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De La Torre Canales G, Al-Moraissi EA, Fatih T, Razavian A, Westman J, Yanes Y, Grigoriadis A, Christidis M, Christidis N, Barjandi G. The role of tryptophan and its derivatives in musculoskeletal pains: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Oral Rehabil 2024. [PMID: 38803211 DOI: 10.1111/joor.13758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies present ambiguous findings regarding the role of tryptophan and its metabolites, kynurenine and serotonin in chronic musculoskeletal pain. This systematic review aimed to investigate the expression of tryptophan and its metabolites, serotonin and kynurenine in patients with local and generalized chronic musculoskeletal pain in comparison with pain-free controls. METHODS An electronic search was conducted in the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and Web of Science for clinical and observational trials from the beginning of each database to 21 April 2023. Out of 6734 articles, a total of 17 studies were included; 12 studies were used in the meta-analysis of serotonin, 3 regarding tryptophan and 2 studies for a narrative synthesis regarding kynurenine. Risk of bias was assessed using the quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, while the certainty of evidence was by GRADE. RESULTS All included studies showed a low risk of bias. The meta-analysis showed lower blood levels of tryptophan (p < .001; very low quality of evidence) and higher blood levels of serotonin (p < .001; very low-quality evidence) in patients with generalized musculoskeletal pain, when compared to pain-free individuals. In local chronic musculoskeletal pain, there were higher blood levels of serotonin (p=.251; very low quality of evidence) compared to pain-free individuals. Regarding kynurenine, the studies reported both higher and lower blood levels in generalized chronic musculoskeletal pain compared to pain-free individuals. CONCLUSIONS The blood levels of tryptophan and its metabolites serotonin and kynurenine seem to influence chronic musculoskeletal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo De La Torre Canales
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Caparica, Almada, Portugal
| | - Essam Ahmed Al-Moraissi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Thamar University, Thamar, Yemen
| | - Tina Fatih
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Artin Razavian
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Julia Westman
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Yanal Yanes
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Anastasios Grigoriadis
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Maria Christidis
- The Swedish Red Cross University, The Institute of Health Sciences, Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Nikolaos Christidis
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Golnaz Barjandi
- Division of Oral Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences, Huddinge, Sweden
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Lee JS, Kang JY, Park SY, Hwang SJ, Bae SJ, Son CG. Central 5-HTergic hyperactivity induces myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)-like pathophysiology. J Transl Med 2024; 22:34. [PMID: 38191373 PMCID: PMC10773012 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04808-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a significant medical challenge, with no indisputable pathophysiological mechanism identified to date. METHODS Based on clinical clues, we hypothesized that 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) hyperactivation is implicated in the pathogenic causes of ME/CFS and the associated symptoms. We experimentally evaluated this hypothesis in a series of mouse models. RESULTS High-dose selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment induced intra- and extracellular serotonin spillover in the dorsal raphe nuclei of mice. This condition resulted in severe fatigue (rota-rod, fatigue rotating wheel and home-cage activity tests) and ME/CFS-associated symptoms (nest building, plantar and open field test), along with dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response to exercise challenge. These ME/CFS-like features induced by excess serotonin were additionally verified using both a 5-HT synthesis inhibitor and viral vector for Htr1a (5-HT1A receptor) gene knockdown. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the involvement of 5-HTergic hyperactivity in the pathophysiology of ME/CFS. This ME/CFS-mimicking animal model would be useful for understanding ME/CFS biology and its therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Seok Lee
- Research Center for CFS/ME, Daejeon Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Yun Kang
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Samuel-Young Park
- Korean Medical College of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ju Hwang
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Jin Bae
- College of Medicine, Kosin University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Gue Son
- Research Center for CFS/ME, Daejeon Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Bioscience & Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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Xu J, Lodge T, Kingdon C, Strong JWL, Maclennan J, Lacerda E, Kujawski S, Zalewski P, Huang WE, Morten KJ. Developing a Blood Cell-Based Diagnostic Test for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Using Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302146. [PMID: 37653608 PMCID: PMC10602530 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is characterized by debilitating fatigue that profoundly impacts patients' lives. Diagnosis of ME/CFS remains challenging, with most patients relying on self-report, questionnaires, and subjective measures to receive a diagnosis, and many never receiving a clear diagnosis at all. In this study, a single-cell Raman platform and artificial intelligence are utilized to analyze blood cells from 98 human subjects, including 61 ME/CFS patients of varying disease severity and 37 healthy and disease controls. These results demonstrate that Raman profiles of blood cells can distinguish between healthy individuals, disease controls, and ME/CFS patients with high accuracy (91%), and can further differentiate between mild, moderate, and severe ME/CFS patients (84%). Additionally, specific Raman peaks that correlate with ME/CFS phenotypes and have the potential to provide insights into biological changes and support the development of new therapeutics are identified. This study presents a promising approach for aiding in the diagnosis and management of ME/CFS and can be extended to other unexplained chronic diseases such as long COVID and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, which share many of the same symptoms as ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabao Xu
- Department of Engineering ScienceUniversity of OxfordParks RoadOxfordOX1 3PJUK
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, James Watt School of EngineeringUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowG12 8LTUK
| | - Tiffany Lodge
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive HealthUniversity of OxfordThe Women CentreJohn Radcliffe HospitalHeadley Way, HeadingtonOxfordOX3 9DUUK
| | - Caroline Kingdon
- Faculty of Infectious DiseasesLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineKeppel StLondonWC1E 7HTUK
| | - James W. L. Strong
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive HealthUniversity of OxfordThe Women CentreJohn Radcliffe HospitalHeadley Way, HeadingtonOxfordOX3 9DUUK
| | - John Maclennan
- Soft Cell Biological ResearchAttwood Innovation Center453 S 600 ESt. GeorgeUT84770USA
| | - Eliana Lacerda
- Faculty of Infectious DiseasesLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineKeppel StLondonWC1E 7HTUK
| | - Slawomir Kujawski
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Functional AnatomyCollegium Medicum in BydgoszczNicolaus Copernicus University in TorunSwietojanska 20Bydgoszcz85‐077Poland
| | - Pawel Zalewski
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Functional AnatomyCollegium Medicum in BydgoszczNicolaus Copernicus University in TorunSwietojanska 20Bydgoszcz85‐077Poland
- Department of Experimental and Clinical PhysiologyWarsaw Medical UniversityStefana Banacha 2aWarszawa02‐097Poland
| | - Wei E. Huang
- Department of Engineering ScienceUniversity of OxfordParks RoadOxfordOX1 3PJUK
| | - Karl J. Morten
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive HealthUniversity of OxfordThe Women CentreJohn Radcliffe HospitalHeadley Way, HeadingtonOxfordOX3 9DUUK
