstudied. We exposed male mice to a predator odor (2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline, TMT) or a neutral odor (banana extract) prior to mating and measured offspring behavioral phenotypes throughout development, together with adult stress reactivity and candidate gene expression in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and hypothalamus. We predicted that offspring of TMT-exposed males would be less active, would display elevated anxiety-like behaviors, and would have a more efficient stress response relative to controls, phenotypes that should enhance predator avoidance in a high predation risk environment. Unexpectedly, we found that offspring of TMT-exposed males are more active, exhibit less anxiety-like behavior, and have decreased baseline plasma corticosterone relative to controls. Effects of paternal treatment on neural gene expression were limited to the prefrontal cortex, with increased mineralocorticoid receptor expression and a trend towards increased Bdnf expression in offspring of TMT-exposed males. These results suggest that fathers exposed to predation threat produce offspring that are buffered against non-acute stressors and, potentially, better adapted to a predator-dense environment because they avoid trade-offs between predator avoidance and foraging and reproduction. This study provides evidence that ecologically relevant paternal experience can be transmitted through the germline, and can impact offspring phenotypes throughout development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E Brass
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Nathan Herndon
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Sarah A Gardner
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; University of California Riverside, Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Jennifer L Grindstaff
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Polly Campbell
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Integrative Biology, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; University of California Riverside, Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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16
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Terock J, Van der Auwera S, Janowitz D, Wittfeld K, Teumer A, Grabe HJ. Functional polymorphisms of the mineralocorticoid receptor gene NR3C2 are associated with diminished memory decline: Results from a longitudinal general-population study. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1345. [PMID: 32558353 PMCID: PMC7507013 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the brain has a key role in the regulation of the central stress response and is associated with memory performance. We investigated whether the genetic polymorphisms rs5522 and rs2070951 of NR3C2 showed main and interactive effects with childhood trauma on memory decline. METHODS Declarative memory was longitudinally assessed in 1,318 participants from the community-dwelling Study of Health in Pomerania using the Verbal Learning and Memory Test (VLMT). In a subsample of 377 participants aged 60 and older, the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) was additionally applied. Mean follow-up time for the VLMT and MMSE were 6.4 and 10.7 years, respectively. RESULTS Homozygous carriers of the G allele of rs2070951 (p < .01) and of the A allele of rs5522 (p < .001) showed higher immediate recall of words as compared to carriers of C allele (rs2070951) or the G allele (rs5522). The CG haplotype was associated with decreased recall (p < .001). Likewise, in the subsample of older patients, the AA genotype of rs5522 was associated with higher MMSE scores (p < .05). CG haplotypes showed significantly reduced MMSE scores in comparison to the reference haplotype (β = -0.60; p < .01). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the GG genotype of rs2070951 as well as the AA genotype of rs5522 are associated with diminished memory decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Terock
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Helios Hanseklinikum Stralsund, Stralsund, Germany
| | - Sandra Van der Auwera
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Deborah Janowitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Katharina Wittfeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Alexander Teumer
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Hans J Grabe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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17
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Farhadi Moghadam B, Fereidoni M. Neuroprotective effect of menaquinone-4 (MK-4) on transient global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229769. [PMID: 32150581 PMCID: PMC7062268 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury causes cognitive deficits, excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and brain edema. Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone 4, MK-4) as a potent antioxidant can be a good candidate to ameliorate I/R consequences. This study focused on the neuroprotective effects of MK-4 for cerebral I/R insult in rat’s hippocampus. The rat model of cerebral I/R was generated by transient bilateral common carotid artery occlusion for 20 min. Rats were divided into control, I/R, I/R+DMSO (solvent (1% v/v)) and I/R+MK-4 treated (400 mg/kg, i.p.) groups. Twenty-four hours after I/R injury induction, total brain water content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, nitrate/nitrite concentration and neuronal density were evaluated. In addition to quantify the apoptosis processes, TUNEL staining, as well as expression level of Bax and Bcl2, were assessed. To evaluate astrogliosis and induced neurotoxicity by I/R GFAP and GLT-1 mRNA expression level were quantified. Furthermore, pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were measured. Seven days post I/R, behavioral analysis to quantify cognitive function, as well as Nissl staining for surviving neuronal evaluation, were conducted. The findings indicated that administration of MK-4 following I/R injury improved anxiety-like behavior, short term and spatial learning and memory impairment induced by I/R. Also, MK-4 was able to diminish the increased total brain water content, apoptotic cell density, Bax/ Bcl2 ratio and GFAP mRNA expression following I/R. In addition, the high level of nitrate/nitrite, IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α induced by I/R was reduced after MK-4 administration. However, MK-4 promotes the level of SOD activity and GLT-1 mRNA expression in I/R rat model. The findings demonstrated that MK-4 can rescue transient global cerebral I/R consequences via its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress features. MK-4 administration ameliorates neuroinflammation, neurotoxicity and neuronal cell death processes and leads to neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masoud Fereidoni
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- * E-mail:
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18
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Endedijk HM, Nelemans SA, Schür RR, Boks MPM, van Lier P, Meeus W, Branje S, Vinkers CH. The Role of Stress and Mineralocorticoid Receptor Haplotypes in the Development of Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety During Adolescence. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:367. [PMID: 32499723 PMCID: PMC7242744 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is a critical developmental period characterized by heightened levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms. Experiencing chronic or environmental stress, for example, as a result of traumatic events or insensitive parenting, increases the risk for depression and anxiety. However, not all adolescents develop depressive or anxiety symptoms following environmental stressors, due to differences in stress resilience. One of the factors involved in stress resilience is enhanced functionality of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), one of the two brain receptors for the stress hormone cortisol. High levels of MR functionality result in relatively lower rates of depression, particularly in women that experienced stress. However, much less is known about MR functionality in relation to the development of adolescent depression and to other internalizing behavior problems such as anxiety. We therefore examined whether the effects of a functional MR haplotype (i.e., the MR CA haplotype) on the development of depressive and anxiety symptoms are sex-dependent, as well as interact with environmental stressors. In a community sample of adolescents (N = 343, 9 waves between age 13 and 24), environmental stressors were operationalized as parental psychological control and childhood trauma. Results showed a sex-dependent effect of MR CA haplotype on the development of depressive symptoms but not for anxiety symptoms. MR CA haplotypes were protective for girls but not for boys. This study sheds more light on the sex-dependent effects of MR functionality related to the development of depressive and anxiety symptoms during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hinke M Endedijk
- Department of Youth and Family, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Remmelt R Schür
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marco P M Boks
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Pol van Lier
- Clinical Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wim Meeus
- Department of Youth and Family, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Susan Branje
- Department of Youth and Family, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Christiaan H Vinkers
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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19
