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Pavlenko D, Seven ZT, Sanders K, Markan A, Verpile R, Ishida H, Costco D, Akiyama T. Activation of NPY2R-expressing amygdala neurons inhibits itch behavior in mice without lateralization. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4463812. [PMID: 38826337 PMCID: PMC11142353 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4463812/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The central amygdala (CeA) is a crucial hub in the processing of affective itch, containing a diverse array of neuronal populations. Among these components, Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and its receptors, such as NPY2R, affect various physiological and psychological processes. Despite this broad impact, the precise role of NPY2R+ CeA neurons in itch modulation remains unknown, particularly concerning any potential lateralization effects. To address this, we employed optogenetics to selectively stimulate NPY2R+ CeA neurons in mice, investigating their impact on itch modulation. Optogenetic activation of NPY2R+ CeA neurons reduced scratching behavior elicited by pruritogens without exhibiting any lateralization effects. Electrophysiological recordings confirmed increased neuronal activity upon stimulation. However, this modulation did not affect thermal sensitivity, mechanical sensitivity, or inflammatory pain. Additionally, no alterations in anxiety-like behaviors or locomotion were observed upon stimulation. Projection tracing revealed connections of NPY2R+ CeA neurons to brain regions implicated in itch processing. Overall, this comprehensive study highlights the role of NPY2R+ CeA neurons in itch regulation without any lateralization effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darya Pavlenko
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Zeynep Todurga Seven
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kristen Sanders
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Anika Markan
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rebecca Verpile
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Hirotake Ishida
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Dylan Costco
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Tasuku Akiyama
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Singh Alvarado J, Lutas A, Madara JC, Isaac J, Lommer C, Massengill C, Andermann ML. Transient cAMP production drives rapid and sustained spiking in brainstem parabrachial neurons to suppress feeding. Neuron 2024; 112:1416-1425.e5. [PMID: 38417435 PMCID: PMC11065603 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.02.002] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Brief stimuli can trigger longer-lasting brain states. G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) could help sustain such states by coupling slow-timescale molecular signals to neuronal excitability. Brainstem parabrachial nucleus glutamatergic (PBNGlut) neurons regulate sustained brain states such as pain and express Gs-coupled GPCRs that increase cAMP signaling. We asked whether cAMP in PBNGlut neurons directly influences their excitability and effects on behavior. Both brief tail shocks and brief optogenetic stimulation of cAMP production in PBNGlut neurons drove minutes-long suppression of feeding. This suppression matched the duration of prolonged elevations in cAMP, protein kinase A (PKA) activity, and calcium activity in vivo and ex vivo, as well as sustained, PKA-dependent increases in action potential firing ex vivo. Shortening this elevation in cAMP reduced the duration of feeding suppression following tail shocks. Thus, molecular signaling in PBNGlut neurons helps prolong neural activity and behavioral states evoked by brief, salient bodily stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonnathan Singh Alvarado
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Andrew Lutas
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Joseph C Madara
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jeremiah Isaac
- Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Caroline Lommer
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Mark L Andermann
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Chen W, Guo H, Zhou N, Mai Y, Hu T, Xu X, He T, Wen J, Qin S, Liu C, Wu W, Kim HY, Fan Y, Ge F, Guan X. Distinct eLPB ChAT projections for methamphetamine withdrawal anxiety and primed reinstatement of conditioned place preference. Theranostics 2024; 14:2881-2896. [PMID: 38773977 PMCID: PMC11103501 DOI: 10.7150/thno.95383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) withdrawal anxiety symptom and relapse have been significant challenges for clinical practice, however, the underlying neuronal basis remains unclear. Our recent research has identified a specific subpopulation of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT+) neurons localized in the external lateral portion of parabrachial nucleus (eLPBChAT), which modulates METH primed-reinstatement of conditioned place preference (CPP). Here, the anatomical structures and functional roles of eLPBChAT projections in METH withdrawal anxiety and primed reinstatement were further explored. Methods: In the present study, a multifaceted approach was employed to dissect the LPBChAT+ projections in male mice, including anterograde and retrograde tracing, acetylcholine (Ach) indicator combined with fiber photometry recording, photogenetic and chemogenetic regulation, as well as electrophysiological recording. METH withdrawal anxiety-like behaviors and METH-primed reinstatement of conditioned place preference (CPP) were assessed in male mice. Results: We identified that eLPBChAT send projections to PKCδ-positive (PKCδ+) neurons in lateral portion of central nucleus of amygdala (lCeAPKCδ) and oval portion of bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (ovBNSTPKCδ), forming eLPBChAT-lCeAPKCδ and eLPBChAT-ovBNSTPKCδ pathways. At least in part, the eLPBChAT neurons positively innervate lCeAPKCδ neurons and ovBNSTPKCδ neurons through regulating synaptic elements of presynaptic Ach release and postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). METH withdrawal anxiety and METH-primed reinstatement of CPP respectively recruit eLPBChAT-lCeAPKCδ pathway and eLPBChAT-ovBNSTPKCδ pathway in male mice. Conclusion: Our findings put new insights into the complex neural networks, especially focusing on the eLPBChAT projections. The eLPBChAT is a critical node in the neural networks governing METH withdrawal anxiety and primed-reinstatement of CPP through its projections to the lCeAPKCδ and ovBNSTPKCδ, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Guo
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ning Zhou
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuning Mai
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Hu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xing Xu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Teng He
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shan Qin
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chengyong Liu
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenzhong Wu
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hee Young Kim
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Feifei Ge
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaowei Guan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Condon LF, Yu Y, Park S, Cao F, Pauli JL, Nelson TS, Palmiter RD. Parabrachial Calca neurons drive nociplasticity. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114057. [PMID: 38583149 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114057] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Pain that persists beyond the time required for tissue healing and pain that arises in the absence of tissue injury, collectively referred to as nociplastic pain, are poorly understood phenomena mediated by plasticity within the central nervous system. The parabrachial nucleus (PBN) is a hub that relays aversive sensory information and appears to play a role in nociplasticity. Here, by preventing PBN Calca neurons from releasing neurotransmitters, we demonstrate that activation of Calca neurons is necessary for the manifestation and maintenance of chronic pain. Additionally, by directly stimulating Calca neurons, we demonstrate that Calca neuron activity is sufficient to drive nociplasticity. Aversive stimuli of multiple sensory modalities, such as exposure to nitroglycerin, cisplatin, or lithium chloride, can drive nociplasticity in a Calca-neuron-dependent manner. Aversive events drive nociplasticity in Calca neurons in the form of increased activity and excitability; however, neuroplasticity also appears to occur in downstream circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan F Condon
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Ying Yu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sekun Park
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Feng Cao
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jordan L Pauli
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Tyler S Nelson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Richard D Palmiter
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Ji G, Presto P, Kiritoshi T, Chen Y, Navratilova E, Porreca F, Neugebauer V. Chemogenetic Manipulation of Amygdala Kappa Opioid Receptor Neurons Modulates Amygdala Neuronal Activity and Neuropathic Pain Behaviors. Cells 2024; 13:705. [PMID: 38667320 PMCID: PMC11049235 DOI: 10.3390/cells13080705] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) plays a key role in the modulation of pain and its aversive component. The dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system in the amygdala is critical for averse-affective behaviors in pain conditions, but its mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we used chemogenetic manipulations of amygdala KOR-expressing neurons to analyze the behavioral consequences in a chronic neuropathic pain model. For the chemogenetic inhibition or activation of KOR neurons in the CeA, a Cre-inducible viral vector encoding Gi-DREADD (hM4Di) or Gq-DREADD (hM3Dq) was injected stereotaxically into the right CeA of transgenic KOR-Cre mice. The chemogenetic inhibition of KOR neurons expressing hM4Di with a selective DREADD actuator (deschloroclozapine, DCZ) in sham control mice significantly decreased inhibitory transmission, resulting in a shift of inhibition/excitation balance to promote excitation and induced pain behaviors. The chemogenetic activation of KOR neurons expressing hM3Dq with DCZ in neuropathic mice significantly increased inhibitory transmission, decreased excitability, and decreased neuropathic pain behaviors. These data suggest that amygdala KOR neurons modulate pain behaviors by exerting an inhibitory tone on downstream CeA neurons. Therefore, activation of these interneurons or blockade of inhibitory KOR signaling in these neurons could restore control of amygdala output and mitigate pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangchen Ji
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St., Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Peyton Presto
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St., Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Takaki Kiritoshi
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St., Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St., Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Garrison Institute on Aging, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, Arizona Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, Arizona Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St., Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Garrison Institute on Aging, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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Torruella-Suárez ML, Neugebauer B, Flores-Felix K, Keller A, Carrasquillo Y, Cramer N. Divergent changes in PBN excitability in a mouse model of neuropathic pain. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0416-23.2024. [PMID: 38331576 PMCID: PMC10921257 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0416-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition from acute to chronic pain involves maladaptive plasticity in central nociceptive pathways. Growing evidence suggests that changes within the parabrachial nucleus (PBN), an important component of the spino-parabrachio-amygdaloid pain pathway, are key contributors to the development and maintenance of chronic pain. In animal models of chronic pain, PBN neurons become sensitive to normally innocuous stimuli and responses to noxious stimuli become amplified and more often produce after-discharges that outlast the stimulus. Using ex vivo slice electrophysiology and two mouse models of neuropathic pain, sciatic cuff and chronic constriction of the infraorbital nerve (CCI-ION), we find that changes in the firing properties of PBN neurons and a shift in inhibitory synaptic transmission may underlie this phenomenon. Compared to PBN neurons from shams, a larger proportion of PBN neurons from mice with a sciatic cuff were spontaneously active at rest, and these same neurons showed increased excitability relative to shams. In contrast, quiescent PBN neurons from cuff mice were less excitable than those from shams. Despite an increase in excitability in a subset of PBN neurons, the presence of after-discharges frequently observed in vivo were largely absent ex vivo in both injury models. However, GABAB-mediated presynaptic inhibition of GABAergic terminals is enhanced in PBN neurons after CCI-ION. These data suggest that the amplified activity of PBN neurons observed in rodent models of chronic pain arise through a combination of changes in firing properties and network excitability.Significance Statement Hyperactivity of neurons in the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) is causally linked to exaggerated pain behaviors in rodent models of chronic pain but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Using two mouse models of neuropathic pain, we show the intrinsic properties of PBN neurons are largely unaltered following injury. However, subsets of PBN neurons become more excitable and GABAB receptor mediated suppression of inhibitory terminals is enhanced after injury. Thus, shifts in network excitability may be a contributing factor in injury induced potentiation of PBN activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María L Torruella-Suárez
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Benjamin Neugebauer
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Krystal Flores-Felix
- Department of Neurobiology and UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Asaf Keller
- Department of Neurobiology and UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yarimar Carrasquillo
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nathan Cramer
- Department of Neurobiology and UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Torres-Rodriguez JM, Wilson TD, Singh S, Torruella-Suárez ML, Chaudhry S, Adke AP, Becker JJ, Neugebauer B, Lin JL, Martinez Gonzalez S, Soler-Cedeño O, Carrasquillo Y. The parabrachial to central amygdala pathway is critical to injury-induced pain sensitization in mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:508-520. [PMID: 37542159 PMCID: PMC10789863 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01673-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
The spino-ponto-amygdaloid pathway is a major ascending circuit relaying nociceptive information from the spinal cord to the brain. Potentiation of excitatory synaptic transmission in the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) to central amygdala (CeA) pathway has been reported in rodent models of persistent pain. However, the functional significance of this pathway in the modulation of the somatosensory component of pain was recently challenged by studies showing that spinal nociceptive neurons do not target CeA-projecting PBN cells and that manipulations of this pathway have no effect on reflexive-defensive somatosensory responses to peripheral noxious stimulation. Here, we showed that activation of CeA-projecting PBN neurons is critical to increase both stimulus-evoked and spontaneous nociceptive responses following an injury in male and female mice. Using optogenetic-assisted circuit mapping, we confirmed a functional excitatory projection from PBN→CeA that is independent of the genetic or firing identity of CeA cells. We then showed that peripheral noxious stimulation increased the expression of the neuronal activity marker Fos in CeA-projecting PBN neurons and that chemogenetic inactivation of these cells decreased behavioral hypersensitivity in models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain without affecting baseline nociception. Lastly, we showed that chemogenetic activation of CeA-projecting PBN neurons is sufficient to induced bilateral hypersensitivity without injury. Together, our results indicate that the PBN→CeA pathway is a key modulator of pain-related behaviors that can increase reflexive-defensive and affective-motivational responses to somatosensory stimulation in injured states without affecting nociception under normal physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeitzel M Torres-Rodriguez