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Komaroff AL, Lipkin WI. ME/CFS and Long COVID share similar symptoms and biological abnormalities: road map to the literature. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1187163. [PMID: 37342500 PMCID: PMC10278546 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1187163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Some patients remain unwell for months after "recovering" from acute COVID-19. They develop persistent fatigue, cognitive problems, headaches, disrupted sleep, myalgias and arthralgias, post-exertional malaise, orthostatic intolerance and other symptoms that greatly interfere with their ability to function and that can leave some people housebound and disabled. The illness (Long COVID) is similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) as well as to persisting illnesses that can follow a wide variety of other infectious agents and following major traumatic injury. Together, these illnesses are projected to cost the U.S. trillions of dollars. In this review, we first compare the symptoms of ME/CFS and Long COVID, noting the considerable similarities and the few differences. We then compare in extensive detail the underlying pathophysiology of these two conditions, focusing on abnormalities of the central and autonomic nervous system, lungs, heart, vasculature, immune system, gut microbiome, energy metabolism and redox balance. This comparison highlights how strong the evidence is for each abnormality, in each illness, and helps to set priorities for future investigation. The review provides a current road map to the extensive literature on the underlying biology of both illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony L. Komaroff
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - W. Ian Lipkin
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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5
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Pais ML, Martins J, Castelo-Branco M, Gonçalves J. Sex Differences in Tryptophan Metabolism: A Systematic Review Focused on Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24066010. [PMID: 36983084 PMCID: PMC10057939 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24066010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan (Tryp) is an essential amino acid and the precursor of several neuroactive compounds within the central nervous system (CNS). Tryp metabolism, the common denominator linking serotonin (5-HT) dysfunctions and neuroinflammation, is involved in several neuropsychiatric conditions, including neurological, neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric diseases. Interestingly, most of those conditions occur and progress in a sex-specific manner. Here, we explore the most relevant observations about the influence of biological sex on Tryp metabolism and its possible relation to neuropsychiatric diseases. Consistent evidence suggests that women have a higher susceptibility than men to suffer serotoninergic alterations due to changes in the levels of its precursor Tryp. Indeed, female sex bias in neuropsychiatric diseases is involved in a reduced availability of this amino acid pool and 5-HT synthesis. These changes in Tryp metabolism could lead to sexual dimorphism on the prevalence and severity of some neuropsychiatric disorders. This review identifies gaps in the current state of the art, thus suggesting future research directions. Specifically, there is a need for further research on the impact of diet and sex steroids, both involved in this molecular mechanism as they have been poorly addressed for this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Lapo Pais
- Doctoral Program in Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Martins
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Gonçalves
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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6
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Badawy AAB, Guillemin GJ. Species Differences in Tryptophan Metabolism and Disposition. Int J Tryptophan Res 2022; 15:11786469221122511. [PMID: 36325027 PMCID: PMC9620070 DOI: 10.1177/11786469221122511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Major species differences in tryptophan (Trp) metabolism and disposition exist
with important physiological, functional and toxicity implications. Unlike
mammalian and other species in which plasma Trp exists largely bound to albumin,
teleosts and other aquatic species possess little or no albumin, such that Trp
entry into their tissues is not hampered, neither is that of environmental
chemicals and toxins, hence the need for strict measures to safeguard their
aquatic environments. In species sensitive to toxicity of excess Trp, hepatic
Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) lacks the free apoenzyme and its glucocorticoid
induction mechanism. These species, which are largely herbivorous, however,
dispose of Trp more rapidly and their TDO is activated by smaller doses of Trp
than Trp-tolerant species. In general, sensitive species may possess a higher
indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity which equips them to resist immune
insults up to a point. Of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway beyond TDO and
IDO, 2-amino-3-carboxymuconic acid-6-semialdehyde decarboxylase (ACMSD)
determines the extent of progress of the pathway towards NAD+
synthesis and its activity varies across species, with the domestic cat
(Felis catus) being the leading species possessing the
highest activity, hence its inability to utilise Trp for NAD+
synthesis. The paucity of current knowledge of Trp metabolism and disposition in
wild carnivores, invertebrates and many other animal species described here
underscores the need for further studies of the physiology of these species and
its interaction with Trp metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A-B Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences,
Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, UK,Abdulla A-B Badawy, Formerly School of
Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff,
Wales, CF5 2YB, UK.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, MND Research
Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia
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7
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Kavyani B, Lidbury BA, Schloeffel R, Fisher PR, Missailidis D, Annesley SJ, Dehhaghi M, Heng B, Guillemin GJ. Could the kynurenine pathway be the key missing piece of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) complex puzzle? Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:412. [PMID: 35821534 PMCID: PMC9276562 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04380-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex and debilitating disease with a substantial social and economic impact on individuals and their community. Despite its importance and deteriorating impact, progresses in diagnosis and treatment of ME/CFS is limited. This is due to the unclear pathophysiology of the disease and consequently lack of prognostic biomarkers. To investigate pathophysiology of ME/CFS, several potential pathologic hallmarks have been investigated; however, these studies have failed to report a consistent result. These failures in introducing the underlying reason for ME/CFS have stimulated considering other possible contributing mechanisms such as tryptophan (TRP) metabolism and in particular kynurenine pathway (KP). KP plays a central role in cellular energy production through the production of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH). In addition, this pathway has been shown to mediate immune response and neuroinflammation through its metabolites. This review, we will discuss the pathology and management of ME/CFS and provide evidence pertaining KP abnormalities and symptoms that are classic characteristics of ME/CFS. Targeting the KP regulation may provide innovative approaches to the management of ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahar Kavyani
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Brett A Lidbury
- The National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, RSPH, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Richard Schloeffel
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- The Grove Health Pymble, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul R Fisher
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daniel Missailidis
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarah J Annesley
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mona Dehhaghi
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benjamin Heng
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
- Pandis.org, Melbourne, Australia.