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Wingenfeld K, Otte C. Mineralocorticoid receptor function and cognition in health and disease. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 105:25-35. [PMID: 30243757 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The steroid hormone cortisol is released in response to stress and exerts its effects in the brain via two different receptors: the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). This review - dedicated to Dirk Hellhammer - focusses on the role of MR on cognitive and emotional function in healthy individuals and in stress-associated disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD) or borderline personality disorder (BPD). Animal data and studies from healthy individuals converge such that MR play an important role in the appraisal of new situations and the following response selection. Decision-making and empathy are important determinants of this response selection and both are affected by MR function. Furthermore, MR are crucially involved in visuospatial navigation and memory in young and elderly healthy individuals whereas the exact physiological role of MR in verbal learning and verbal memory needs to be further characterized. In contrast to studies in healthy participants, age played a moderating role on the effects of MR stimulation on cognition in depressed patients. In young depressed patients, MR stimulation exerted beneficial effects on verbal memory and executive function, whereas in elderly depressed patients MR stimulation led to impaired verbal learning and visuospatial memory. Similar to healthy controls, BPD patients showed enhanced emotional empathy but not cognitive empathy after MR stimulation. Accordingly, this make MR an interesting target for potential pharmacological augmentation of psychotherapy in BPD. Given the important role MR play in cognitive and emotional function in health and disease, further studies should examine whether MR modulation can alleviate cognitive and emotional problems in patients with stress-associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Wingenfeld
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Christian Otte
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
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20
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Chen J, Wang ZZ, Zhang S, Chu SF, Mou Z, Chen NH. The effects of glucocorticoids on depressive and anxiety-like behaviors, mineralocorticoid receptor-dependent cell proliferation regulates anxiety-like behaviors. Behav Brain Res 2019; 362:288-298. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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21
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Goncharova N, Chigarova O, Rudenko N, Oganyan T. Glucocorticoid Negative Feedback in Regulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis in Rhesus Monkeys With Various Types of Adaptive Behavior: Individual and Age-Related Differences. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:24. [PMID: 30814974 PMCID: PMC6381009 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of the mechanisms underlying the increased vulnerability of the individual to stressful environmental factors in different age periods is of great relevance for prevention and effective treatment of stress-dependent diseases that are widespread in the population of aging individuals. The purpose of our study was to investigate the individual and age-related features of the glucocorticoid negative feedback in regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the key adaptive neuroendocrine system, in experiments with physically healthy young and old female rhesus monkeys with administration of mineracorticoid receptor (fludrocortisone) and glucocorticoid receptor (dexamethasone) agonists. We studied the monkeys with increased trait anxiety and depression-like behavior (DAB) characterized, as previously was shown, by the increased vulnerability to acute stress and the animals with normal standard behavior (SB) as the control. The pronounced individual differences in the reaction of HPA axis to fludrocortisone and dexamethasone in young animals were found. Young animals with DAB showed a lower sensitivity of HPA axis to the inhibitory effect of both fludrocortisone and dexamethasone compared with young animals with SB. At the same time, there were no significant intergroup differences in the concentration of ACTH and cortisol in response to placebo injection, i.e., in basal conditions. The old individuals with DAB demonstrated the essential relative resistance of HPA axis to fludrocortisone test and higher basal plasma levels of cortisol and ACTH in the evening (the period of HPA axis low circadian activity) compared to old SB animals. In the same time, the intergroup differences in the response of HPA axis to dexamethasone administration were leveled due to age-related increase in sensitivity of HPA axis to dexamethasone in animals with DAB. These data testify the pronounced intergroup and age differences in the feedback regulation of HPA axis, presumably resulting from unequal individual, and age-related changes in the activity of mineralcorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors in the brain structures supporting the functions of HPA axis. The maximum age disorders in functioning of the negative feedback mechanism in the regulation of HPA axis are characteristic of animals with DAB, which, apparently, underlie the increased vulnerability of these animals to stress exposure.
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22
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Brain Mineralocorticoid Receptors and Resilience to Stress. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2019; 109:341-359. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
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23
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Dalm S, Karssen AM, Meijer OC, Belanoff JK, de Kloet ER. Resetting the Stress System with a Mifepristone Challenge. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 39:503-522. [PMID: 30173378 PMCID: PMC6469632 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0614-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Psychotic depression is characterized by elevated circulating cortisol, and high daily doses of the glucocorticoid/progesterone antagonist mifepristone for 1 week are required for significant improvement. Using a rodent model, we find that such high doses of mifepristone are needed because the antagonist is rapidly degraded and poorly penetrates the blood–brain barrier, but seems to facilitate the entry of cortisol. We also report that in male C57BL/6J mice, after a 7-day treatment with a high dose of mifepristone, basal blood corticosterone levels were similar to that of vehicle controls. This is surprising because after the first mifepristone challenge, corticosterone remained elevated for about 16 h, and then decreased towards vehicle control levels at 24 h. At that time, stress-induced corticosterone levels of the 1xMIF were sevenfold higher than the 7xMIF group, the latter response being twofold lower than controls. The 1xMIF mice showed behavioral hyperactivity during exploration of the circular hole board, while the 7xMIF mice rather engaged in serial search patterns. To explain this rapid reset of corticosterone secretion upon recurrent mifepristone administration, we suggest the following: (i) A rebound glucocorticoid feedback after cessation of mifepristone treatment. (ii) Glucocorticoid agonism in transrepression and recruitment of cell-specific coregulator cocktails. (iii) A more prominent role of brain MR function in control of stress circuit activity. An overview table of neuroendocrine MIF effects is provided. The data are of interest for understanding the mechanistic underpinning of stress system reset as treatment strategy for stress-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu Dalm
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan M Karssen
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Room C-7-44, Postal zone C7-Q, PO Box 9600, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - E Ronald de Kloet
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands. .,Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Room C-7-44, Postal zone C7-Q, PO Box 9600, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Nawaz A, Batool Z, Shazad S, Rafiq S, Afzal A, Haider S. Physical enrichment enhances memory function by regulating stress hormone and brain acetylcholinesterase activity in rats exposed to restraint stress. Life Sci 2018; 207:42-49. [PMID: 29852186 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
To study the effects of stress on mental health activity is of great importance in neuropsychological studies as it may affect the lifelong performance related to brain and overall health and wellbeing of an individual. It is observed very often that exposure to stress during early life can alter the brain function which may reflect as cognitive disability. Impairment of memory is associated with increased oxidative stress which is due to enhanced production of free radicals that may lead to lipid peroxidation and disintegration of cell structure and functions. Exposure to enriched environment has shown to enhance spatial learning and memory, although the underlying mechanism covering the regulation of antioxidant capacity is limited. Here we investigated short and long term memory using Morris water maze before and after giving restraint stress procedure in rats exposed to social and physically enriched environment. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in brain tissue were estimated. Plasma corticosterone was also determined after decapitation. Results demonstrated that rats pre-exposed to physical along with social enrichment showed improved short and long term memory as compared to control group. However, restraint stress exerted differential effects in socially and physically enriched groups. Reduced lipid peroxidation and decreased activity of SOD, GPx and AChE were observed in physically enriched rats subjected to stress as compared to stressed rats kept in social environment. Levels of corticosterone were also found to be significantly reduced in rats kept in physically enriched environment. This study shows the beneficial effects of environmental enrichment on learning and spatial memory by reducing oxidative stress via reducing lipid peroxidation and regulation of antioxidant enzymes in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Nawaz
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi 75300, Pakistan
| | - Zehra Batool
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan; Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sidrah Shazad
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Sahar Rafiq
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Asia Afzal
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Saida Haider
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan.