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Torri D Wilson
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sudhuman Singh
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Maria L Torruella-Suárez
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Chaudhry
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anisha P Adke
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jordan J Becker
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Benjamin Neugebauer
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jenny L Lin
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Santiago Martinez Gonzalez
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Omar Soler-Cedeño
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yarimar Carrasquillo
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Liu J, Liu W, Huang J, Wang Y, Zhao B, Zeng P, Cai G, Chen R, Hu K, Tu Y, Lin M, Kong J, Tao J, Chen L. The modulation effects of the mind-body and physical exercises on the basolateral amygdala-temporal pole pathway on individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2024; 24:100421. [PMID: 38077287 PMCID: PMC10709058 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2023.100421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective To investigate the modulatory effects of different physical exercise modalities on connectivity of amygdala subregions and its association with pain symptoms in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods 140 patients with KOA were randomly allocated either to the Tai Chi, Baduanjin, Stationary cycling, or health education group and conducted a 12 week-long intervention in one of the four groups. The behavioral, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and blood data were collected at baseline and the end of the study. Results Compared to the control group, all physical exercise modalities lead to significant increases in Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) pain score (pain relief) and serum Programmed Death-1 (PD-1) levels. Additionally, all physical exercise modalities resulted in decreased resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) of the basolateral amygdala (BA)-temporal pole and BA-medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). The overlapping BA-temporal pole rsFC observed in both Tai Chi and Baduanjin groups was significantly associated with pain relief, while the BA-mPFC rsFC was significantly associated with PD-1 levels. In addition, we found increased fractional anisotropy (FA) values, a measurement of water diffusion anisotropy of tissue that responded to changes in brain microstructure, within the mind-body exercise groups' BA-temporal pole pathway. The average FA value of this pathway was positively correlated with KOOS pain score at baseline across all subjects. Conclusions Our findings suggest that physical exercise has the potential to modulate both functional and anatomical connectivity of the amygdala subregions, indicating a possible shared pathway for various physical exercise modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Liu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Weilin Liu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Jia Huang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Baoru Zhao
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Peiling Zeng
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Guiyan Cai
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Ruilin Chen
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Kun Hu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - YouXue Tu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Meiqin Lin
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Jian Kong
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Jing Tao
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Research Center of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese, China
| | - Lidian Chen
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Research Center of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese, China
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9
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Yao D, Chen Y, Chen G. The role of pain modulation pathway and related brain regions in pain. Rev Neurosci 2023; 34:899-914. [PMID: 37288945 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2023-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Pain is a multifaceted process that encompasses unpleasant sensory and emotional experiences. The essence of the pain process is aversion, or perceived negative emotion. Central sensitization plays a significant role in initiating and perpetuating of chronic pain. Melzack proposed the concept of the "pain matrix", in which brain regions associated with pain form an interconnected network, rather than being controlled by a singular brain region. This review aims to investigate distinct brain regions involved in pain and their interconnections. In addition, it also sheds light on the reciprocal connectivity between the ascending and descending pathways that participate in pain modulation. We review the involvement of various brain areas during pain and focus on understanding the connections among them, which can contribute to a better understanding of pain mechanisms and provide opportunities for further research on therapies for improved pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Yeru Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
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10
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Stroman PW, Umraw M, Keast B, Algitami H, Hassanpour S, Merletti J. Structural and Physiological Modeling (SAPM) for the Analysis of Functional MRI Data Applied to a Study of Human Nociceptive Processing. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1568. [PMID: 38002528 PMCID: PMC10669617 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13111568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel method has been developed for analyzing connectivity between regions based on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data. This method, termed structural and physiological modeling (SAPM), combines information about blood oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) responses, anatomy, and physiology to model coordinated signaling across networks of regions, including input and output signaling from each region and whether signaling is predominantly inhibitory or excitatory. The present study builds on a prior proof-of-concept demonstration of the SAPM method by providing evidence for the choice of network model and anatomical sub-regions, demonstrating the reproducibility of the results and identifying statistical thresholds needed to infer significance. The method is further validated by applying it to investigate human nociceptive processing in the brainstem and spinal cord and comparing the results to the known neuroanatomy, including anatomical regions and inhibitory and excitatory signaling. The results of this analysis demonstrate that it is possible to obtain reliable information about input and output signaling from anatomical regions and to identify whether this signaling has predominantly inhibitory or excitatory effects. SAPM provides much more detailed information about neuroanatomy than was previously possible based on fMRI data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick W. Stroman
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.U.); (B.K.); (H.A.); (S.H.); (J.M.)
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
- Department of Physics, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Maya Umraw
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.U.); (B.K.); (H.A.); (S.H.); (J.M.)
| | - Brieana Keast
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.U.); (B.K.); (H.A.); (S.H.); (J.M.)
| | - Hannan Algitami
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.U.); (B.K.); (H.A.); (S.H.); (J.M.)
| | - Shima Hassanpour
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.U.); (B.K.); (H.A.); (S.H.); (J.M.)
| | - Jessica Merletti
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.U.); (B.K.); (H.A.); (S.H.); (J.M.)
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11
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Li J, Tian C, Yuan S, Yin Z, Wei L, Chen F, Dong X, Liu A, Wang Z, Wu T, Tian C, Niu L, Wang L, Wang P, Xie W, Cao F, Shen H. Neuropathic pain following spinal cord hemisection induced by the reorganization in primary somatosensory cortex and regulated by neuronal activity of lateral parabrachial nucleus. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:3269-3289. [PMID: 37170721 PMCID: PMC10580357 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a common and thorny problem, influencing the life quality severely. This study aimed to elucidate the reorganization of the primary sensory cortex (S1) and the regulatory mechanism of the lateral parabrachial nucleus (lPBN) in the presence of allodynia or hyperalgesia after left spinal cord hemisection injury (LHS). METHODS Through behavioral tests, we first identified mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia following LHS. We then applied two-photon microscopy to observe calcium activity in S1 during mechanical or thermal stimulation and long-term spontaneous calcium activity after LHS. By slice patch clamp recording, the electrophysiological characteristics of neurons in lPBN were explored. Finally, exploiting chemogenetic activation or inhibition of the neurons in lPBN, allodynia or hyperalgesia was regulated. RESULTS The calcium activity in left S1 was increased during mechanical stimulation of right hind limb and thermal stimulation of tail, whereas in right S1 it was increased only with thermal stimulation of tail. The spontaneous calcium activity in right S1 changed more dramatically than that in left S1 after LHS. The lPBN was also activated after LHS, and exploiting chemogenetic activation or inhibition of the neurons in lPBN could induce or alleviate allodynia and hyperalgesia in central neuropathic pain. CONCLUSION The neuronal activity changes in S1 are closely related to limb pain, which has accurate anatomical correspondence. After LHS, the spontaneously increased functional connectivity of calcium transient in left S1 is likely causing the mechanical allodynia in right hind limb and increased neuronal activity in bilateral S1 may induce thermal hyperalgesia in tail. This state of allodynia and hyperalgesia can be regulated by lPBN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Chao Tian
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Shiyang Yuan
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Zhenyu Yin
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Liangpeng Wei
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Feng Chen
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Xi Dong
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Aili Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology, School of Basic ScienceTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Zhenhuan Wang
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Tongrui Wu
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Chunxiao Tian
- School of Biomedical EngineeringTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Lin Niu
- Department of Cellular Biology, School of Basic ScienceTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of PhysiologyZhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Pu Wang
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Wanyu Xie
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Fujiang Cao
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Hui Shen
- Department of Cellular Biology, School of Basic ScienceTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese MedicineShandong University of Traditional Chinese MedicineJinanChina
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12
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Condon LF, Yu Y, Park S, Cao F, Pauli JL, Nelson TS, Palmiter RD. Parabrachial Calca neurons drive nociplasticity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.26.564223. [PMID: 37961621 PMCID: PMC10634894 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.26.564223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Pain that persists beyond the time required for tissue healing and pain that arises in the absence of tissue injury are poorly understood phenomena mediated by plasticity within the central nervous system. The parabrachial nucleus (PBN) is a hub that relays aversive sensory information and appears to play a role in nociplasticity. Here, by preventing PBN Calca neurons from releasing neurotransmitter or directly stimulating them we demonstrate that activation of Calca neurons is both necessary for the manifestation of chronic pain after nerve ligation and is sufficient to drive nociplasticity in wild-type mice. Aversive stimuli such as exposure to nitroglycerin, cisplatin, or LiCl can drive nociplasticity in a Calca-neuron-dependent manner. Calcium fluorescence imaging reveals that nitroglycerin activates PBN Calca neurons and potentiates their responses to mechanical stimulation. The activity and excitability of Calca neurons increased for several days after aversive events, but prolonged nociplasticity likely occurs in downstream circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan F Condon
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Ying Yu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sekun Park
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Feng Cao
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jordan L Pauli
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Tyler S Nelson
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, NY 10010, USA
| | - Richard D Palmiter
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Lead Contact
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13
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Torruella-Suárez ML, Neugebauer B, Flores-Felix K, Keller A, Carrasquillo Y, Cramer N. Divergent changes in PBN excitability in a mouse model of neuropathic pain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.11.561891. [PMID: 37905065 PMCID: PMC10614750 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.11.561891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The transition from acute to chronic pain involves maladaptive plasticity in central nociceptive pathways. Growing evidence suggests that changes within the parabrachial nucleus (PBN), an important component of the spino-parabrachio-amygdaloid pain pathway, are key contributors to the development and maintenance of chronic pain. In animal models of chronic pain, PBN neurons become sensitive to normally innocuous stimuli and responses to noxious stimuli become amplified and more often produce after-discharges that outlast the stimulus. Using ex vivo slice electrophysiology and two mouse models of neuropathic pain, sciatic cuff and chronic constriction of the infraorbital nerve (CCI-ION), we find that changes in the firing properties of PBN neurons and a shift in inhibitory synaptic transmission may underlie this phenomenon. Compared to PBN neurons from shams, a larger proportion of PBN neurons from mice with a sciatic cuff were spontaneously active at rest, and these same neurons showed increased excitability relative to shams. In contrast, quiescent PBN neurons from cuff mice were less excitable than those from shams. Despite an increase in excitability in a subset of PBN neurons, the presence of after-discharges frequently observed in vivo were largely absent ex vivo in both injury models. However, GABAB-mediated presynaptic inhibition of GABAergic terminals is enhanced in PBN neurons after CCIION. These data suggest that the amplified activity of PBN neurons observed in rodent models of chronic pain arise through a combination of changes in firing properties and network excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- María L Torruella-Suárez
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Benjamin Neugebauer
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Krystal Flores-Felix
- Department of Neurobiology and UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Asaf Keller
- Department of Neurobiology and UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yarimar Carrasquillo
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nathan Cramer
- Department of Neurobiology and UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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14