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8
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Tate W, Walker M, Sweetman E, Helliwell A, Peppercorn K, Edgar C, Blair A, Chatterjee A. Molecular Mechanisms of Neuroinflammation in ME/CFS and Long COVID to Sustain Disease and Promote Relapses. Front Neurol 2022; 13:877772. [PMID: 35693009 PMCID: PMC9174654 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.877772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a disease now well-documented as having arisen commonly from a viral infection, but also from other external stressors, like exposure to agricultural chemicals, other types of infection, surgery, or other severe stress events. Research has shown these events produce a systemic molecular inflammatory response and chronic immune activation and dysregulation. What has been more difficult to establish is the hierarchy of the physiological responses that give rise to the myriad of symptoms that ME/CFS patients experience, and why they do not resolve and are generally life-long. The severity of the symptoms frequently fluctuates through relapse recovery periods, with brain-centered symptoms of neuroinflammation, loss of homeostatic control, "brain fog" affecting cognitive ability, lack of refreshing sleep, and poor response to even small stresses. How these brain effects develop with ME/CFS from the initiating external effector, whether virus or other cause, is poorly understood and that is what our paper aims to address. We propose the hypothesis that following the initial stressor event, the subsequent systemic pathology moves to the brain via neurovascular pathways or through a dysfunctional blood-brain barrier (BBB), resulting in chronic neuroinflammation and leading to a sustained illness with chronic relapse recovery cycles. Signaling through recognized pathways from the brain back to body physiology is likely part of the process by which the illness cycle in the peripheral system is sustained and why healing does not occur. By contrast, Long COVID (Post-COVID-19 condition) is a very recent ME/CFS-like illness arising from the single pandemic virus, SARS-CoV-2. We believe the ME/CFS-like ongoing effects of Long COVID are arising by very similar mechanisms involving neuroinflammation, but likely with some unique signaling, resulting from the pathology of the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. The fact that there are very similar symptoms in both ongoing diseases, despite the diversity in the nature of the initial stressors, supports the concept of a similar dysfunctional CNS component common to both.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren Tate
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Max Walker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Eiren Sweetman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Amber Helliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Katie Peppercorn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christina Edgar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna Blair
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Commonalities in the Features of Cancer and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): Evidence for Stress-Induced Phenotype Instability? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020691. [PMID: 35054876 PMCID: PMC8775947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) and Cancer-Related Fatigue (CRF) are syndromes with considerable overlap with respect to symptoms. There have been many studies that have compared the two conditions, and some of this research suggests that the etiologies of the conditions are linked in some cases. In this narrative review, CFS/ME and cancer are introduced, along with their known and putative mechanistic connections to multiple stressors including ionizing radiation. Next, we summarize findings from the literature that suggest the involvement of HPA-axis dysfunction, the serotonergic system, cytokines and inflammation, metabolic insufficiency and mitochondrial dysfunction, and genetic changes in CRF and CFS/ME. We further suspect that the manifestation of fatigue in both diseases and its causes could indicate that CRF and CFS/ME lie on a continuum of potential biological effects which occur in response to stress. The response to this stress likely varies depending on predisposing factors such as genetic background. Finally, future research ideas are suggested with a focus on determining if common biomarkers exist in CFS/ME patients and those afflicted with CRF. Both CFS/ME and CRF are relatively heterogenous syndromes, however, it is our hope that this review assists in future research attempting to elucidate the commonalities between CRF and CFS/ME.
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10
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Simonato M, Dall’Acqua S, Zilli C, Sut S, Tenconi R, Gallo N, Sfriso P, Sartori L, Cavallin F, Fiocco U, Cogo P, Agostinis P, Aldovini A, Bruttomesso D, Marcolongo R, Comai S, Baritussio A. Tryptophan Metabolites, Cytokines, and Fatty Acid Binding Protein 2 in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111724. [PMID: 34829952 PMCID: PMC8615774 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) differ for triggers, mode of start, associated symptoms, evolution, and biochemical traits. Therefore, serious attempts are underway to partition them into subgroups useful for a personalized medicine approach to the disease. Here, we investigated clinical and biochemical traits in 40 ME/CFS patients and 40 sex- and age-matched healthy controls. Particularly, we analyzed serum levels of some cytokines, Fatty Acid Binding Protein 2 (FAPB-2), tryptophan, and some of its metabolites via serotonin and kynurenine. ME/CFS patients were heterogeneous for genetic background, trigger, start mode, symptoms, and evolution. ME/CFS patients had higher levels of IL-17A (p = 0.018), FABP-2 (p = 0.002), and 3-hydroxykynurenine (p = 0.037) and lower levels of kynurenine (p = 0.012) and serotonin (p = 0.045) than controls. Changes in kynurenine and 3-hydroxykynurenine were associated with increased kynurenic acid/kynurenine and 3-hydroxykynurenine/kynurenine ratios, indirect measures of kynurenine aminotransferases and kynurenine 3-monooxygenase enzymatic activities, respectively. No correlation was found among cytokines, FABP-2, and tryptophan metabolites, suggesting that inflammation, anomalies of the intestinal barrier, and changes of tryptophan metabolism may be independently associated with the pathogenesis of the disease. Interestingly, patients with the start of the disease after infection showed lower levels of kynurenine (p = 0.034) than those not starting after an infection. Changes in tryptophan metabolites and increased IL-17A levels in ME/CFS could both be compatible with anomalies in the sphere of energy metabolism. Overall, clinical traits together with serum biomarkers related to inflammation, intestine function, and tryptophan metabolism deserve to be further considered for the development of personalized medicine strategies for ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Simonato
- PCare Laboratory, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica, Citta’ della Speranza, 35127 Padova, Italy;
| | - Stefano Dall’Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy; (S.D.); (S.S.)
| | | | - Stefania Sut
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy; (S.D.); (S.S.)
| | - Romano Tenconi
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Nicoletta Gallo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Policlinico Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Paolo Sfriso
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Leonardo Sartori
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
| | | | - Ugo Fiocco
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Paola Cogo
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Paolo Agostinis
- Department of Medicine, Ospedale Sant’Antonio Abate, Azienda Sanitaria del Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Anna Aldovini
- Department of Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Daniela Bruttomesso
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Renzo Marcolongo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Stefano Comai
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy; (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-827-5098
| | - Aldo Baritussio
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (R.T.); (P.S.); (L.S.); (U.F.); (D.B.); (R.M.); (A.B.)