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25
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Faye C, McGowan JC, Denny CA, David DJ. Neurobiological Mechanisms of Stress Resilience and Implications for the Aged Population. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:234-270. [PMID: 28820053 PMCID: PMC5843978 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666170818095105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress is a common reaction to an environmental adversity, but a dysregulation of the stress response can lead to psychiatric illnesses such as major depressive disorder (MDD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety disorders. Yet, not all individuals exposed to stress will develop psychiatric disorders; those with enhanced stress resilience mechanisms have the ability to adapt successfully to stress without developing persistent psychopathology. Notably, the potential to enhance stress resilience in at-risk populations may prevent the onset of stress-induced psychiatric disorders. This novel idea has prompted a number of studies probing the mechanisms of stress resilience and how it can be manipulated. METHODS Here, we review the neurobiological factors underlying stress resilience, with particular focus on the serotoninergic (5-HT), glutamatergic, and γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) systems, as well as the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) in rodents and in humans. Finally, we discuss stress resiliency in the context of aging, as the likelihood of mood disorders increases in older adults. RESULTS Interestingly, increased resiliency has been shown to slow aging and improved overall health and quality of life. Research in the neurobiology of stress resilience, particularly throughout the aging process, is a nascent, yet, burgeoning field. CONCLUSION Overall, we consider the possible methods that may be used to induce resilient phenotypes, prophylactically in at-risk populations, such as in military personnel or in older MDD patients. Research in the mechanisms of stress resilience may not only elucidate novel targets for antidepressant treatments, but also provide novel insight about how to prevent these debilitating disorders from developing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlène Faye
- CESP/UMR-S 1178, Univ. Paris-Sud, Fac Pharmacie, Inserm, Université Paris-Saclay, 92296 Chatenay-Malabry, France
| | - Josephine C. McGowan
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine A. Denny
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Integrative Neuroscience, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | - Denis J. David
- CESP/UMR-S 1178, Univ. Paris-Sud, Fac Pharmacie, Inserm, Université Paris-Saclay, 92296 Chatenay-Malabry, France
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26
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Cole TJ, Young MJ. 30 YEARS OF THE MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR: Mineralocorticoid receptor null mice: informing cell-type-specific roles. J Endocrinol 2017; 234:T83-T92. [PMID: 28550025 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) mediates the actions of two important adrenal corticosteroid hormones, aldosterone and cortisol. The cell signalling roles of the MR in vivo have expanded enormously since the cloning of human MR gene 30 years ago and the first MR gene knockout in mice nearly 20 years ago. Complete ablation of the MR revealed important roles postnatally for regulation of kidney epithelial functions, with MR-null mice dying 1-2 weeks postnatally from renal salt wasting and hyperkalaemia, with elevated plasma renin and aldosterone. Generation of tissue-selective MR-deficient mice using Cre recombinase-LoxP gene targeting has made it possible to analyse mice lacking MR only in specific cell types. Targeting renal-specific MR has differentiated roles in specific compartments of the kidney. Ablating MR in neurons of the forebrain reinforced important roles of the MR in response to stress, behaviour and anxiety, but suggested a minimal role in maintaining basal HPA axis tone. Deletion of the MR in macrophages and other cell types of the cardiovascular system clearly defined important roles for the regulation of cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. Knockdown of MR mRNA in vivo using antisense/siRNA approaches, and similarly MR overexpression, has provided useful rodent models to study physiological roles of MR signalling in vivo More recently, targeted mutation of specific domains of the MR such as the DBD has defined genomic vs non-genomic roles in vivo New tissue-selective MR-null models are required to define roles of MR signalling in other regions of the brain, the eye, gastrointestinal tract, lung, skin, breast and gonadal organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Cole
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyMonash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Endocrinology and MetabolismHudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Morag J Young
- Centre for Endocrinology and MetabolismHudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational ResearchMonash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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27
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Kanatsou S, Karst H, Kortesidou D, van den Akker RA, den Blaauwen J, Harris AP, Seckl JR, Krugers HJ, Joels M. Overexpression of Mineralocorticoid Receptors in the Mouse Forebrain Partly Alleviates the Effects of Chronic Early Life Stress on Spatial Memory, Neurogenesis and Synaptic Function in the Dentate Gyrus. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:132. [PMID: 28611594 PMCID: PMC5447008 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence from human studies suggests that high expression of brain mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) may promote resilience against negative consequences of stress exposure, including childhood trauma. We examined, in mice, whether brain MR overexpression can alleviate the effects of chronic early life stress (ELS) on contextual memory formation under low and high stress conditions, and neurogenesis and synaptic function of dentate gyrus granular cells. Male mice were exposed to ELS by housing the dam with limited nesting and bedding material from postnatal day (PND) 2 to 9. We investigated the moderating role of MRs by using forebrain-specific transgenic MR overexpression (MR-tg) mice. Low-stress contextual (i.e., object relocation) memory formation was hampered by ELS in wildtype but not MR-tg mice. Anxiety like behavior and high-stress contextual (i.e., fear) memory formation were unaffected by ELS and/or MR expression level. At the cellular level, an interaction effect was observed between ELS and MR overexpression on the number of doublecortin-positive cells, with a significant difference between the wildtype ELS and MR-tg ELS groups. No interaction was found regarding Ki-67 and BrdU staining. A significant interaction between ELS and MR expression was further observed with regard to mEPSCs and mIPSC frequency. The ratio of evoked EPSC/IPSC or NMDA/AMPA responses was unaffected. Overall, these results suggest that ELS affects contextual memory formation under low stress conditions as well as neurogenesis and synaptic transmission in dentate granule cells, an effect that can be alleviated by MR-overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Kanatsou
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht, Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences - Center for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Henk Karst
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht, Netherlands
| | - Despoina Kortesidou
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences - Center for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rachelle A van den Akker
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences - Center for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jan den Blaauwen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences - Center for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anjanette P Harris
