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Winter J, Meyer M, Berger I, Royer M, Bianchi M, Kuffner K, Peters S, Stang S, Langgartner D, Hartmann F, Schmidtner AK, Reber SO, Bosch OJ, Bludau A, Slattery DA, van den Burg EH, Jurek B, Neumann ID. Chronic oxytocin-driven alternative splicing of Crfr2α induces anxiety. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4742-4755. [PMID: 34035479 PMCID: PMC10914602 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01141-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) has generated considerable interest as potential treatment for psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and autism spectrum disorders. However, the behavioral and molecular consequences associated with chronic OXT treatment and chronic receptor (OXTR) activation have scarcely been studied, despite the potential therapeutic long-term use of intranasal OXT. Here, we reveal that chronic OXT treatment over two weeks increased anxiety-like behavior in rats, with higher sensitivity in females, contrasting the well-known anxiolytic effect of acute OXT. The increase in anxiety was transient and waned 5 days after the infusion has ended. The behavioral effects of chronic OXT were paralleled by activation of an intracellular signaling pathway, which ultimately led to alternative splicing of hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2α (Crfr2α), an important modulator of anxiety. In detail, chronic OXT shifted the splicing ratio from the anxiolytic membrane-bound (mCRFR2α) form of CRFR2α towards the soluble CRFR2α (sCRFR2α) form. Experimental induction of alternative splicing mimicked the anxiogenic effects of chronic OXT, while sCRFR2α-knock down reduced anxiety-related behavior of male rats. Furthermore, chronic OXT treatment triggered the release of sCRFR2α into the cerebrospinal fluid with sCRFR2α levels positively correlating with anxiety-like behavior. In summary, we revealed that the shifted splicing ratio towards expression of the anxiogenic sCRFR2α underlies the adverse effects of chronic OXT treatment on anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Winter
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Meyer
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ilona Berger
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Royer
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Marta Bianchi
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kuffner
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Peters
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Simone Stang
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Langgartner
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychosomatics, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Finn Hartmann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anna K Schmidtner
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan O Reber
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychosomatics, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Oliver J Bosch
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anna Bludau
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - David A Slattery
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Erwin H van den Burg
- Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, University Hospital Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Jurek
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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Chudoba R, Dabrowska J. Distinct populations of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) neurons mediate divergent yet complementary defensive behaviors in response to a threat. Neuropharmacology 2023; 228:109461. [PMID: 36775096 PMCID: PMC10055972 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Defensive behaviors in response to a threat are shared across the animal kingdom. Active (fleeing, sheltering) or passive (freezing, avoiding) defensive responses are adaptive and facilitate survival. Selecting appropriate defensive strategy depends on intensity, proximity, temporal threat threshold, and past experiences. Hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a major driver of an acute stress response, whereas extrahypothalamic CRF mediates stress-related affective behaviors. In this review, we shift the focus from a monolithic role of CRF as an anxiogenic peptide to comprehensively dissecting contributions of distinct populations of CRF neurons in mediating defensive behaviors. Direct interrogation of CRF neurons of the central amygdala (CeA) or the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) show they drive unconditioned defensive responses, such as vigilance and avoidance of open spaces. Although both populations also contribute to learned fear responses in familiar, threatening contexts, CeA-CRF neurons are particularly attuned to the ever-changing environment. Depending on threat intensities, they facilitate discrimination of salient stimuli predicting manageable threats, and prevent their generalization. Finally, hypothalamic CRF neurons mediate initial threat assessment and active defense such as escape to shelter. Overall, these three major populations of CRF neurons demonstrate divergent, yet complementary contributions to the versatile defense system: heightened vigilance, discriminating salient threats, and active escape, representing three legs of the defense tripod. Despite the 'CRF exhaustion' in the field of affective neuroscience, understanding contributions of specific CRF neurons during adaptive defensive behaviors is needed in order to understand the implications of their dysregulation in fear- and anxiety-related psychiatric disorders. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Fear, Anxiety and PTSD".
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Chudoba
- Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States; Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States; School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joanna Dabrowska
- Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States; Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States; School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.
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Lauritano D, Mastrangelo F, D’Ovidio C, Ronconi G, Caraffa A, Gallenga CE, Frydas I, Kritas SK, Trimarchi M, Carinci F, Conti P. Activation of Mast Cells by Neuropeptides: The Role of Pro-Inflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054811. [PMID: 36902240 PMCID: PMC10002992 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are tissue cells that are derived from bone marrow stem cells that contribute to allergic reactions, inflammatory diseases, innate and adaptive immunity, autoimmunity, and mental disorders. MCs located near the meninges communicate with microglia through the production of mediators such as histamine and tryptase, but also through the secretion of IL-1, IL-6 and TNF, which can create pathological effects in the brain. Preformed chemical mediators of inflammation and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are rapidly released from the granules of MCs, the only immune cells capable of storing the cytokine TNF, although it can also be produced later through mRNA. The role of MCs in nervous system diseases has been extensively studied and reported in the scientific literature; it is of great clinical interest. However, many of the published articles concern studies on animals (mainly rats or mice) and not on humans. MCs are known to interact with neuropeptides that mediate endothelial cell activation, resulting in central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory disorders. In the brain, MCs interact with neurons causing neuronal excitation with the production of neuropeptides and the release of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and chemokines. This article explores the current understanding of MC activation by neuropeptide substance P (SP), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), and neurotensin, and the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a therapeutic effect of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-37 and IL-38.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorina Lauritano
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Filiberto Mastrangelo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Cristian D’Ovidio
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Ronconi
- Clinica dei Pazienti del Territorio, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Carla E. Gallenga
- Section of Ophthalmology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialist Surgery, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilias Frydas
- Department of Parasitology, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Spyros K. Kritas
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Macedonia, Greece
| | - Matteo Trimarchi
- Centre of Neuroscience of Milan, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Francesco Carinci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pio Conti
- Immunology Division, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Caruso A, Gaetano A, Scaccianoce S. Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone: Biology and Therapeutic Opportunities. Biology (Basel) 2022; 11. [PMID: 36552294 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In 1981, Wylie Vale, Joachim Spiess, Catherine Rivier, and Jean Rivier reported on the characterization of a 41-amino-acid peptide from ovine hypothalamic extracts with high potency and intrinsic activity stimulating the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone and β-endorphin by cultured anterior pituitary cells. With its sequence known, this neuropeptide was determined to be a hormone and consequently named corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), although the term corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is still used and preferred in some circumstances. Several decades have passed since this seminal contribution that opened a new research era, expanding the understanding of the coding of stress-related processes. The characterization of CRH receptors, the availability of CRH agonists and antagonists, and advanced immunocytochemical staining techniques have provided evidence that CRH plays a role in the regulation of several biological systems. The purpose of this review is to summarize the present knowledge of this 41-amino-acid peptide.
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Vasconcelos I, Adão R, Rademaker MT, Leite-Moreira AF, Fontes-Sousa AP, Brás-Silva C. Urocortins as biomarkers in cardiovascular disease. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:1-14. [PMID: 34939089 DOI: 10.1042/CS20210732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The urocortins (Ucns) belong to the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family of peptides and have multiple effects within the central nervous and the cardiovascular systems. With growing evidence indicating significant cardioprotective properties and cardiovascular actions of these peptides, the question arises as to whether the plasma profiles of the Ucns are altered in pathologic settings. While reports have shown conflicting results and findings have not been corroborated in multiple independent cohorts, it seems likely that plasma Ucn concentrations are elevated in multiple cardiovascular conditions. The degree of increase and accurate determination of circulating values of the Ucns requires further validation.