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Dos Santos WO, Juliano VAL, Chaves FM, Vieira HR, Frazao R, List EO, Kopchick JJ, Munhoz CD, Donato J. Growth Hormone Action in Somatostatin Neurons Regulates Anxiety and Fear Memory. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6816-6829. [PMID: 37625855 PMCID: PMC10552943 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0254-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctions in growth hormone (GH) secretion increase the prevalence of anxiety and other neuropsychiatric diseases. GH receptor (GHR) signaling in the amygdala has been associated with fear memory, a key feature of posttraumatic stress disorder. However, it is currently unknown which neuronal population is targeted by GH action to influence the development of neuropsychiatric diseases. Here, we showed that approximately 60% of somatostatin (SST)-expressing neurons in the extended amygdala are directly responsive to GH. GHR ablation in SST-expressing cells (SSTΔGHR mice) caused no alterations in energy or glucose metabolism. Notably, SSTΔGHR male mice exhibited increased anxiety-like behavior in the light-dark box and elevated plus maze tests, whereas SSTΔGHR females showed no changes in anxiety. Using auditory Pavlovian fear conditioning, both male and female SSTΔGHR mice exhibited a significant reduction in fear memory. Conversely, GHR ablation in SST neurons did not affect memory in the novel object recognition test. Gene expression was analyzed in a micro punch comprising the central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA) and basolateral (BLA) complex. GHR ablation in SST neurons caused sex-dependent changes in the expression of factors involved in synaptic plasticity and function. In conclusion, GHR expression in SST neurons is necessary to regulate anxiety in males, but not female mice. GHR ablation in SST neurons also decreases fear memory and affects gene expression in the amygdala, although marked sex differences were observed. Our findings identified for the first time a neurochemically-defined neuronal population responsible for mediating the effects of GH on behavioral aspects associated with neuropsychiatric diseases.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Hormone action in the brain regulates different neurological aspects, affecting the predisposition to neuropsychiatric disorders, like depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Growth hormone (GH) receptor is widely expressed in the brain, but the exact function of neuronal GH action is not fully understood. Here, we showed that mice lacking the GH receptor in a group of neurons that express the neuropeptide somatostatin exhibit increased anxiety. However, this effect is only observed in male mice. In contrast, the absence of the GH receptor in somatostatin-expressing neurons decreases fear memory, a key feature of posttraumatic stress disorder, in males and females. Thus, our study identified a specific group of neurons in which GH acts to affect the predisposition to neuropsychiatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willian O Dos Santos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Vitor A L Juliano
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Chaves
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Henrique R Vieira
- Department of Anatomy, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Renata Frazao
- Department of Anatomy, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Edward O List
- Edison Biotechnology Institute and Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens 45701, Ohio
| | - John J Kopchick
- Edison Biotechnology Institute and Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens 45701, Ohio
| | - Carolina D Munhoz
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Jose Donato
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
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15
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Mussetto V, Teuchmann HL, Heinke B, Trofimova L, Sandkühler J, Drdla-Schutting R, Hogri R. Opioids Induce Bidirectional Synaptic Plasticity in a Brainstem Pain Center in the Rat. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2023; 24:1664-1680. [PMID: 37150382 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Opioids are powerful analgesics commonly used in pain management. However, opioids can induce complex neuroadaptations, including synaptic plasticity, that ultimately drive severe side effects, such as pain hypersensitivity and strong aversion during prolonged administration or upon drug withdrawal, even following a single, brief administration. The lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) in the brainstem plays a key role in pain and emotional processing; yet, the effects of opioids on synaptic plasticity in this area remain unexplored. Using patch-clamp recordings in acute brainstem slices from male and female Sprague Dawley rats, we demonstrate a concentration-dependent, bimodal effect of opioids on excitatory synaptic transmission in the LPBN. While a lower concentration of DAMGO (0.5 µM) induced a long-term depression of synaptic strength (low-DAMGO LTD), abrupt termination of a higher concentration (10 µM) induced a long-term potentiation (high-DAMGO LTP) in a subpopulation of cells. LTD involved a metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-dependent mechanism; in contrast, LTP required astrocytes and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation. Selective optogenetic activation of spinal and periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) inputs to the LPBN revealed that, while LTD was expressed at all parabrachial synapses tested, LTP was restricted to spino-parabrachial synapses. Thus, we uncovered previously unknown forms of opioid-induced long-term plasticity in the parabrachial nucleus that potentially modulate some adverse effects of opioids. PERSPECTIVE: We found a previously unrecognized site of opioid-induced plasticity in the lateral parabrachial nucleus, a key region for pain and emotional processing. Unraveling opioid-induced adaptations in parabrachial function might facilitate the identification of new therapeutic measures for addressing adverse effects of opioid discontinuation such as hyperalgesia and aversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Mussetto
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hannah Luise Teuchmann
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Heinke
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lidia Trofimova
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Sandkühler
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ruth Drdla-Schutting
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Roni Hogri
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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16
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Seiglie MP, Lepeak L, Miracle S, Cottone P, Sabino V. Stimulation of lateral parabrachial (LPB) to central amygdala (CeA) pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) neurons induces anxiety-like behavior and mechanical allodynia. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 230:173605. [PMID: 37499765 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders, and they are highly comorbid with chronic pain conditions. The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is known not only for its role in the regulation of anxiety but also as an important site for the negative affective dimension of pain. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP), a neuropeptide whose terminals are abundant in the CeA, is strongly implicated in the stress response as well as in pain processing. Here, using Cre-dependent viral vectors, we explored in greater detail the role of the PACAP projection to the CeA that originates in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB). METHODS We first performed a circuit mapping experiment by injecting an anterograde Cre-dependent virus expressing a fluorescent reporter in the LPB of PACAP-Cre mice and observing their projections. Then, we used a chemogenetic approach (a Cre-dependent Designer Receptors Activated by Designer Drugs, DREADDs) to assess the effects of the direct stimulation of the PACAP LPB to CeA projection on general locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior (using a defensive withdrawal test), and mechanical pain sensitivity (using the von Frey test). RESULTS We found that the CeA, together with other areas, is one of the major downstream projection targets of PACAP neurons originating in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB). In the DREADD experiment, we then found that the selective activation of this neuronal pathway is sufficient to increase both anxiety-like behavior and mechanical pain sensitivity in mice, without affecting general locomotor activity. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our data suggest that the dysregulation of this circuit may contribute to a variety of anxiety disorders and chronic pain states, and that PACAP may represent an important therapeutic target for the treatment of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariel P Seiglie
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren Lepeak
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sophia Miracle
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pietro Cottone
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Valentina Sabino
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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17
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Su N, Cai P, Dou Z, Yin X, Xu H, He J, Li Z, Li C. Brain nuclei and neural circuits in neuropathic pain and brain modulation mechanisms of acupuncture: a review on animal-based experimental research. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1243231. [PMID: 37712096 PMCID: PMC10498311 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1243231] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is known to be associated with abnormal changes in specific brain regions, but the complex neural network behind it is vast and complex and lacks a systematic summary. With the help of various animal models of NP, a literature search on NP brain regions and circuits revealed that the related brain nuclei included the periaqueductal gray (PAG), lateral habenula (LHb), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC); the related brain circuits included the PAG-LHb and mPFC-ACC. Moreover, acupuncture and injurious information can affect different brain regions and influence brain functions via multiple aspects to play an analgesic role and improve synaptic plasticity by regulating the morphology and structure of brain synapses and the expression of synapse-related proteins; maintain the balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurons by regulating the secretion of glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and other neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain tissues; inhibit the overactivation of glial cells and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory mediators such as interleukins to reduce neuroinflammation in brain regions; maintain homeostasis of glucose metabolism and regulate the metabolic connections in the brain; and play a role in analgesia through the mediation of signaling pathways and signal transduction molecules. These factors help to deepen the understanding of NP brain circuits and the brain mechanisms of acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Su
- First Clinical Medicine College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Pingping Cai
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Dou
- College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoxue Yin
- Department of Science and Education, Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hongmin Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Laiwu Hospital of Traditional Chinese, Jinan, China
| | - Jing He
- First Clinical Medicine College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhaofeng Li
- College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- International Office, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Changzhong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Hospital, Peking University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
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18
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Chen Q, Wang Z, Zhang S. Mechanism, application and effect evaluation of nerve mobilization in the treatment of low back pain: A narrative review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34961. [PMID: 37653794 PMCID: PMC10470699 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034961] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Lower back pain is a prevalent condition affecting people across all age groups and causing significant personal and societal burdens. While numerous treatments exist, nerve mobilization has emerged as a promising approach for managing lower back pain. Nerve mobilization involves applying gentle and rhythmic movements to the affected nerves, promoting normal nerve function and releasing tension. It has been well documented that nerve mobilization can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with lower back pain, but the underlying mechanisms have not been clarified. This study aims to review the mechanisms of nerve mobilization in the management of lower back pain, its application, and effectiveness evaluation, and provide a potential solution for managing lower back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanzheng Chen
- Department of Physical Education and Health, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Zhenshan Wang
- Department of Physical Education and Health, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Shuna Zhang
- Department of Physical Education and Health, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
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Smith JA, Ji Y, Lorsung R, Breault MS, Koenig J, Cramer N, Masri R, Keller A. Parabrachial Nucleus Activity in Nociception and Pain in Awake Mice. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5656-5667. [PMID: 37451980 PMCID: PMC10401640 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0587-23.2023] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The parabrachial nuclear complex (PBN) is a nexus for aversion and for the sensory and affective components of pain perception. We have previously shown that during chronic pain PBN neurons in anesthetized rodents have amplified activity. We report a method to record from PBN neurons of behaving, head-restrained mice while applying reproducible noxious stimuli. We find that both spontaneous and evoked activity are higher in awake animals compared with urethane anesthetized mice. Fiber photometry of calcium responses from calcitonin-gene-related peptide-expressing PBN neurons demonstrates that these neurons respond to noxious stimuli. In both males and females with neuropathic or inflammatory pain, responses of PBN neurons remain amplified for at least 5 weeks, in parallel with increased pain metrics. We also show that PBN neurons can be rapidly conditioned to respond to innocuous stimuli after pairing with noxious stimuli. Finally, we demonstrate that changes in PBN neuronal activity are correlated with changes in arousal, measured as changes in pupil area.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The parabrachial complex is a nexus of aversion, including pain. We report a method to record from parabrachial nucleus neurons of behaving mice while applying reproducible noxious stimuli. This allowed us to track parabrachial activity over time in animals with neuropathic or inflammatory pain. It also allowed us to show that the activity of these neurons correlates with arousal states and that these neurons can be conditioned to respond to innocuous stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse A Smith
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Yadong Ji
- Department of Advanced Oral Sciences and Therapeutics, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201-1786
| | - Rebecca Lorsung
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Macauley S Breault
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Jeffrey Koenig
- Program in Molecular Medicine, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Nathan Cramer
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Radi Masri
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Department of Advanced Oral Sciences and Therapeutics, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201-1786
| | - Asaf Keller
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
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Presto P, Ji G, Ponomareva O, Ponomarev I, Neugebauer V. Hmgb1 Silencing in the Amygdala Inhibits Pain-Related Behaviors in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11944. [PMID: 37569320 PMCID: PMC10418916 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511944] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain presents a therapeutic challenge due to the highly complex interplay of sensory, emotional-affective and cognitive factors. The mechanisms of the transition from acute to chronic pain are not well understood. We hypothesized that neuroimmune mechanisms in the amygdala, a brain region involved in the emotional-affective component of pain and pain modulation, play an important role through high motility group box 1 (Hmgb1), a pro-inflammatory molecule that has been linked to neuroimmune signaling in spinal nociception. Transcriptomic analysis revealed an upregulation of Hmgb1 mRNA in the right but not left central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) at the chronic stage of a spinal nerve ligation (SNL) rat model of neuropathic pain. Hmgb1 silencing with a stereotaxic injection of siRNA for Hmgb1 into the right CeA of adult male and female rats 1 week after (post-treatment), but not 2 weeks before (pre-treatment) SNL induction decreased mechanical hypersensitivity and emotional-affective responses, but not anxiety-like behaviors, measured 4 weeks after SNL. Immunohistochemical data suggest that neurons are a major source of Hmgb1 in the CeA. Therefore, Hmgb1 in the amygdala may contribute to the transition from acute to chronic neuropathic pain, and the inhibition of Hmgb1 at a subacute time point can mitigate neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peyton Presto