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of EdinburghEdinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan R Seckl
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of EdinburghEdinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Harm J Krugers
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences - Center for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marian Joels
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht, Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenGroningen, Netherlands
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28
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Upregulation of Mineralocorticoid Receptor in the Hypothalamus Associated with a High Anxiety-like Level in Apolipoprotein E4 Transgenic Mice. Behav Genet 2017; 47:416-424. [DOI: 10.1007/s10519-017-9843-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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29
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Piber D, Schultebraucks K, Mueller SC, Deuter CE, Wingenfeld K, Otte C. Mineralocorticoid receptor stimulation effects on spatial memory in healthy young adults: A study using the virtual Morris Water Maze task. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2016; 136:139-146. [PMID: 27725248 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Revised: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Stress hormones such as cortisol are known to influence a wide range of cognitive functions, including hippocampal based spatial memory. In the brain, cortisol acts via two different receptors: the glucocorticoid (GR) and the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). As the MR has a high density in the hippocampus, we examined the effects of pharmacological MR stimulation on spatial memory. METHODS Eighty healthy participants (40 women, 40 men, mean age=23.9years±SD=3.3) completed the virtual Morris Water Maze (vMWM) task to test spatial encoding and spatial memory retrieval after receiving 0.4mg fludrocortisone, a MR agonist, or placebo. RESULTS There was no effect of MR stimulation on spatial encoding during the vMWM task. However, participants who received fludrocortisone exhibited improved spatial memory retrieval performance. There was neither a main effect of sex nor a sex-by-treatment interaction. CONCLUSION In young healthy participants, MR stimulation improved hippocampal based spatial memory retrieval in a virtual Morris Water Maze task. Our study not only confirms the importance of MR function in spatial memory, but suggests beneficial effects of acute MR stimulation on spatial memory retrieval in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Piber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Katharina Schultebraucks
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven C Mueller
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian Eric Deuter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Wingenfeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Otte
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
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30
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Schultebraucks K, Deuter CE, Duesenberg M, Schulze L, Hellmann-Regen J, Domke A, Lockenvitz L, Kuehl LK, Otte C, Wingenfeld K. Selective attention to emotional cues and emotion recognition in healthy subjects: the role of mineralocorticoid receptor stimulation. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:3405-15. [PMID: 27422567 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4380-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Selective attention toward emotional cues and emotion recognition of facial expressions are important aspects of social cognition. Stress modulates social cognition through cortisol, which acts on glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) in the brain. OBJECTIVES We examined the role of MR activation on attentional bias toward emotional cues and on emotion recognition. METHODS We included 40 healthy young women and 40 healthy young men (mean age 23.9 ± 3.3), who either received 0.4 mg of the MR agonist fludrocortisone or placebo. A dot-probe paradigm was used to test for attentional biases toward emotional cues (happy and sad faces). Moreover, we used a facial emotion recognition task to investigate the ability to recognize emotional valence (anger and sadness) from facial expression in four graded categories of emotional intensity (20, 30, 40, and 80 %). RESULTS In the emotional dot-probe task, we found a main effect of treatment and a treatment × valence interaction. Post hoc analyses revealed an attentional bias away from sad faces after placebo intake and a shift in selective attention toward sad faces compared to placebo. We found no attentional bias toward happy faces after fludrocortisone or placebo intake. In the facial emotion recognition task, there was no main effect of treatment. CONCLUSIONS MR stimulation seems to be important in modulating quick, automatic emotional processing, i.e., a shift in selective attention toward negative emotional cues. Our results confirm and extend previous findings of MR function. However, we did not find an effect of MR stimulation on emotion recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Schultebraucks
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Christian E Deuter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Moritz Duesenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Schulze
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julian Hellmann-Regen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Antonia Domke
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Lockenvitz
- Department of Psychology, Universität Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Linn K Kuehl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Otte
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Wingenfeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany
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31
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de Kloet ER, Otte C, Kumsta R, Kok L, Hillegers MHJ, Hasselmann H, Kliegel D, Joëls M. Stress and Depression: a Crucial Role of the Mineralocorticoid Receptor. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28. [PMID: 26970338 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cortisol and corticosterone act on the appraisal process, which comprises the selection of an appropriate coping style and the encoding of the experience for storage in the memory. This action exerted by the stress hormones is mediated by mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs), which are expressed abundantly in the limbic circuitry, particularly in the hippocampus. Limbic MR is down-regulated by chronic stress and during depression but induced by antidepressants. Increased MR activity inhibits hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, promotes slow wave sleep, reduces anxiety and switches circuit connectivity to support coping. Cortisol and emotion-cognition are affected by MR gene haplotypes based on rs5522 and rs2070951. Haplotype 1 (GA) moderates the effects of (early) life stressors, reproductive cycle and oral contraceptives. MR haplotype 2 (CA) is a gain of function variant that protects females against depression by association with an optimistic, resilient phenotype. Activation of MR therefore may offer a target for alleviating depression and cognitive dysfunction. Accordingly, the MR agonist fludrocortisone was found to enhance the efficacy of antidepressants and to improve memory and executive functions in young depressed patients. In conclusion, CORT coordinates via MR the networks underlying how an individual copes with stress, and this action is complemented by the widely distributed lower affinity glucocorticoid receptor (GR) involved in the subsequent management of stress adaptation. In this MR:GR regulation, the MR is an important target for promoting resilience.