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Kageyama K, Iwasaki Y, Daimon M. Hypothalamic Regulation of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor under Stress and Stress Resilience. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212242. [PMID: 34830130 PMCID: PMC8621508 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the molecular mechanisms of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) regulation in the hypothalamus under stress and stress resilience. CRF in the hypothalamus plays a central role in regulating the stress response. CRF stimulates adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) release from the anterior pituitary. ACTH stimulates glucocorticoid secretion from the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoids are essential for stress coping, stress resilience, and homeostasis. The activated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is suppressed by the negative feedback from glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoid-dependent repression of cAMP-stimulated Crf promoter activity is mediated by both the negative glucocorticoid response element and the serum response element. Conversely, the inducible cAMP-early repressor can suppress the stress response via inhibition of the cAMP-dependent Crf gene, as can the suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 in the hypothalamus. CRF receptor type 1 is mainly involved in a stress response, depression, anorexia, and seizure, while CRF receptor type 2 mediates “stress coping” mechanisms such as anxiolysis in the brain. Differential effects of FK506-binding immunophilins, FKBP4 and FKBP5, contribute to the efficiency of glucocorticoids under stress resilience. Together, a variety of factors contribute to stress resilience. All these factors would have the differential roles under stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kageyama
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki 036-8562, Aomori, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-172-39-5062
| | - Yasumasa Iwasaki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition Management Nutrition Course, Faculty of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science, 1001-1 Kishioka-cho, Suzuka 510-0293, Mie, Japan;
| | - Makoto Daimon
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki 036-8562, Aomori, Japan;
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Borg ML, Massart J, De Castro Barbosa T, Archilla-Ortega A, Smith JAB, Lanner JT, Alsina-Fernandez J, Yaden B, Culver AE, Karlsson HKR, Brozinick JT, Zierath JR. Modified UCN2 peptide treatment improves skeletal muscle mass and function in mouse models of obesity-induced insulin resistance. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2021; 12:1232-1248. [PMID: 34342159 PMCID: PMC8517345 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes and obesity are often seen concurrently with skeletal muscle wasting, leading to further derangements in function and metabolism. Muscle wasting remains an unmet need for metabolic disease, and new approaches are warranted. The neuropeptide urocortin 2 (UCN2) and its receptor corticotropin releasing factor receptor 2 (CRHR2) are highly expressed in skeletal muscle and play a role in regulating energy balance, glucose metabolism, and muscle mass. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of modified UCN2 peptides as a pharmaceutical therapy to counteract the loss of skeletal muscle mass associated with obesity and casting immobilization. METHODS High-fat-fed mice (C57Bl/6J; 26 weeks old) and ob/ob mice (11 weeks old) were injected daily with a PEGylated (Compound A) and non-PEGylated (Compound B) modified human UCN2 at 0.3 mg/kg subcutaneously for 14 days. A separate group of chow-fed C57Bl/6J mice (12 weeks old) was subjected to hindlimb cast immobilization and, after 1 week, received daily injections with Compound A. In vivo functional tests were performed to measure protein synthesis rates and skeletal muscle function. Ex vivo functional and molecular tests were performed to measure contractile force and signal transduction of catabolic and anabolic pathways in skeletal muscle. RESULTS Skeletal muscles (extensor digitorum longus, soleus, and tibialis anterior) from high-fat-fed mice treated with Compound A were ~14% heavier than muscles from vehicle-treated mice. Chronic treatment with modified UCN2 peptides altered the expression of structural genes and transcription factors in skeletal muscle in high-fat diet-induced obesity including down-regulation of Trim63 and up-regulation of Nr4a2 and Igf1 (P < 0.05 vs. vehicle). Signal transduction via both catabolic and anabolic pathways was increased in tibialis anterior muscle, with increased phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 at Ser235/236 , FOXO1 at Ser256 , and ULK1 at Ser317 , suggesting that UCN2 treatment modulates protein synthesis and degradation pathways (P < 0.05 vs. vehicle). Acutely, a single injection of Compound A in drug-naïve mice had no effect on the rate of protein synthesis in skeletal muscle, as measured via the surface sensing of translation method, while the expression of Nr4a3 and Ppargc1a4 was increased (P < 0.05 vs. vehicle). Compound A treatment prevented the loss of force production from disuse due to casting. Compound B treatment increased time to fatigue during ex vivo contractions of fast-twitch extensor digitorum longus muscle. Compound A and B treatment increased lean mass and rates of skeletal muscle protein synthesis in ob/ob mice. CONCLUSIONS Modified human UCN2 is a pharmacological candidate for the prevention of the loss of skeletal muscle mass associated with obesity and immobilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L Borg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julie Massart
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thais De Castro Barbosa
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adrià Archilla-Ortega
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonathon A B Smith
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johanna T Lanner
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Molecular Muscle Physiology and Pathophysiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Benjamin Yaden
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Alexander E Culver
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Håkan K R Karlsson
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joseph T Brozinick
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Juleen R Zierath
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Phumsatitpong C, Wagenmaker ER, Moenter SM. Neuroendocrine interactions of the stress and reproductive axes. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 63:100928. [PMID: 34171353 PMCID: PMC8605987 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Reproduction is controlled by a sequential regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The HPG axis integrates multiple inputs to maintain proper reproductive functions. It has long been demonstrated that stress alters fertility. Nonetheless, the central mechanisms of how stress interacts with the reproductive system are not fully understood. One of the major pathways that is activated during the stress response is the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In this review, we discuss several aspects of the interactions between these two neuroendocrine systems to offer insights to mechanisms of how the HPA and HPG axes interact. We have also included discussions of other systems, for example GABA-producing neurons, where they are informative to the overall picture of stress effects on reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayarndorn Phumsatitpong
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Elizabeth R Wagenmaker
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Suzanne M Moenter
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
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Vuppaladhadiam L, Ehsan C, Akkati M, Bhargava A. Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Family: A Stress Hormone-Receptor System's Emerging Role in Mediating Sex-Specific Signaling. Cells 2020; 9:E839. [PMID: 32244319 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
No organ in the body is impervious to the effects of stress, and a coordinated response from all organs is essential to deal with stressors. A dysregulated stress response that fails to bring systems back to homeostasis leads to compromised function and ultimately a diseased state. The components of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family, an ancient and evolutionarily conserved stress hormone-receptor system, helps both initiate stress responses and bring systems back to homeostasis once the stressors are removed. The mammalian CRF family comprises of four known agonists, CRF and urocortins (UCN1–3), and two known G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), CRF1 and CRF2. Evolutionarily, precursors of CRF- and urocortin-like peptides and their receptors were involved in osmoregulation/diuretic functions, in addition to nutrient sensing. Both CRF and UCN1 peptide hormones as well as their receptors appeared after a duplication event nearly 400 million years ago. All four agonists and both CRF receptors show sex-specific changes in expression and/or function, and single nucleotide polymorphisms are associated with a plethora of human diseases. CRF receptors harbor N-terminal cleavable peptide sequences, conferring biased ligand properties. CRF receptors have the ability to heteromerize with each other as well as with other GPCRs. Taken together, CRF receptors and their agonists due to their versatile functional adaptability mediate nuanced responses and are uniquely positioned to orchestrate sex-specific signaling and function in several tissues.
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Yarur HE, Andrés ME, Gysling K. Type 2β Corticotrophin Releasing Factor Receptor Forms a Heteromeric Complex With Dopamine D1 Receptor in Living Cells. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1501. [PMID: 31969820 PMCID: PMC6960402 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF) and its related peptides differentially bind to CRF receptors to modulate stress-related behaviors. CRF receptors comprise two G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR), type-1 CRF receptors (CRF1), and type-2 CRF receptors (CRF2). CRF2 encompasses three spliced variants in humans, alpha (CRF2α), beta (CRF2β), and gamma (CRF2γ), which differ in their N-terminal extracellular domains and expression patterns. Previously, we showed that CRF2α form a heteromeric protein complex with dopamine D1 receptors (D1R), leading to changes in the signaling of D1R. Based on the high sequence identity between CRF2α and CRF2β, we hypothesized that CRF2β also heteromerize with D1R. To test the hypothesis, we compared the expression and localization of both CRF2 isoforms and whether CRF2β form stable protein complexes with D1R in HEK293 and ATR75 cell lines. We observed that the immunoreactivity for CRF2β was similar to that of CRF2α in the endoplasmic compartment but significantly higher in the Golgi compartment. Immunoprecipitation analysis showed that CRF2β forms a heteromeric protein complex with D1R. Furthermore, the protein complex formed by CRF2β and D1R was stable enough to change the sub-cellular localization of CRF2β when it was co-expressed with a construct of D1R bearing a nuclear localization signal. Immunofluorescence in A7R5 cells, which endogenously express CRF2β and D1R, shows significant colocalization of CRF2β with D1R. In conclusion, our results show that CRF2β forms a stable heteromeric protein complex with D1R, a potential new therapeutic target in tissues where both receptors are co-expressed, such as the septum in the brain, and heart, kidney, and skeletal muscle in the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector E. Yarur
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Katia Gysling