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Guangchen Ji
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Olga Ponomareva
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Igor Ponomarev
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Garrison Institute on Aging, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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21
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Funahashi H, Pavlenko D, Sakai K, Verpile R, Sanders KM, Akiyama T. Dynorphinergic Projections from the Central Amygdala to the Parabrachial Nucleus Regulate Itch. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5340-5349. [PMID: 37399333 PMCID: PMC10359027 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0726-23.2023] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The amygdala plays a key role in the processing of itch and pain signals as well as emotion. A previous study revealed that the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA)-parabrachial nucleus (PBN) pathway is involved in pain regulation. The same pathway might also control itch. To test this possibility, prodynorphin (Pdyn)-Cre mice were used to optogenetically manipulate Pdyn+ CeA-to-PBN projections. We found that optogenetic stimulation of Pdyn+ amygdala neurons or Pdyn+ CeA-to-PBN projections inhibited histamine-evoked and chloroquine-evoked scratching. The number of Fos-positive neurons in the PBN increased following intradermal injection of chloroquine. Optogenetic stimulation of Pdyn+ CeA-to-PBN projections suppressed the increase in Fos expression in the PBN. Optogenetic stimulation of Pdyn+ CeA-to-PBN projections increased thermal and mechanical thresholds without affecting anxiety-like behavior. These results highlight the importance of dynorphinergic projections from the central amygdala to the parabrachial nucleus in the regulation of itch signaling.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA)-parabrachial nucleus (PBN) pathway regulates pain signaling. Using prodynorphin (Pdyn)-cre mice, we investigated the role of Pdyn+ CeA-to-PBN projections in itch. Optogenetic stimulation of Pdyn+ CeA-to-PBN projections inhibited pruritogen-evoked scratching and neuronal activity (c-Fos expression) in the PBN. Together, dynorphinergic projections from the central amygdala to the parabrachial nucleus are important for regulating itch information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Funahashi
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki 5200, Japan
| | - Darya Pavlenko
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136
| | - Kent Sakai
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136
| | - Rebecca Verpile
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136
| | - Kristen M Sanders
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136
| | - Tasuku Akiyama
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136
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22
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Yang S, Zhang B, Wang D, Hu S, Wang W, Liu C, Wu Z, Yang C. Role of GABAergic system in the comorbidity of pain and depression. Brain Res Bull 2023:110691. [PMID: 37331640 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Patients with chronic pain often suffer with depressive symptoms, and these two conditions can be aggravated by each other over time, leading to an increase in symptom intensity and duration. The comorbidity of pain and depression poses a significant challenge to human health and quality of life, as it is often difficult to diagnose early and treat effectively. Therefore, exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying the comorbidity of chronic pain and depression is crucial to identifying new therapeutic targets for treatment. However, understanding the pathogenesis of comorbidity requires examining interactions among multiple factors, which calls for an integrative perspective. While several studies have explored the role of the GABAergic system in pain and depression, fewer have examined its interactions with other systems involved in their comorbidity. Here, we review the evidence that the role of GABAergic system in the comorbidity of chronic pain and depression, as well as the interactions between the GABAergic system and other secondary systems involved in pain and depression comorbidity, providing a comprehensive understanding of their intricate interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China
| | - Bingyuan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taizhou People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, No. 399 Hailing South Road, Taizhou City, 225300, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Di Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China
| | - Suwan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China
| | - Wenli Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China
| | - Cunming Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China
| | - Zifeng Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China.
| | - Chun Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029. China.
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23
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Miller Neilan R, Reith C, Anandan I, Kraeuter K, Allen HN, Kolber BJ. Developing a 3-D computational model of neurons in the central amygdala to understand pharmacological targets for pain. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1183553. [PMID: 37332477 PMCID: PMC10270735 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1183553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic and nociplastic pain are major causes of pain and involve brain areas such as the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). Within the CeA, neurons expressing protein kinase c-delta (PKCδ) or somatostatin (SST) have opposing roles in pain-like modulation. In this manuscript, we describe our progress towards developing a 3-D computational model of PKCδ and SST neurons in the CeA and the use of this model to explore the pharmacological targeting of these two neural populations in modulating nociception. Our 3-D model expands upon our existing 2-D computational framework by including a realistic 3-D spatial representation of the CeA and its subnuclei and a network of directed links that preserves morphological properties of PKCδ and SST neurons. The model consists of 13,000 neurons with cell-type specific properties and behaviors estimated from laboratory data. During each model time step, neuron firing rates are updated based on an external stimulus, inhibitory signals are transmitted between neurons via the network, and a measure of nociceptive output from the CeA is calculated as the difference in firing rates of pro-nociceptive PKCδ neurons and anti-nociceptive SST neurons. Model simulations were conducted to explore differences in output for three different spatial distributions of PKCδ and SST neurons. Our results show that the localization of these neuron populations within CeA subnuclei is a key parameter in identifying spatial and cell-type pharmacological targets for pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Miller Neilan
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Carley Reith
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Iniya Anandan
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States
| | - Kayla Kraeuter
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Engineering, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Heather N. Allen
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Benedict J. Kolber
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States
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24
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Huo J, Du F, Duan K, Yin G, Liu X, Ma Q, Dong D, Sun M, Hao M, Su D, Huang T, Ke J, Lai S, Zhang Z, Guo C, Sun Y, Cheng L. Identification of brain-to-spinal circuits controlling the laterality and duration of mechanical allodynia in mice. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112300. [PMID: 36952340 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical allodynia (MA) represents one prevalent symptom of chronic pain. Previously we and others have identified spinal and brain circuits that transmit or modulate the initial establishment of MA. However, brain-derived descending pathways that control the laterality and duration of MA are still poorly understood. Here we report that the contralateral brain-to-spinal circuits, from Oprm1 neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (lPBNOprm1), via Pdyn neurons in the dorsal medial regions of hypothalamus (dmHPdyn), to the spinal dorsal horn (SDH), act to prevent nerve injury from inducing contralateral MA and reduce the duration of bilateral MA induced by capsaicin. Ablating/silencing dmH-projecting lPBNOprm1 neurons or SDH-projecting dmHPdyn neurons, deleting Dyn peptide from dmH, or blocking spinal κ-opioid receptors all led to long-lasting bilateral MA. Conversely, activation of dmHPdyn neurons or their axonal terminals in SDH can suppress sustained bilateral MA induced by lPBN lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiantao Huo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Feng Du
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Kaifang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Guangjuan Yin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Quan Ma
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dong Dong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Mengge Sun
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Mei Hao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dongmei Su
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tianwen Huang
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jin Ke
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shishi Lai
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Chao Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuanjie Sun
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Longzhen Cheng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Department of Biology, Brain Research Center, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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25
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Liu JP, Wang JL, Hu BE, Zou FL, Wu CL, Shen J, Zhang WJ. Olfactory ensheathing cells and neuropathic pain. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1147242. [PMID: 37223000 PMCID: PMC10201020 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1147242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage to the nervous system can lead to functional impairment, including sensory and motor functions. Importantly, neuropathic pain (NPP) can be induced after nerve injury, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Therefore, the repair of nerve damage and the treatment of pain are particularly important. However, the current treatment of NPP is very weak, which promotes researchers to find new methods and directions for treatment. Recently, cell transplantation technology has received great attention and has become a hot spot for the treatment of nerve injury and pain. Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are a kind of glial cells with the characteristics of lifelong survival in the nervous system and continuous division and renewal. They also secrete a variety of neurotrophic factors, bridge the fibers at both ends of the injured nerve, change the local injury microenvironment, and promote axon regeneration and other biological functions. Different studies have revealed that the transplantation of OECs can repair damaged nerves and exert analgesic effect. Some progress has been made in the effect of OECs transplantation in inhibiting NPP. Therefore, in this paper, we provided a comprehensive overview of the biology of OECs, described the possible pathogenesis of NPP. Moreover, we discussed on the therapeutic effect of OECs transplantation on central nervous system injury and NPP, and prospected some possible problems of OECs transplantation as pain treatment. To provide some valuable information for the treatment of pain by OECs transplantation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-peng Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jia-ling Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bai-er Hu
- Department of Physical Examination, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fei-long Zou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chang-lei Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wen-jun Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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26
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Mussetto V, Moen A, Trofimova L, Sandkühler J, Hogri R. Differential activation of spinal and parabrachial glial cells in a neuropathic pain model. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1163171. [PMID: 37082205 PMCID: PMC10110840 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1163171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical burden faced by chronic pain patients is compounded by affective comorbidities, such as depression and anxiety disorders. Emerging evidence suggests that reactive glial cells in the spinal cord dorsal horn play a key role in the chronification of pain, while supraspinal glia are important for psychological aspects of chronic pain. The lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) in the brainstem is a key node in the ascending pain system, and is crucial for the emotional dimension of pain. Yet, whether astrocytes and microglia in the LPBN are activated during chronic pain is unknown. Here, we evaluated the occurrence of glial activation in the LPBN of male Sprague-Dawley rats 1, 4, and 7 weeks after inducing a chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, a prevalent neuropathic pain model. CCI animals developed mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity that persisted for at least 4 weeks, and was mostly reversed after 7 weeks. Using immunohistochemical staining and confocal imaging, we found that CCI caused a strong increase in the expression of the astrocytic marker GFAP and the microglial marker Iba1 in the ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn, with peak expression observed 1 week post-injury. Moreover, morphology analysis revealed changes in microglial phenotype, indicative of microglia activation. In contrast, CCI did not induce any detectable changes in either astrocytes or microglia in the LPBN, at any time point. Thus, our results indicate that while neuropathic pain induces a robust glial reaction in the spinal dorsal horn, it fails to activate glial cells in the LPBN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Roni Hogri
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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27
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Smith JA, Ji Y, Lorsung R, Breault MS, Koenig J, Cramer N, Masri R, Keller A. Sex differences in the role of parabrachial in nociception and pain in awake mice.. [PMID: 36993729 PMCID: PMC10055376 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.22.533230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
SummaryThe parabrachial nucleus is a nexus for aversion, and for the sensory and affective components of pain. In anesthetized rodents with chronic pain, parabrachial neurons have amplified activity. Both spontaneous and evoked activity are considerably higher in awake, compared to anesthetized animals. Parabrachial neurons are rapidly conditioned to respond to innocuous stimuli, after pairing with nociceptive stimuli. In neuropathic or inflammatory pain, parabrachial responses remain amplified for at least 6 weeks, in parallel with increased pain metrics. Calcium responses from CGRP- expressing parabrachial neurons in males demonstrate responses to nociceptive stimuli, and amplified activity in inflammatory pain. In females these neurons evoke smaller responses at baseline, and only small increases in neuropathic pain. This sex difference may relate to our finding that, in females, a small percentage of neurons expresses CGRP RNA. Finally, we show that changes in parabrachial activity are correlated with in arousal, measured as changes in pupil size.