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Groven N, Reitan SK, Fors EA, Guzey IC. Kynurenine metabolites and ratios differ between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and healthy controls. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 131:105287. [PMID: 34090138 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence that the kynurenine pathway is involved in the pathology of diseases related to the central nervous system (CNS), because of the neuroprotective or neurotoxic properties of certain metabolites, yet the role of each metabolite is not clear. The pathology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Fibromyalgia (FM) is currently under investigation, and the overlapping symptoms such as depression suggest that the CNS may be involved. These symptoms may be driven by enhanced neurotoxicity and/or diminished neuroprotection. However, the kynurenine metabolite status has not been well studied in these two possible related disorders of CFS and FM. The objective of this study was to investigate the metabolites and ratios of the kynurenine pathway in CFS and FM compared to healthy controls and examine the possible correlations with symptoms of anxiety and depression. METHOD In this study, females aged 18-60 were included: 49 CFS patients; 57 FM patients; and 54 healthy controls. Blood plasma was analysed for the following metabolites involved in the kynurenine pathway: Tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid (KA), 3-hydroxykykynurenine (HK), anthranilic acid, xanthurenic acid (XA), 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, quinolinic acid (QA) and picolinic acid. The concentrations of these metabolites, as well as the ratios of different metabolites indicating enzymatic activity, were compared between the groups. Findings were controlled for age, body mass index (BMI), and symptoms of anxiety and depression. RESULTS QA differed between CFS and FM patients (β = .144, p = .036) and was related to higher levels of BMI (β = .017, p = .002). The neuroprotective ratio given by KA/QA was lower for CFS patients compared to healthy controls (β = -.211, p = .016). The neuroprotective ratio given by KA/HK was lower for FM patients compared to healthy controls, and this lower neuroprotective ratio was associated with increased symptoms of pain. The kynurenine aminotransferase II (KAT II) enzymatic activity given by XA/HK was lower for FM patients compared to healthy controls (β = -.236, p = .013). In addition, BMI was negatively associated with enhanced KAT II enzymatic activity (β = -.015, p = .039). Symptoms of anxiety and depression were not associated with the metabolites or ratios studied. CONCLUSION Our study indicates associations between kynurenine metabolism and CFS and FM as well as characteristic symptoms like fatigue and pain. Forthcoming studies indicating a causative effect may place kynurenine metabolites as a target for treatment as well as prevention of these conditions in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Groven
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Mental Health, St. Olav's University Hospital, AFFU, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Solveig Klæbo Reitan
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Mental Health, St. Olav's University Hospital, AFFU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Egil Andreas Fors
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ismail Cuneyt Guzey
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Mental Health, St. Olav's University Hospital, AFFU, Trondheim, Norway
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Jones K, Probst Y. Role of dietary modification in alleviating chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms: a systematic review. Aust N Z J Public Health 2017; 41:338-344. [PMID: 28616881 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 01/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the evidence for the role of dietary modifications in alleviating chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms. METHODS A systematic literature review was guided by PRISMA and conducted using Scopus, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science and PsycINFO scientific databases (1994-2016) to identify relevant studies. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria, the quality of each paper was assessed and data extracted into a standardised tabular format. RESULTS Positive outcomes were highlighted in some included studies for polyphenol intakes in animal studies, D-ribose supplementation in humans and aspects of symptom alleviation for one of three polynutrient supplement studies. Omega three fatty acid blood levels and supplementation with an omega three fatty acid supplement also displayed positive outcomes in relation to chronic fatigue syndrome symptom alleviation. CONCLUSIONS Limited dietary modifications were found useful in alleviating chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms, with overall evidence narrow and inconsistent across studies. Implications for public health: Due to the individual and community impairment chronic fatigue syndrome causes the population, it is vital that awareness and further focused research on this topic is undertaken to clarify and consolidate recommendations and ensure accurate, useful distribution of information at a population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Jones
- Smart Food Centre, Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, New South Wales
| | - Yasmine Probst
- Smart Food Centre, Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, New South Wales.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, New South Wales
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Glassford JAG. The Neuroinflammatory Etiopathology of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Front Physiol 2017; 8:88. [PMID: 28261110 PMCID: PMC5314655 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating multi-systemic chronic illness of unknown etiology, classified as a neurological disorder by the World Health Organization (WHO). The symptomatology of the condition appears to emanate from a variety of sources of chronic neurological disturbance and associated distortions, and chronicity, in noxious sensory signaling and neuroimmune activation. This article incorporates a summary review and discussion of biomedical research considered relevant to this essential conception perspective. It is intended to provide stakeholders with a concise, integrated outline disease model in order to help demystify this major public health problem. The primary etiopathological factors presented are: (A) Postural/biomechanical pain signaling, affecting adverse neuroexcitation, in the context of compression, constriction, strain, or damage of vertebral-regional bone and neuromuscular tissues; (B) Immune mediated inflammatory sequelae, in the context of prolonged immunotropic neurotrophic infection—with lymphotropic/gliotropic/glio-toxic varieties implicated in particular; (C) A combination of factors A and B. Sustained glial activation under such conditions is associated with oxidative and nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, and neural sensitivity. These processes collectively enhance the potential for multi-systemic disarray involving endocrine pathway aberration, immune and mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurodegeneration, and tend toward still more intractable synergistic neuro-glial dysfunction (gliopathy), autoimmunity, and central neuronal sensitization.
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Jason LA, Zinn ML, Zinn MA. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: Symptoms and Biomarkers. Curr Neuropharmacol 2015; 13:701-34. [PMID: 26411464 PMCID: PMC4761639 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x13666150928105725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) continues to cause significant morbidity worldwide with an estimated one million cases in the United States. Hurdles to establishing consensus to achieve accurate evaluation of patients with ME continue, fueled by poor agreement about case definitions, slow progress in development of standardized diagnostic approaches, and issues surrounding research priorities. Because there are other medical problems, such as early MS and Parkinson's Disease, which have some similar clinical presentations, it is critical to accurately diagnose ME to make a differential diagnosis. In this article, we explore and summarize advances in the physiological and neurological approaches to understanding, diagnosing, and treating ME. We identify key areas and approaches to elucidate the core and secondary symptom clusters in ME so as to provide some practical suggestions in evaluation of ME for clinicians and researchers. This review, therefore, represents a synthesis of key discussions in the literature, and has important implications for a better understanding of ME, its biological markers, and diagnostic criteria. There is a clear need for more longitudinal studies in this area with larger data sets, which correct for multiple testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard A. Jason
- Department of Psychology, Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Anderson G, Berk M, Maes M. Biological phenotypes underpin the physio-somatic symptoms of somatization, depression, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2014; 129:83-97. [PMID: 23952563 DOI: 10.1111/acps.12182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Somatization is a symptom cluster characterized by 'psychosomatic' symptoms, that is, medically unexplained symptoms, and is a common component of other conditions, including depression and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This article reviews the data regarding the pathophysiological foundations of 'psychosomatic' symptoms and the implications that this has for conceptualization of what may more appropriately be termed physio-somatic symptoms. METHOD This narrative review used papers published in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar electronic databases using the keywords: depression and chronic fatigue, depression and somatization, somatization and chronic fatigue syndrome, each combined with inflammation, inflammatory, tryptophan, and cell-mediated immune (CMI). RESULTS The physio-somatic symptoms of depression, ME/CFS, and somatization are associated with specific biomarkers of inflammation and CMI activation, which are correlated with, and causally linked to, changes in the tryptophan catabolite (TRYCAT) pathway. Oxidative and nitrosative stress induces damage that increases neoepitopes and autoimmunity that contribute to the immuno-inflammatory processes. These pathways are all known to cause physio-somatic symptoms, including fatigue, malaise, autonomic symptoms, hyperalgesia, intestinal hypermotility, peripheral neuropathy, etc. CONCLUSION Biological underpinnings, such as immune-inflammatory pathways, may explain, at least in part, the occurrence of physio-somatic symptoms in depression, somatization, or myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and thus the clinical overlap among these disorders.