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Borg ML, Massart J, Schönke M, De Castro Barbosa T, Guo L, Wade M, Alsina-Fernandez J, Miles R, Ryan A, Bauer S, Coskun T, O'Farrell E, Niemeier EM, Chibalin AV, Krook A, Karlsson HK, Brozinick JT, Zierath JR. Modified UCN2 Peptide Acts as an Insulin Sensitizer in Skeletal Muscle of Obese Mice. Diabetes 2019; 68:1403-1414. [PMID: 31010957 DOI: 10.2337/db18-1237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide urocortin 2 (UCN2) and its receptor corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 2 (CRHR2) are highly expressed in skeletal muscle and play a role in regulating energy balance and glucose metabolism. We investigated a modified UCN2 peptide as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance, with a specific focus on skeletal muscle. High-fat-fed mice (C57BL/6J) were injected daily with a PEGylated UCN2 peptide (compound A) at 0.3 mg/kg subcutaneously for 14 days. Compound A reduced body weight, food intake, whole-body fat mass, and intramuscular triglycerides compared with vehicle-treated controls. Furthermore, whole-body glucose tolerance was improved by compound A treatment, with increased insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation at Ser473 and Thr308 in skeletal muscle, concomitant with increased glucose transport into extensor digitorum longus and gastrocnemius muscle. Mechanistically, this is linked to a direct effect on skeletal muscle because ex vivo exposure of soleus muscle from chow-fed lean mice to compound A increased glucose transport and insulin signaling. Moreover, exposure of GLUT4-Myc-labeled L6 myoblasts to compound A increased GLUT4 trafficking. Our results demonstrate that modified UCN2 peptides may be efficacious in the treatment of type 2 diabetes by acting as an insulin sensitizer in skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L Borg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julie Massart
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Milena Schönke
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thais De Castro Barbosa
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lili Guo
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Mark Wade
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | - Rebecca Miles
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Andrew Ryan
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Steve Bauer
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Tamer Coskun
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Elizabeth O'Farrell
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Evan M Niemeier
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Alexander V Chibalin
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Krook
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Håkan K Karlsson
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joseph T Brozinick
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Juleen R Zierath
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Section for Integrative Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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12
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Klampfl SM, Bosch OJ. Mom doesn't care: When increased brain CRF system activity leads to maternal neglect in rodents. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 53:100735. [PMID: 30684507 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mothers are the primary caregivers in mammals, ensuring their offspring's survival. This strongly depends on the adequate expression of maternal behavior, which is the result of a concerted action of "pro-maternal" versus "anti-maternal" neuromodulators such as the oxytocin and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) systems, respectively. When essential peripartum adaptations fail, the CRF system has negative physiological, emotional and behavioral consequences for both mother and offspring often resulting in maternal neglect. Here, we provide an elaborate and unprecedented review on the implications of the CRF system in the maternal brain. Studies in rodents have advanced our understanding of the specific roles of brain regions such as the limbic bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial preoptic area and lateral septum even in a CRF receptor subtype-specific manner. Furthermore, we discuss potential interactions of the CRF system with other neurotransmitters like oxytocin and noradrenaline, and present valuable translational aspects of the recent research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie M Klampfl
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Oliver J Bosch
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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13
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Gangisetty O, Sinha R, Sarkar DK. Hypermethylation of Proopiomelanocortin and Period 2 Genes in Blood Are Associated with Greater Subjective and Behavioral Motivation for Alcohol in Humans. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2018; 43:212-220. [PMID: 30597578 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic modifications of a gene have been shown to play a role in maintaining a long-lasting change in gene expression. We hypothesize that alcohol's modulating effect on DNA methylation on certain genes in blood is evident in binge and heavy alcohol drinkers and is associated with alcohol motivation. METHODS Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were used to measure changes in gene methylation of period 2 (PER2) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) genes in peripheral blood samples collected from nonsmoking moderate, nonbinging, binge, and heavy social drinkers who participated in a 3-day behavioral alcohol motivation experiment of imagery exposure to either stress, neutral, or alcohol-related cues, 1 per day, presented on consecutive days in counterbalanced order. Following imagery exposure on each day, subjects were exposed to discrete alcoholic beer cues followed by an alcohol taste test (ATT) to assess behavioral motivation. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure gene expression of PER2 and POMC gene levels in blood samples across samples. RESULTS In the sample of moderate, binge, and heavy drinkers, we found increased methylation of the PER2 and POMC DNA, reduced expression of these genes in the blood samples of the binge and heavy drinkers relative to the moderate, nonbinge drinkers. Increased PER2 and POMC DNA methylation was also significantly predictive of both increased levels of subjective alcohol craving immediately following imagery (p < 0.0001), and with presentation of the alcohol (2 beers) (p < 0.0001) prior to the ATT, as well as with alcohol amount consumed during the ATT (p < 0.003). CONCLUSIONS These data establish significant association between binge or heavy levels of alcohol drinking and elevated levels of methylation and reduced levels of expression of POMC and PER2 genes. Furthermore, elevated methylation of POMC and PER2 genes is associated with greater subjective and behavioral motivation for alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkaram Gangisetty
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Rajita Sinha
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale Interdisciplinary Stress Center, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Research Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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14
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Abstract
The identification of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) has led to the discovery of a growing family of ligands and receptors. CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1) and CRHR2 are mammalian G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) with high affinity for CRH and the CRH family of peptides. CRHR1 is predominantly expressed in the brain and plays a vital role in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis stress responses by secreting adrenal corticotropic hormone (ACTH). CRHR2 is predominantly expressed in the heart, and a CRHR2-specific ligand, urocortin 2 (UCN2), shows positive cardiac chronotropic and inotropic effects through 3´,5´-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling in response to CRHR2-mediated Gαs activation in mice and humans. Central administration of the CRH family of peptides increases mean arterial pressure through CRHR1 activation, whereas peripheral administration of the peptides decreases mean arterial pressure through CRHR2 activation. These observations have led to further investigations of CRHR2 as an important and unique GPCR in the physiological and pathological functioning of the cardiovascular (CV) system. Moreover, recent clinical trials demonstrate CRHR2 as a potentially therapeutic target in the treatment of heart failure. We present recent reviews of the role of CRHRs in basic CV physiology and in the pathophysiology of CV diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikito Takefuji
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University School of Medicine
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15
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Dedic N, Chen A, Deussing JM. The CRF Family of Neuropeptides and their Receptors - Mediators of the Central Stress Response. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2018; 11:4-31. [PMID: 28260504 PMCID: PMC5930453 DOI: 10.2174/1874467210666170302104053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Dysregulated stress neurocircuits, caused by genetic and/or environmental changes, underlie the development of many neuropsychiatric disorders. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is the major physiological activator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and conse-quently a primary regulator of the mammalian stress response. Together with its three family members, urocortins (UCNs) 1, 2, and 3, CRF integrates the neuroendocrine, autonomic, metabolic and behavioral responses to stress by activating its cognate receptors CRFR1 and CRFR2. Objective: Here we review the past and current state of the CRF/CRFR field, ranging from pharmacologi-cal studies to genetic mouse models and virus-mediated manipulations. Results: Although it is well established that CRF/CRFR1 signaling mediates aversive responses, includ-ing anxiety and depression-like behaviors, a number of recent studies have challenged this viewpoint by revealing anxiolytic and appetitive properties of specific CRF/CRFR1 circuits. In contrast, the UCN/CRFR2 system is less well understood and may possibly also exert divergent functions on physiol-ogy and behavior depending on the brain region, underlying circuit, and/or experienced stress conditions. Conclusion: A plethora of available genetic tools, including conventional and conditional mouse mutants targeting CRF system components, has greatly advanced our understanding about the endogenous mecha-nisms underlying HPA system regulation and CRF/UCN-related neuronal circuits involved in stress-related behaviors. Yet, the detailed pathways and molecular mechanisms by which the CRF/UCN-system translates negative or positive stimuli into the final, integrated biological response are not completely un-derstood. The utilization of future complementary methodologies, such as cell-type specific Cre-driver lines, viral and optogenetic tools will help to further dissect the function of genetically defined CRF/UCN neurocircuits in the context of adaptive and maladaptive stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Dedic
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr, 2-10, 80804 Munich. Germany
| | - Alon Chen
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr, 2-10, 80804 Munich. Germany
| | - Jan M Deussing
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr, 2-10, 80804 Munich. Germany
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16
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Abstract
The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system is well known for its major role in coordinating the endocrine, autonomic and behavioral responses to stress. These functions have been shown to be mediated mainly by the binding of the CRF neuropeptide to its specific receptor CRFR1. Yet, the CRF system comprises several more neuropeptides, including the three urocortins, UCN1, UCN2 and UCN3, of which the latter two bind specifically to a distinct receptor-CRFR2. Unlike the brain-wide abundant expression of CRF and CRFR1, the brain expression of the urocortins and CRFR2 is rather restricted and seems to be focused in limbic areas associated with social behavior. Here, we will review accumulating evidence from recent studies that unfold the role of UCN2 and UCN3 in regulating mammalian social behavior, via activation of CRFR2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shlomo Wagner
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Mt. Carmel, 3498838, Haifa, Israel.