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28
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Arthurs JW, Pauli JL, Palmiter RD. Activation of Parabrachial Tachykinin 1 Neurons Counteracts Some Behaviors Mediated by Parabrachial Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide Neurons. Neuroscience 2023; 517:105-116. [PMID: 36898496 PMCID: PMC10103625 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.03.003] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Many threats activate parabrachial neurons expressing calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRPPBN) which transmit alarm signals to forebrain regions. Most CGRPPBN neurons also express tachykinin 1 (Tac1), but there are also Tac1-expressing neurons in the PBN that do not express CGRP (Tac1+;CGRP- neurons). Chemogenetic or optogenetic activation of all Tac1PBN neurons in mice elicited many physiological/behavioral responses resembling the activation of CGRPPBN neurons, e.g., anorexia, jumping on a hot plate, avoidance of photostimulation; however, two key responses opposed activation of CGRPPBN neurons. Activating Tac1PBN neurons did not produce conditioned taste aversion and it elicited dynamic escape behaviors rather than freezing. Activating Tac1+;CGRP- neurons, using an intersectional genetic targeting approach, resembles activating all Tac1PBN neurons. These results reveal that activation of Tac1+;CGRP- neurons can suppress some functions attributed to the CGRPPBN neurons, which provides a mechanism to bias behavioral responses to threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe W Arthurs
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, United States; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, United States
| | - Jordan L Pauli
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, United States; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, United States
| | - Richard D Palmiter
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, United States; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, United States.
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29
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Alvarado JS, Lutas A, Madara JC, Isaac J, Lommer C, Andermann ML. Transient cAMP production drives rapid and sustained spiking in brainstem parabrachial neurons to suppress feeding. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.25.530033. [PMID: 36865343 PMCID: PMC9980289 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.25.530033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Brief stimuli can trigger longer lasting brain states. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) could help sustain such states by coupling slow-timescale molecular signals to neuronal excitability. Brainstem parabrachial nucleus glutamatergic neurons (PBN Glut ) regulate sustained brain states such as pain, and express G s -coupled GPCRs that increase cAMP signaling. We asked whether cAMP directly influences PBN Glut excitability and behavior. Both brief tail shocks and brief optogenetic stimulation of cAMP production in PBN Glut neurons drove minutes-long suppression of feeding. This suppression matched the duration of prolonged elevations in cAMP, Protein Kinase A (PKA), and calcium activity in vivo and in vitro. Shortening this elevation in cAMP reduced the duration of feeding suppression following tail shocks. cAMP elevations in PBN Glut neurons rapidly lead to sustained increases in action potential firing via PKA-dependent mechanisms. Thus, molecular signaling in PBN Glut neurons helps prolong neural activity and behavioral states evoked by brief, salient bodily stimuli.
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30
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Roussel M, Lafrance-Zoubga D, Josset N, Lemieux M, Bretzner F. Functional contribution of mesencephalic locomotor region nuclei to locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:100946. [PMID: 36812893 PMCID: PMC9975330 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.100946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in a disruption of information between the brain and the spinal circuit. Electrical stimulation of the mesencephalic locomotor region (MLR) can promote locomotor recovery in acute and chronic SCI rodent models. Although clinical trials are currently under way, there is still debate about the organization of this supraspinal center and which anatomic correlate of the MLR should be targeted to promote recovery. Combining kinematics, electromyographic recordings, anatomic analysis, and mouse genetics, our study reveals that glutamatergic neurons of the cuneiform nucleus contribute to locomotor recovery by enhancing motor efficacy in hindlimb muscles, and by increasing locomotor rhythm and speed on a treadmill, over ground, and during swimming in chronic SCI mice. In contrast, glutamatergic neurons of the pedunculopontine nucleus slow down locomotion. Therefore, our study identifies the cuneiform nucleus and its glutamatergic neurons as a therapeutical target to improve locomotor recovery in patients living with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Roussel
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHUL-Neurosciences, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - David Lafrance-Zoubga
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHUL-Neurosciences, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Nicolas Josset
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHUL-Neurosciences, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Maxime Lemieux
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHUL-Neurosciences, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Frederic Bretzner
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHUL-Neurosciences, 2705 Boul. Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada.
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31
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Barton JR, Londregan AK, Alexander TD, Entezari AA, Bar-Ad S, Cheng L, Lepore AC, Snook AE, Covarrubias M, Waldman SA. Intestinal neuropod cell GUCY2C regulates visceral pain. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e165578. [PMID: 36548082 PMCID: PMC9927949 DOI: 10.1172/jci165578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral pain (VP) is a global problem with complex etiologies and limited therapeutic options. Guanylyl cyclase C (GUCY2C), an intestinal receptor producing cyclic GMP(cGMP), which regulates luminal fluid secretion, has emerged as a therapeutic target for VP. Indeed, FDA-approved GUCY2C agonists ameliorate VP in patients with chronic constipation syndromes, although analgesic mechanisms remain obscure. Here, we revealed that intestinal GUCY2C was selectively enriched in neuropod cells, a type of enteroendocrine cell that synapses with submucosal neurons in mice and humans. GUCY2Chi neuropod cells associated with cocultured dorsal root ganglia neurons and induced hyperexcitability, reducing the rheobase and increasing the resulting number of evoked action potentials. Conversely, the GUCY2C agonist linaclotide eliminated neuronal hyperexcitability produced by GUCY2C-sufficient - but not GUCY2C-deficient - neuropod cells, an effect independent of bulk epithelial cells or extracellular cGMP. Genetic elimination of intestinal GUCY2C amplified nociceptive signaling in VP that was comparable with chemically induced VP but refractory to linaclotide. Importantly, eliminating GUCY2C selectively in neuropod cells also increased nociceptive signaling and VP that was refractory to linaclotide. In the context of loss of GUCY2C hormones in patients with VP, these observations suggest a specific role for neuropod GUCY2C signaling in the pathophysiology and treatment of these pain syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Shely Bar-Ad
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Cancer Biology
| | | | | | - Adam E. Snook
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Cancer Biology
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, and
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Scott A. Waldman
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Cancer Biology
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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32
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Torres-Rodriguez JM, Wilson TD, Singh S, Chaudhry S, Adke AP, Becker JJ, Lin JL, Martinez Gonzalez S, Soler-Cedeño O, Carrasquillo Y. The parabrachial to central amygdala circuit is a key mediator of injury-induced pain sensitization. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.08.527340. [PMID: 36945586 PMCID: PMC10028796 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.08.527340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The spino-ponto-amygdaloid pathway is a major ascending circuit relaying nociceptive information from the spinal cord to the brain. Potentiation of excitatory synaptic transmission in the parabrachial nucleus (PbN) to central amygdala (CeA) pathway has been reported in rodent models of persistent pain. At the behavioral level, the PbN→CeA pathway has been proposed to serve as a general alarm system to potential threats that modulates pain-related escape behaviors, threat memory, aversion, and affective-motivational (but not somatosensory) responses to painful stimuli. Increased sensitivity to previously innocuous somatosensory stimulation is a hallmark of chronic pain. Whether the PbN→CeA circuit contributes to heightened peripheral sensitivity following an injury, however, remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that activation of CeA-projecting PbN neurons contributes to injury-induced behavioral hypersensitivity but not baseline nociception in male and female mice. Using optogenetic assisted circuit mapping, we confirmed a functional excitatory projection from PbN→CeA that is independent of the genetic or firing identity of CeA cells. We then showed that peripheral noxious stimulation increases the expression of the neuronal activity marker c-Fos in CeA-projecting PbN neurons and chemogenetic inactivation of these cells reduces behavioral hypersensitivity in models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain without affecting baseline nociception. Lastly, we show that chemogenetic activation of CeA-projecting PbN neurons is sufficient to induce bilateral hypersensitivity without injury. Together, our results demonstrate that the PbN→CeA pathway is a key modulator of pain-related behaviors that can amplify responses to somatosensory stimulation in pathological states without affecting nociception under normal physiological conditions. Significance Statement Early studies identified the spino-ponto-amygdaloid pathway as a major ascending circuit conveying nociceptive inputs from the spinal cord to the brain. The functional significance of this circuit to injury-induced hypersensitivity, however, remains unknown. Here, we addressed this gap in knowledge using viral-mediated anatomical tracers, ex-vivo electrophysiology and chemogenetic intersectional approaches in rodent models of persistent pain. We found that activation of this pathway contributes to injury-induced hypersensitivity, directly demonstrating a critical function of the PbN→CeA circuit in pain modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Torri D. Wilson
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sudhuman Singh
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sarah Chaudhry
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Anisha P. Adke
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jordan J. Becker
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jenny L. Lin
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | | | - Omar Soler-Cedeño
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yarimar Carrasquillo
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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33