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Islahudin F, Tindall SM, Mellor IR, Swift K, Christensen HEM, Fone KCF, Pleass RJ, Ting KN, Avery SV. The antimalarial drug quinine interferes with serotonin biosynthesis and action. Sci Rep 2014; 4:3618. [PMID: 24402577 PMCID: PMC3885885 DOI: 10.1038/srep03618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The major antimalarial drug quinine perturbs uptake of the essential amino acid tryptophan, and patients with low plasma tryptophan are predisposed to adverse quinine reactions; symptoms of which are similar to indications of tryptophan depletion. As tryptophan is a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT), here we test the hypothesis that quinine disrupts serotonin function. Quinine inhibited serotonin-induced proliferation of yeast as well as human (SHSY5Y) cells. One possible cause of this effect is through inhibition of 5-HT receptor activation by quinine, as we observed here. Furthermore, cells exhibited marked decreases in serotonin production during incubation with quinine. By assaying activity and kinetics of the rate-limiting enzyme for serotonin biosynthesis, tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH2), we showed that quinine competitively inhibits TPH2 in the presence of the substrate tryptophan. The study shows that quinine disrupts both serotonin biosynthesis and function, giving important new insight to the action of quinine on mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farida Islahudin
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, 43500 Semenyih, Malaysia
- Current address: Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kebangsaan Malaysia, 50300, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sarah M. Tindall
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ian R. Mellor
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Karen Swift
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | | | - Kevin C. F. Fone
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Richard J. Pleass
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Kang-Nee Ting
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, 43500 Semenyih, Malaysia
| | - Simon V. Avery
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
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Hennings A, Schwarz MJ, Riemer S, Stapf TM, Selberdinger VB, Rief W. Exercise affects symptom severity but not biological measures in depression and somatization - results on IL-6, neopterin, tryptophan, kynurenine and 5-HIAA. Psychiatry Res 2013; 210:925-33. [PMID: 24140252 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2013.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Exercise leads to symptom reduction in affective disorders and functional somatic syndromes. Biological hypotheses of underlying mechanisms include serotonergic and immunological pathways. We aimed to investigate biological features in persons with major depression and somatoform syndromes, and to analyze effects of short-term graded exercise on these parameters. Baseline values for depressive and somatoform symptoms, tryptophan, kynurenine, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, neopterin and interleukin-6 were compared with those after one week of increased and one week of reduced physical activity. Thirty-eight persons with major depression, 27 persons with a minimum of 6-8 somatoform symptoms, and 48 healthy controls participated in the study. Depressive and somatoform symptoms were reduced after the active week, and an interaction pointed towards group-specific reduction of psychopathology. Participants with major depression had lower levels of kynurenine compared to controls, with intermediate concentrations in somatoform patients. There were no systematic associations of symptom improvement with biological changes. A possible limitation of the design is that a control condition with low physical activity, but no placebo condition was included. People with multiple somatoform symptoms and major depression benefit from a short and low-graded exercise intervention. These effects do not seem to be mediated by changes in serotonergic and inflammatory parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Hennings
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, Gutenbergstrasse 18, 35032 Marburg, Germany.
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Common biological pathways underlying the psychoneurological symptom cluster in cancer patients. Cancer Nurs 2013; 35:E1-E20. [PMID: 22228391 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0b013e318233a811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A symptom cluster is a group of symptoms that occur together and are interrelated. The clinical implication of symptom cluster research is to use the clustering patterns of symptoms to understand the mechanisms for these symptoms and develop management strategies targeted at multiple symptoms. OBJECTIVE The purposes of this review were to summarize the evidence for a psychoneurological symptom cluster in cancer patients, to provide information regarding the underlying biological mechanisms for each of the psychoneurological symptoms within the cluster, and to propose possible common biological pathways that may underlie this cluster. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was conducted. RESULTS Empirical evidence exists to support a cluster of psychoneurological symptoms (ie, depressive symptoms, cognitive disturbance, fatigue, sleep disturbance, pain). At a molecular level, common biological pathways (ie, proinflammatory cytokines, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and monoamine neurotransmission system) may underlie the development of symptoms within this cluster. Activation of proinflammatory cytokines is proposed as a first stage of mechanistic pathway. However, other biological factors, such as lowered estrogen or hemoglobin levels, may influence psychoneurological cluster. CONCLUSION Additional studies are needed to confirm the roles of cytokines as well as other biological factors in the development of the psychoneurological cluster and to determine the biomarkers to identify the subgroups of cancer patients who are at greatest risk for this cluster. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This information can be used by researchers and clinicians to guide the selection of symptom management strategies that are ideally targeted to the biological mechanisms that underlie this symptom cluster.
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Hsu MC, Tu CH. Improving quality-of-life outcomes for patients with cancer through mediating effects of depressive symptoms and functional status: a three-path mediation model. J Clin Nurs 2013; 23:2461-72. [PMID: 24112217 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.12399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To test a hypothetical three-path mediation model evaluating the effects of functional status and depressive symptoms on the relationship between fatigue and quality of life in patients with cancer on the basis of the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms. BACKGROUND Patients with cancer often experience two or more concurrent, interrelated, mutually influential symptoms. Multiple unpleasant symptoms that have been proposed as mediating variables affecting quality of life in a model proposed in recent cancer studies are scanty. DESIGN This study was a cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design. METHODS Three hundred and twenty-six patients with cancer from oncology clinics were recruited in Taiwan between 2010-2011. Mediation models were tested and confirmed by applying structural modelling using Analysis of Moment Structures and the joint significance test. RESULTS Fatigue affects patient quality of life directly or indirectly through functional status and depressive symptoms. These two mediating variables exhibited direct effects on quality of life. A path analysis approach revealed that 47·28 and 67·70% of the total effects of functional status and depressive symptoms, respectively, on the quality-of-life mediation models are attributable to 29·6 and 44·7% of the total effects between fatigue and quality of life, which mediated through two mediators, respectively. CONCLUSION Quality of life may be enhanced by simultaneously improving physiological and psychological factors. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE An understanding of mediating effects is valuable in nursing care of patients with cancer, particularly in the early phase of treatment or in newly diagnosed stages I-III or recently treated patients with cancer in different disease stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chi Hsu
- Department of Nursing, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
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Cancer-related fatigue in the elderly. Support Care Cancer 2013; 21:2899-911. [PMID: 23852408 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-013-1897-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer is a disease of the elderly: 60 % of tumours occur in patients aged 65 years or older. Cancer-related fatigue is a common symptom experienced by cancer patients and cancer survivors that profoundly affects all aspects of the quality of life. Although it has been estimated that up to 70 % of elderly with cancer experience fatigue, this symptom is still largely ignored in ageing population. METHODS We performed a systematic review of the literature identified by MEDLINE. RESULTS The relationship between ageing process and pathogenesis of cancer-related fatigue is still not fully understood. CONCLUSIONS Ageing is associated with an increased prevalence of chronic diseases, decreased functional reserve in multiple organ systems and enhanced susceptibility to stress. Ageing and the concomitant presence of a condition of frailty may predispose to the presence of fatigue. Nevertheless, only few studies have to date specifically assessed the impact of fatigue in the geriatric population. Since cancer-related fatigue is a peculiarly debilitating condition characteristic of elderly cancer patient population, we suggest the early recognition and thorough evaluation of the symptom fatigue, its co-existing causes (i.e. anaemia, mood disorders and sleep disturbances) and co-morbidities (i.e., endocrine disorders, metabolic, cardiovascular and liver diseases).