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17
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Abstract
The physiological stress response is responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis in the presence of real or perceived challenges. In this function, the brain activates adaptive responses that involve numerous neural circuits and effector molecules to adapt to the current and future demands. A maladaptive stress response has been linked to the etiology of a variety of disorders, such as anxiety and mood disorders, eating disorders, and the metabolic syndrome. The neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and its relatives, the urocortins 1–3, in concert with their receptors (CRFR1, CRFR2), have emerged as central components of the physiological stress response. This central peptidergic system impinges on a broad spectrum of physiological processes that are the basis for successful adaptation and concomitantly integrate autonomic, neuroendocrine, and behavioral stress responses. This review focuses on the physiology of CRF-related peptides and their cognate receptors with the aim of providing a comprehensive up-to-date overview of the field. We describe the major molecular features covering aspects of gene expression and regulation, structural properties, and molecular interactions, as well as mechanisms of signal transduction and their surveillance. In addition, we discuss the large body of published experimental studies focusing on state-of-the-art genetic approaches with high temporal and spatial precision, which collectively aimed to dissect the contribution of CRF-related ligands and receptors to different levels of the stress response. We discuss the controversies in the field and unravel knowledge gaps that might pave the way for future research directions and open up novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Deussing
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; and Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Alon Chen
- Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; and Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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18
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Tan LA, Vaughan JM, Perrin MH, Rivier JE, Sawchenko PE. Distribution of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor binding in the mouse brain using a new, high-affinity radioligand, [125I]-PD-Sauvagine. J Comp Neurol 2017; 525:3840-3864. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.24307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Tan
- Laboratory of Neuronal Structure and Function; The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
| | - Joan M. Vaughan
- Laboratory of Neuronal Structure and Function; The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
- Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
| | - Marilyn H. Perrin
- Laboratory of Neuronal Structure and Function; The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
- Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
| | - Jean E. Rivier
- Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
| | - Paul E. Sawchenko
- Laboratory of Neuronal Structure and Function; The Salk Institute for Biological Studies; La Jolla CA
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19
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Battagello DS, Diniz GB, Candido PL, da Silva JM, de Oliveira AR, Torres da Silva KR, Lotfi CFP, de Oliveira JA, Sita LV, Casatti CA, Lovejoy DA, Bittencourt JC. Anatomical Organization of Urocortin 3-Synthesizing Neurons and Immunoreactive Terminals in the Central Nervous System of Non-Human Primates [ Sapajus spp.]. Front Neuroanat 2017; 11:57. [PMID: 28790894 PMCID: PMC5522884 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2017.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Urocortin 3 (UCN3) is a neuropeptide member of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) peptide family that acts as a selective endogenous ligand for the CRF, subtype 2 (CRF2) receptor. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization data from rodents revealed UCN3-containing neurons in discrete regions of the central nervous system (CNS), such as the medial preoptic nucleus, the rostral perifornical area (PFA), the medial nucleus of the amygdala and the superior paraolivary nucleus. UCN3-immunoreactive (UCN3-ir) terminals are distributed throughout regions that mostly overlap with regions of CRF2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. Currently, no similar mapping exists for non-human primates. To better understand the role of this neuropeptide, we aimed to study the UCN3 distribution in the brains of New World monkeys of the Sapajus genus. To this end, we analyzed the gene and peptide sequences in these animals and performed immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization to identify UCN3 synthesis sites and to determine the distribution of UCN3-ir terminals. The sequencing of the Sapajus spp. UCN3-coding gene revealed 88% and 65% identity to the human and rat counterparts, respectively. Additionally, using a probe generated from monkey cDNA and an antiserum raised against human UCN3, we found that labeled cells are mainly located in the hypothalamic and limbic regions. UCN3-ir axons and terminals are primarily distributed in the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMH) and the lateral septal nucleus (LS). Our results demonstrate that UCN3-producing neurons in the CNS of monkeys are phylogenetically conserved compared to those of the rodent brain, that the distribution of fibers agrees with the distribution of CRF2 in other primates and that there is anatomical evidence for the participation of UCN3 in neuroendocrine control in primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella S Battagello
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Center for Neuroscience and Behaviour, Institute of Psychology, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovanne B Diniz
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo L Candido
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Anatomy, Santa Marcelina Medical SchoolSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joelcimar M da Silva
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda R de Oliveira
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kelly R Torres da Silva
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University, UNESPAraçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudimara F P Lotfi
- Laboratory of Cellular Structure and Function, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - José A de Oliveira
- Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University, UNESPAraçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciane V Sita
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cláudio A Casatti
- Department of Basic Sciences, São Paulo State University, UNESPAraçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-São Paulo State UniversityBotucatu, Brazil
| | - David A Lovejoy
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of TorontoToronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jackson C Bittencourt
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Center for Neuroscience and Behaviour, Institute of Psychology, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
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20
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21
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Quadros IMH, Macedo GC, Domingues LP, Favoretto CA. An Update on CRF Mechanisms Underlying Alcohol Use Disorders and Dependence. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:134. [PMID: 27818644 PMCID: PMC5073134 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol is the most commonly used and abused substance worldwide. The emergence of alcohol use disorders, and alcohol dependence in particular, is accompanied by functional changes in brain reward and stress systems, which contribute to escalated alcohol drinking and seeking. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) systems have been critically implied in the transition toward problematic alcohol drinking and alcohol dependence. This review will discuss how dysregulation of CRF function contributes to the vulnerability for escalated alcohol drinking and other consequences of alcohol consumption, based on preclinical evidence. CRF signaling, mostly via CRF1 receptors, seems to be particularly important in conditions of excessive alcohol taking and seeking, including during early and protracted withdrawal, relapse, as well as during withdrawal-induced anxiety and escalated aggression promoted by alcohol. Modulation of CRF1 function seems to exert a less prominent role over low to moderate alcohol intake, or to species-typical behaviors. While CRF mechanisms in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis have some contribution to the neurobiology of alcohol abuse and dependence, a pivotal role for extra-hypothalamic CRF pathways, particularly in the extended amygdala, is well characterized. More recent studies further suggest a direct modulation of brain reward function by CRF signaling in the ventral tegmental area, nucleus accumbens, and the prefrontal cortex, among other structures. This review will further discuss a putative role for other components of the CRF system that contribute for the overall balance of CRF function in reward and stress pathways, including CRF2 receptors, CRF-binding protein, and urocortins, a family of CRF-related peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Marian Hartmann Quadros
- Department of Psychobiology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovana Camila Macedo
- Department of Psychobiology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Liz Paola Domingues
- Department of Psychobiology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Aparecida Favoretto
- Department of Psychobiology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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22
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Jain V, Longo M, Ali M, Saade GR, Chwalisz K, Garfield RE. Expression of Receptors for Corticotropin-Releasing Factor in the Vasculature of Pregnant Rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/107155760000700303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kristof Chwalisz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas; Research Laboratories of Schering AG, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert E. Garfield
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas; Research Laboratories of Schering AG, Berlin, Germany; Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Route J-62, Galveston, TX 77555-1062
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23
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Yuan PQ, Wu SV, Pothoulakis C, Taché Y. Urocortins and CRF receptor type 2 variants in the male rat colon: gene expression and regulation by endotoxin and anti-inflammatory effect. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2016; 310:G387-98. [PMID: 26744472 PMCID: PMC4796293 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00337.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Urocortins (Ucns) 1, 2, and 3 and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRF2) mRNA are prominently expressed in various layers of the upper gut. We tested whether Ucns and CRF2 variants are also expressed in the different layers of the rat colon, regulated by LPS (100 μg/kg ip) and play a modulatory role in the colonic immune response to LPS. Transcripts of Ucns and CRF2b, the most common isoform in the periphery, were detected in all laser microdissected layers, including myenteric neurons. LPS increased the mRNA level of Ucn 1, Ucn 2, and Ucn 3 and decreased that of CRF2b in both the colonic mucosa and submucosa + muscle (S+M) layers at 2, 6, and 9 h after injection with a return to basal at 24 h. In addition, CRF2a, another variant more prominent in the brain, and a novel truncated splice variant CRF2a-3 mRNA were detected in all segments of the large intestine. LPS reciprocally regulated the colonic expression of these CRF2 variants by decreasing both CRF2a and CRF2b, while increasing CRF2a-3 in the mucosa and S+M. The CRF2 antagonist astressin2-B further enhanced LPS-induced increase of mRNA level of interleukin (IL)-1β, TNF-α, and inducible nitric oxide synthase in S+M layers and IL-1β in the mucosa and evoked TNF-α expression in the mucosa. These data indicate that Ucns/CRF2 variants are widely expressed in all colonic layers and reciprocally regulated by LPS. CRF2 signaling dampens the CD14/TLR4-mediated acute inflammatory response to Gram-negative bacteria in the colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu-Qing Yuan
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, CURE: Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Division, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of Medicine and Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - S Vincent Wu
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, CURE: Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Division, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of Medicine and Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Charalabos Pothoulakis
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, CURE: Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Division, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of Medicine and Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yvette Taché
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, CURE: Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Division, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of Medicine and Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
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24
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Komuro H, Sato N, Sasaki A, Suzuki N, Kano M, Tanaka Y, Yamaguchi-Kabata Y, Kanazawa M, Warita H, Aoki M, Fukudo S. Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor 2 Gene Variants in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147817. [PMID: 26808377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) plays an important role in the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and regulates the stress response through two CRH receptors (R1 and R2). Previously, we reported that a CRHR1 gene polymorphism (rs110402, rs242924, and rs7209436) and haplotypes were associated with IBS. However, the association between the CRHR2 gene and IBS was not investigated. We tested the hypothesis that genetic polymorphisms and haplotypes of CRHR2 are associated with IBS pathophysiology and negative emotion in IBS patients. Methods A total of 142 IBS patients and 142 healthy controls participated in this study. Seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the CRHR2 gene (rs4722999, rs3779250, rs2240403, rs2267710, rs2190242, rs2284217, and rs2284220) were genotyped. Subjects' psychological states were evaluated using the Perceived-Stress Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Self-Rating Depression Scale. Results We found that rs4722999 and rs3779250, located in intronic region, were associated with IBS in terms of genotype frequency (rs4722999: P = 0.037; rs3779250: P = 0.017) and that the distribution of the major allele was significantly different between patients and controls. There was a significant group effect (controls vs. IBS), and a CRHR2 genotype effect was observed for three psychological scores, but the interaction was not significant. We found a haplotype of four SNPs (rs4722999, rs3779250, rs2240403, and rs2267710) and two SNPs (rs2284217 and rs2284220) in strong linkage disequilibrium (D′ > 0.90). We also found that haplotypes of the CRHR2 gene were significantly different between IBS patients and controls and that they were associated with negative emotion. Conclusion Our findings support the hypothesis that genetic polymorphisms and haplotypes of CRHR2 are related to IBS. In addition, we found associations between CRHR2 genotypes and haplotypes and negative emotion in IBS patients and controls. Further studies on IBS and the CRH system are warranted.