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Hogri R, Baltov B, Drdla-Schutting R, Mussetto V, Raphael H, Trofimova L, Sandkühler J. Probing pain aversion in rats with the "Heat Escape Threshold" paradigm. Mol Pain 2023; 19:17448069231156657. [PMID: 36717755 PMCID: PMC9996743 DOI: 10.1177/17448069231156657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aversive aspect of pain constitutes a major burden faced by pain patients. This has been recognized by the pain research community, leading to the development of novel methods focusing on affective-motivational behaviour in pain model animals. The most common tests used to assess pain aversion in animals require cognitive processes, such as associative learning, complicating the interpretation of results. To overcome this issue, studies in recent years have utilized unconditioned escape as a measure of aversion. However, the vast majority of these studies quantify jumping - a common escape behaviour in mice, but not in adult rats, thus limiting its use. Here, we present the "Heat Escape Threshold" (HET) paradigm for assessing heat aversion in rats. We demonstrate that this method can robustly and reproducibly detect the localized effects of an inflammatory pain model (intraplantar carrageenan) in male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. In males, a temperature that evoked unconditioned escape following carrageenan treatment also induced real-time place avoidance (RTPA). Systemic morphine more potently alleviated carrageenan-induced heat aversion (as measured by the HET and RTPA methods), as compared to reflexive responses to heat (as measured by the Hargreaves test), supporting previous findings. Next, we examined how blocking of excitatory transmission to the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN), a key node in the ascending pain system, affects pain behaviour. Using the HET and Hargreaves tests, we show that intra-LPBN application of glutamate antagonists reverses the effects of carrageenan on both affective and reflexive pain behaviour, respectively. Finally, we employed the HET paradigm in a generalized opioid-withdrawal pain model. Withdrawal from a brief systemic administration of remifentanil resulted in a long-lasting and robust increase in heat aversion, but no change in reflexive responses to heat. Taken together, these data demonstrate the utility of the HET paradigm as a novel tool in preclinical pain research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roni Hogri
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bozhidar Baltov
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ruth Drdla-Schutting
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valeria Mussetto
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Holzinger Raphael
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lidia Trofimova
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Sandkühler
- Department of Neurophysiology,
Center for
Brain Research, Medical University of
Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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34
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Cha M, Eum YJ, Kim K, Kim L, Bak H, Sohn JH, Cheong C, Lee BH. Diffusion tensor imaging reveals sex differences in pain sensitivity of rats. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1073963. [PMID: 36937048 PMCID: PMC10017469 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1073963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies on differences in brain structure and function according to sex are reported to contribute to differences in behavior and cognition. However, few studies have investigated brain structures or used tractography to investigate gender differences in pain sensitivity. The identification of tracts involved in sex-based structural differences that show pain sensitivity has remained elusive to date. Here, we attempted to demonstrate the sex differences in pain sensitivity and to clarify its relationship with brain structural connectivity. In this study, pain behavior test and brain diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) were performed in male and female rats and tractography was performed on the whole brain using fiber tracking software. We selected eight brain regions related to pain and performed a tractography analysis of these regions. Fractional anisotropy (FA) measurements using automated tractography revealed sex differences in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC)-, prefrontal cortex (PFC)-, and ventral posterior thalamus-related brain connections. In addition, the results of the correlation analysis of pain sensitivity and DTI tractography showed differences in mean, axial, and radial diffusivities, as well as FA. This study revealed the potential of DTI for exploring circuits involved in pain sensitivity. The behavioral and functional relevance's of measures derived from DTI tractography is demonstrated by their relationship with pain sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myeounghoon Cha
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Ji Eum
- Bio-Chemical Analysis Team, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeongmin Kim
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Leejeong Kim
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeji Bak
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hun Sohn
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaejoon Cheong
- Bio-Chemical Analysis Team, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Chaejoon Cheong,
| | - Bae Hwan Lee
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Bae Hwan Lee,
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35
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Wei H, Chen Z, Lei J, You HJ, Pertovaara A. Reduced mechanical hypersensitivity by inhibition of the amygdala in experimental neuropathy: Sexually dimorphic contribution of spinal neurotransmitter receptors. Brain Res 2022; 1797:148128. [PMID: 36265669 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.148128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Here we studied spinal neurotransmitter mechanisms involved in the reduction of mechanical hypersensitivity by inhibition of the amygdaloid central nucleus (CeA) in male and female rats with spared nerve injury (SNI) model of neuropathy. SNI induced mechanical hypersensitivity that was stronger in females. Reversible blocking of the CeA with muscimol (GABAA receptor agonist) induced a reduction of mechanical hypersensitivity that did not differ between males and females. Following spinal co-administration of atipamezole (α2-adrenoceptor antagonist), the reduction of mechanical hypersensitivity by CeA muscimol was attenuated more in males than females. In contrast, following spinal co-administration of raclopride (dopamine D2 receptor antagonist) the reduction of hypersensitivity by CeA muscimol was attenuated more in females than males. The reduction of mechanical hypersensitivity by CeA muscimol was equally attenuated in males and females by spinal co-administration of WAY-100635 (5-HT1A receptor antagonist) or bicuculline (GABAA receptor antagonist). The CeA muscimol induced attenuation of ongoing pain-like behavior (conditioned place preference test) that was reversed by spinal co-administration of atipamezole in both sexes. The results support the hypothesis that CeA contributes to mechanical hypersensitivity and ongoing pain-like behavior in SNI males and females. Disinhibition of descending controls acting on spinal α2-adrenoceptors, 5-HT1A, dopamine D2 and GABAA receptors provides a plausible explanation for the reduction of mechanical hypersensitivity by CeA block in SNI. The involvement of spinal dopamine D2 receptors and α2-adrenoceptors in the CeA muscimol-induced reduction of mechanical hypersensitivity is sexually dimorphic, unlike that of spinal α2-adrenoceptors in the reduction of ongoing neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Zuyue Chen
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Medical Imaging, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, PR China
| | - Jing Lei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Center for Translational Medicine Research on Sensory-Motor Diseases, Yan'an University, Yan'an, PR China
| | - Hao-Jun You
- Center for Translational Medicine Research on Sensory-Motor Diseases, Yan'an University, Yan'an, PR China
| | - Antti Pertovaara
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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36
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Jia T, Wang YD, Chen J, Zhang X, Cao JL, Xiao C, Zhou C. A nigro-subthalamo-parabrachial pathway modulates pain-like behaviors. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7756. [PMID: 36522327 PMCID: PMC9755217 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35474-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The basal ganglia including the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) are involved in pain-related responses, but how they regulate pain processing remains unknown. Here, we identify a pathway, consisting of GABAergic neurons in the SNr (SNrGABA) and glutamatergic neurons in the STN (STNGlu) and the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBGlu), that modulates acute and persistent pain states in both male and female mice. The activity of STN neurons was enhanced in acute and persistent pain states. This enhancement was accompanied by hypoactivity in SNrGABA neurons and strengthening of the STN-LPB glutamatergic projection. Reversing the dysfunction in the SNrGABA-STNGlu-LPBGlu pathway attenuated activity of LPBGlu neurons and mitigated pain-like behaviors. Therefore, the SNrGABA-STNGlu-LPBGlu pathway regulates pathological pain and is a potential target for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jia
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Ying-Di Wang
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Jing Chen
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Xue Zhang
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Jun-Li Cao
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Cheng Xiao
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Chunyi Zhou
- grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, 221004 Xuzhou, Jiangsu China
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37
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Qi X, Cui K, Zhang Y, Wang L, Tong J, Sun W, Shao S, Wang J, Wang C, Sun X, Xiao L, Xi K, Cui S, Liu F, Ma L, Zheng J, Yi M, Wan Y. A nociceptive neuronal ensemble in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex underlies pain chronicity. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111833. [PMID: 36516746 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain chronicity involves unpleasant experience in both somatosensory and affective aspects, accompanied with the prefrontal cortex (PFC) neuroplastic alterations. However, whether specific PFC neuronal ensembles underlie pain chronicity remains elusive. Here we identify a nociceptive neuronal ensemble in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC), which shows prominent reactivity to nociceptive stimuli. We observed that this ensemble shows distinct molecular characteristics and is densely connected to pain-related regions including basolateral amygdala (BLA) and lateral parabrachial nuclei (LPB). Prolonged chemogenetic activation of this nociceptive neuronal ensemble, but not a randomly transfected subset of dmPFC neurons, induces chronic pain-like behaviors in normal mice. By contrast, silencing the nociceptive dmPFC neurons relieves both pain hypersensitivity and anxiety in mice with chronic inflammatory pain. These results suggest the presence of specific dmPFC neuronal ensembles in processing nociceptive information and regulating pain chronicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuetao Qi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Kun Cui
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, CAMS&PUMC, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Linshu Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Jifu Tong
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Weiqi Sun
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Shan Shao
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing (CIBR), Beijing 102206, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Liming Xiao
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, Department of Medical Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Ke Xi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Shuang Cui
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Fengyu Liu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Longyu Ma
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China.
| | - You Wan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100083, P.R. China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, P.R. China.