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MESH Headings
- Adaptation, Psychological
- Animals
- Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use
- Brain/metabolism
- Brain/physiopathology
- Corticosterone/metabolism
- Corticosterone/physiology
- Depression/metabolism
- Depression/physiopathology
- Fludrocortisone/therapeutic use
- Humans
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/physiology
- Receptors, Mineralocorticoid/agonists
- Receptors, Mineralocorticoid/genetics
- Receptors, Mineralocorticoid/metabolism
- Receptors, Mineralocorticoid/physiology
- Stress, Psychological/metabolism
- Stress, Psychological/physiopathology
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Affiliation(s)
- E R de Kloet
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - C Otte
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - R Kumsta
- Genetic Psychology, Fakultät für Psychologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - L Kok
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M H J Hillegers
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H Hasselmann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - D Kliegel
- Department of Biological und Clinical Psychology, University of Trier, Trier, Germany
| | - M Joëls
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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32
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Chen J, Wang ZZ, Zhang S, Zuo W, Chen NH. Does mineralocorticoid receptor play a vital role in the development of depressive disorder? Life Sci 2016; 152:76-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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33
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Cognitive Adaptation under Stress: A Case for the Mineralocorticoid Receptor. Trends Cogn Sci 2016; 20:192-203. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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34
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Kanatsou S, Ter Horst JP, Harris AP, Seckl JR, Krugers HJ, Joëls M. Effects of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Overexpression on Anxiety and Memory after Early Life Stress in Female Mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 9:374. [PMID: 26858618 PMCID: PMC4726803 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) is a risk factor for the development of psychopathology, particularly in women. Human studies have shown that certain haplotypes of NR3C2, encoding the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), that result in gain of function, may protect against the consequences of stress exposure, including childhood trauma. Here, we tested the hypothesis that forebrain-specific overexpression of MR in female mice would ameliorate the effects of ELS on anxiety and memory in adulthood. We found that ELS increased anxiety, did not alter spatial discrimination and reduced contextual fear memory in adult female mice. Transgenic overexpression of MR did not alter anxiety but affected spatial memory performance and enhanced contextual fear memory formation. The effects of ELS on anxiety and contextual fear were not affected by transgenic overexpression of MR. Thus, MR overexpression in the forebrain does not represent a major resilience factor to early life adversity in female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Kanatsou
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht, Netherlands; Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Judith P Ter Horst
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anjanette P Harris
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jonathan R Seckl
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh, UK
| | - Harmen J Krugers
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marian Joëls
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht, Netherlands
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35
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Gesmundo I, Villanova T, Gargantini E, Arvat E, Ghigo E, Granata R. The Mineralocorticoid Agonist Fludrocortisone Promotes Survival and Proliferation of Adult Hippocampal Progenitors. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:66. [PMID: 27379018 PMCID: PMC4910464 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activation has been shown to reduce adult hippocampal progenitor cell proliferation and neurogenesis. By contrast, mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) signaling is associated with neuronal survival in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, and impairment of hippocampal MR has been linked to pathological conditions, such as depression or neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we aimed to further clarify the protective role of MR in adult hippocampal neurons by studying the survival and proliferative effects of the highly potent MR agonist fludrocortisone (Fludro) in adult rat hippocampal progenitor cells (AHPs), along with the associated signaling mechanisms. Fludro, which upregulated MR but not GR expression, increased survival and proliferation and prevented apoptosis in AHPs cultured in growth factor-deprived medium. These effects were blunted by the MR antagonist spironolactone and by high doses of the GR agonist dexamethasone. Moreover, they involved signaling through cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element-binding protein, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and its downstream targets glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and mammalian target of rapamycin. Furthermore, Fludro attenuated the detrimental effects of amyloid-β peptide 1-42 (Aβ1-42) on cell survival, proliferation, and apoptosis in AHPs, and increased the phosphorylation of both PI3K/Akt and GSK-3β, which was reduced by Aβ1-42. Finally, Fludro blocked Aβ1-42-induced hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein, which is a main feature of Alzheimer's disease. Overall, these results are the first to show the protective and proliferative role of Fludro in AHPs, suggesting the potential therapeutic importance of targeting MR for increasing hippocampal neurogenesis and for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iacopo Gesmundo
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Tania Villanova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gargantini
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Emanuela Arvat
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Oncological Endocrinology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Ezio Ghigo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- *Correspondence: Riccarda Granata,
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Overexpression of Mineralocorticoid Receptors Partially Prevents Chronic Stress-Induced Reductions in Hippocampal Memory and Structural Plasticity. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142012. [PMID: 26600250 PMCID: PMC4658081 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to chronic stress is a risk factor for cognitive decline and psychopathology in genetically predisposed individuals. Preliminary evidence in humans suggests that mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) may confer resilience to these stress-related changes. We specifically tested this idea using a well-controlled mouse model for chronic stress in combination with transgenic MR overexpression in the forebrain. Exposure to unpredictable stressors for 21 days in adulthood reduced learning and memory formation in a low arousing hippocampus-dependent contextual learning task, but enhanced stressful contextual fear learning. We found support for a moderating effect of MR background on chronic stress only for contextual memory formation under low arousing conditions. In an attempt to understand potentially contributing factors, we studied structural plasticity. Chronic stress altered dendritic morphology in the hippocampal CA3 area and reduced the total number of doublecortin-positive immature neurons in the infrapyramidal blade of the dentate gyrus. The latter reduction was absent in MR overexpressing mice. We therefore provide partial support for the idea that overexpression of MRs may confer resilience to the effects of chronic stress on hippocampus-dependent function and structural plasticity.