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Le MH, Weissmiller AM, Monte L, Lin PH, Hexom TC, Natera O, Wu C, Rissman RA. Functional Impact of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Exposure on Tau Phosphorylation and Axon Transport. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147250. [PMID: 26790099 PMCID: PMC4720402 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress exposure or increased levels of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) induce hippocampal tau phosphorylation (tau-P) in rodent models, a process that is dependent on the type-1 CRF receptor (CRFR1). Although these preclinical studies on stress-induced tau-P provide mechanistic insight for epidemiological work that identifies stress as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the actual impact of stress-induced tau-P on neuronal function remains unclear. To determine the functional consequences of stress-induced tau-P, we developed a novel mouse neuronal cell culture system to explore the impact of acute (0.5hr) and chronic (2hr) CRF treatment on tau-P and integral cell processes such as axon transport. Consistent with in vivo reports, we found that chronic CRF treatment increased tau-P levels and caused globular accumulations of phosphorylated tau in dendritic and axonal processes. Furthermore, while both acute and chronic CRF treatment led to significant reduction in CREB activation and axon transport of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), this was not the case with mitochondrial transport. Acute CRF treatment caused increased mitochondrial velocity and distance traveled in neurons, while chronic CRF treatment modestly decreased mitochondrial velocity and greatly increased distance traveled. These results suggest that transport of cellular energetics may take priority over growth factors during stress. Tau-P was required for these changes, as co-treatment of CRF with a GSK kinase inhibitor prevented CRF-induced tau-P and all axon transport changes. Collectively, our results provide mechanistic insight into the consequences of stress peptide-induced tau-P and provide an explanation for how chronic stress via CRF may lead to neuronal vulnerability in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H. Le
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - April M. Weissmiller
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Louise Monte
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Po Han Lin
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Tia C. Hexom
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Orlangie Natera
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Chengbiao Wu
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Robert A. Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Waters RP, Rivalan M, Bangasser DA, Deussing JM, Ising M, Wood SK, Holsboer F, Summers CH. Evidence for the role of corticotropin-releasing factor in major depressive disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 58:63-78. [PMID: 26271720 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a devastating disease affecting over 300 million people worldwide, and costing an estimated 380 billion Euros in lost productivity and health care in the European Union alone. Although a wealth of research has been directed toward understanding and treating MDD, still no therapy has proved to be consistently and reliably effective in interrupting the symptoms of this disease. Recent clinical and preclinical studies, using genetic screening and transgenic rodents, respectively, suggest a major role of the CRF1 gene, and the central expression of CRF1 receptor protein in determining an individual's risk of developing MDD. This gene is widely expressed in brain tissue, and regulates an organism's immediate and long-term responses to social and environmental stressors, which are primary contributors to MDD. This review presents the current state of knowledge on CRF physiology, and how it may influence the occurrence of symptoms associated with MDD. Additionally, this review presents findings from multiple laboratories that were presented as part of a symposium on this topic at the annual 2014 meeting of the International Behavioral Neuroscience Society (IBNS). The ideas and data presented in this review demonstrate the great progress that has been made over the past few decades in our understanding of MDD, and provide a pathway forward toward developing novel treatments and detection methods for this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - J M Deussing
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - M Ising
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - S K Wood
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - F Holsboer
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; HMNC GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Cliff H Summers
- University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA; Sanford School of Medicine, Vermillion, SD, USA.
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Dos Santos Júnior ED, Da Silva AV, Da Silva KRT, Haemmerle CAS, Batagello DS, Da Silva JM, Lima LB, Da Silva RJ, Diniz GB, Sita LV, Elias CF, Bittencourt JC. The centrally projecting Edinger-Westphal nucleus--I: Efferents in the rat brain. J Chem Neuroanat 2015. [PMID: 26206178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The oculomotor accessory nucleus, often referred to as the Edinger-Westphal nucleus [EW], was first identified in the 17th century. Although its most well known function is the control of pupil diameter, some controversy has arisen regarding the exact location of these preganglionic neurons. Currently, the EW is thought to consist of two different parts. The first part [termed the preganglionic EW-EWpg], which controls lens accommodation, choroidal blood flow and pupillary constriction, primarily consists of cholinergic cells that project to the ciliary ganglion. The second part [termed the centrally projecting EW-EWcp], which is involved in non-ocular functions such as feeding behavior, stress responses, addiction and pain, consists of peptidergic neurons that project to the brainstem, the spinal cord and prosencephalic regions. However, in the literature, we found few reports related to either ascending or descending projections from the EWcp that are compatible with its currently described functions. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to systematically investigate the ascending and descending projections of the EW in the rat brain. We injected the anterograde tracer biotinylated dextran amine into the EW or the retrograde tracer cholera toxin subunit B into multiple EW targets as controls. Additionally, we investigated the potential EW-mediated innervation of neuronal populations with known neurochemical signatures, such as melanin-concentrating hormone in the lateral hypothalamic area [LHA] and corticotropin-releasing factor in the central nucleus of the amygdala [CeM]. We observed anterogradely labeled fibers in the LHA, the reuniens thalamic nucleus, the oval part of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the medial part of the central nucleus of the amygdala, and the zona incerta. We confirmed our EW-LHA and EW-CeM connections using retrograde tracers. We also observed moderate EW-mediated innervation of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and the posterior hypothalamus. Our findings provide anatomical bases for previously unrecognized roles of the EW in the modulation of several physiologic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edmilson D Dos Santos Júnior
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - André V Da Silva
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Três Lagoas 79600-080, MS, Brazil
| | - Kelly R T Da Silva
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, 18618-970 Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos A S Haemmerle
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniella S Batagello
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Center of Neuroscience and Behavior, Institute of Psychology, University of São Paulo, 05508-030 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Joelcimar M Da Silva
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Leandro B Lima
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Renata J Da Silva
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Giovanne B Diniz
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciane V Sita
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Carol F Elias
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jackson C Bittencourt
- Laboratory of Chemical Neuroanatomy, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Center of Neuroscience and Behavior, Institute of Psychology, University of São Paulo, 05508-030 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Ellmers LJ, Scott NJA, Cameron VA, Richards AM, Rademaker MT. Chronic Urocortin 2 Administration Improves Cardiac Function and Ameliorates Cardiac Remodeling After Experimental Myocardial Infarction: . J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2015; 65:269-75. [DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Fuenzalida J, Galaz P, Araya KA, Slater PG, Blanco EH, Campusano JM, Ciruela F, Gysling K. Dopamine D1 and corticotrophin-releasing hormone type-2α receptors assemble into functionally interacting complexes in living cells. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:5650-64. [PMID: 25073922 PMCID: PMC4290708 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 07/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Dopamine and corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH; also known as corticotrophin-releasing factor) are key neurotransmitters in the interaction between stress and addiction. Repeated treatment with cocaine potentiates glutamatergic transmission in the rat basolateral amygdala/cortex pathway through a synergistic action of D1 -like dopamine receptors and CRH type-2α receptors (CRF2 α receptors). We hypothesized that this observed synergism could be instrumented by heteromers containing the dopamine D1 receptor and CRF2 α receptor. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH D1 /CRF2 α receptor heteromerization was demonstrated in HEK293T cells using co-immunoprecipitation, BRET and FRET assays, and by using the heteromer mobilization strategy. The ability of D1 receptors to signal through calcium, when singly expressed or co-expressed with CRF2 α receptors, was evaluated by the calcium mobilization assay. KEY RESULTS D1 /CRF2 α receptor heteromers were observed in HEK293T cells. When singly expressed, D1 receptors were mostly located at the cell surface whereas CRF2 α receptors accumulated intracellularly. Interestingly, co-expression of both receptors promoted D1 receptor intracellular and CRF2 α receptor cell surface targeting. The heteromerization of D1 /CRF2 α receptors maintained the signalling through cAMP of both receptors but switched D1 receptor signalling properties, as the heteromeric D1 receptor was able to mobilize intracellular calcium upon stimulation with a D1 receptor agonist. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS D1 and CRF2 α receptors are capable of heterodimerization in living cells. D1 /CRF2 α receptor heteromerization might account, at least in part, for the complex physiological interactions established between dopamine and CRH in normal and pathological conditions such as addiction, representing a new potential pharmacological target.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Fuenzalida
- Millennium Nucleus in Stress and Addiction, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Kolasa M, Faron-Górecka A, Kuśmider M, Szafran-Pilch K, Solich J, Żurawek D, Gruca P, Papp M, Dziedzicka-Wasylewska M. Differential stress response in rats subjected to chronic mild stress is accompanied by changes in CRH-family gene expression at the pituitary level. Peptides 2014; 61:98-106. [PMID: 25236411 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2014.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine molecular markers of the stress response at the pituitary and peripheral levels in animals that responded differently to chronic mild stress (CMS). Rats were subjected to 2-weeks CMS and symptoms of anhedonia was measured by the consumption of 1% sucrose solution. mRNA levels of CRH-family neuropeptides (Crh-corticotropin-releasing hormone, Ucn1-urocortin 1, Ucn2-urocortin 2, Ucn3-urocortin 3), CRH receptors (Crhr1-corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1, Crhr2-corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 2) and Crhbp (corticotropin-releasing factor binding protein) in the pituitaries of rats were determined with real-time PCR. Plasma levels of ACTH (adrenocorticotropin), CRH and urocortins were measured with ELISA assays. CMS procedure led to the development of anhedonia manifested by the decreased sucrose consumption (stress-reactive, SR, stress-susceptible group). Additionally, the group of animals not exhibiting any signs of anhedonia (stress non-reactive, SNR, stress-resilient group) and the group characterized by the increased sucrose consumption (stress invert-reactive group SIR) were selected. The significant increases in ACTH plasma level accompanied by the decreases in the pituitary gene expression of the Crh, Ucn2 and Ucn3 in both stress non-reactive and stress invert-reactive groups were observed. The only molecular change observed in stress-reactive group was the increase in UCN2 plasma level. The differentiated behavioral stress responses were reflected by gene expression changes in the pituitary. Alterations in the mRNA levels of Crh, Ucn2 and Ucn3 in the pituitary might confirm the paracrine and/or autocrine effects of these peptides in stress response. The opposite behavioral effect between SNR vs. SIR groups and the surprising similarity at gene expression and plasma ACTH levels in these two groups may suggest the discrepancy between molecular and behavioral stress responses; however, there results might indicate to similarity underlying different ways to cope with stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kolasa
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Faron-Górecka
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Maciej Kuśmider
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kinga Szafran-Pilch
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Solich
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Dariusz Żurawek
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Piotr Gruca
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Mariusz Papp
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
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Xu L. Leptin action in the midbrain: From reward to stress. J Chem Neuroanat 2014; 61-62:256-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2014.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Revised: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Garcia I, Bhullar PK, Tepe B, Ortiz-Guzman J, Huang L, Herman AM, Chaboub L, Deneen B, Justice NJ, Arenkiel BR. Local corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) signals to its receptor CRHR1 during postnatal development of the mouse olfactory bulb. Brain Struct Funct 2016; 221:1-20. [PMID: 25224546 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-014-0888-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides play important physiological functions during distinct behaviors such as arousal, learning, memory, and reproduction. However, the role of local, extrahypothalamic neuropeptide signaling in shaping synapse formation and neuronal plasticity in the brain is not well understood. Here, we characterize the spatiotemporal expression profile of the neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and its receptor CRHR1 in the mouse OB throughout development. We found that CRH-expressing interneurons are present in the external plexiform layer, that its cognate receptor is expressed by granule cells, and show that both CRH and CRHR1 expression enriches in the postnatal period when olfaction becomes important towards olfactory-related behaviors. Further, we provide electrophysiological evidence that CRHR1-expressing granule cells functionally respond to CRH ligand, and that the physiological circuitry of CRHR1 knockout mice is abnormal, leading to impaired olfactory behaviors. Together, these data suggest a physiologically relevant role for local CRH signaling towards shaping the neuronal circuitry within the mouse OB.