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38
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Limoges A, Yarur HE, Tejeda HA. Dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor system regulation on amygdaloid circuitry: Implications for neuropsychiatric disorders. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:963691. [PMID: 36276608 PMCID: PMC9579273 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.963691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amygdaloid circuits are involved in a variety of emotional and motivation-related behaviors and are impacted by stress. The amygdala expresses several neuromodulatory systems, including opioid peptides and their receptors. The Dynorphin (Dyn)/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system has been implicated in the processing of emotional and stress-related information and is expressed in brain areas involved in stress and motivation. Dysregulation of the Dyn/KOR system has also been implicated in various neuropsychiatric disorders. However, there is limited information about the role of the Dyn/KOR system in regulating amygdala circuitry. Here, we review the literature on the (1) basic anatomy of the amygdala, (2) functional regulation of synaptic transmission by the Dyn/KOR system, (3) anatomical architecture and function of the Dyn/KOR system in the amygdala, (4) regulation of amygdala-dependent behaviors by the Dyn/KOR system, and (5) future directions for the field. Future work investigating how the Dyn/KOR system shapes a wide range of amygdala-related behaviors will be required to increase our understanding of underlying circuitry modulation by the Dyn/KOR system. We anticipate that continued focus on the amygdala Dyn/KOR system will also elucidate novel ways to target the Dyn/KOR system to treat neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Limoges
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, Bethesda, MD, United States
- NIH-Columbia University Individual Graduate Partnership Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hector E. Yarur
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hugo A. Tejeda
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Hugo A. Tejeda,
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Jhumka ZA, Abdus-Saboor IJ. Next generation behavioral sequencing for advancing pain quantification. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 76:102598. [PMID: 35780688 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.102598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
With symptoms such as spontaneous pain and pathologically heightened sensitivity to stimuli, chronic pain accounts for about 20% of physician visits and up to 2/3 of patients are dissatisfied with current treatments. Much of our knowledge on pain processing and analgesics has emerged from behavioral studies performed on animals presenting the same symptoms under pathological conditions. While humans can verbally describe their pain, studies on rodents have relied on behavioral assays providing non-exhaustive characterization or altering animals' original sensitivity through repetitive stimulations. The emergence of what we term "next-generation behavioral sequencing" is now permitting us to quantitatively describe behavioral features on millisecond to minutes long timescales that lie beyond easy detection with the unaided eye. Here, we summarize emerging videography and computational based behavioral approaches that have the potential to significantly improve pain research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Anissa Jhumka
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA. https://twitter.com/AnissaJhumka
| | - Ishmail J Abdus-Saboor
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA. ia2458columbia.edu
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Shi XB, Wang J, Li FT, Zhang YB, Qu WM, Dai CF, Huang ZL. Whole-brain monosynaptic outputs and presynaptic inputs of GABAergic neurons in the vestibular nuclei complex of mice. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:982596. [PMID: 36090271 PMCID: PMC9459096 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.982596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
GABAergic neurons in the vestibular nuclei (VN) participate in multiple vital vestibular sensory processing allowing for the maintenance and rehabilitation of vestibular functions. However, although the important role of GABA in the central vestibular system has been widely reported, the underlying neural circuits between VN GABAergic neurons and other brain functional regions remain elusive, which limits the further study of the underlying mechanism. Hence, it is necessary to elucidate neural connectivity based on outputs and inputs of GABAergic neurons in the VN. This study employed a modified rabies virus retrograde tracing vector and cre-dependent adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) anterograde tracing vector, combined with a transgenic VGAT-IRES-Cre mice, to map the inputs and outputs of VN GABAergic neurons in the whole brain. We found that 51 discrete brain regions received projections from VN GABAergic neurons in the whole brain, and there were 77 upstream nuclei innervating GABAergic neurons in the VN. These nuclei were mainly located in four brain regions, including the medulla, pons, midbrain, and cerebellum. Among them, VN GABAergic neurons established neural circuits with some functional nuclei in the whole brain, especially regulating balance maintenance, emotion control, pain processing, sleep and circadian rhythm regulation, and fluid homeostasis. Therefore, this study deepens a comprehensive understanding of the whole-brain neural connectivity of VN, providing the neuroanatomical information for further research on the neural mechanism of the co-morbidities with vestibular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun-Bei Shi
- Department of Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Ministry of Health, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Ministry of Health, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei-Tian Li
- Department of Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Ministry of Health, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Bo Zhang
- Department of Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Ministry of Health, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Min Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Fu Dai
- Department of Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Ministry of Health, Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Chun-Fu Dai
| | - Zhi-Li Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi-Li Huang
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Liu L, Lyu TL, Fu MY, Wang LP, Chen Y, Hong JH, Chen QY, Zhu YP, Tan ZJ, Liu DP, Chen ZW, Kong YZ, Li B. Changes in brain connectivity linked to multisensory processing of pain modulation in migraine with acupuncture treatment. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 36:103168. [PMID: 36067612 PMCID: PMC9468576 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Migraine without aura (MWoA) is a major neurological disorder with unsatisfactory adherence to current medications. Acupuncture has emerged as a promising method for treating MWoA. However, the brain mechanism underlying acupuncture is yet unclear. The present study aimed to examine the effects of acupuncture in regulating brain connectivity of the key regions in pain modulation. In this study, MWoA patients were recruited and randomly assigned to 4 weeks of real or sham acupuncture. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were collected before and after the treatment. A modern neuroimaging literature meta-analysis of 515 fMRI studies was conducted to identify pain modulation-related key regions as regions of interest (ROIs). Seed-to-voxel resting state-functional connectivity (rsFC) method and repeated-measures two-way analysis of variance were conducted to determine the interaction effects between the two groups and time (baseline and post-treatment). The changes in rsFC were evaluated between baseline and post-treatment in real and sham acupuncture groups, respectively. Clinical data at baseline and post-treatment were also recorded in order to determine between-group differences in clinical outcomes as well as correlations between rsFC changes and clinical effects. 40 subjects were involved in the final analysis. The current study demonstrated significant improvement in real acupuncture vs sham acupuncture on headache severity (monthly migraine days), headache impact (6-item Headache Impact Test), and health-related quality of life (Migraine-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire). Five pain modulation-related key regions, including the right amygdala (AMYG), left insula (INS), left medial orbital superior frontal gyrus (PFCventmed), left middle occipital gyrus (MOG), and right middle cingulate cortex (MCC), were selected based on the meta-analysis on brain imaging studies. This study found that 1) after acupuncture treatment, migraine patients of the real acupuncture group showed significantly enhanced connectivity in the right AMYG/MCC-left MTG and the right MCC-right superior temporal gyrus (STG) compared to that of the sham acupuncture group; 2) negative correlations were established between clinical effects and increased rsFC in the right AMYG/MCC-left MTG; 3) baseline right AMYG-left MTG rsFC predicts monthly migraine days reduction after treatment. The current results suggested that acupuncture may concurrently regulate the rsFC of two pain modulation regions in the AMYG and MCC. MTG and STG may be the key nodes linked to multisensory processing of pain modulation in migraine with acupuncture treatment. These findings highlighted the potential of acupuncture for migraine management and the mechanisms underlying the modulation effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Tian-Li Lyu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Ming-Yang Fu
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Lin-Peng Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Jia-Hui Hong
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Qiu-Yi Chen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Yu-Pu Zhu
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Zhong-Jian Tan
- Department of Radiology, Dong Zhimen Hospital Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Da-Peng Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing 100029,China
| | - Zi-Wei Chen
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Ya-Zhuo Kong
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing 100010, China.
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42
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Teuchmann HL, Hogri R, Heinke B, Sandkühler J. Anti-Nociceptive and Anti-Aversive Drugs Differentially Modulate Distinct Inputs to the Rat Lateral Parabrachial Nucleus. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 23:1410-1426. [PMID: 35339662 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.03.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) plays an important role in the processing and establishment of pain aversion. It receives direct input from the superficial dorsal horn and forms reciprocal connections with the periaqueductal grey matter (PAG), which is critical for adaptive behaviour and the modulation of pain processing. Here, using in situ hybridization and optogenetics combined with in vitro electrophysiology, we characterized the spinal- and PAG-LPBN circuits of rats. We found spinoparabrachial projections to be strictly glutamatergic, while PAG neurons send glutamatergic and GABAergic projections to the LPBN. We next investigated the effects of drugs with anti-aversive and/or anti-nociceptive properties on these synapses: The µ-opioid receptor agonist DAMGO (10 µM) reduced spinal and PAG synaptic inputs onto LPBN neurons, and the excitability of LPBN neurons receiving these inputs. The benzodiazepine receptor agonist diazepam (5 µM) strongly enhanced GABAergic action at inhibitory PAG-LPBN synapses. The cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 (5 µM) led to a reduction in inhibitory and excitatory PAG-LPBN synaptic transmission, without affecting excitatory spinoparabrachial synaptic transmission. Our study reveals that opioid, cannabinoid and benzodiazepine receptor agonists differentially affect distinct LPBN synapses. These findings may support the efforts to develop pinpointed therapies for pain patients. PERSPECTIVE: The LPBN is an important brain region for the control of pain aversion versus recuperation, and as such constitutes a promising target for developing new strategies for pain management. We show that clinically-relevant drugs have complex and pathway-specific effects on LPBN processing of putative nociceptive and aversive inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Luise Teuchmann
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roni Hogri
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Heinke
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Sandkühler
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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43
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Kramer PR, Umorin M, Hornung R, Benson MD, Kinchington PR. Sex Differences in the Role of Neurexin 3α in Zoster Associated Pain. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:915797. [PMID: 35875508 PMCID: PMC9302461 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.915797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) induces orofacial pain and female rats show greater pain than male rats. During the proestrus phase of the estrous cycle the VZV induce pain response is attenuated in female rats. A screen of gene expression changes in diestrus and proestrus female rats indicated neurexin 3α (Nrxn3α) was elevated in the central amygdala of proestrus rats vs. diestrus rats. GABAergic neurons descend from the central amygdala to the lateral parabrachial region and Nrxn3α is important for presynaptic γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) release. Thus, we hypothesized that the reduced orofacial pain in male rats and proestrus female rats is the result of increased Nrxn3α within the central amygdala that increases GABA release from axon terminals within the parabrachial and inhibits ascending pain signals. To test this hypothesis Nrxn3 α expression was knocked-down by infusing shRNA constructs in the central amygdala. Then GABA release in the parabrachial was quantitated concomitant with measuring the pain response. Results revealed that knockdown of Nrxn3α expression significantly increases the pain response in both male rats and proestrus female rats vs. diestrus rats. GABA release was significantly reduced in the parabrachial of male and proestrus female rats after Nrxn3α knockdown. Neuronal activity of excitatory neurons was significantly inhibited in the parabrachial after Nrxn3α knockdown. These results are consistent with the idea that Nrxn3 within the central amygdala controls VZV associated pain by regulating GABA release in the lateral parabrachial that then modulates ascending orofacial pain signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip R. Kramer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Mikhail Umorin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Rebecca Hornung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - M. Douglas Benson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Paul R. Kinchington
- Department of Ophthalmology and of Molecular Microbiology and Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Hogri R, Teuchmann HL, Heinke B, Holzinger R, Trofimova L, Sandkühler J. GABAergic CaMKIIα+ Amygdala Output Attenuates Pain and Modulates Emotional-Motivational Behavior via Parabrachial Inhibition. J Neurosci 2022; 42:5373-5388. [PMID: 35667849 PMCID: PMC9270917 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2067-21.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain and emotion are strongly regulated by neurons in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA), a major output of the limbic system; yet, the neuronal signaling pathways underlying this modulation are incompletely understood. Here, we characterized a subpopulation of CeA neurons that express the CaMKIIα gene (CeACAM neurons) and project to the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN), a brainstem region known for its critical role in distributing nociceptive and other aversive signals throughout the brain. In male Sprague Dawley rats, we show that CeACAM-LPBN neurons are GABAergic and mostly express somatostatin. In anaesthetized rats, optogenetic stimulation of CeACAM-LPBN projections inhibited responses of LPBN neurons evoked by electrical activation of Aδ- and C-fiber primary afferents; this inhibition could be blocked by intra-LPBN application of the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline. CeACAM-LPBN stimulation also dampened LPBN responses to noxious mechanical, thermal, and chemical stimuli. In behaving rats, optogenetic stimulation of CeACAM-LPBN projections attenuated nocifensive responses to mechanical pressure and radiant heat, disrupted the ability of a noxious shock to drive aversive learning, reduced the defensive behaviors of thigmotaxis and freezing, induced place preference, and promoted food consumption in sated rats. Thus, we suggest that CeACAM-LPBN projections mediate a form of analgesia that is accompanied by a shift toward the positive-appetitive pole of the emotional-motivational continuum. Since the affective state of pain patients strongly influences their prognosis, we envision that recruitment of this pathway in a clinical setting could potentially promote pain resilience and recovery.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Pain and emotion interact on multiple levels of the nervous system. Both positive and negative emotion may have analgesic effects. However, while the neuronal mechanisms underlying "stress-induced analgesia" have been the focus of many studies, the neuronal substrates underlying analgesia accompanied by appetitive emotional-motivational states have received far less attention. The current study focuses on a subpopulation of amygdala neurons that form inhibitory synapses within the brainstem lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN). We show that activation of these amygdalo-parabrachial projections inhibits pain processing, while also reducing behaviors related to negative affect and enhancing behaviors related to positive affect. We propose that recruitment of this pathway would benefit pain patients, many of whom suffer from psychological comorbidities such as anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roni Hogri
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1190, Austria
| | - Hannah Luise Teuchmann
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1190, Austria
| | - Bernhard Heinke
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1190, Austria
| | - Raphael Holzinger
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1190, Austria
| | - Lidia Trofimova
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1190, Austria
| | - Jürgen Sandkühler
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1190, Austria
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45
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Meng X, Yue L, Liu A, Tao W, Shi L, Zhao W, Wu Z, Zhang Z, Wang L, Zhang X, Zhou W. Distinct basolateral amygdala excitatory inputs mediate the somatosensory and aversive-affective components of pain. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102207. [PMID: 35772494 PMCID: PMC9304789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a multidimensional perception that includes unpleasant somatosensory and affective experiences; however, the underlying neural circuits that mediate different components of pain remain elusive. Although hyperactivity of basolateral amygdala glutamatergic (BLAGlu) neurons is required for the somatosensory and emotional processing of pain, the precise excitatory inputs to BLAGlu neurons and their roles in mediating different aspects of pain are unclear. Here, we identified two discrete glutamatergic neuronal circuits in male mice: a projection from the insular cortex glutamatergic (ICGlu) to BLAGlu neurons, which modulates both the somatosensory and affective components of pain, and a projection from the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MDGlu) to BLAGlu neurons, which modulates only the aversive-affective component of pain. Using whole-cell recording and fiber photometry, we found that neurons within the IC→BLA and MD→BLA pathways were activated in mice upon inflammatory pain induced by injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into their paws. Optical inhibition of the ICGlu→BLA pathway increased the nociceptive threshold and induced behavioral place preference in CFA mice. In contrast, optical inhibition of the MDGlu→BLA pathway did not affect the nociceptive threshold but still induced place preference in CFA mice. In normal mice, optical activation of the ICGlu→BLA pathway decreased the nociceptive threshold and induced place aversion, while optical activation of the MDGlu→BLA pathway only evoked aversion. Taken together, our results demonstrate that discrete ICGlu→BLA and MDGlu→BLA pathways are involved in modulating different components of pain, provide insights into its circuit basis, and better our understanding of pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Meng
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China
| | - Lingxiao Yue
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, China
| | - An Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenjuan Tao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Shi
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China
| | - Wan Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhongmin Wu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Taizhou University, Taizhou, China
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Liecheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Xulai Zhang
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.