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Atucha E, Zalachoras I, van den Heuvel JK, van Weert LTCM, Melchers D, Mol IM, Belanoff JK, Houtman R, Hunt H, Roozendaal B, Meijer OC. A Mixed Glucocorticoid/Mineralocorticoid Selective Modulator With Dominant Antagonism in the Male Rat Brain. Endocrinology 2015; 156:4105-14. [PMID: 26305887 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal glucocorticoid hormones are potent modulators of brain function in the context of acute and chronic stress. Both mineralocorticoid (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) can mediate these effects. We studied the brain effects of a novel ligand, C118335, with high affinity for GRs and modest affinity for MRs. In vitro profiling of receptor-coregulator interactions suggested that the compound is a "selective modulator" type compound for GRs that can have both agonistic and antagonistic effects. Its molecular profile for MRs was highly similar to those of the full antagonists spironolactone and eplerenone. C118335 showed predominantly antagonistic effects on hippocampal mRNA regulation of known glucocorticoid target genes. Likewise, systemic administration of C118335 blocked the GR-mediated posttraining corticosterone-induced enhancement of memory consolidation in an inhibitory avoidance task. Posttraining administration of C118335, however, gave a strong and dose-dependent impairment of memory consolidation that, surprisingly, reflected involvement of MRs and not GRs. Finally, C118335 treatment acutely suppressed the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis as measured by plasma corticosterone levels. Mixed GR/MR ligands, such as C118335, can be used to unravel the mechanisms of glucocorticoid signaling. The compound is also a prototype of mixed GR/MR ligands that might alleviate the harmful effects of chronic overexposure to endogenous glucocorticoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Atucha
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Ioannis Zalachoras
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - José K van den Heuvel
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Lisa T C M van Weert
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Diana Melchers
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Isabel M Mol
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Joseph K Belanoff
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - René Houtman
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Hazel Hunt
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Benno Roozendaal
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience (E.A., L.T.C.M.v.W., B.R.) Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine (I.Z., J.K.v.d.H., L.T.C.M.v.W., I.M.M., O.C.M.), Division of Endocrinology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, and Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; PamGene International (D.M., R.H.), 2511 HH Den Bosch, The Netherlands; and Corcept Therapeutics (J.K.B., H.H.), Menlo Park, California 94025
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Taccone FS, Crippa IA, Dell'Anna AM, Scolletta S. Neuroprotective strategies and neuroprognostication after cardiac arrest. Best Pract Res Clin Anaesthesiol 2015; 29:451-64. [PMID: 26670816 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpa.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neurocognitive disturbances are common among survivors of cardiac arrest (CA). Although initial management of CA, including bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation, optimal chest compression, and early defibrillation, has been implemented continuously over the last years, few therapeutic interventions are available to minimize or attenuate the extent of brain injury occurring after the return of spontaneous circulation. In this review, we discuss several promising drugs that could provide some potential benefits for neurological recovery after CA. Most of these drugs have been investigated exclusively in experimental CA models and only limited clinical data are available. Further research, which also considers combined neuroprotective strategies that target multiple pathways involved in the pathophysiology of postanoxic brain injury, is certainly needed to demonstrate the effectiveness of these interventions in this setting. Moreover, the evaluation of neurological prognosis of comatose patients after CA remains an important challenge that requires the accurate use of several tools. As most patients with CA are currently treated with targeted temperature management (TTM), combined with sedative drug therapy, especially during the hypothermic phase, the reliability of neurological examination in evaluating these patients is delayed to 72-96 h after admission. Thus, additional tests, including electrophysiological examinations, brain imaging and biomarkers, have been largely implemented to evaluate earlier the extent of brain damage in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Silvio Taccone
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Ilaria Alice Crippa
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Antonio Maria Dell'Anna
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sabino Scolletta
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
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Abstract
Human aging is associated with increasing frailty and morbidity which can result in significant disability. Dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis may contribute to aging-related diseases like depression, cognitive deficits, and Alzheimer's disease in some older individuals. In addition to neuro-cognitive dysfunction, it has also been associated with declining physical performance possibly due to sarcopenia. This article reviews the pathophysiology of HPA dysfunction with respect to increased basal adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol secretion, decreased glucocorticoid (GC) negative feedback at the level of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, hippocampus (HC), and prefrontal cortex (PFC), and flattening of diurnal pattern of cortisol release. It is possible that the increased cortisol secretion is secondary to peripheral conversion from cortisone. There is a decline in pregnolone secretion and C-19 steroids (DHEA) with aging. There is a small decrease in aldosterone with aging, but a subset of the older population have a genetic predisposition to develop hyperaldosteronism due to the increased ACTH stimulation. The understanding of the HPA axis and aging remains a complex area with conflicting studies leading to controversial interpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepashree Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, St. Louis; Divisions of Endocrinology and Geriatric Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, St. Louis
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40
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Kanatsou S, Kuil LE, Arp M, Oitzl MS, Harris AP, Seckl JR, Krugers HJ, Joels M. Overexpression of mineralocorticoid receptors does not affect memory and anxiety-like behavior in female mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2015; 9:182. [PMID: 26236208 PMCID: PMC4501076 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) have been implicated in behavioral adaptation and learning and memory. Since-at least in humans-MR function seems to be sex-dependent, we examined the behavioral relevance of MR in female mice exhibiting transgenic MR overexpression in the forebrain. Transgenic MR overexpression did not affect contextual fear memory or cued fear learning and memory. Moreover, MR overexpressing and control mice discriminated equally well between fear responses in a combined cue and context fear conditioning paradigm. Also context-memory in an object recognition task was unaffected in MR overexpressing mice. We conclude that MR overexpression in female animals does not affect fear conditioned responses and object recognition memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Kanatsou
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Laura E Kuil
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marit Arp
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Melly S Oitzl
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anjanette P Harris
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jonathan R Seckl
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh, UK
| | - Harm J Krugers
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marian Joels
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht, Netherlands
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Varvarousi G, Stefaniotou A, Varvaroussis D, Xanthos T. Glucocorticoids as an emerging pharmacologic agent for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2015; 28:477-88. [PMID: 25163464 PMCID: PMC4163188 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-014-6547-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although cardiac arrest (CA) constitutes a major health problem with dismal prognosis, no specific drug therapy has been shown to improve survival to hospital discharge. CA causes adrenal insufficiency which is associated with poor outcome and increased mortality. Adrenal insufficiency may manifest as an inability to increase cortisol secretion during and after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Several studies suggest that glucocorticoids during and after CPR seem to confer benefits with respect to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) rates and long term survival. They have beneficial hemodynamic effects that may favor their use during CPR and in the early post-resuscitation period. Moreover, they have anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties that improve organ function by reducing ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, glucocorticoid supplementation has shown conflicting results with regard to survival to hospital discharge and neurological outcome. The purpose of this article is to review the pathophysiology of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during CPR. Furthermore, this article reviews the effects of glucocorticoids use during CRP and the post-resuscitation phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giolanda Varvarousi
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, MSc "Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation", Athens, Greece,
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42
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Venkat P, Chopp M, Chen J. Models and mechanisms of vascular dementia. Exp Neurol 2015; 272:97-108. [PMID: 25987538 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second leading form of dementia after Alzheimer's disease (AD) plaguing the elderly population. VaD is a progressive disease caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, and it affects cognitive abilities especially executive functioning. VaD is poorly understood and lacks suitable animal models, which constrain the progress on understanding the basis of the disease and developing treatments. This review article discusses VaD, its risk factors, induced cognitive disability, various animal (rodent) models of VaD, pathology, and mechanisms of VaD and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poornima Venkat
- Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA; Physics, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA.
| | - Michael Chopp
- Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA; Physics, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA.
| | - Jieli Chen
- Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin, China.