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Anthony TE, Dee N, Bernard A, Lerchner W, Heintz N, Anderson DJ. Control of stress-induced persistent anxiety by an extra-amygdala septohypothalamic circuit. Cell 2014; 156:522-36. [PMID: 24485458 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.12.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The extended amygdala has dominated research on the neural circuitry of fear and anxiety, but the septohippocampal axis also plays an important role. The lateral septum (LS) is thought to suppress fear and anxiety through its outputs to the hypothalamus. However, this structure has not yet been dissected using modern tools. The type 2 CRF receptor (Crfr2) marks a subset of LS neurons whose functional connectivity we have investigated using optogenetics. Crfr2(+) cells include GABAergic projection neurons that connect with the anterior hypothalamus. Surprisingly, we find that these LS outputs enhance stress-induced behavioral measures of anxiety. Furthermore, transient activation of Crfr2(+) neurons promotes, while inhibition suppresses, persistent anxious behaviors. LS Crfr2(+) outputs also positively regulate circulating corticosteroid levels. These data identify a subset of LS projection neurons that promote, rather than suppress, stress-induced behavioral and endocrinological dimensions of persistent anxiety states and provide a cellular point of entry to LS circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd E Anthony
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, M/C 156-29, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Nick Dee
- Allen Institute for Brain Science, 551 North 34th Street, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
| | - Amy Bernard
- Allen Institute for Brain Science, 551 North 34th Street, Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
| | - Walter Lerchner
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, M/C 156-29, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Nathaniel Heintz
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute
| | - David J Anderson
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, M/C 156-29, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute.
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Yong W, Spence JP, Eskay R, Fitz SD, Damadzic R, Lai D, Foroud T, Carr LG, Shekhar A, Chester JA, Heilig M, Liang T. Alcohol-preferring rats show decreased corticotropin-releasing hormone-2 receptor expression and differences in HPA activation compared to alcohol-nonpreferring rats. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2014; 38:1275-83. [PMID: 24611993 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and urocortins (UCNs) bind to corticotropin-releasing hormone type 2 receptor (CRF2 receptor ), a Gs protein-coupled receptor that plays an important role in modulation of anxiety and stress responses. The Crhr2 gene maps to a quantitative trait locus (QTL) for alcohol preference on chromosome 4 previously identified in inbred alcohol-preferring (iP) and-nonpreferring (iNP) F2 rats. METHODS Real-time polymerase chain reaction was utilized to screen for differences in Crhr2 mRNA expression in the central nervous system (CNS) of male iP and iNP rats. DNA sequence analysis was then performed to screen for polymorphism in Crhr2 in order to identify genetic variation, and luciferase reporter assays were then applied to test their functional significance. Next, binding assays were used to determine whether this polymorphism affected CRF2 receptor binding affinity as well as CRF2 receptor density in the CNS. Finally, social interaction and corticosterone levels were measured in the P and NP rats before and after 30-minute restraint stress. RESULTS Crhr2 mRNA expression studies found lower levels of Crhr2 mRNA in iP rats compared to iNP rats. In addition, DNA sequencing identified polymorphisms in the promoter region, coding region, and 3'-untranslated region between the iP and iNP rats. A 7 bp insertion in the Crhr2 promoter of iP rats altered expression in vitro as measured by reporter assays, and we found that CRF2 receptor density was lower in the amygdala of iP as compared to iNP rats. Male P rats displayed decreased social interaction and significantly higher corticosterone levels directly following 30-minute restraint when compared to male NP rats. CONCLUSIONS This study identified Crhr2 as a candidate gene of interest underlying the chromosome 4 QTL for alcohol consumption that was previously identified in the P and NP model. Crhr2 promoter polymorphism is associated with reduced mRNA expression in certain brain regions, particularly the amygdala, and lowered the density of CRF2 receptor in the amygdala of iP compared to iNP rats. Together, these differences between the animals may contribute to the drinking disparity as well as the anxiety differences of the P and NP rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Yong
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science , Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing, China; Department of Pediatrics , Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Kurada L, Yang C, Lei S. Corticotropin-releasing factor facilitates epileptiform activity in the entorhinal cortex: roles of CRF2 receptors and PKA pathway. PLoS One 2014; 9:e88109. [PMID: 24505399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0088109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Whereas corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) has been considered as the most potent epileptogenic neuropeptide in the brain, its action site and underlying mechanisms in epilepsy have not been determined. Here, we found that the entorhinal cortex (EC) expresses high level of CRF and CRF2 receptors without expression of CRF1 receptors. Bath application of CRF concentration-dependently increased the frequency of picrotoxin (PTX)-induced epileptiform activity recorded from layer III of the EC in entorhinal slices although CRF alone did not elicit epileptiform activity. CRF facilitated the induction of epileptiform activity in the presence of subthreshold concentration of PTX which normally would not elicit epileptiform activity. Bath application of the inhibitor for CRF-binding proteins, CRF6-33, also increased the frequency of PTX-induced epileptiform activity suggesting that endogenously released CRF is involved in epileptogenesis. CRF-induced facilitation of epileptiform activity was mediated via CRF2 receptors because pharmacological antagonism and knockout of CRF2 receptors blocked the facilitatory effects of CRF on epileptiform activity. Application of the adenylyl cyclase (AC) inhibitors blocked CRF-induced facilitation of epileptiform activity and elevation of intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) level by application of the AC activators or phosphodiesterase inhibitor increased the frequency of PTX-induced epileptiform activity, demonstrating that CRF-induced increases in epileptiform activity are mediated by an increase in intracellular cAMP. However, application of selective protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitors reduced, not completely blocked CRF-induced enhancement of epileptiform activity suggesting that PKA is only partially required. Our results provide a novel cellular and molecular mechanism whereby CRF modulates epilepsy.