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Hackshaw KV, Rodriguez-Saona L, Plans M, Bell LN, Buffington CAT. A bloodspot-based diagnostic test for fibromyalgia syndrome and related disorders. Analyst 2013; 138:4453-62. [PMID: 23595128 DOI: 10.1039/c3an36615d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of a rapid biomarker-based method for diagnosis of fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) using mid-infrared microspectroscopy (IRMS) to differentiate patients with FM from those with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to identify molecular species associated with the spectral patterns. Under IRB approval, blood samples were collected from patients diagnosed with FM (n = 14), RA (n = 15), or OA (n = 12). Samples were prepared, placed onto a highly reflective slide, and spectra were collected using IRMS. Spectra were analyzed using multivariate statistical modeling to differentiate groups. Aliquots of samples also were subjected to metabolomic analysis. IRMS separated subjects into classes based on spectral information with no misclassifications among FM and RA or OA patients. Interclass distances of 15.4 (FM vs. RA), 14.7 (FM vs. OA) and 2.5 (RA vs. OA) among subjects, demonstrating the ability of IRMS to achieve reliable resolution of unique spectral patterns specific to FM. Metabolomic analysis revealed that RA and OA groups were metabolically similar, whereas biochemical differences were identified in the FM that were quite distinctive from those found in the other two groups. Both IRMS and metabolomic analysis identified changes in tryptophan catabolism pathway that differentiated patients with FM from those with RA or OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin V Hackshaw
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Islahudin F, Pleass RJ, Avery SV, Ting KN. Quinine interactions with tryptophan and tyrosine in malaria patients, and implications for quinine responses in the clinical setting. J Antimicrob Chemother 2012; 67:2501-5. [PMID: 22763566 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dks253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recent work with the yeast model revealed that the antiprotozoal drug quinine competes with tryptophan for uptake via a common transport protein, causing cellular tryptophan starvation. In the present work, it was hypothesized that similar interactions may occur in malaria patients receiving quinine therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS A direct observational study was conducted in which plasma levels of drug and amino acids (tryptophan, tyrosine and phenylalanine) were monitored during quinine treatment of malaria patients with Plasmodium falciparum infections. RESULTS Consistent with competition for uptake from plasma into cells, plasma tryptophan and tyrosine levels increased ≥2-fold during quinine therapy. Plasma quinine levels in individual plasma samples were significantly and positively correlated with tryptophan and tyrosine in the same samples. Control studies indicated no effect on phenylalanine. Chloroquine treatment of Plasmodium vivax-infected patients did not affect plasma tryptophan or tyrosine. During quinine treatment, plasma tryptophan was significantly lower (and quinine significantly higher) in patients experiencing adverse drug reactions. CONCLUSIONS Plasma quinine levels during therapy are related to patient tryptophan and tyrosine levels, and these interactions can determine patient responses to quinine. The study also highlights the potential for extrapolating insights directly from the yeast model to human malaria patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farida Islahudin
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, 43500 Semenyih, Malaysia
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Biological underpinnings of the commonalities in depression, somatization, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Med Hypotheses 2012; 78:752-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2012.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Jason LA, Sorenson M, Porter N, Belkairous N. An Etiological Model for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. NEUROSCIENCE AND MEDICINE 2011; 2:14-27. [PMID: 21892413 PMCID: PMC3166239 DOI: 10.4236/nm.2011.21003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Kindling might represent a heuristic model for understanding the etiology of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Kindling occurs when an organism is exposed repeatedly to an initially sub-threshold stimulus resulting in hypersensitivity and spontaneous seizure-like activity. Among patients with ME/CFS, chronically repeated low-intensity stimulation due to an infectious illness might cause kindling of the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Kindling might also occur by high-intensity stimulation (e.g., brain trauma) of the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Once this system is charged or kindled, it can sustain a high level of arousal with little or no external stimulus and eventually this could lead to hypocortisolism. Seizure activity may spread to adjacent structures of the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary axis in the brain, which might be responsible for the varied symptoms that occur among patients with ME/CFS. In addition, kindling may also be responsible for high levels of oxidative stress, which has been found in patients with ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard A. Jason
- DePaul University, Center for Community Research. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, USA
| | - Matthew Sorenson
- DePaul University, Center for Community Research. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, USA
| | - Nicole Porter
- DePaul University, Center for Community Research. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, USA
| | - Natalie Belkairous
- DePaul University, Center for Community Research. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, USA
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Alexander S, Stone P, White S, Andrews P, Nussey S, Bano G. Evaluation of central serotonin sensitivity in breast cancer survivors with cancer-related fatigue syndrome. J Pain Symptom Manage 2010; 40:892-8. [PMID: 20832986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2010.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2010] [Revised: 03/23/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Increased central serotonin sensitivity is hypothesized to contribute toward the development of cancer-related fatigue syndrome (CRFS). OBJECTIVES To compare the responses of breast cancer survivors with or without CRFS to the buspirone challenge test (an index of central serotonin sensitivity). METHODS Disease-free women who had successfully completed treatment for early-stage breast cancer were assessed. On the basis of the diagnostic interview for CRFS and a structured psychiatric interview, women were classified as either "cases" of CRFS or "controls." Women with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses were excluded. Volunteers underwent a challenge test using buspirone (a serotonin-selective agonist) using a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled protocol. Cortisol and prolactin responses were assessed at hourly intervals for the four hours after administration of buspirone. RESULTS Fourteen cases of CRFS and 28 controls participated in the study. There were no significant differences in baseline or stimulated cortisol release after buspirone challenge. There were differences neither in basal prolactin levels in the two groups nor in the total prolactin response to buspirone (as measured using the area under the curve). In patients with CRFS, peak prolactin response occurred at 120 minutes and sustained until 180 minutes post buspirone. In controls, peak prolactin response occurred at 60 minutes and then began to decline. CONCLUSIONS This study has demonstrated the utility and acceptability of buspirone as a probe of central serotonin sensitivity in this population. No evidence was found for alterations in central serotonin sensitivity in patients with CRFS. Conclusions are tentative, however, because poor recruitment resulted in a small sample and an underpowered comparison.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Alexander
- Division of Mental Health, St. George's University of London, London, UK
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Abstract
CRF is indisputably a significant problem with important public health and medical economic implications. As the prevalence of cancer survivorship grows, the impact of CRF will increase. Physiatrists have not historically played an active role in caring for affected patients. In the author's opinion, this is unfortunate, since the holistic, integrated, and cross-disciplinary approach that characterizes physiatry seems ideally suited to offer patients meaningful benefit. Physiatrists with a clinical interest are likely to be robustly rewarded with interest from the oncological community, as CRF is a frustrating and devastating problem for patients and clinicians alike.