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Wang T, Hu X, Liang S, Li W, Wu X, Wang L, Jin F. Lactobacillus fermentum NS9 restores the antibiotic induced physiological and psychological abnormalities in rats. Benef Microbes 2015; 6:707-17. [PMID: 25869281 DOI: 10.3920/bm2014.0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Gut microbiota play a vital role in maintaining the health of the host. Many factors affect gut microbiota; application of broad range antibiotics disturb microbiota, while probiotic application protects the microbiota. To investigate how probiotics alter the physiological and psychological changes induced by antibiotics, we tested the performance of ampicillin-treated rats in the presence or absence of Lactobacillus fermentum strain NS9, in elevated plus maze and Morris water maze. The results showed that NS9 normalised the composition of gut microbiota and alleviated the ampicillin-induced inflammation in the colon. The levels of the mineralocorticoid and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors were also elevated in the hippocampus of the ampillicin+NS9 treated group. NS9 administration also reduced the anxiety-like behaviour and alleviated the ampicillin-induced impairment in memory retention. These findings suggest that NS9 is beneficial to the host, because it restores the physiological and psychological abnormalities induced by ampicillin. Our results highlight how gut contents regulate the brain, and shed light on the clinical applications of probiotics to treat the side effect of antibiotics and mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Wang
- 1 Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China P.R
| | - X Hu
- 1 Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China P.R
| | - S Liang
- 1 Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China P.R
| | - W Li
- 1 Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China P.R
| | - X Wu
- 1 Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China P.R
| | - L Wang
- 2 Institute of Ageing Research, Hangzhou Normal University, Building D, Science and Technology Park, 1378 Wenyi West Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China P.R
| | - F Jin
- 1 Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China P.R
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ter Heegde F, De Rijk RH, Vinkers CH. The brain mineralocorticoid receptor and stress resilience. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 52:92-110. [PMID: 25459896 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Stress exposure activates the HPA-axis and results in the release of corticosteroids which bind to two receptor types in the brain: the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). While the role of the GR in stress reactivity has been extensively studied, the MR has received less attention. Nevertheless, pioneering in-depth studies over the past two decades have shown the importance of the brain MR in the processing of stressful information. Moreover, a membrane-bound MR mediating the rapid effects of cortisol was recently discovered. This review summarizes how the MR may play a role in stress resilience. Both preclinical and clinical studies suggest that the MR is an important stress modulator and influences basal as well as stress-induced HPA-axis activity, stress appraisal, and fear-related memories. These MR effects are mediated by both genomic and non-genomic MRs and appear to be at least partially sex-dependent. Moreover, the majority of studies indicate that high MR functionality or expression may confer resilience to traumatic stress. This has direct clinical implications. First, increasing activity or expression of brain MRs may prevent or reverse symptoms of stress-related depression. Second, individuals with a relatively low MR functionality may possess an increased stress susceptibility for depression. Nevertheless, the number of clinical MR studies is currently limited. In conclusion, the recent emergence of the MR as a putative stress resilience factor is important and may open up new avenues for the prevention and treatment of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freija ter Heegde
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel H De Rijk
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Christiaan H Vinkers
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Hinkelmann K, Wingenfeld K, Kuehl LK, Fleischer J, Heuser I, Wiedemann K, Otte C. Stimulation of the mineralocorticoid receptor improves memory in young and elderly healthy individuals. Neurobiol Aging 2015; 36:919-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Krause JS, McGuigan MA, Bishop VR, Wingfield JC, Meddle SL. Decreases in mineralocorticoid but not glucocorticoid receptor mRNA expression during the short Arctic breeding season in free-living Gambel's white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii). J Neuroendocrinol 2015; 27:66-75. [PMID: 25411901 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The acute stress response in vertebrates is a highly adaptive suite of physiological and behavioural mechanisms that promote survival in the face of deleterious stimuli from the environment. Facultative changes of physiology and behaviour are mediated through changes in circulating levels of glucocorticoids (corticosterone, cortisol) and their subsequent binding to the high-affinity mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) or the low-affinity glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Free-living male wild Gambel's white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii) display annual fluctuations in the stress response with marked attenuation during the transition from the pre-parental to the parental stage. We investigated whether this rapid reduction in the stress response is mediated through changes in MR and GR mRNA expression in the brain using in situ hybridisation. MR mRNA expression was found to be significantly lower in the hippocampus as the male birds became parental. No changes were observed in GR mRNA expression in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) or preoptic area (POA) at this time. No significant correlations were found between initial capture levels of corticosterone and GR or MR mRNA expression. No differences were found in basal levels of corticosterone between pre-parental and parental in birds collected for in situ hybridisation. Stress response data revealed no difference at baseline but reductions in peak levels of corticosterone as birds became parental. These data suggest that changes in MR expression may be important for the regulation of the stress response or behavioural stress sensitivity with respect to promoting parental care and investment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Krause
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behaviour, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Otte C, Wingenfeld K, Kuehl LK, Kaczmarczyk M, Richter S, Quante A, Regen F, Bajbouj M, Zimmermann-Viehoff F, Wiedemann K, Hinkelmann K. Mineralocorticoid receptor stimulation improves cognitive function and decreases cortisol secretion in depressed patients and healthy individuals. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:386-93. [PMID: 25035081 PMCID: PMC4443950 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Memory and executive function are often impaired in patients with major depression, while cortisol secretion is increased. Mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) are abundantly expressed in the hippocampus and in the prefrontal cortex, brain areas critical for memory, executive function, and cortisol inhibition. Here, we investigated whether MR stimulation with fludrocortisone (1) improves memory and executive function and (2) decreases cortisol secretion in depressed patients and healthy individuals. Twenty-four depressed patients without medication and 24 age-, sex-, and education-matched healthy participants received fludrocortisone (0.4 mg) or placebo in a randomized, double-blind, within-subject cross-over design. We measured verbal memory, visuospatial memory, executive function, psychomotor speed, and salivary cortisol secretion during cognitive testing between 1400 and 1700 hours. For verbal memory and executive function, we found better performance after fludrocortisone compared with placebo across groups. No treatment effect on other cognitive domains emerged. Depressed patients performed worse than healthy individuals in psychomotor speed and executive function. No group effect or group × treatment interaction emerged on other cognitive domains. Fludrocortisone decreased cortisol secretion across groups and there was a significant correlation between cortisol inhibition and verbal memory performance. Our data suggest a crucial role of MR in verbal memory and executive function and demonstrate the possibility to improve cognition in depressed patients and healthy individuals through MR stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Otte