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Navarro-Zaragoza J, Martínez-Laorden E, Mora L, Hidalgo J, Milanés M, Laorden M. Cardiac adverse effects of naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal on right ventricle: Role of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) 1 receptor. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2014; 275:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive examination of the current literature describing the neural-immune interactions, with emphasis on the most recent findings of the effects of neurohormones on immune system. Particularly, the role of hypothalamic hormones such as Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In the past few years, interest has been raised in extrapituitary actions of these neurohormones due to their receptors have been found in many non-pituitary tissues. Also, the receptors are present in immune cells, suggesting an autocrine or paracrine role within the immune system. In general, these neurohormones have been reported to exert immunomodulatory effects on cell proliferation, immune mediators release and cell function. The implications of these findings in understanding the network of hypothalamic neuropeptides and immune system are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Luis Quintanar
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes Aguascalientes, México
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Jin R, Li MZ, Bing YH, Piao RL, Li YJ, Jin QH, Qiu DL, Kannan H, Chu CP. Intracerebroventricular injection of stresscopin-related peptide enhances cardiovascular function in conscious rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 186:7-11. [PMID: 23850799 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2013.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 06/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Stresscopin-related peptide (SRP), which is a member of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family, is a high-affinity ligand for the type 2 corticotropin-releasing factor receptor (CRF-R2) and is involved in stress-coping responses. Central treatment with SRP suppresses food intake, delays gastric emptying and decreases heat-induced edema, but the effects of central administration of SRP on the cardiovascular system are unclear. Here we examined the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of SRP on cardiovascular function, and compared the cardiovascular effects of SRP and stresscopin (SCP). Our results showed that i.c.v. administration of SRP (0.5nmol) increased mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and heart rate (HR), but failed to increase plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine levels. Compared with an equivalent dose of SCP, the area under the curve (AUC) values for the changes in MABP and HR were significantly smaller with SRP, indicating that the cardiovascular effects of SRP were weaker than those mediated by SCP. Pre-treatment with a selective CRF-R2 antagonist, antisauvagine-30 (4nmol, i.c.v.) abolished the SRP and SCP induced changes in MABP and HR. These results indicate that central administration of SRP induces a weaker enhancement of cardiovascular function through CRF-R2 than that induced by SCP and that these effects are mediated without increasing plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ri Jin
- Cellular Function Research Center, Yanbian University, 977 GongYuan Road, Yanji City, Jilin Province 133002, China; Department of Osteology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji City, Jilin Province, China
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Wood SK, Zhang XY, Reyes BA, Lee CS, Van Bockstaele EJ, Valentino RJ. Cellular adaptations of dorsal raphe serotonin neurons associated with the development of active coping in response to social stress. Biol Psychiatry 2013; 73:1087-94. [PMID: 23452664 PMCID: PMC3648616 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2013.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Revised: 01/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social stress is a risk factor for affective disorders for certain vulnerable individuals. Stress and depression are linked in part through regulation of the dorsal raphe (DR)-serotonin (5-HT) system by the stress-related neuropeptide, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). We used a rat social stress model that shows individual differences in coping strategies to determine whether differences in CRF-5-HT interactions underlie individual differences in the vulnerability to social stress. METHODS Rats were exposed to the resident-intruder model of social stress for 5 days. In vivo single-unit recordings assessed DR-5-HT neuronal responses to CRF and immunoelectron microscopy assessed CRF1 and CRF2 cellular localization 24 hours after the last stress. RESULTS Rats responded to social stress passively, assuming defeat with short latencies (48%), or actively, with proactive behaviors and longer defeat latencies (LL, 52%). Whereas CRF (30 ng, intra-DR) inhibited 5-HT neuronal activity of control and SL rats, it activated 5-HT neurons of LL rats, an effect that was CRF2-mediated. Consistent with this, social stress promoted CRF1 internalization together with CRF2 recruitment to the plasma membrane of DR neurons selectively in LL rats. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that a proactive coping strategy toward social stress is associated with a redistribution of CRF1 and CRF2 in DR-5-HT neurons that primes the system to be activated by subsequent stress. The lack of this adaptation in passive coping rats may contribute to their depressive-like phenotype. These studies provide a cellular mechanism for individual differences in stress responses and consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan K. Wood
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Stress Neurobiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Xiao-Yan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Stress Neurobiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Beverly A.S. Reyes
- Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Catherine S. Lee
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Stress Neurobiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Elisabeth J. Van Bockstaele
- Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Rita J. Valentino
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Stress Neurobiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104
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Bazhan N, Zelena D. Food-intake regulation during stress by the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Brain Res Bull. 2013;95:46-53. [PMID: 23590931 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide with serious consequences such as diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular diseases. Emotional stress is considered to be one of the main reasons of obesity development in humans. However, there are some contradictory results, which should be addressed. First of all stress induces anorexia, but not overeating in laboratory animals. Glucocorticoids, the effector molecules of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis stimulate and stress inhibits food intake. It is also not clear if stress is diabetogenic or an antidiabetogenic factor. The review will discusses these issues and the involvement of the whole HPA axis and its separate molecules (glucocorticoids, adrenocorticotropin, corticotropin-releasing hormone) in food intake regulation under stress.
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Janssen D, Kozicz T. Is it really a matter of simple dualism? Corticotropin-releasing factor receptors in body and mental health. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:28. [PMID: 23487366 PMCID: PMC3594922 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Physiological responses to stress coordinated by the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis are concerned with maintaining homeostasis in the presence of real or perceived challenges. Regulators of this axis are corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF) and CRF related neuropeptides, including urocortins 1, 2, and 3. They mediate their actions by binding to CRF receptors (CRFR) 1 and 2, which are located in several stress-related brain regions. The prevailing theory has been that the initiation of and the recovery from an elicited stress response is coordinated by two elements, viz. the (mainly) opposing, but well balanced actions of CRFR1 and CRFR2. Such a dualistic view suggests that CRF/CRFR1 controls the initiation of, and urocortins/CRFR2 mediate the recovery from stress to maintain body and mental health. Consequently, failed adaptation to stress can lead to neuropathology, including anxiety and depression. Recent literature, however, challenges such dualistic and complementary actions of CRFR1 and CRFR2, and suggests that stress recruits CRF system components in a brain area and neuron specific manner to promote adaptation as conditions dictate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donny Janssen
- Department of Cellular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviorNijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Tamás Kozicz
- Department of Cellular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviorNijmegen, Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviorNijmegen, Netherlands
- Human Genetics Center, Tulane UniversityNew Orleans, LA, USA
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Liu J, Garza JC, Li W, Lu XY. Melanocortin-4 receptor in the medial amygdala regulates emotional stress-induced anxiety-like behaviour, anorexia and corticosterone secretion. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2013; 16:105-20. [PMID: 22176700 DOI: 10.1017/S146114571100174X] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The central melanocortin system has been implicated in emotional stress-induced anxiety, anorexia and activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. However, the underlying neural substrates have not been identified. The medial amygdala (MeA) is highly sensitive to emotional stress and expresses high levels of the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R). This study investigated the effects of activation and blockade of MC4R in the MeA on anxiety-like behaviour, food intake and corticosterone secretion. We demonstrate that MC4R-expressing neurons in the MeA were activated by acute restraint stress, as indicated by induction of c-fos mRNA expression. Infusion of a selective MC4R agonist into the MeA elicited anxiogenic-like effects in the elevated plus-maze test and decreased food intake. In contrast, local MeA infusion of SHU 9119, a MC4R antagonist, blocked restraint stress-induced anxiogenic and anorectic effects. Moreover, plasma corticosterone levels were increased by intra-MeA infusion of the MC4R agonist under non-stressed conditions and restraint stress-induced elevation of plasma corticosterone levels was attenuated by pretreatment with SHU 9119 in the MeA. Thus, stimulating MC4R in the MeA induces stress-like anxiogenic and anorectic effects as well as activation of the HPA axis, whereas antagonizing MC4R in this region blocks such effects induced by restraint stress. Together, our results implicate MC4R signalling in the MeA in behavioural and endocrine responses to stress.
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43
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Chu CP, Jin WZ, Bing YH, Jin QH, Kannan H, Qiu DL. Effects of stresscopin on rat hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus neurons in vitro. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53863. [PMID: 23349753 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The effects of stresscopin (SCP) on rat paraventricular nucleus (PVN) neurons were examined using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and single-cell reverse-transcription multiplex polymerase chain reaction (SC-RT-mPCR) techniques. Under current-clamp conditions, bath application of SCP (100 nM) induced inhibition in 35.2% (37/105) of putative magnocellular neurons and 24.7% (20/81) of putative parvocellular neurons, and excitation in 5.7% (6/105) of putative magnocellular neurons and 18.5% (15/81) of putative parvocellular neurons. SCP-induced inhibition persisted in the presence of a mixture of TTX, a voltage-gated Na+ channel blocker, CNQX, an AMPA/kainate receptor antagonist and bicuculline, a GABAA receptor antagonist, whereas SCP-induced excitation of PVN neurons was reversed by the mixture. The SCP-induced inhibition of PVN neurons was abolished by bath application of antisauvagine-30, a selective CRF receptor 2 (CRF-R2) antagonist. Under voltage-clamp conditions, SCP evoked outward currents at the holding potential (−60 mV), which reversed near the potassium equilibrium potential. The SCP-evoked membrane currents were completely blocked by bath application of tertiapin-Q, a selective blocker of G protein-activated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels. SC-RT-mPCR analysis indicated that all the SCP-sensitive PVN neurons (57 SCP-inhibited neurons, 21 SCP-excited neurons) expressed CRF-R1 and CRF-R2 mRNAs. Among SCP-hyperpolarized PVN neurons, oxytocin (OT) mRNA was detected in 91.8% of putative magnocellular neurons and 45.0% of putative parvocellular neurons. OT mRNA was also detected in 26.6% of SCP-depolarized parvocellular neurons, but not in SCP-depolarized magnocellular neurons. These results indicate that SCP inhibits a subpopulation of PVN neurons, especially OTergic magnocellular neurons, by enhancing the activity of GIRK channels via CRF-R2.