| | - Wenjie Zhou
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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46
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Cantu DJ, Kaur S, Murphy AZ, Averitt DL. Sex Differences in the Amygdaloid Projections to the Ventrolateral Periaqueductal Gray and Their Activation During Inflammatory Pain in the Rat. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 124:102123. [PMID: 35738454 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102123] [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: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical studies have reported sex differences in pain and analgesia. These differences may be linked to anatomical structures of the central nervous system pain modulatory circuitry, and/or hormonal milieu. The midbrain periaqueductal gray is a critical brain region for descending inhibition of pain. The PAG projects to the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM), which projects bilaterally to the spinal cord to inhibit pain. In addition to pain, this descending circuit (or pathway) can be engaged by endogenous opioids (i.e., endorphins) or exogenous opioids (i.e., morphine), and we have previously reported sex differences in the activation of this circuit during pain and analgesia. Forebrain structures, including the amygdala, project to and engage the PAG-RVM circuit during persistent inflammatory pain. However, there are limited studies in females detailing this amygdalar-PAG pathway and its involvement during persistent inflammatory pain. The objective of the present study was to delineate the neural projections from the amygdala to the PAG in male and female rats to determine if they are sexually distinct in their anatomical organization. We also examined the activation of this pathway by inflammatory pain and the co-localization of receptors for estrogen. Injection of the retrograde tracer fluorogold (FG) into the ventrolateral PAG (vlPAG) resulted in dense retrograde labeling in both the central amygdala (CeA) and medial amygdala (MeA). While the number of CeA-vlPAG neurons were comparable between the sexes, there were more MeA-vlPAG neurons in females. Inflammatory pain resulted in greater activation of the amygdala in males; however, females displayed higher Fos expression within CeA-vlPAG projection neurons. Females expressed higher ERα in the MeA and CeA and the same was true of the projection neurons. Together, these data indicate that although the MeA-vlPAG projections are denser in females, inflammatory pain does not significantly activate these projections. In contrast, inflammatory pain resulted in a greater activation of the CeA-vlPAG pathway in females. As females experience a greater number of chronic pain syndromes, the CeA-vlPAG pathway may play a facilitatory (and not inhibitory) role in pain modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy J Cantu
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX 76204
| | - Sukhbir Kaur
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX 76204
| | - Anne Z Murphy
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303
| | - Dayna L Averitt
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX 76204.
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47
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Neurexin 3α in the central amygdala has a role orofacial varicella zoster pain. Neuroscience 2022; 496:16-26. [PMID: 35679996 PMCID: PMC9329223 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is responsible for chronic pain. VZV injection has similarities to herpes zoster (HZ) "shingles" pain in humans. In this study orofacial pain was induced by injecting male rats with the human VZV. The amygdala and parabrachial have been implicated to control affective/motivational orofacial pain. Recently our lab reported neurexin 3α (Nrxn3α) is expressed in the central amygdala and parabrachial. GABAergic neurons descend from the central amygdala to the lateral parabrachial region and Nrxn3α is important for presynaptic (γ-Aminobutyric acid) GABA release. Thus, we hypothesized that lateral parabrachial neuronal activity and orofacial pain are controlled by Nrxn3α within the central amygdala. To test the hypothesis Nrxn3α expression was knocked down (i.e., using short hairpin RNA or shRNA) in the central amygdala and GABA release and neuronal activity were quantitated in the parabrachial concomitant with measurement of the VZV induced pain response. Results revealed that attenuating Nrxn3 expression within the amygdala reduces GABA release in the parabrachial and increases neuronal activity within the lateral parabrachial region. Attenuating Nrxn3 expression also increases VZV associated orofacial pain. Activating GABAergic neurons within the central amygdala with opsins increase GABA release in the parabrachial and reduced the pain response after Nrxn3 shRNA treatment. These results are consistent with the idea that Nrxn3 within the central amygdala controls VZV associated pain by regulating GABA release in the lateral parabrachial that then controls the activity of ascending pain neurons.
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48
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Ma L, Liu S, Yi M, Wan Y. Spontaneous pain as a challenge of research and management in chronic pain. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:308-319. [PMID: 37724190 PMCID: PMC10388751 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous pain occurring without apparent external stimuli, is a significant complaint of individuals with chronic pain whose mechanisms, somewhat surprisingly, remain poorly understood. Over the past decades, neuroimaging studies start to reveal brain activities accompanying spontaneous pain. Meanwhile, a variety of animal models and behavioral tests have been established, including non-reflexive tests and free-choice tests, which have been shown to be effective in assessing spontaneous pain. For the spontaneous pain mechanisms, multiple lines of research mainly focus on three aspects: (1) sensitization of peripheral nociceptor receptors and ion channels, (2) spontaneous neuronal firing and abnormal activity patterns at the dorsal root ganglion and spinal cord level, (3) functional and structural alterations in the brain, particularly the limbic system and the medial pain pathway. Despite accumulating evidence revealing distinct neuronal mechanisms from evoked pain, we are still far from full understanding of spontaneous pain, leaving a big gap between bench and bedside for chronic pain treatment. A better understanding of the neural processes in chronic pain, with specific linkage as to which anatomical structures and molecules related to spontaneous pain perception and comorbidities, will greatly improve our ability to develop novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyu Ma
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuting Liu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - You Wan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Tonic pain alters functional connectivity of the descending pain modulatory network involving amygdala, periaqueductal gray, parabrachial nucleus and anterior cingulate cortex. Neuroimage 2022; 256:119278. [PMID: 35523367 PMCID: PMC9250649 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Resting state functional connectivity (FC) is widely used to assess functional brain alterations in patients with chronic pain. However, reports of FC accompanying tonic pain in pain-free persons are rare. A network we term the Descending Pain Modulatory Network (DPMN) is implicated in healthy and pathologic pain modulation. Here, we evaluate the effect of tonic pain on FC of specific nodes of this network: anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), amygdala (AMYG), periaqueductal gray (PAG), and parabrachial nuclei (PBN). METHODS In 50 pain-free participants (30F), we induced tonic pain using a capsaicin-heat pain model. functional MRI measured resting BOLD signal during pain-free rest with a 32°C thermode and then tonic pain where participants experienced a previously warm temperature combined with capsaicin. We evaluated FC from ACC, AMYG, PAG, and PBN with correlation of self-report pain intensity during both states. We hypothesized tonic pain would diminish FC dyads within the DPMN. RESULTS Of all hypothesized FC dyads, only PAG and subgenual ACC was weakly altered during pain (F=3.34; p=0.074; pain-free>pain d=0.25). After pain induction sACC-PAG FC became positively correlated with pain intensity (R=0.38; t=2.81; p=0.007). Right PBN-PAG FC during pain-free rest positively correlated with subsequently experienced pain (R=0.44; t=3.43; p=0.001). During pain, this connection's FC was diminished (paired t=-3.17; p=0.0026). In whole-brain analyses, during pain-free rest, FC between left AMYG and right superior parietal lobule and caudate nucleus were positively correlated with subsequent pain. During pain, FC between left AMYG and right inferior temporal gyrus negatively correlated with pain. Subsequent pain positively correlated with right AMYG FC with right claustrum; right primary visual cortex and right temporo-occipitoparietal junction Conclusion: We demonstrate sACC-PAG tonic pain FC positively correlates with experienced pain and resting right PBN-PAG FC correlates with subsequent pain and is diminished during tonic pain. Finally, we reveal PAG- and right AMYG-anchored networks which correlate with subsequently experienced pain intensity. Our findings suggest specific connectivity patterns within the DPMN at rest are associated with subsequently experienced pain and modulated by tonic pain. These nodes and their functional modulation may reveal new therapeutic targets for neuromodulation or biomarkers to guide interventions.
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Optogenetic manipulations of CeA-CRF neurons modulate pain- and anxiety-like behaviors in neuropathic pain and control rats. Neuropharmacology 2022; 210:109031. [PMID: 35304173 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The amygdala plays a critical role in the emotional-affective component of pain and pain modulation. The central nucleus of amygdala (CeA) serves major output functions and has been linked to pain-related behaviors. Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) in the CeA has emerged as an important modulator of pain and affective disorders. Here we measured the effects of optogenetic manipulation of CeA-CRF neurons on pain-related behaviors in a rat neuropathic pain model and under control conditions. Emotional-affective behaviors (vocalizations), mechanosensitivity (electronic von Frey anesthesiometer and calibrated forceps), and anxiety-like behaviors (open field test and elevated plus maze) were assessed in adult rats 1 week and 4 weeks after spinal nerve ligation (SNL model) and sham surgery (control). For optogenetic silencing or activation of CRF neurons, a Cre-inducible viral vector encoding enhanced halorhodopsin (eNpHR3.0) or channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2) was injected stereotaxically into the right CeA of transgenic Crh-Cre rats. Light of the appropriate wavelength (590 nm for eNpHR3.0; 473 nm for ChR2) was delivered into the CeA with an LED optic fiber. Optical silencing of CeA-CRF neurons decreased the emotional-affective responses in the acute and chronic phases of the neuropathic pain model but had anxiolytic effects only at the chronic stage and no effect on mechanosensitivity. Optogenetic activation of CeA-CRF neurons increased the emotional-affective responses and induced anxiety-like behaviors but had no effect on mechanosensitivity in control rats. The data show the critical contribution of CeA-CRF neurons to pain-related behaviors under normal conditions and beneficial effects of inhibiting CeA-CRF neurons in neuropathic pain.
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