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Wingenfeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linn K Kuehl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Kaczmarczyk
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steffen Richter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Arnim Quante
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Francesca Regen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Malek Bajbouj
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Zimmermann-Viehoff
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus Wiedemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kim Hinkelmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
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Le Menuet D, Lombès M. The neuronal mineralocorticoid receptor: from cell survival to neurogenesis. Steroids 2014; 91:11-9. [PMID: 24928721 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2014.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 04/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), a hormone-activated transcription factor belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily, exerts widespread actions in many tissues such as tight epithelia, the cardiovascular system, adipose tissues and macrophages. In the mammalian brain, MR is present in the limbic areas where it is highly expressed in neurons of the hippocampus and mostly absent in other regions while the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression is ubiquitous. MR binds both aldosterone and glucocorticoids, the latter having a ten-fold higher affinity for MR than for the closely related GR. However, owing to the minimal aldosterone transfer across the blood brain barrier and the absence of neuronal 11β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 as an intracellular gate-keeper, neuronal MR appears to be fully occupied even at low physiological glucocorticoid levels while GR activation only occurs at high glucocorticoid concentrations, i.e. at the peak of the circadian rhythm or under stress. This defined a one hormone/two receptors system that works in balance, modulating a large spectrum of actions in the central nervous system. MR and GR are involved in the stress responses, the regulation of neuron excitability, long term potentiation, neuroprotection and neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus. MR thus constitutes a key factor in the arising of higher cognitive functions such as memorization, learning and mood. This review presents an overview of various roles of MR in the central nervous system which are somewhat less studied than that of GR, in the light of recent data obtained using cellular models, animal models and clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Le Menuet
- Inserm U693, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France; Univ Paris-Sud, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France.
| | - Marc Lombès
- Inserm U693, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France; Univ Paris-Sud, Faculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, UMR-S693, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la Reproduction, Le Kremlin Bicêtre F-94275, France
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Gomez-Sanchez EP. Brain mineralocorticoid receptors in cognition and cardiovascular homeostasis. Steroids 2014; 91:20-31. [PMID: 25173821 PMCID: PMC4302001 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2014.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) mediate diverse functions supporting osmotic and hemodynamic homeostasis, response to injury and inflammation, and neuronal changes required for learning and memory. Inappropriate MR activation in kidneys, heart, vessels, and brain hemodynamic control centers results in cardiovascular and renal pathology and hypertension. MR binds aldosterone, cortisol and corticosterone with similar affinity, while the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) has less affinity for cortisol and corticosterone. As glucocorticoids are more abundant than aldosterone, aldosterone activates MR in cells co-expressing enzymes with 11β-hydroxydehydrogenase activity to inactivate them. MR and GR co-expressed in the same cell interact at the molecular and functional level and these functions may be complementary or opposing depending on the cell type. Thus the balance between MR and GR expression and activation is crucial for normal function. Where 11β-hydroxydehydrogenase 2 (11β-HSD2) that inactivates cortisol and corticosterone in aldosterone target cells of the kidney and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) is not expressed, as in most neurons, MR are activated at basal glucocorticoid concentrations, GR at stress concentrations. An exception may be pre-autonomic neurons of the PVN which express MR and 11β-HSD1 in the absence of hexose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase required to generate the requisite cofactor for reductase activity, thus it acts as a dehydrogenase. MR antagonists, valuable adjuncts to the treatment of cardiovascular disease, also inhibit MR in the brain that are crucial for memory formation and exacerbate detrimental effects of excessive GR activation on cognition and mood. 11β-HSD1 inhibitors combat metabolic and cognitive diseases related to glucocorticoid excess, but may exacerbate MR action where 11β-HSD1 acts as a dehydrogenase, while non-selective 11β-HSD1&2 inhibitors cause injurious disruption of MR hemodynamic control. MR functions in the brain are multifaceted and optimal MR:GR activity is crucial. Therefore selectively targeting down-stream effectors of MR specific actions may be a better therapeutic goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise P Gomez-Sanchez
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA.
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Jacobson L. Forebrain glucocorticoid receptor gene deletion attenuates behavioral changes and antidepressant responsiveness during chronic stress. Brain Res 2014; 1583:109-21. [PMID: 25168761 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Stress is an important risk factor for mood disorders. Stress also stimulates the secretion of glucocorticoids, which have been found to influence mood. To determine the role of forebrain glucocorticoid receptors (GR) in behavioral responses to chronic stress, the present experiments compared behavioral effects of repeated social defeat in mice with forebrain GR deletion and in floxed GR littermate controls. Repeated defeat produced alterations in forced swim and tail suspension immobility in floxed GR mice that did not occur in mice with forebrain GR deletion. Defeat-induced changes in immobility in floxed GR mice were prevented by chronic antidepressant treatment, indicating that these behaviors were dysphoria-related. In contrast, although mice with forebrain GR deletion exhibited antidepressant-induced decreases in tail suspension immobility in the absence of stress, this response did not occur in mice with forebrain GR deletion after defeat. There were no marked differences in plasma corticosterone between genotypes, suggesting that behavioral differences depended on forebrain GR rather than on abnormal glucocorticoid secretion. Defeat-induced gene expression of the neuronal activity marker c-fos in the ventral hippocampus, paraventricular thalamus and lateral septum correlated with genotype-related differences in behavioral effects of defeat, whereas c-fos induction in the nucleus accumbens and central and basolateral amygdala correlated with genotype-related differences in behavioral responses to antidepressant treatment. The dependence of both negative (dysphoria-related) and positive (antidepressant-induced) behaviors on forebrain GR is consistent with the contradictory effects of glucocorticoids on mood, and implicates these or other forebrain regions in these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Jacobson
- Center for Neuropharmacology and Neuroscience, Albany Medical College, Mail Code 146, Albany, NY 12208, USA.
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