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Abstract
While stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, it suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a major regulatory peptide in the HPA axis during stress. Urocortin 1 (Ucn1), a member of the CRF family of peptides, has a variety of physiological functions and both CRF and Ucn1 contribute to the stress response via G protein-coupled seven transmembrane receptors. Ucn2 and Ucn3, which belong to a separate paralogous lineage from CRF, are highly selective for the CRF type 2 receptor (CRF(2) receptor). The HPA and HPG axes interact with each other, and gonadal function and reproduction are suppressed in response to various stressors. In this review, we focus on the regulation of gonadotropins by CRF and Ucn2 in pituitary gonadotrophs and of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) via CRF receptors in the hypothalamus. In corticotrophs, stress-induced increases in CRF stimulate Ucn2 production, which leads to the inhibition of gonadotropin secretion via the CRF(2) receptor in the pituitary. GnRH in the hypothalamus is regulated by a variety of stress conditions. CRF is also involved in the suppression of the HPG axis, especially the GnRH pulse generator, via CRF receptors in the hypothalamus. Thus, complicated regulation of GnRH in the hypothalamus and gonadotropins in the pituitary via CRF receptors contributes to stress responses and adaptation of gonadal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kageyama
- *Correspondence: Kazunori Kageyama, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan. e-mail:
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45
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Abstract
Dysregulated stress responsivity is a hallmark of neuropsychiatric disease. The regulation of stress activation and recovery involves tight coordination between neuronal and glial networks. At a certain threshold of sensitivity, stress exposure can evoke a neuroimmune response. Astrocytes are potential mediators of these effects because they are able to respond to neuroimmune effector molecules and regulate neuronal activity. Mice deficient in corticotropin-releasing factor receptor-2 display increased stress sensitivity and are therefore a useful model in which to examine the intersection of neuroimmune activation and stress pathway dysregulation. We hypothesized that a component of elevated stress reactivity may involve an engagement of neuroimmune effectors, including astrocytes. Therefore, we hypothesized that this phenotype may be rescued by concomitant nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) treatment. To examine this, mice exposed to chronic stress were treated with NSAID in their drinking water, and changes in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal stress axis function were examined. As a correlate of altered astrocyte function, levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein were measured. Supportive of our hypothesis, NSAID treatment rescued the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal stress axis dysfunction in stress-sensitive corticotropin-releasing factor receptor-2(-/-) mice and also reversed the stress-induced increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein in stress-regulating brain regions including the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, ventral hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. These findings support the local involvement of astrocytes in the exacerbation of stress pathway dysregulation. The specificity of these effects in a stress-sensitive genotype highlights the importance of utilizing a model of stress dysregulation in the examination of factors that may translate to neuropsychiatric disease.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/pharmacology
- Aspirin/pharmacology
- Astrocytes/drug effects
- Astrocytes/metabolism
- Corticosterone/metabolism
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/genetics
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein/metabolism
- Hippocampus/drug effects
- Hippocampus/metabolism
- Hippocampus/physiopathology
- Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/drug effects
- Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/metabolism
- Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/physiopathology
- Hypothalamus/drug effects
- Hypothalamus/metabolism
- Hypothalamus/physiopathology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Pituitary-Adrenal System/drug effects
- Pituitary-Adrenal System/metabolism
- Pituitary-Adrenal System/physiopathology
- Prefrontal Cortex/drug effects
- Prefrontal Cortex/metabolism
- Prefrontal Cortex/physiopathology
- Receptors, Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/genetics
- Receptors, Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone/metabolism
- Restraint, Physical
- Stress, Physiological/drug effects
- Stress, Physiological/genetics
- Stress, Psychological/genetics
- Stress, Psychological/physiopathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis R Gerber
- Department of Animal Biology, Department of Animal Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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Vamvakopoulos NC, Sioutopoulou TO, Mamuris Z, Marcoulatos P, Avgerinos PC. Regulation of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor type 1 messenger RNA level in Y-79 retinoblastoma cells: potential implications for human stress response and immune/inflammatory reaction. Mediators Inflamm 1996; 5:328-33. [PMID: 18475726 DOI: 10.1155/S0962935196000476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the regulation of type 1 receptor mRNA in Y-79 human retinoblastoma cells, grown in the absence or presence of pharmacological levels of phorbol esters, forskolin, glucocorticoids and their combinations. To control for inducibility and for assessing the sensitivity of the Y-79 system to glucocorticoids, corticotropin releasing hormone mRNA levels were measured in parallel. All treatments stimulated corticotropin releasing hormone receptor type 1 gene expression relative to baseline. A weak suppression of corticotropin releasing hormone mRNA level was observed during dexamethasone treatment. The cell line expressed ten-fold excess of receptor to ligand mRNA under basal conditions. The findings predict the presence of functional phorbol ester, cyclic AMP and glucocorticoid response elements in the promoter region of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor type 1 gene and support a potential role for its product during chronic stress and immune/inflammatory reaction.
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47
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Abstract
On the basis of extensive basic and clinical studies, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and its related family members are considered to play a pivotal role in stress-related disorders, such as anxiety and depression. CRH is regarded as the principal mediator in the brain of the stress response, as it mediates neuroendocrine, autonomic, and behavioral responses to stressful challenges. Recently, this neuropeptide family has expanded due to the discovery of two new members, urocortin II (also termed stresscopin-related peptide) and urocortin III (also termed stresscopin), which are selective agonists for the CRH receptor type 2. They show a discrete neuroanatomical localization and are involved in stress-coping responses, such as anxiolysis. Here, on the basis of recent developments, we suggest that CRH, the urocortins, and their receptors form a complex system in the brain, which is recruited during both the acute and the recovery phases of the stress response.
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48
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Haass-Koffler CL, Bartlett SE. Stress and addiction: contribution of the corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) system in neuroplasticity. Front Mol Neurosci 2012; 5:91. [PMID: 22973190 PMCID: PMC3434418 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2012.00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) has been shown to induce various behavioral changes related to adaptation to stress. Dysregulation of the CRF system at any point can lead to a variety of psychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders (SUDs). CRF has been associated with stress-induced drug reinforcement. Extensive literature has identified CRF to play an important role in the molecular mechanisms that lead to an increase in susceptibility that precipitates relapse to SUDs. The CRF system has a heterogeneous role in SUDs. It enhances the acute effects of drugs of abuse and is also responsible for the potentiation of drug-induced neuroplasticity evoked during the withdrawal period. We present in this review the brain regions and circuitries where CRF is expressed and may participate in stress-induced drug abuse. Finally, we attempt to evaluate the role of modulating the CRF system as a possible therapeutic strategy for treating the dysregulation of emotional behaviors that result from the acute positive reinforcement of substances of abuse as well as the negative reinforcement produced by withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina L Haass-Koffler
- Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research Center at the University of California San Francisco Emeryville, CA, USA
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49
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Abstract
Urocortin 3 (also known as stresscopin) is an endogenous ligand for the corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRF(2)). Despite predominant G(s) coupling of CRF(2), promiscuous coupling with other G proteins has been also associated with the activation of this receptor. As urocortin 3 has been involved in central cardiovascular regulation at hypothalamic and medullary sites, we examined its cellular effects on cardiac vagal neurons of nucleus ambiguus, a key area for the autonomic control of heart rate. Urocortin 3 (1 nM-1000 nM) induced a concentration-dependent increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration that was blocked by the CRF(2) antagonist K41498. In the case of two consecutive treatments with urocortin 3, the second urocortin 3-induced Ca(2+) response was reduced, indicating receptor desensitization. The effect of urocortin 3 was abolished by pre-treatment with pertussis toxin and by inhibition of phospolipase C with U-73122. Urocortin 3 activated Ca(2+) influx via voltage-gated P/Q-type channels as well as Ca(2+) release from endoplasmic reticulum. Urocortin 3 promoted Ca(2+) release via inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptors, but not ryanodine receptors. Our results indicate a novel Ca(2+) -mobilizing effect of urocortin 3 in vagal pre-ganglionic neurons of nucleus ambiguus, providing a cellular mechanism for a previously reported role for this peptide in parasympathetic cardiac regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Cristina Brailoiu
- Department of Pharmacology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
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50
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Yuan PQ, Wu SV, Taché Y. Urocortins and CRF type 2 receptor isoforms expression in the rat stomach are regulated by endotoxin: role in the modulation of delayed gastric emptying. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2012; 303:G20-31. [PMID: 22517775 PMCID: PMC3404575 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00547.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral activation of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor type 2 (CRF(2)) by urocortin 1, 2, or 3 (Ucns) exerts powerful effects on gastric function; however, little is known about their expression and regulation in the stomach. We investigated the expression of Ucns and CRF(2) isoforms by RT-PCR in the gastric corpus (GC) mucosa and submucosa plus muscle (S+M) or laser captured layers in naive rats, their regulations by lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 100 μg/kg ip) over 24 h, and the effect of the CRF(2) antagonist astresssin(2)-B (100 μg/kg sc) on LPS-induced delayed gastric emptying (GE) 2-h postinjection. Transcripts of Ucns and CRF(2b,) the most common wild-type CRF(2) isoform in the periphery, were expressed in all layers, including myenteric neurons. LPS increased Ucn mRNA levels significantly in both mucosa and S+M, reaching a maximal response at 6 h postinjection and returning to basal levels at 24 h except for Ucn 1 in S+M. By contrast, CRF(2b) mRNA level was significantly decreased in the mucosa and M+S with a nadir at 6 h. In addition, CRF(2a), reportedly only found in the brain, and the novel splice variant CRF(2a-3) were also detected in the GC, antrum, and pylorus. LPS reciprocally regulated these variants with a decrease of CRF(2a) and an increase of CRF(2a-3) in the GC 6 h postinjection. Astressin(2)-B exacerbated LPS-delayed GE (42-73%, P < 0.001). These data indicate that Ucn and CRF(2) isoforms are widely distributed throughout the rat stomach and inversely regulated by immune stress. The CRF(2) signaling system may act to counteract the early gastric motor alterations to endotoxemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu-Qing Yuan
- CURE: Digestive Diseases Research Center, Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Digestive Diseases Division, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of Medicine and Brain Research Institute/UCLA, 1301 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA.
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