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Rubio-Diaz DE, Pozza ME, Dimitrakov J, Gilleran JP, Giusti MM, Stella JL, Rodriguez-Saona LE, Buffington CAT. A candidate serum biomarker for bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis. Analyst 2009; 134:1133-7. [PMID: 19475139 DOI: 10.1039/b901736d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Reliable diagnostic markers for Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis (IC) currently are not available. This study evaluated the feasibility of diagnosing IC in humans and domestic cats from the spectra of dried serum films (DSFs) using infrared microspectroscopy. Spectra were obtained from films from 29 humans and 34 domestic cats to create classification models using Soft Independent Modeling by Class Analogy (SIMCA). Ultrafiltration of serum improved discrimination capability. The classification models for both species successfully classified spectra based on condition (healthy/sick), and a different set of masked spectra correctly predicted the condition of 100% of the subjects. Classification required information from the 1500-1800 cm(-1) spectral region to discriminate between subjects with IC, other disorders, and healthy subjects. Analysis of cat samples using liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy revealed differences in the concentration of tryptophan and its metabolites between healthy and affected cats. These results demonstrate the potential utility of infrared microspectroscopy to diagnose IC in both humans and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Rubio-Diaz
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Abstract
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is influenced and modulated by a number of critical factors, and the mechanism that is both necessary and sufficient to induce development of severe fatigue in patients with cancer has not yet been identified. Specific research efforts to understand the factors that may contribute to CRF development have been made, including studies of the direct effects of tumor burden, the effects of cancer treatment, and other pathophysiologic and psychosocial conditions. Compelling new hypotheses regarding CRF pathophysiology have been proposed, such as the pro-inflammatory hypothesis, the serotonin hypothesis, the vagal-afferent-activation hypothesis, the anemia hypothesis, and the adenosine triphosphate hypothesis; some of these have been tested in both animal models and humans and some in animals only. Gaining an understanding of the specific mechanisms related to the development of fatigue in patients with cancer and survivors requires further investigation. Pathophysiologic research in CRF could be applied in the clinic to improve CRF diagnosis and to enable administration of mechanism-driven interventions. A targeted intervention study with CRF as a primary end point also would be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Shelley Wang
- Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
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Badawy AAB, Morgan CJ, Turner JA. Application of the Phenomenex EZ:faasttrade mark amino acid analysis kit for rapid gas-chromatographic determination of concentrations of plasma tryptophan and its brain uptake competitors. Amino Acids 2007; 34:587-96. [PMID: 18071842 PMCID: PMC2797848 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-007-0012-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 11/22/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The Phenomenex EZ:faast™ amino acid analysis kit is available for gas (GC) or liquid (LC) chromatographic analysis of amino acids (AA) using mass spectrometry (MS) and other GC detectors. We used it for rapid GC determination of plasma tryptophan, its brain uptake competitors (Val, Leu, Ile, Phe and Tyr) and many other amino acids. Based on solid-phase extraction, this fast method enables one person to process two plasma samples in 8–10 min and six samples in ∼15 min up to GC injection and a 7-min GC run per plasma sample. Using a Perkin-Elmer Clarus 500 GC, a Total Chrome software, a flame-ionisation detector (FID) and norvaline as internal standard, we used this method to analyse ∼1,000 plasma samples from normal subjects undergoing acute tryptophan depletion and loading tests. The limit of detection for most amino acids is 1 nmol/ml (1 μM) and in many cases less. With manual injection, coefficients of variation for the above six amino acids were 1.5–6.2% (intra-assay) and 3.8–9.7% (inter-assay). This simple, rapid and elegant method will be valuable to the amino acid analyst and researcher, as it can save much manpower time and meet urgent emergency requests and the demands of a high-throughput laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A-B Badawy
- The Cardiff School of Health Sciences, University of Wales Institute Cardiff (UWIC), Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff, CF5 2YB, Wales, UK.
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Van Houdenhove B, Verheyen L, Pardaens K, Luyten P, Van Wambeke P. Rehabilitation of decreased motor performance in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: should we treat low effort capacity or reduced effort tolerance? Clin Rehabil 2007; 21:1121-42. [DOI: 10.1177/0269215507080769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Aim: The aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic delineation and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) remain a matter of debate. Here some aspects of the debate are elucidated, with a particular focus on the patients' decreased motor performance.Hypothesis: The pathophysiological basis of decreased motor performance in CFS may, theoretically, involve three components: (1) a peripheral energetic deficit (impaired oxidative metabolism and/or physical deconditioning); (2) a central perceptual disturbance (higher effort sense or increased `interoception'); and (3) a fundamental failure of the neurobiological stress system, leading to an abnormal `sickness response'. It is proposed that the first two components may lead to low effort capacity, while the third component may lead to reduced effort tolerance. Although there is evidence for low effort capacity influencing symptoms and functional limitations in CFS, it is assumed that reduced effort tolerance might be the primary disturbance in CFS.Diagnostic implications: Distinguishing low effort capacity and reduced effort tolerance may contribute to a refinement of current diagnostic criteria of CFS and the identification of subgroups.Therapeutic implications: The above-mentioned distinction may make it possible to formulate a rationale for an effective implementation and adequate outcome evaluation of rehabilitation strategies in CFS.Research implications: This new heuristic framework may inform future research aimed at disentangling the complex determination of impaired motor performance in CFS, as well as studies aimed at customizing treatment to different subtypes of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - P. Luyten
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences
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Badawy AAB, Morgan CJ. Tryptophan metabolites as potent inhibitors of aldehyde dehydrogenase activity and potential alcoholism-aversion therapeutic agents. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ics.2007.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Shevchuk NA. Possible use of repeated cold stress for reducing fatigue in chronic fatigue syndrome: a hypothesis. Behav Brain Funct 2007; 3:55. [PMID: 17958903 PMCID: PMC2164952 DOI: 10.1186/1744-9081-3-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2007] [Accepted: 10/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physiological fatigue can be defined as a reduction in the force output and/or energy-generating capacity of skeletal muscle after exertion, which may manifest itself as an inability to continue exercise or usual activities at the same intensity. A typical example of a fatigue-related disorder is chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a disabling condition of unknown etiology and with uncertain therapeutic options. Recent advances in elucidating pathophysiology of this disorder revealed hypofunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and that fatigue in CFS patients appears to be associated with reduced motor neurotransmission in the central nervous system (CNS) and to a smaller extent with increased fatigability of skeletal muscle. There is also some limited evidence that CFS patients may have excessive serotonergic activity in the brain and low opioid tone. PRESENTATION OF THE HYPOTHESIS This work hypothesizes that repeated cold stress may reduce fatigue in CFS because brief exposure to cold may transiently reverse some physiological changes associated with this illness. For example, exposure to cold can activate components of the reticular activating system such as raphe nuclei and locus ceruleus, which can result in activation of behavior and increased capacity of the CNS to recruit motoneurons. Cold stress has also been shown to reduce the level of serotonin in most regions of the brain (except brainstem), which would be consistent with reduced fatigue according to animal models of exercise-related fatigue. Finally, exposure to cold increases metabolic rate and transiently activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis as evidenced by a temporary increase in the plasma levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone, beta-endorphin and a modest increase in cortisol. The increased opioid tone and high metabolic rate could diminish fatigue by reducing muscle pain and accelerating recovery of fatigued muscle, respectively. TESTING THE HYPOTHESIS To test the hypothesis, a treatment is proposed that consists of adapted cold showers (20 degrees Celsius, 3 minutes, preceded by a 5-minute gradual adaptation to make the procedure more comfortable) used twice daily. IMPLICATIONS OF THE HYPOTHESIS If testing supports the proposed hypothesis, this could advance our understanding of the mechanisms of fatigue in CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai A Shevchuk
- Molecular Radiobiology Section, the Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 401 College St, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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Ryan JL, Carroll JK, Ryan EP, Mustian KM, Fiscella K, Morrow GR. Mechanisms of cancer-related fatigue. Oncologist 2007; 12 Suppl 1:22-34. [PMID: 17573453 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.12-s1-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 351] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most prevalent symptoms patients with cancer experience, both during and after treatment. CRF is pervasive and affects patients' quality of life considerably. It is important, therefore, to understand the underlying pathophysiology of CRF in order to develop useful strategies for prevention and treatment. At present, the etiology of CRF is poorly understood and the relative contributions of the neoplastic disease, various forms of cancer therapy, and comorbid conditions (e.g., anemia, cachexia, sleep disorders, depression) remain unclear. In any individual, the etiology of CRF probably involves the dysregulation of several physiological and biochemical systems. Mechanisms proposed as underlying CRF include 5-HT neurotransmitter dysregulation, vagal afferent activation, alterations in muscle and ATP metabolism, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, circadian rhythm disruption, and cytokine dysregulation. Currently, these hypotheses are largely based on evidence from other conditions in which fatigue is a characteristic, in particular chronic fatigue syndrome and exercise-induced fatigue. The mechanisms that lead to fatigue in these conditions provide a theoretical basis for future research into the complex etiology of this distressing and debilitating symptom. An understanding of relevant mechanisms may offer potential routes for its prevention and treatment in patients with cancer.Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie L Ryan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, James P Wilmot Cancer Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
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Dougherty DM, Marsh DM, Mathias CW, Dawes MA, Bradley DM, Morgan CJ, Badawy AAB. The effects of alcohol on laboratory-measured impulsivity after L: -Tryptophan depletion or loading. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 193:137-50. [PMID: 17377773 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0763-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2006] [Accepted: 03/02/2007] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Indirect evidence supports a link between serotonergic activity and individual differences in the behavioral response to alcohol, but few studies have experimentally demonstrated that an individual's biological state can influence the sensitivity to alcohol-induced behaviors. OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to temporarily modify serotonin synthesis in healthy individuals to determine how altered biological states may interact with alcohol administration to affect impulsive behavior. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a repeated-measures design, 18 normal controls consumed a 50-g L: -tryptophan (Trp) depleting (ATD) or loading (ATL) amino-acid beverage that temporarily decreased or increased (respectively) serotonin synthesis before receiving either a moderate dose of alcohol (0.65 g/kg) or placebo. All participants completed three impulsivity testing sessions on each of the five experimental days. Session one was a baseline session. Session two included testing after ATD-only or ATL-only. Session three included: (1) placebo after ATL (ATL+PBO); (2) placebo after ATD (ATD+PBO); (3) alcohol after ATL (ATL+ALC); (4) alcohol after ATD (ATD+ALC); and (5) Alcohol-only conditions. Impulsivity was assessed using the Immediate Memory Task (Dougherty et al., Behav Res Methods Instrum Comput 34:391-398, 2002), a continuous performance test yielding commission errors that have been previously validated as a component of impulsive behavior. RESULTS Primary findings were that ATD-only increased impulsive responding compared to ATL-only, and ATD+ALC increased commission errors to levels higher than either the ATL+ALC or Alcohol-only conditions. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that reduced serotonin synthesis can produce increased impulsivity even among non-impulsive normal controls, and that the behavioral effects of alcohol are, in part, dependent on this biological state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald M Dougherty
- Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Shepherd C. The debate: myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome. BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2006; 15:662-9. [PMID: 16835542 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2006.15.12.21399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Almost every aspect of myalgic encephalomyelitis (or encephalopathy) and chronic fatigue syndrome is the subject of disagreement and uncertainty -- something that has undoubtedly hampered recognition, understanding and research. Although the pathogenesis remains the subject of intense medical debate, a number of predisposing, precipitating and perpetuating factors are now starting to emerge. Therapeutic nihilism is no longer appropriate as there is a great deal that can be done to alleviate some of the more distressing symptoms and improve quality of life for these patients.
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